Returning Home ((Laetri, Brenton, ??David??))

[Brenton]

The monarchs of a forest as ancient as the land itself soared high above the head of a horseman who rode the leafy paths. This traveler was dressed not as a peasant or a noble but as a chivalrous knight of the land of the elves. He was carrying two leaf bladed twin swords, a blue rider blade, a simple dagger, and a shield while garbed in the traditional armor or a mounted knight. This man was none other than the estranged half elf named Brenton. He used to bear a last name, one of a man who was not his sire, and had been king for a small period of time but when corrupted and cured he discovered the truth.

And for about two months, the disgraced knight had gone to train two riders and even helped avert another war. Yet it was now time to return to his home and see those who had either been advisers or his wife. Slowly the white stallion, Frost Fire, trotted into a clearing where a pond lay. Brenton dismounted and patted his steed upon the neck with a loving brush of his fingers. Quench thine thirst, trusted ally and companion of mine. I will return in an hour to continue on our way. The horse neighed and went to the clear water to begin drinking. With practiced movements, the knight loosened the saddle straps and then started walking.

Only a little further and he would be at the hut where Laetri spent considerable time when not dealing with the Water Branch. As an Elder, Laetri was busy, yet he had been a close friend and confidant to Brenton all those times he needed help with a problem. When the building came into view, Brenton withdrew his hand from the steel gauntlet and rapped his knuckles upon the bark or the tree. Hail within yon building of nature. Mine name is Sir Brenton of Do Weldenvarden in search of Laetri, Water Elder.

[Aelodil]

A thud sounded in the small, plain, basic wooden hut which hung in a tree above a lake which shone a deep blue. The thud resulted from an elf falling out of his bed. The elf, Laetri, stood up, rubbed his ribs where he had fallen and looked around. He had been asleep, resting, after dealing with the Water Branch official business. Riptide had spent the past few years training him and Agaravel and Laetri had finally finished enough work that he could take a break to rest up. As he stood up, he ran a hand through his blonde hair which was in a mess. As he came to his senses, he hurried to brush up his teeth, just so that he wouldn't have a terrible smell emitting from his mouth. As he finished up, he rinsed his mouth and quickly got into his clothes which he had gotten so used to wearing. Rather than wear the normal garment he usually did, given to him as a birthday present from Arya, he wore his official attire as Elder of the Water Branch. The aqua blue cloak and garment gave him an extra sort of elegance he didn't usually have as well as an air of authority to him.

As he left his bedroom, he roamed the small hut and smiled as he passed a window. He stopped at the window as he gazed into the lake. Agaravel was sleeping underwater, along with Riptide. After enough time, Agaravel had decided to spend most of her time underwater. Thanks to their Water Branch affinity, she found it easy to breathe completely submerged. He spotted her, her shining aqua blue scales reflecting the sunlight, and next to her, though he couldn't see, he knew was Riptide. He thought of the time Agaravel and he had spent before the Branches had re-opened, before he had been given all this responsibility of being an Elder. He thought back to the times he an Brenton would sit down and enjoy their time together. Those times were gone, but he couldn't help but hope that those times would be back after being given enough time.

Moving on, he walked into the kitchen. He began to take out ingredients for breakfast. He took out a mango, a sweet apple, and a kiwi. Thanks to Riptide's waters, all kinds of fruits managed to grow around his hut. He began to chop the fruits and mixing them into a salad. He quickly began to stir up a dressing to put atop the salad and as he neared the end, he moved to the small table he sat on for dinner, placed the large bowl of salad on the table, and was about to sit on the floor to begin eating when he heard a knock at the base of the tree. He sighed, stood up, and descended the flight of stairs he shaped within the tree down to the ground. As he broke the illusion of the tree trunk, he opened the door hidden there and opened it and... stopped, gaping in surprise. There was Brenton, standing just outside his door. With a brilliant smile, Laetri hugged his old friend and when he finally pulled back, the emotion was apparent in his face. He said, happily, "Come on in, Brenton. No need for the formalities. You're just in time, I just finished preparing myself breakfast. Come, come, sit down. Tell me; where have you been? What have you been up to? How is everything? What brings you here?" his excitement barraging his old friend with questions as he gestured for Brenton to sit down and handed him a spoon.

[Brenton]

Brenton accepted the hug with slight uncertainty in his embrace. After all, the last time Laetri had been around, Brenton had been using dark magic to recapture what was gone from the mortal world. He had been turning evil and started attacking people for no reason. Of course now the crystal was gone but Brenton could still feel the urge to kill within him. Finally the two traversed into the hut and Brenton sat at his spot.

The Battle of Urubaen made me realize I was corrupted down to my very core so I made plans with Eragon and Isrydia to destroy the evil within me. That was two months ago. Yet after the crystal broke and I was free I attacked Isrydia and made a grave mistake. I had even insulted someone who I thought was my little brother. So I gave up the throne and went on a journey to rediscover myself. Out there I met two riders who I started training. One of them left but the other, David, stayed to learn more. On our travels we averted what could have restarted the war and then I decided it was time to visit home again.

The knight had been able to answer all of the questions with ease but he still felt as if something wasn't right within him. Slowly Brenton ate and contemplated what was going to happen in the near future.

[Aelodil]

Laetri had noticed the stiffness in his friend as he hugged him. He didn't blame him and he understood why. They had last seen each other under awkward circumstances. But he lightened the mood up as much as he could with a smile on his face. Brenton was himself right now, and nothing anyone can or will do can or will change that. As he listened intently to Brenton's story, he felt an unease and guilt. He had not fought at the Battle of Uru'baen. During the time in which the earth had shook beneath the feet of the two armies fighting, he had been underwater, training all the new Riders and their dragons. Although he realized that he was just doing his duty and he shouldn't feel guilty, he felt guilty non-the-less. The war had cost many a people their lives. Had made many wives widows, and many children orphans. He could have helped. But then again, thinking on it, Laetri realized that no matter whom he may have helped, the result would be the same: more and more death and carnage.

As he began to eat his salad, slowly, so as to savor the taste, his ears pricked up in surprise. Brenton had attacked Isrydia? Thought was his little brother? Laetri was confused but waited for Brenton to finish his story before saying anything. As Brenton finished, Laetri put down his bowl, almost empty by now. He took a deep breath before starting, "Brenton, do not blame yourself. What happened in the past is done and gone. We cannot change it, but we can change the future. Learn from yesterday, experience today, and prepare yourself for tomorrow. Who you are right now, that is all that is important. What you do right now, that is all that is important. Your friends, and I, will not judge you based on what you have done in the past. Nor will we change what we think of you, Brenton. You are our dear friend, and nothing can change that. Do not dwell on the past anymore. Now tell me; what do you plan on doing in the near future?"

As Laetri finished, he relaxed. It felt good to finally say that to his old friend and get it out there. He did not want his friend to hate himself, nor did he want him to feel guilty. The decisions a person makes are his or her own, thought Laetri. No one has the right to lecture someone else on their decisions.

Agaravel woke up, and stretched underwater. The lake seemed to move with her. The water in it was one with her. As she began to waken up a little more, she immediately reached out to Laetri. As she felt his mind, she smiled and said to him, "Good morning, little one." her voice silky smooth. Laetri smiled and repeated the courtesy, "Say hello, Agaravel. We have a dear old friend over as a guest." Agaravel reached out and as she felt Brenton's mind, she was conflicted between what to feel. On the one hand, last time she had seen him, he had tried to kill Laetri. While he may have helped before in the past, she was quick to judge and slow to forgive. However, her time spent with Laetri and Riptide had changed her. She had become, as Riptide said, one with the water. At times she was vicious and violent, such as the large waves. At other times, she was tranquil like an undisturbed pond. Deciding to act on instinct, she reached her mind out to Brenton and said, "Hello Brenton. It's good to see you well and sane again." Truly meaning the words she said, while still letting enough of her emotions through to Brenton to let him know she did not fully forgive him, nor did she fully trust him.

When you die, your world ends. The world may go on, but in your eyes, the world ends with you.

-Carpe Diem

[Brenton]

Brenton felt Agaravel reach out and her feelings toward him were enough to cause pain in his heart. Silently he brought forth images of war and dead dragons as well as of himself turning into a dragon himself. Out of respect for my friendship with your rider I will simply avoid conflict as best I can. Yet if I feel threatened these images can still take place and will be my means of defense. Trust me, child, you don't frighten me and I am not the same person I was when last we met. Now thank you, Agaravel. Please convey my greetings to Riptide in the water.

In the near future I plan on being able to travel back to Ellesmera and see my friends again. I might even go as far as to hope to encounter Isrydia and Arlyn. A lot of stuff has happened lately and I need some time to rest. Hopefully you will be able to greet David if he and Zeus ever return to my side. Brenton spoke to Laetri calmly.

[Aelodil]

Agaravel stiffened and stifled a roar of outrage as Brenton sent her images of carnage of dragons among others. Laid out in front of her was the lifeblood of her brothers and sisters, and he dared to send such an image after all he had done. She locked Laetri out of her mind for the moment, though she could not shut out Riptide who had been awoken by Agaravel's sudden change in emotions. She reached her mind out to Brenton and said, "After all the things you have done to my Rider, and now you dare send me images of my brothers and sisters all dead? You do not seem to comprehend what you have done to Laetri, Brenton. When you disappeared and threw the payload of being the Elven king onto his shoulders momentarily, that, stacked with the duties of being Elder all piled up on his shoulders. It was through nothing but raw determination that kept him from breaking under the stress. After you came back, you attacked him. You had gone for the kill at first. Who knows, perhaps you would have killed him had Riptide not been nearby, watching. Listen carefully to me, Brenton. I care not for your threats. You may have lived longer than me, but you have not learned anything from your long years. Throw my short lifetime, I have learned more than you have. Perhaps not in magic and combat, but rather in manners and ethics. I warn you a final time, do not proceed to anger me. Laetri seems happy to see you, so I will not share any of this to him. But if you ever try something like that again.." she let her sentence hang, speaking for itself. Her voice was rock hard, with a dangerous edge to it. It was the millennium of dragon instinct, built up inside her, calling for the blood of the murderer. She stayed in the water, seemingly asleep, though she was wide awake and ready for action.

Laetri frowned as Agaravel cut off from him. Rarely did she ever do that. He wondered why, when he looked at the lake and noticed her curled up. He smiled. She went back to sleep. He didn't blame her - she barely had any rest last night and day. He turned to Brenton and nodded. "You should. Many people have missed you, Brenton. I dare even say that Isrydia and Arlyn would love to see you after all this time. You were a dear friend. You still are a dear friend. Do not forget that. I will, of course, look forward to meeting your two disciples. In the mean time, would you care to rest here? It will be a long journey from here to Ellesmera. Plus, I have an extra bed you can use. Then it's settled." Laetri said, not giving Brenton a chance to argue against him as he stood up and began to prepare a room for his friend's use.

Riptide awoke as he felt Agaravel's mind prod his and she conveyed the conversation with Brenton to him. At first, he did nothing. He seemed to be lost in thought, but then, just as quickly as how the tide of the ocean changes, so did his mood. He immediately reached out with his mind to Brenton and let the full extent of his mind be known, letting all his emotions rush through; Anger, rage, and a desire to protect. "So you are the one Inferno chose. I am Riptide. I would be lying to say it is a pleasure to meet you. However, as is common manners, I will exchange greetings. Hello, Brenton. Now, would you mind explaining your threats against Agaravel?" raged Riptide, his voice and emotions barely in check. He had grown fond of Laetri and Agaravel over the past few years, and when he was confronted with a threat to Agaravel could not contain his anger. He tried to reel it in as much as he could, but he could not stop the torrent of emotions from flowing into the mental link with Brenton.

When you die, your world ends. The world may go on, but in your eyes, the world ends with you.

-Carpe Diem

[Brenton]

Brenton sat and waited until Laetri exited to contend with making a room for him to rest some. Then just as quickly, the knight stood and left the hut to stand staring at the water. Within a few seconds he was gathering energy from the nature, from his eldunari, and finally from Inferno himself. It was then that his skin glowed with light bright enough to blind even the sun itself. Agaravel, Riptide, I am Sir Brenton of Du Weldenvarden. I have trained under master Riders such as Oromis and Galbatorix long before such a young being as this dragon was born. Dare to threaten me again for mistakes I made in the past and there will be two more corpses I must contend with on my conscience. As for a Guardian, you of all beings should know that any creature who lives makes mistakes. I did what I had to when king to protect my people and then even went as far as to harm friendships to rid myself of an evil. When I return to see a friend I am challenged by his dragon and therefore I showed her what I am capable of and what I will do if threatened. Do not be so presumptuous as to think I am beneath you just because I am younger and more brash.

As Brenton finished his tirade at the two he drew Undbitr and rested it point down on the ground. Now unless I must defend my life, I would appreciate being able to speak to Laetri without the mental assault from someone who shouldn't meddle in mortal affairs. Slowly he released the energy back into the surroundings and walked back to the hut. And no matter how you feel about me, Riptide, it is a pleasure to meet another Guardian.

The ground shook as a volcano erupted forth from its slumber. Deep within had rested an ancient dragon who now must protect his charge. With ease, Inferno flew down to where Riptide was and landed with a heavy thud. Riptide withdraw your hatred and think carefully about your actions. I have known Brenton since before he took up the dark magic. He is a kind soul with a very deep seated hatred towards those who insult him. The dragon you speak with has slighted him by treating him with disrespect and making it known she doesn't trust him. Would we not do the same as young Brenton in the same situation? Ender would have killed, Tera would simply cause drought, you would flood the land, and I would burn it. All he did was simply make his abilities known and his intentions clear. Don't attack someone who has more control than the Guardians.

[Aelodil]

Laetri noticed a rumbling as he felt an immensely large presence make its way over to his hut. He quickly grabbed Thringa and rushed outside the hut, noting that Brenton was not in the hut anymore. He found quite a mess and sighed. He immediately reached out to Riptide and Agaravel, wiggling his way into their minds as he replayed what had happened with them the past few minutes. He put a hand on Brenton's arm in an attempt to soothe him. He said, "There's no need for unpleasantness. Past mistakes are in the past. Do not dwell on it. Leave it in the past and go on with life. However, I must say Brenton, you went too far. You threatened Agaravel, my partner for expressing her thoughts. She did not threaten you, but you did. That is not something I take lightly." his voice different than usual. This time, he poured in the extra edge he had gained from being an Elder and training under Riptide. Although it had only been a few years, he felt like he had matured a couple of centuries.

Agaravel noticed Laetri changing. He was a lot leaner now, his mind plenty sharper. Though, despite the fact that she harbored no love for Brenton, she didn't want a fight to break out over her expressing her feelings. She said to Brenton, "As Laetri said, I did not threaten you so as to warrant you threatening me. I simply expressed my feelings as every living thing can as part of their rights. Unless you would like to turn into a second Galbatorix?"

Laetri snapped to Agaravel as she added in that second part. Throwing insults like that around was not going to make life easier. As Inferno landed, he turned to Inferno and greeted him politely, "Hello, Inferno. It is a pleasure to finally meet you after hearing many different tales from Riptide."

Riptide's thoughts snapped angrily as he was accused of acting on hatred in comparison. He flicked his annoyed and jumbled thoughts to Inferno and said, "Before you try to start lecturing me, perhaps you should reel in your whelp. I did not act on hatred; he did. He threatened to murder the dragon I have been caring for and training the past few years. You understand how it would feel for someone to threaten your Elder or his/her dragon. No, I would not have done the same. Everyone has the right to express his or her feelings. Others, in the same respect, have the option to chose to ignore or listen to other peoples' opinions." his voice like a tide on a cloudy day, hovering between flat out rage and tranquil calm.

When you die, your world ends. The world may go on, but in your eyes, the world ends with you.

-Carpe Diem

[Brenton]

Brenton looked at Laetri with barely controlled anger in every line of his very being. Threats were not issued by your dragon, and I respect that about her, but to pass judgment upon a person for something they did to try and be close to their dragon is of high disrespect. What I did was said I would much rather avoid a fight and would only attack if my life were threatened. To show how serious I am I showed images to her and said I wasn't the same person I had been. As for threatening her, that never actually happened until Riptide reared his head and started lecturing me. I stand by what I said and will still be peaceful as long as the two who you commune with refrain from insults. And Laetri, you are wise for a young age but I would much appreciate it if you didn't act the Elder role. Every story has two sides and two ways they can be conceived. As a former king I learned that in disputes both parties have varying opinions on what was actually happening because of how they interpreted the situation.

It was at that moment that Brenton heard the remark from Agaravel about Galbatorix and he simply raised his sword from the ground. Twice you have insulted me whether through actions I was not in control of or through my honor as a mostly decent person. Make a remark about Galbatorix to me once more and not even an army or Guardians will keep me from enacting justice. I tried to atone for my sins and have been away for months now to secure that so unless you know who I am now then keep your opinions to yourself. With that he sheathed his sword and brushed Laetri away from him.

Inferno was well beyond being reprimanded by Riptide so he dropped lower and snarled at the Guardian. My Elders dragon knows when enough has been said and when it is time to be quiet. Yours can't get that simple thought through her head and into her brain. Don't act like you feel anything but hatred toward this half elf because I can see it in your very stance. Even though you deny it, this is all based from anger and not rational thought.

[Aelodil]

Riptide sneered back at Inferno. He was literally seething with anger and the lake responded to his mood as it began to grow low tides that lapped against the earth aggressively. He ignored Inferno, not caring what he might do as he turned the entire gale of his thoughts to Brenton. "Do not proceed to try to talk about things you do not comprehend, whelp," snarled Riptide at Brenton, for the first time in millennium his voice turning a disgusted, nasty, angry growl, "the power of a Guardian is not one you can compete with. And you, Brenton, are beyond what I consider disgusting. I hated the Humans for being corrupt. I looked upon the Elves as the sole light shining as a ray of light in an abyssal sea of darkness. You have proved me wrong. Both Humans and Elves are corrupt, apparently. Your lust for power is what drove you into this pathetic state that you are in. As for you, Inferno, he continued, turning to Inferno, "Do not threaten me with a snarl, Inferno. I will not say I have no hatred in me, but it is not without just cause. However, you are wrong. I feel pity for this man. Pity for what had once been a man, fallen into this state. Agaravel voiced her opinion, as everyone is free to share their opinions. You are no tyrant king, Inferno. You have no right to tell someone what to and what not to say." rising up with the lake, his form growing to his normal size.

Laetri felt something snap inside him when he saw Brenton raise his sword. Swiftly he moved in front of Brenton, a look of disgust, hate, and betrayal on his face as he kept Thringa at the ready. This was not the Brenton he had ever known. The Brenton he had known knew the feeling to have his dragon threatened and would respect that. The Brenton he knew was no tyrant. This was not the Brenton he knew. [b"Do not resume to raise your sword against Agaravel. I'd hate to have to fight an old friend."[/b] he said, his voice icy cold and lingering dangerously as he continued, "You did threaten her as far as dragons are concerned. No, not even as far as dragons are concerned. As far as sane living beings are concerned, you threatened her. You showed her images of her dead brethren. It is sad to know that despite being centuries younger than you, I find you still making the same mistakes as you have in the past. As for you," he said, turning to Inferno, "You shouldn't push him in the wrong way. You're basically saying it's fine to show someone an image of their family slaughtered. Are you out of your mind? I don't care if you're a Guardian. I don't care if you can or will kill me. I don't care. What I do care about are my friends and their well-being."

Agaravel growled, baring her teeth as Brenton raised his sword at her. She landed next to Laetri and continued to glare with seething rage at Brenton. She said to all those present, "Good job Brenton. You've proved me right. You've proved me right that you are not trustworthy. If you were hoping to lose all those you had once held dear, good job. You've done it greatly." her voice silky smooth and calm, despite the situation.

When you die, your world ends. The world may go on, but in your eyes, the world ends with you.

-Carpe Diem

[Brenton]

Brenton watched Laetri carefully and when he turned slightly to Inferno, the knight took his chance. With a practice leg sweep meant to take his friend to the ground, Brenton spoke quietly. Walk in my shoes for as long as I have and tell me that you don't change. I have lost one dragon to a shade and another to Isrydia. Even after that, I never threatened her because she wasn't in control. I never knew my father, was captured by a tyrant, forced into a life I didn't deserve, and tried to be able to see Vaentr again. The scales are far from even between the two of us. You have lived a sheltered life compared to me and yet you still act as if you know what you speak of. I swear by all that is holy, Laetri, if Agaravel mentions Galbatorix again then I will run her through. I would have done it to my dragons as well. This has nothing to do with who she is or what she thinks. It has to do with insulting someone she doesn't know.

As Brenton spoke he raised his hand and used enough energy to keep the water from coming near him. For a mortal he was powerful. A mere mortal could never stop you, Riptide, but I am no mere mortal. I have battled beings far worse than you and come out on top. I have faced entire legions of soldiers and not broken a sweat. Try to harm me or someone I care about and you will be the next. As for you, Agaravel, time heals wounds dealt to pride and eventually I will be forgiven by those who actually deserve my trust. You didn't see Laetri insult or begrudge me when I politely knocked. That's because he is respectful and knows about mistakes.

Inferno roared which caused the trees to bow in fear from the sound of his mighty challenge. Fire began to rain from the sky and soon the very core of the earth was so hot that it burned anyone standing on it. Rage was very much a part of his personality and a thirst for justice thrived within him. The fact that you are attacking my charge and berating him is unforgivable. You say you are wrong about elves but Laetri is an elf as well. So by your words, you hate your own Elder. Wrap your mind around that. Without warning the Fire Guardian launched his attack at Riptide while thrashing his tail toward Agaravel to keep her at bay.

[Aelodil]

Laetri was expecting a move on him by Brenton. He didn't blame him. In fact, he was grateful he at least didn't use a sword. As it were, he sidestepped just out of reach of Brenton as he moved in. Listening to Brenton was strange. It was if he had forgotten everything about Laetri. "Really? Is that what you think? No, let me rephrase that. Is that all you think of? Yourself and what's happened to you? Brenton, I did not know my father growing up, and I still do not know who he is, or if he even is alive. My mother died while I was still young. Do you understand that, Brenton? You may not have had a mother look after you as a child, but that's the difference. I had it, just before it was taken away from me. Do you understand what that's like, Brenton? To have the most precious of things in your grasp and for it to be taken from you? Without anyone saying anything about it? Just like that, to come home one day and fond it was taken away. Of course you do. You lost your partner. Then try to understand that you're not the only one who's suffered. You think I had it easy when you had me act as regent in your absence? At that time, I had absolutely no experience in being a leader. Yet I was thrown to being a king at a time of confusion, and distrust. The world does not revolve around you and you alone, Brenton." Laetri said. He was tired of it. He always stayed silent and never complained of what had happened to him. It was unpleasant things that had happened, and dwelling on them would do nothing but bring unpleasantness. It seemed though, that Brenton did not yet understand that.

As Brenton threatened her, Agaravel roared at him before Inferno attacked. She dove to Laetri's side rather than trying to help Riptide. She knew that in this situation, she would be of no help against Inferno. As strong as they may be, both Laetri and her were just mortals in the end. They stood no chance against a Guardian such as Inferno.

Laetri's eyes turned ice cold with barely contained rage as Brenton threatened Agaravel. He kept his sword up and his stance ready as Brenton spoke. "You know, Brenton. I had thought you could still be you. That under all this," he said, gesturing to Brenton, "Would be the same man I had once known. I guess I was wrong." his voice frigid as a blizzard.

Riptide finally snapped when Inferno attacked him. He didn't bother trying to reason anymore, but rather he roared and the oceans and all the bodies of water in the world responded to him and obeyed him as the water in them rose up to fend off the heat from burning everything. He realized that Inferno probably did not realize that he did not attack Brenton. Riptide nimbly dodged out of the way as Inferno rushed for him. He summoned his mystical water and, controlling it, made a spear and aimed it at Inferno's chest while rearing up on his hind legs and aiming a lightning fast hove towards his skull.

When you die, your world ends. The world may go on, but in your eyes, the world ends with you.

-Carpe Diem

[Brenton]

Blasted Guardians. Inferno! Withdraw yourself from this fight. I never wanted to attack and had avoided it with every word I spoke. By assaulting Riptide you made me an enemy to the Water Branch now go back to the Fire Citadel and rest.

Inferno was dodging both attacks when he heard Brenton calling out to him to retreat. Under normal circumstances he would eat the puny mortal but this man was right. So the Guardian flew up and left, hoping that Brenton would live.

Brenton raised his hands in a show of peace and spoke to all three present. I came here to speak peacefully and a comment was made that I took offense to. Both Riptide and Agaravel are right that it was their right to express opinions about me. These opinions I deserve because of what I have done. However by intentionally, or unintentionally, goading someone you distrust you automatically are asking for a fight. I was wrong to threaten even if I did not see my initial response as anything more than a firm warning. Laetri I realize you had a tough life and that you dealt well with it. And yes, I have lost those I cared about. A woman, my biological mother, two dragons, and countless allies all fell around me. The feeling of loss is prevalent in my heart. If you honestly believe I am no better than I was then take the shot you want. I won't fight back but I will disarm you if necessary. I am not the same person you knew. He died awhile back and no one ever stays the same through every little detail of their life. Yet I am not the evil man I was when last we met. That alone should be enough for you to realize you are making mistakes now. After all, I am unarmed since sheathing my sword but you insist of holding a blade up to me.

[Aelodil]

As Inferno retreated, Riptide look after the presence that had been his friend over the past millennium. How petty were they that they would engage in combat with one another - no matter over what. He released a sigh and with that, he too disappeared underwater. While he left the excessive power in him free for Laetri to tap into, he didn't do anything else.

Agaravel glared daggers at Brenton. She had had enough of it. Laetri might possibly forgive him, given time, but she would not. Never would she forgive the man for showing her that image. Never would she forgive the man for threatening her and her Rider. Never would she forgive the man for falling prey to greed to a point where he fell to this state. She remained in her position, doing nothing but glaring at Brenton. Should he make a move against her or Laetri, she would intervene, else she would remain as is.

Laetri sheathed Thringa as Brenton spoke. He trusted the man - to a slight extent. He realized that the man in front of him was no longer the same man he had once known. "I held a blade up to you for good reason, and you know it. You pointed your blade at Agaravel. My partner. The same partner who you then proceeded to threaten to murder. Brenton, you are not the man I had once known. You are right. You had been blinded by greed much as I have and tried to have everything you could lay your hands on, both in the sense of friends and power. I bid you a farewell my old friend. I no longer have any business with you." the words came out of Laetris mouth, both sad and meaningful as he dropped into the lake, followed by Agaravel. He would go back to sleeping for a while. After all that had happened over the past few days, he needed the rest.

When you die, your world ends. The world may go on, but in your eyes, the world ends with you.

-Carpe Diem

[Brenton]

Brenton shook his head with disgust at the way the group had been toward each other. As Laetri disappeared under the water, he spoke softly to himself. Greed infers I was doing it for personal gain. I did it out of loneliness and desperation. I'm sorry, old friend. With that he simply bowed and took a dagger from the belt to begin carving into the tree. As he turned to leave, the message was clear to whoever saw it. "I'm not the same man but I am trying to return to someone who deserves his friends forgiving him. I'm sorry Laetri."

[David Lightningsword]

It had been almost 6 months now since Zeus had hatched for David, yet the Black Dragon could still not breath fire. David knew it was only a matter of time before that fateful moment, however he still saw that as a disadvantage. If they ran into an enemy rider and dragon who could breath fire without Brenton or another one of their friends as backup. Clarissa and Vervada had been avoided, but they weren't nesscarily evil.. some may be and if David and Zeus could not sway them, they could be in serious trouble if on their own. Yet David saw this trip as a risk they would just have to take. Who knew, maybe Zeus would find his fire breath in battle. However David had never seen the Du Weldenvarden, and as he knew Brenton was traveling there, he decided he would meet up with his mentor and possibly continue his training.

While Brenton had left a few weeks before, no horse could ever outrun a dragon. They met no hardships during travel, and when they neared the Duweldenvarden they cast a spell of finding, to find Brenton. It took them a little longer than they had hoped, yet His spell lead them to someones home. They had landed and now waited outside the entrance. After a few moments silence David called out "It is I! David Lightningsword, son of Zeus, and Zeus Shadowscales, son of Heralda, come to see Brenton and whomeever lives here!" He then waited to see if anyone would answer..or if he and Zeus would have wasted a journey.

[Aelodil]

Laetri sighed. He had forgiven Brenton for all his past actions. He didn't care about that. All he cared about was that his friend recognize that. Though, when he had threatened Agaravel he had been put in such rage he had not ever felt. He shook his head when he felt a mind brushing on his, "You're too trusting Laetri. Haven't you learned from your years?" Agaravel told him. He grit his teeth and accidentally bit his lip, blood streaming from the corner of his mouth.

He looked directly at her under the water, took a breath and told her, "I won't give up. I won't ever stop trusting the people I love. I won't ever stop trusting my friends. I won't ever stop trusting those who need to be trusted. No matter where I might end up, I don't care. If I end up not able to trust anyone I might as well just avoid society." if it had been a few years ago, his voice would've been thickened and slurred with emotion. Now, however, it was hardened. The voice of a man who knew no end to what he believed in.

The water moved around him as he felt Riptide move his conscious to them. "You're no longer naive, Laetri, I am glad to see that much, at least. However, you need to put yourself ahead of others. Your safety matters, not only to you, but to Agaravel, myself and every other Rider and dragon in the Water Branch. Right now, you're just being selfish." the old voice rumbled throughout their minds. Laetri grit his teeth, letting another flow of blood stream out the corner of his mouth.

Laetri jetted out of the water and headed into his hut. He hated it when they were right and he knew they were right. He continued to enjoy his food that he had prepared earlier. Finishing it all, he sat down on his couch, pondering. Sure, he was being selfish, but hadn't he earned the right to at least be selfish sometimes? All the responsibility he had to deal with. It's not as if it were all a simple task. Sitting up, he heard a voice call out. He walked out of his hut, dispelling the illusion of the tree trunk and revealing the door that he walked through.

"Well met, David Lightningsword. My name is Laetri, son of Adurne though she is now dead, Elder of the Water Branch, Rider of Agaravel. Brenton just left earlier. How may I help you, and what business do you have with him?" he said, his voice with a mysterious edge to it. Much the same as the ocean which could sometimes be still and calm, and on other days raging high and strong.

When you die, your world ends. The world may go on, but in your eyes, the world ends with you.

-Carpe Diem

[Brenton]

Brenton had been only a few yards from the hut when he felt a new person arrive at Laetri's. With a sigh, the knight stopped and realized it was David who must have shown up looking for him. That was a bad situation if Laetri were still upset with him. Without stopping to think, the knight cast aside his mortal form and grew into a 12 year old blue dragon.

Vaentr, having been slightly cured, still occasionally would aid his rider in getting somewhere quickly. And this was one of those times. So the dragon who was both Vaentr and Brenton shot back toward the clearing letting loose a territorial roar of defiance. Any dragon would know that this was not a friend if they were in the wrong.

When the beast landed, a shimmering light appeared and soon Brenton was once again standing before Laetri and slightly between the two bipedals. His hand rested on the hilt of Undbitr but the blade remained sheathed for now. Laetri, back off from my student. I told you about David and figured he would show up. But I never expected the confrontation beforehand. Please for the sake of the youth, do not let your anger towards me color your decision about David. He is brave and a lot like you when we met.

[David Lightningsword]

Zeus showed annoyance at being so blatantly ignored with a small growl. He was picking up on the vibes, so he added a little venom to his growl. David gave him a look as if to say 'stop it, you are insulting out host.' He then next bowed to the man "Well met indeed Laetri. I apologies for Zeus, he is a very proud spirit." He was displeased that he had missed Brenton, and was about to respond when Brenton showed up.

It was obvious that They had had some sort of disagreement and he said "There has been no disrespect given Brenton. Not yet anyways." However Zeus projected his thoughts and said "Except refusing to acknowledge my presence. While normally fogivable of unbonded youth, not so when it is another Rider." he growled a second time, to show his displeasure. He did not touch on the vibes he had felt, for Brenton had already spoken of them. David was the type to see the best in people.. Clarissa being a prime example of this, however this meant Zeus needed to pick up on all the little things and be distrustful of people.. so they were balanced

[Aelodil]

Laetri rubbed his ears, not appreciating Brenton's annoying and pointless roar. He looked at Brenton and told him, "For one, let me point out something: that hot headed roar was not necessary. Another thing: as your very polite student pointed out, there was no disrespect towards him. Rather, if I dare say so myself I respect you David. Glad to see such polite manners in a youth such as yourself." turning to David and Zeus, returning the bow. Looking Zeus in the eye unwavering, he said, "My apologies Zeus. I had not meant to give off the vibe that I was ignoring you."

Agaravel had a different opinion. Climbing out of the body of water, she shook herself off. Reaching the surface, she stretched herself out to her full size, rather large. She had had two years to mature after all. She stared at Zeus. Though she would have rather preferred lecturing him, she knew Laetri would rather she remain polite. Besides, thinking on it, Laetri was partly at fault here. "Nice to meet you, David, Zeus. Please forgive my Rider, Zeus. He is quite the absent minded man. My name is Agaravel." she told them, bowing her head slightly in respect. She didn't seem too pleased to see Brenton, though she didn't growl at him like she would've wanted to.

Peering out through the water but not bothering to say anything was Riptide. The Guardian lingered in case anything went wrong. Besides, if they picked out where he was then he'd introduce himself. Else he'd rather not bother with it all. This was a personal case for the people there. He had nothing to do with it all.

Inspecting David, Laetri was surprised at his height. He was only just about an inch shorter than Laetri himself. Remembering his manners he asked, the second time that morning, "Would the lot of you care to come inside? I still have some breakfast prepared as well as tea. Sorry to say Zeus, I don't have anything you would eat."

(I'm liking David already haha)

When you die, your world ends. The world may go on, but in your eyes, the world ends with you.

-Carpe Diem