A Side Story (R/A)
Mar 17, 2007 20:57:23 GMT -5
Post by Cirtolthiel on Mar 17, 2007 20:57:23 GMT -5
Okay. So first off, Rayane does NOT have a dragon. This fic is about if he had a dragon. The main part of it is the dragon's hatching and such. I was bored, so I just started writing and stuff, and this was what came out. Enjoy!
Note: Yes, the dragon's name is 'Anthem.' The definition of "anthem" is: "a song, as of praise, devotion, or patriotism." Therefore, Rayane and Anthem are portraying their devotion to the Varden. I hope you kinda get that, it's a bit complicated. >.<
Posted: 3/17/07
Rayane sat upon his bed, a large, reddish-orange stone on his lap. But it wasn’t just a stone. It was a dragon egg. His hand touched the cool, smooth surface of the egg. He was still in shock that the Varden had let him take home an egg for three days. Apparently, the Council of the Varden thought that he had the potential to be a Dragon Rider, which he still had a hard time believing.
But I’m so old! Rayane thought over and over. He was twenty, which was unusually old for a Human to receive an egg. He gazed into the pattern of the egg, where light yellow spines wove into it like a spider web. It was very beautiful. This is going to be one good-looking dragon…
Rayane continued to watch the egg for several hours, hoping for any chance that the egg might crack.. He eventually fell asleep on his bedspread, the egg on the pillow beside him. When he woke up later, the egg was still there, not cracked and still solid. He frowned, disappointed. He carried the egg to his dining quarters, where he ate a meal of meat and vegetables. He sighed. His thoughts eventually came to his family.
I should write a letter to them, he thought. Rayane rose from his seat and got paper and a quill. He gazed one more time at the egg before beginning to write.
Dearest Mother and Father:
It has been a few years since I have visited you last. I‘ve missed both of you and Maeli and Belle terribly. I am currently in Abernon right now, with the Varden. I have come to an alliance with them just over year ago. It is wonderful being with them, yet intense.
I have great news. Currently, the Council has entrusted me with a dragon egg for three days! They think that I may have the potential to be a Dragon Rider. The egg is stunning – it is the color of red clay and patterned with yellow lines. I’m hoping that it will hatch! A whole new world of adventures is still waiting for me.
Anyways, I hope all is going well at home. If the egg hatches, I will be home in two to three months’ time. If not (a very large chance that the egg won’t hatch) then I will be home in a year. I hope the next time I see you I will have a new friend to bring home.
Send Maeli and Belle my love. I promise to be safe!
Your son,
Rayane
Rayane reread his letter. It was short, but it had all the information he had wanted to tell them. He smiled, satisfied, and began to roll up the letter. But suddenly, he heard a crack. Rayane’s head jerked up at the sound. He immediately cast his gaze to the rust-colored egg.
Hurrying over to it, he picked it up and set it on the ground. He sat down and watched it. Come on, come on… Rayane’s heart had quickened its beat. He bit his lip, hoping, hoping…
And eventually, several minutes passed. Rayane had not moved.
Crack. Rayane gasped a little, and leaned over to examine it. Yes, it’s hatching! It’s hatching!
The cracking continued. Slowly yet surely, the egg expanded the hard shell splitting open. Rayane reached out to help the baby, but he drew his hand away. It’ll have to do it itself. He waited, watching, his heart pounding in excitement. Finally, the baby dragon squirmed its way out, leaving its shell behind. It gazed up at Rayane with curious, intelligent eyes.
Rayane could only stare in awe. He slowly went down on his knees, and reached out to the dragon. It leaned its snout to him, trying to get a sniff. They made contact, and Rayane yelped in shock. A bolt of electricity had shot through him. He fell back, panting, and stared at his palm. Sure enough, the gedwëy ignasia was transcribed on it.
Rayane looked back at the tiny little dragon. It was the same color as its shell – a red-orange color, like the color of rust or red clay. Rayane liked it. It was scurrying around, exploring. Rayane chuckled to himself. So here I am, after dinner, and a dragon has just hatched and is running around my kitchen… Rayane froze. His felt something different in his mind. Like there was someone there, listening to him, sharing his thoughts. It’s the dragon! The little dragon stopped too and met Rayane’s eyes. It squealed and scuttled over to him. Rayane smiled, and reached out again to pet its slender, arched head. It growled in happiness.
Rayane drew his hand back and thought, You need a name. The dragon looked up at him again with its vermilion eyes. It had heard him. Rayane suddenly remembered he hadn’t introduced himself. He quickly set onto talking, while using images to help the dragon understand.
My name is Rayane. I’m a human from Reavstone, a little city on the coast of Surda. Rayane sent images of home to the dragon. It had become still, listening and learning. It’s a beautiful place. I’m twenty years old. I have two sisters and two parents. They all live in Reavstone. He went on explaining more about himself.
When he finished, he picked up the dragon – who only squeaked a little – and brought it to his room. It’s time to sleep, Rayane told it. The dragon blinked and lied down on the bed and shut its eyes. Well, that wasn’t too bad…
A week later, Rayane and the mini dragon had a schedule. They woke up, ate breakfast, and then Rayane would teach it for a while. The dragon had now begun talking back to Rayane. After a few hours, they would eat their noontime meal, and resume lessons. They would go out of the house and walk around in the Varden place a bit – where Rayane would tell the dragon about nature and such. He wished he could show it the ocean, so then it would understand something that was important to him.
Rayane hadn’t named her yet – Rayane had finally figured out that the dragon was a she. She had grown quite a bit although she had only been hatched for a week. The dragon sat down in front of Rayane and looked at him, expecting him to “teach.” Rayane stared back, thoughtfully.
Rayane, the dragon said, I see a thought biting at your lips. What is it?
I was just thinking that you need a name.
The dragon tilted her head, understanding. Yes, I do need a name. You can name me, because I don’t know many names.
Rayane sighed. It’s just, I’ve been having a hard time coming up with one. I like the color of your scales; they are like rust or clay. So, I have been trying to figure out a name that represents that.
Hmm. I see. How about…fire? Or a word like that?
But see, you’re not the color of fire. You’re darker. Titian, I think is the word.
Titian. I like that. It sounds powerful. But it sounds like a male name.
I know, Rayane sighed again. An idea came to him. What do you want to accomplish? After what I’ve told you about the war?
She did not speak for a few minutes. Rayane tried to peek into what she was thinking, but found that he couldn’t. Instead, he just waited for her answer. She looked off, out through the window.
I want to make a change. I want to help the Varden. This war is awful, and I am rightfully pledging myself to their cause. This shouldn’t be happening, having an evil King. We – you, me, and the Varden, must overthrow this king.
Rayane nodded. And I completely agree with you. Therefore, I would like to name you Anthem, as you and I are an anthem to the Varden’s cause.
The dragon looked back at Rayane, eyes sparkling. I love it. My name shall be Anthem.
Posted: 3/18/07
A month later, Rayane and Anthem had truly started to bond as a Rider and Dragon. Anthem now came up to Rayane's chest. Small, white spikes were beginning to line her spine, but they were about 10 inches apart. Her teeth had grown too; they were bright, sharp, and bleach white. Rayane was proud. She also was beginning to fly here and there; Rayane made sure that she flew for at least an hour each day.
Anthem, Rayane called. She was outside, flying. We need to go somewhere. He opened up a window.
Hm? Where? Anthem answered. She dove through the window and quickly halted herself before crashing into a wall.
Smooth. Rayane commented.
Why thank you. Now where are we going? she asked, trotting over to him.
Council of the Varden. They need to check up on us, Rayane explained. Anthem sent him her understanding. They left Rayane's tent and walked for a few miles, eventually coming to a large building. The guard looked at him.
"Joining?"
"Nah, I've been here for a while," Rayane told him. He walked past the guard, Anthem following him.
I wonder why he said that. Hasn't he seen us before? Anthem said.
Probably. Maybe he just doesn't remember, Rayane shrugged in response. He suddenly stopped before the Council of Elders and bowed, Anthem bowing her head the same.
"Rider Edamon! Thank you for coming. We would like to discuss your future plans."
"Of course, sir." Rayane nodded. "Please, continue."
The lady next to the Head Elder began to speak. "As you know, each Rider must leave to go to Du Weldenvarden to train for at least two years. We would like you to dispatch within the next two months."
"Within two months?" asked Rayane. He sighed, remembering his letter.
Tell them that you and I must visit your family first, Anthem urged.
Yeah. "Anthem tells me that she - and myself - would like to visit my family first, before I leave. I promised I would come to them soon," Rayane said quickly.
The Elder raised her eyebrows. "We cannot afford to lose you, Rayane. This would be a dangerous trip."
"Not any more dangerous than traveling to Du Weldenvarden," Rayane pointed out. The woman pursed his lips and paused. She and the Head Elder exchanged glances.
"Very well, you may visit your family in Reavstone. Not for any more than a week, and you must return here before leaving to Du Weldenvarden. Be back in three weeks," the Head Elder said decidedly. "Understood?"
"Of course, sir," Rayane nodded.
"And of Anthem?"
Tell him that I agree. Rayane did so.
"Rayane," the Elder continued, "You and Anthem must be extremely careful. You are, for the most part, not very strong as a team. I'm not meaning to insult you by this, but you are not the strongest, and should heed caution."
I won't let him leave my side, Anthem promised, projecting her her voice to everyone. The Elder looked satisfied.
"You are both dismissed." Rayane and Anthem bowed one last time before leaving the building.
Once they were out, Anthem took to the sky, doing some loops and curls.
What are you so excited about? Rayane asked in amusement.
I fianlly get to meet your family! Anthem shouted happily to him. Rayane laughed.
I wish I could ride you, instead of using Rincavor.
What? I can carry you! Anthem said indignantly. She landed and stared at him. Rayane raised his eyebrows.
Can you now? said Rayane skeptically.
Well, I'm not completely sure, but I think I can carry you for at least ten minutes... Anthem admitted. Rayane rolled his eyes.
Come on, let's get back home.
Are you about ready yet? Anthem said impatiently.
Yeah. Rayane grabbed his pack with his belongings. He exited the tent, where Anthem was waiting with Rincavor. Rincavor neighed a bit, happy to see Rayane. "Well hey there Rincavor." Rayane smiled. Anthem snorted, a little smoke shooting out of her nostrils.
RAYANE! Did you see that?! Anthem exclaimed. Rayane turned around.
What?
Look! Anthem snorted again, and more smoke puffed out. Rayane grinned. Anthem snorted again, excited with her new talent.
I'm impressed, Rayane complimented. Anthem launched into the sky, flying in circles overhead.
You should be, Anthem joked. Come on, let's get out of here! She began to fly south. Rayane mounted on Rincavor and followed, tapping Rincavor lightly on the ribs with the toe of his boot. He looked ahead at Anthem, who seemed to dissolve into the setting sun with her red clay scales.
The next morning, Anthem poked Rayane's conciousness.
Wake up, sleepyhead! Time to get on the road! she prodded. Rayane groaned and rolled over.
Ugh...not yet. It's too early...
Rayane, Anthem said sternly. You know as well as I do that the sooner we start moving, the quicker we'll get there.
Rayane groaned again. Fine...you're right. Anthem reached to him and tapped him on the back with one of her claws.
I suppose I could carry you until you wake up completely, she offered.
You would do that?
Perhaps. But not for long though. I'll get Rincavor to follow...somehow. Leaving Rayane laying on the ground, Anthem walked over to Rincavor. She looked at him, piercing his eyes with her own yellow ones.
Follow me, she said firmly. She brushed against his conciousness. Rincavor's ears flickered a little. You got that? Anthem crawled a few steps away, then looked over her shoulder. Rincavor trotted behind her and stopped. Anthem puffed out a steam of smoke. Very good.
Anthem went back to Rayane. Time for you to get on my back, she told him.
Mmm... alright. Rayane forced himself up and went to his back, fishing out a leathery blanket. He draped it over Anthem's back. Not exactly the best saddle, but it'll do. He climbed on top of her back, gripping on to one of her spikes. Go.
Anthem launched into the cool, misty morning air. The rush of wind blew Rayane's messy black hair back. Anthem's wings beat rhythmically to gain altitude. She looked down to make sure Rincavor was following.
You're doing pretty good, commented Rayane.
Yup, all thanks to you making me fly for an hour everyday, answered Anthem. But I enjoy it, so I don't mind. She came to a level height. Rayane looked down to find Rincavor a little dot.
Wow...
Yeah. I think we'll be at Reavstone by tonight, Anthem told Rayane.
Oh, good. Much sooner than I expected, Rayane replied, relieved.
Posted: 3/19/07
That afternoon, Rayane, Anthem, and Rincavor had reached about three miles from Reavstone. Anthem had dropped Rayane off with Rincavor about an hour after she first carried him. Rayane was definitely impressed; for a dragon who was only just over a month old she was very strong...not to mention strong-willed. Rayane had learned that she too, had a fun-loving, bubbly personality. They would make a great team.
The land eventually became very familiar to Rayane. He would point out landmarks to Anthem and explain their significance and such. Anthem listened carefully as she was trying to learn the land well in case they ever returned in an emergency.
Anthem, come down here, Rayane said. I have something to show you... He smiled, knowing that she would be excited to see this incredible thing.
Be right down. Anthem dove down, gaining speed to the point where she was almost like a bullet soaring down to the earth. She leveled out, whizzing by Rayane and Rincavor, but turned on her side and looped back while slowing down.
Show-off, Rayane rolled his eyes.
What can I say, I love to fly, Anthem spiraled gently and eyed him. Now, what was it that you wanted to show me?
Rayane tapped Rincavor's sides, causing him to halt. Anthem fluttered down, looking puzzled. Rayane grinned. He pointed south, where a bright, turquoise mass was shining in the sun. Look what it is.
Anthem spun around to look where he was pointing. Is that...the ocean?!
You betcha it is.
Anthem looked back at him. her yellow eyes bright and wide. Incredible! she exalted. Rayane could only just smile. I see why it is so important to you.
Not quite yet. Get back in the sky, I don't want anyone seeing you just until now. Anthem took off at his command. Rayane took Rincavor's reign and rapped him sharply. He galloped off to the city entrance.
About fifteen minutes later, they arrived at the entrance of Reavstone. The guard posted there was someone Rayane knew for years. Rincavor came to a stop at the gates.
"Hey, halt there!" the guard said. He crossed over to them and eyed them. "What's your business here?"
"I'm just - wait, don't you remember me?!" Rayane asked. The guard stepped back and crossed his arms.
"No, actually. I don't. What's your business here!?"
"Jordo, you don't recognize me?!" Rayane demanded. He couldn't believe this. "It's me, Rayane!"
"What?" The guard came over and took a good look at him again. "Well, isn't it! Rayane Edamon! Took you long enough to come back home, boy!" the guard chuckled. "Come on through then!" Rayane smiled and they went through, the gates closing behind them.
Anthem, I sure hope you're high enough.
You got it, buddy. I'm waaaay up here!
Good. Follow us carefully.
Posted: 3/26/07
Sorry about the gap between posts. I've been busy w/ Bjartskular, so I haven't been able to write.
The wooden house by the sea. Rayane sighed, loving the sight of it. It brought him warmth, and a deep sense of familiarity that nothing else could do. Except for his family. And probably one day, Anthem. Home sweet home. Rayane shielded his eyes to look for Anthem flying overhead. But before Rayane could call for her, the front door of the house opened. A girl with black, wavy hair rushed out, screaming, "RAYANE!!" She wore a navy blue summerdress and was barefoot.
Rayane jumped off Rincavor. "Maeli!" he yelled. He grinned and she leaped into Rayane's arms, who swung her about. Rayane felt Anthem prod his mind. In a minute, An, he told her. Rayane felt a wave of impatience from her, yet she said nothing.
The girl squealed again. "Rayane!" Maeli gasped. "I didn't think you were going to come!" She jumped up and down. Maeli resembled Rayane - black hair, somewhat tan skin, beautiful smile. But Maeli had bright, icy blue eyes. She was outgoing and giggly, like most girls her age. And man, did that girl have a lot of energy.
"I know, I know," Rayane smiled. He looked over Maeli and saw another girl walking their way. Belle. She was also smiling.
Belle looked like an older version of her sister, except with Rayane's brown eyes. She was also barefoot, but wearing a green dress. Belle was more of a quiet type - she wasn't outgoing like Rayane or Maeli but she had a good sense of humor, and was incredibly understanding. She had a way of listening - when someone talked to her, she seemed to be following with every word, analyzing and pondering.
"Rayane," Belle said simply. She gave him an long, embracing hug. "We didn't expect you would come home," she said, looking around, as if expecting someone else. Rayane guessed she was remembering his letter.
Rayane... Anthem whined. I'm getting tired! I want to come down!
Rayane blinked, having forgotten a moment about Anthem. Anthem! Two more minutes, he promised. Anthem grumbled in response.
Rayane looked back over at Belle and Maeli. "Hey, where's Mom and Dad?"
"Oh, they're up west. They won't be back for another two days," Belle replied. Rayane stared at her.
"What?"
Maeli nodded. "Yeah. Up in that city... uh.... what was it again, Belle?"
Belle shrugged. "They went to that village around the coast bend," she said, waving her hand away.
"Oh," Rayane said, relieved. That wasn't too far. He suddenly grinned.
"So, my sisters. Guess who I brought home with me?" he said with an air of innocence. Maeli inclined her head; Belle's eyebrows met in a frown. Rayane looked to Belle's face, knowing that she would get it first.
"Oh..." Belle said, comprehending. "No WAY, Rayane! It hatched?!"
Rayane just grinned. Maeli looked back and forth between them.
"Wait, a dragon?!" Maeli demanded. Her eyes were bright.
Anthem! Rayane called pleasantly.
Here I come! she yelled. Anthem dove down, becoming visible. Belle and Maeli looked up and gasped. Anthem did a loop, circled around them, and landed next to Rayane, looking pleased with herself.
"Whoa..." was all Maeli could say. Belle was speechless. Anthem looked up at Rayane. May I talk to them? Rayane smiled.
They're your family too, now. Anthem flicked her tail happily.
Hello! Anthem said brightly. My name is Anthem. I'm pleased to meet you both, Maeli and Belle. She fluttered her wings.
"It can talk?" Belle managed. Maeli looked just as shocked. Rayane crossed his arms and tapped his foot.
"Of course she can. She's just as smart as we are, if not smarter," he said. Keep talking to them.
Anyways... Anthem continued, taking her cue from Rayane. You can talk to me, you know, she added in amusement.
Maeli spoke up. "I'm Maeli," she said. "And this is Belle. So, you hatched for Rayane! How long ago?"
Anthem flicked her tail again. Month and a half ago, perhaps? We've been having a lot of fun. Rayane really wanted to come down here. Rayane rolled his eyes, but petted her smooth head affectionately.
"Of course I did," Rayane said. The girls laughed. And I think you were more excited than me to begin with, he shot at Anthem.
Anthem ignored him.
"Your scales are beautiful, Anthem," Maeli gushed. Anthem blinked up at her, pleased.
Why thank you, Maeli. Anthem and the girls exchanged a few more pleasantries.
"Let's go on inside," Belle finally said. She turned and lead the way back to the house.
Note: Yes, the dragon's name is 'Anthem.' The definition of "anthem" is: "a song, as of praise, devotion, or patriotism." Therefore, Rayane and Anthem are portraying their devotion to the Varden. I hope you kinda get that, it's a bit complicated. >.<
Posted: 3/17/07
Rayane sat upon his bed, a large, reddish-orange stone on his lap. But it wasn’t just a stone. It was a dragon egg. His hand touched the cool, smooth surface of the egg. He was still in shock that the Varden had let him take home an egg for three days. Apparently, the Council of the Varden thought that he had the potential to be a Dragon Rider, which he still had a hard time believing.
But I’m so old! Rayane thought over and over. He was twenty, which was unusually old for a Human to receive an egg. He gazed into the pattern of the egg, where light yellow spines wove into it like a spider web. It was very beautiful. This is going to be one good-looking dragon…
Rayane continued to watch the egg for several hours, hoping for any chance that the egg might crack.. He eventually fell asleep on his bedspread, the egg on the pillow beside him. When he woke up later, the egg was still there, not cracked and still solid. He frowned, disappointed. He carried the egg to his dining quarters, where he ate a meal of meat and vegetables. He sighed. His thoughts eventually came to his family.
I should write a letter to them, he thought. Rayane rose from his seat and got paper and a quill. He gazed one more time at the egg before beginning to write.
Dearest Mother and Father:
It has been a few years since I have visited you last. I‘ve missed both of you and Maeli and Belle terribly. I am currently in Abernon right now, with the Varden. I have come to an alliance with them just over year ago. It is wonderful being with them, yet intense.
I have great news. Currently, the Council has entrusted me with a dragon egg for three days! They think that I may have the potential to be a Dragon Rider. The egg is stunning – it is the color of red clay and patterned with yellow lines. I’m hoping that it will hatch! A whole new world of adventures is still waiting for me.
Anyways, I hope all is going well at home. If the egg hatches, I will be home in two to three months’ time. If not (a very large chance that the egg won’t hatch) then I will be home in a year. I hope the next time I see you I will have a new friend to bring home.
Send Maeli and Belle my love. I promise to be safe!
Your son,
Rayane
Rayane reread his letter. It was short, but it had all the information he had wanted to tell them. He smiled, satisfied, and began to roll up the letter. But suddenly, he heard a crack. Rayane’s head jerked up at the sound. He immediately cast his gaze to the rust-colored egg.
Hurrying over to it, he picked it up and set it on the ground. He sat down and watched it. Come on, come on… Rayane’s heart had quickened its beat. He bit his lip, hoping, hoping…
And eventually, several minutes passed. Rayane had not moved.
Crack. Rayane gasped a little, and leaned over to examine it. Yes, it’s hatching! It’s hatching!
The cracking continued. Slowly yet surely, the egg expanded the hard shell splitting open. Rayane reached out to help the baby, but he drew his hand away. It’ll have to do it itself. He waited, watching, his heart pounding in excitement. Finally, the baby dragon squirmed its way out, leaving its shell behind. It gazed up at Rayane with curious, intelligent eyes.
Rayane could only stare in awe. He slowly went down on his knees, and reached out to the dragon. It leaned its snout to him, trying to get a sniff. They made contact, and Rayane yelped in shock. A bolt of electricity had shot through him. He fell back, panting, and stared at his palm. Sure enough, the gedwëy ignasia was transcribed on it.
Rayane looked back at the tiny little dragon. It was the same color as its shell – a red-orange color, like the color of rust or red clay. Rayane liked it. It was scurrying around, exploring. Rayane chuckled to himself. So here I am, after dinner, and a dragon has just hatched and is running around my kitchen… Rayane froze. His felt something different in his mind. Like there was someone there, listening to him, sharing his thoughts. It’s the dragon! The little dragon stopped too and met Rayane’s eyes. It squealed and scuttled over to him. Rayane smiled, and reached out again to pet its slender, arched head. It growled in happiness.
Rayane drew his hand back and thought, You need a name. The dragon looked up at him again with its vermilion eyes. It had heard him. Rayane suddenly remembered he hadn’t introduced himself. He quickly set onto talking, while using images to help the dragon understand.
My name is Rayane. I’m a human from Reavstone, a little city on the coast of Surda. Rayane sent images of home to the dragon. It had become still, listening and learning. It’s a beautiful place. I’m twenty years old. I have two sisters and two parents. They all live in Reavstone. He went on explaining more about himself.
When he finished, he picked up the dragon – who only squeaked a little – and brought it to his room. It’s time to sleep, Rayane told it. The dragon blinked and lied down on the bed and shut its eyes. Well, that wasn’t too bad…
A week later, Rayane and the mini dragon had a schedule. They woke up, ate breakfast, and then Rayane would teach it for a while. The dragon had now begun talking back to Rayane. After a few hours, they would eat their noontime meal, and resume lessons. They would go out of the house and walk around in the Varden place a bit – where Rayane would tell the dragon about nature and such. He wished he could show it the ocean, so then it would understand something that was important to him.
Rayane hadn’t named her yet – Rayane had finally figured out that the dragon was a she. She had grown quite a bit although she had only been hatched for a week. The dragon sat down in front of Rayane and looked at him, expecting him to “teach.” Rayane stared back, thoughtfully.
Rayane, the dragon said, I see a thought biting at your lips. What is it?
I was just thinking that you need a name.
The dragon tilted her head, understanding. Yes, I do need a name. You can name me, because I don’t know many names.
Rayane sighed. It’s just, I’ve been having a hard time coming up with one. I like the color of your scales; they are like rust or clay. So, I have been trying to figure out a name that represents that.
Hmm. I see. How about…fire? Or a word like that?
But see, you’re not the color of fire. You’re darker. Titian, I think is the word.
Titian. I like that. It sounds powerful. But it sounds like a male name.
I know, Rayane sighed again. An idea came to him. What do you want to accomplish? After what I’ve told you about the war?
She did not speak for a few minutes. Rayane tried to peek into what she was thinking, but found that he couldn’t. Instead, he just waited for her answer. She looked off, out through the window.
I want to make a change. I want to help the Varden. This war is awful, and I am rightfully pledging myself to their cause. This shouldn’t be happening, having an evil King. We – you, me, and the Varden, must overthrow this king.
Rayane nodded. And I completely agree with you. Therefore, I would like to name you Anthem, as you and I are an anthem to the Varden’s cause.
The dragon looked back at Rayane, eyes sparkling. I love it. My name shall be Anthem.
Posted: 3/18/07
A month later, Rayane and Anthem had truly started to bond as a Rider and Dragon. Anthem now came up to Rayane's chest. Small, white spikes were beginning to line her spine, but they were about 10 inches apart. Her teeth had grown too; they were bright, sharp, and bleach white. Rayane was proud. She also was beginning to fly here and there; Rayane made sure that she flew for at least an hour each day.
Anthem, Rayane called. She was outside, flying. We need to go somewhere. He opened up a window.
Hm? Where? Anthem answered. She dove through the window and quickly halted herself before crashing into a wall.
Smooth. Rayane commented.
Why thank you. Now where are we going? she asked, trotting over to him.
Council of the Varden. They need to check up on us, Rayane explained. Anthem sent him her understanding. They left Rayane's tent and walked for a few miles, eventually coming to a large building. The guard looked at him.
"Joining?"
"Nah, I've been here for a while," Rayane told him. He walked past the guard, Anthem following him.
I wonder why he said that. Hasn't he seen us before? Anthem said.
Probably. Maybe he just doesn't remember, Rayane shrugged in response. He suddenly stopped before the Council of Elders and bowed, Anthem bowing her head the same.
"Rider Edamon! Thank you for coming. We would like to discuss your future plans."
"Of course, sir." Rayane nodded. "Please, continue."
The lady next to the Head Elder began to speak. "As you know, each Rider must leave to go to Du Weldenvarden to train for at least two years. We would like you to dispatch within the next two months."
"Within two months?" asked Rayane. He sighed, remembering his letter.
Tell them that you and I must visit your family first, Anthem urged.
Yeah. "Anthem tells me that she - and myself - would like to visit my family first, before I leave. I promised I would come to them soon," Rayane said quickly.
The Elder raised her eyebrows. "We cannot afford to lose you, Rayane. This would be a dangerous trip."
"Not any more dangerous than traveling to Du Weldenvarden," Rayane pointed out. The woman pursed his lips and paused. She and the Head Elder exchanged glances.
"Very well, you may visit your family in Reavstone. Not for any more than a week, and you must return here before leaving to Du Weldenvarden. Be back in three weeks," the Head Elder said decidedly. "Understood?"
"Of course, sir," Rayane nodded.
"And of Anthem?"
Tell him that I agree. Rayane did so.
"Rayane," the Elder continued, "You and Anthem must be extremely careful. You are, for the most part, not very strong as a team. I'm not meaning to insult you by this, but you are not the strongest, and should heed caution."
I won't let him leave my side, Anthem promised, projecting her her voice to everyone. The Elder looked satisfied.
"You are both dismissed." Rayane and Anthem bowed one last time before leaving the building.
Once they were out, Anthem took to the sky, doing some loops and curls.
What are you so excited about? Rayane asked in amusement.
I fianlly get to meet your family! Anthem shouted happily to him. Rayane laughed.
I wish I could ride you, instead of using Rincavor.
What? I can carry you! Anthem said indignantly. She landed and stared at him. Rayane raised his eyebrows.
Can you now? said Rayane skeptically.
Well, I'm not completely sure, but I think I can carry you for at least ten minutes... Anthem admitted. Rayane rolled his eyes.
Come on, let's get back home.
Are you about ready yet? Anthem said impatiently.
Yeah. Rayane grabbed his pack with his belongings. He exited the tent, where Anthem was waiting with Rincavor. Rincavor neighed a bit, happy to see Rayane. "Well hey there Rincavor." Rayane smiled. Anthem snorted, a little smoke shooting out of her nostrils.
RAYANE! Did you see that?! Anthem exclaimed. Rayane turned around.
What?
Look! Anthem snorted again, and more smoke puffed out. Rayane grinned. Anthem snorted again, excited with her new talent.
I'm impressed, Rayane complimented. Anthem launched into the sky, flying in circles overhead.
You should be, Anthem joked. Come on, let's get out of here! She began to fly south. Rayane mounted on Rincavor and followed, tapping Rincavor lightly on the ribs with the toe of his boot. He looked ahead at Anthem, who seemed to dissolve into the setting sun with her red clay scales.
The next morning, Anthem poked Rayane's conciousness.
Wake up, sleepyhead! Time to get on the road! she prodded. Rayane groaned and rolled over.
Ugh...not yet. It's too early...
Rayane, Anthem said sternly. You know as well as I do that the sooner we start moving, the quicker we'll get there.
Rayane groaned again. Fine...you're right. Anthem reached to him and tapped him on the back with one of her claws.
I suppose I could carry you until you wake up completely, she offered.
You would do that?
Perhaps. But not for long though. I'll get Rincavor to follow...somehow. Leaving Rayane laying on the ground, Anthem walked over to Rincavor. She looked at him, piercing his eyes with her own yellow ones.
Follow me, she said firmly. She brushed against his conciousness. Rincavor's ears flickered a little. You got that? Anthem crawled a few steps away, then looked over her shoulder. Rincavor trotted behind her and stopped. Anthem puffed out a steam of smoke. Very good.
Anthem went back to Rayane. Time for you to get on my back, she told him.
Mmm... alright. Rayane forced himself up and went to his back, fishing out a leathery blanket. He draped it over Anthem's back. Not exactly the best saddle, but it'll do. He climbed on top of her back, gripping on to one of her spikes. Go.
Anthem launched into the cool, misty morning air. The rush of wind blew Rayane's messy black hair back. Anthem's wings beat rhythmically to gain altitude. She looked down to make sure Rincavor was following.
You're doing pretty good, commented Rayane.
Yup, all thanks to you making me fly for an hour everyday, answered Anthem. But I enjoy it, so I don't mind. She came to a level height. Rayane looked down to find Rincavor a little dot.
Wow...
Yeah. I think we'll be at Reavstone by tonight, Anthem told Rayane.
Oh, good. Much sooner than I expected, Rayane replied, relieved.
Posted: 3/19/07
That afternoon, Rayane, Anthem, and Rincavor had reached about three miles from Reavstone. Anthem had dropped Rayane off with Rincavor about an hour after she first carried him. Rayane was definitely impressed; for a dragon who was only just over a month old she was very strong...not to mention strong-willed. Rayane had learned that she too, had a fun-loving, bubbly personality. They would make a great team.
The land eventually became very familiar to Rayane. He would point out landmarks to Anthem and explain their significance and such. Anthem listened carefully as she was trying to learn the land well in case they ever returned in an emergency.
Anthem, come down here, Rayane said. I have something to show you... He smiled, knowing that she would be excited to see this incredible thing.
Be right down. Anthem dove down, gaining speed to the point where she was almost like a bullet soaring down to the earth. She leveled out, whizzing by Rayane and Rincavor, but turned on her side and looped back while slowing down.
Show-off, Rayane rolled his eyes.
What can I say, I love to fly, Anthem spiraled gently and eyed him. Now, what was it that you wanted to show me?
Rayane tapped Rincavor's sides, causing him to halt. Anthem fluttered down, looking puzzled. Rayane grinned. He pointed south, where a bright, turquoise mass was shining in the sun. Look what it is.
Anthem spun around to look where he was pointing. Is that...the ocean?!
You betcha it is.
Anthem looked back at him. her yellow eyes bright and wide. Incredible! she exalted. Rayane could only just smile. I see why it is so important to you.
Not quite yet. Get back in the sky, I don't want anyone seeing you just until now. Anthem took off at his command. Rayane took Rincavor's reign and rapped him sharply. He galloped off to the city entrance.
About fifteen minutes later, they arrived at the entrance of Reavstone. The guard posted there was someone Rayane knew for years. Rincavor came to a stop at the gates.
"Hey, halt there!" the guard said. He crossed over to them and eyed them. "What's your business here?"
"I'm just - wait, don't you remember me?!" Rayane asked. The guard stepped back and crossed his arms.
"No, actually. I don't. What's your business here!?"
"Jordo, you don't recognize me?!" Rayane demanded. He couldn't believe this. "It's me, Rayane!"
"What?" The guard came over and took a good look at him again. "Well, isn't it! Rayane Edamon! Took you long enough to come back home, boy!" the guard chuckled. "Come on through then!" Rayane smiled and they went through, the gates closing behind them.
Anthem, I sure hope you're high enough.
You got it, buddy. I'm waaaay up here!
Good. Follow us carefully.
Posted: 3/26/07
Sorry about the gap between posts. I've been busy w/ Bjartskular, so I haven't been able to write.
The wooden house by the sea. Rayane sighed, loving the sight of it. It brought him warmth, and a deep sense of familiarity that nothing else could do. Except for his family. And probably one day, Anthem. Home sweet home. Rayane shielded his eyes to look for Anthem flying overhead. But before Rayane could call for her, the front door of the house opened. A girl with black, wavy hair rushed out, screaming, "RAYANE!!" She wore a navy blue summerdress and was barefoot.
Rayane jumped off Rincavor. "Maeli!" he yelled. He grinned and she leaped into Rayane's arms, who swung her about. Rayane felt Anthem prod his mind. In a minute, An, he told her. Rayane felt a wave of impatience from her, yet she said nothing.
The girl squealed again. "Rayane!" Maeli gasped. "I didn't think you were going to come!" She jumped up and down. Maeli resembled Rayane - black hair, somewhat tan skin, beautiful smile. But Maeli had bright, icy blue eyes. She was outgoing and giggly, like most girls her age. And man, did that girl have a lot of energy.
"I know, I know," Rayane smiled. He looked over Maeli and saw another girl walking their way. Belle. She was also smiling.
Belle looked like an older version of her sister, except with Rayane's brown eyes. She was also barefoot, but wearing a green dress. Belle was more of a quiet type - she wasn't outgoing like Rayane or Maeli but she had a good sense of humor, and was incredibly understanding. She had a way of listening - when someone talked to her, she seemed to be following with every word, analyzing and pondering.
"Rayane," Belle said simply. She gave him an long, embracing hug. "We didn't expect you would come home," she said, looking around, as if expecting someone else. Rayane guessed she was remembering his letter.
Rayane... Anthem whined. I'm getting tired! I want to come down!
Rayane blinked, having forgotten a moment about Anthem. Anthem! Two more minutes, he promised. Anthem grumbled in response.
Rayane looked back over at Belle and Maeli. "Hey, where's Mom and Dad?"
"Oh, they're up west. They won't be back for another two days," Belle replied. Rayane stared at her.
"What?"
Maeli nodded. "Yeah. Up in that city... uh.... what was it again, Belle?"
Belle shrugged. "They went to that village around the coast bend," she said, waving her hand away.
"Oh," Rayane said, relieved. That wasn't too far. He suddenly grinned.
"So, my sisters. Guess who I brought home with me?" he said with an air of innocence. Maeli inclined her head; Belle's eyebrows met in a frown. Rayane looked to Belle's face, knowing that she would get it first.
"Oh..." Belle said, comprehending. "No WAY, Rayane! It hatched?!"
Rayane just grinned. Maeli looked back and forth between them.
"Wait, a dragon?!" Maeli demanded. Her eyes were bright.
Anthem! Rayane called pleasantly.
Here I come! she yelled. Anthem dove down, becoming visible. Belle and Maeli looked up and gasped. Anthem did a loop, circled around them, and landed next to Rayane, looking pleased with herself.
"Whoa..." was all Maeli could say. Belle was speechless. Anthem looked up at Rayane. May I talk to them? Rayane smiled.
They're your family too, now. Anthem flicked her tail happily.
Hello! Anthem said brightly. My name is Anthem. I'm pleased to meet you both, Maeli and Belle. She fluttered her wings.
"It can talk?" Belle managed. Maeli looked just as shocked. Rayane crossed his arms and tapped his foot.
"Of course she can. She's just as smart as we are, if not smarter," he said. Keep talking to them.
Anyways... Anthem continued, taking her cue from Rayane. You can talk to me, you know, she added in amusement.
Maeli spoke up. "I'm Maeli," she said. "And this is Belle. So, you hatched for Rayane! How long ago?"
Anthem flicked her tail again. Month and a half ago, perhaps? We've been having a lot of fun. Rayane really wanted to come down here. Rayane rolled his eyes, but petted her smooth head affectionately.
"Of course I did," Rayane said. The girls laughed. And I think you were more excited than me to begin with, he shot at Anthem.
Anthem ignored him.
"Your scales are beautiful, Anthem," Maeli gushed. Anthem blinked up at her, pleased.
Why thank you, Maeli. Anthem and the girls exchanged a few more pleasantries.
"Let's go on inside," Belle finally said. She turned and lead the way back to the house.
Anyways, here's the next part.
