in another life we might have been friends

[Emiryal ♕]

It wasn't often that Reru had time to chase after his own ambitions. While he had few to no feelings of fondness for his father he couldn't yet sever that tie. He needed his father's resources and power to further his own goals. With riders dwindling from what they once were his father was keen to keep a hold on the few he had left, including him.

Even so Reru had more freedom than most. He had proven his loyalty by now and even if he wanted to betray him there was no chance of it. Galbatorix had his true name and that of his current dragon as well as their oaths. It was quite irritating but little could be done about that. In time he would figure out a way to remedy that problem.

Kamikurai descended as they neared Gil'ead the city being an outpost for the Empire would have to give him the respect he demanded. But the city wasn't their destination today. Reru watched the buildings below as they flew over the city while he couldn't hear much with the wind rushing past him he wouldn't have been surprised if a few of the citizens cried out in shock. It wasn't exactly common place for him to visit this city. As was proven by the arrow one of the guards shot in their direction.

Scoffing Reru spoke a few words in the ancient language deflecting the arrow harmlessly from his dragon. "Shoot me again and I'll take your life," he warned reaching the soldier's mind. He didn't care that it was one of his father's men. If the soldier had any reply he didn't hear it but no more arrows came their way.

Walking through the city to the lake would've taken a good deal of time but by dragon it was only a matter of minutes before the glistening surface Isenstar spread out before them and the forest of the elves on the far side. This was his destination.

Kamikuari landed on the northern shore and waited wordlessly. It wasn't often the two of them spoke anyways. Reru jumped down from her saddle landing softly in the grass and scoffed. They were completely alone on the Northern shore it seemed. He had only come all this way on the rumor of a half-elf being seen near Lake Isenstar. He had never met another of his kind and it seemed that the rumor had been just that. Of course he wouldn't find another half-elf here. Trying to enter the elven forest wouldn't likely yield any results and he certainly wouldn't be welcomed by the elves. Not with his tainted half blood and ties to the Empire.

[Dragonkin]

It was not often that Arlen risked his neck to come so far from the safety of the deeper parts of the Elven forest. But as of late he had been drawn from his seclusion deep within its shadowy and wooden depths. Normally he would be riding upon his best friend Raiann but being so close to the border he did not wish to risk her being spotted and thus they chose to walk to the lake.

At his belt rested what appeared to be a simple sword, but in reality it was distorted via magic to take on the appearance of a common sword without revealing its true nature. His clothing was a simple leather tunic embossed with flower and tree designs. On his arms he bore simple leather bracers, his hands covered in gloves and on his feet were a pair of hiking boots.

"It certainly is warmer today. It feels as if the chills of winter are finally going away in normal places." Said the Half-Elf mentally to his dragon partner. She stalked close beside as silently as she could, her polished scales glistening in the light that filtered through the branches of the tree tops above. A musical whimsical voice responded back to him after a moment "Yes it is, Arly, i enjoy our treks to see the outsides of the forest.." Her tone was teasing yet altogether loving and full of excitement.

Arlen laughed in agreement making sure to hide his elvish features as he began to get closer to the borders of the wood that was near Lake Isenstar. "Alright Raiann you know you need to hide.. we don't know if someone is nearby just stay close by if I need you I'll give you the signal." They had done this many times by now both were familiar with it though they hated being apart. Everytime Arlen usually was away too long.. he seemed to get into trouble, to which Raiann hated. Sometimes she wished she could keep him tethered to her to keep him out of trouble.

He finally emerged from the towering boughs of the forest woods a little bit away from Reru but the Prince if sharp enough could hear him step on a branch and also see him approaching the waters of Lake Isenstar. Kneeling down they seemed to be filling a canteen with water not yet acknowledging or seeming to have noticed the Prince. Although in reality the abundunce of Power from both him and his dragon was obvious to any magic user nearby.

[Emiryal ♕]

Reru was quite used to disappointments in his life for there were many. It seemed that either his timing was bad or the rumors had been false. Something that wouldn't surprise him in the least. Gossip and rumors seemed to be the favored token of trade among humans after all and the truth of it mattered little to it's value. The empty shoreline of the lake was seemingly devoid of any life aside from a few birds, himself and Kamikurai.

It certainly didn't put him in a good mood finding out there had been no basis to the claims. He had wandered some ways from Kamikurai who had settled down to wait for him. She showed no signs or interest in leaving to hunt or explore their surroundings. Instead she laid her head down to rest until Reru had need of her.

The northern end of the lake showed far less signs of passersby than the southern counterpart. He supposed the elves had little need to visit such parts and the distance was great enough that those in Gil'ead didn't have easy access to this shore. Not wanting to make a fool of himself by searching pointlessly he had already turned back towards Kamikuri when the snap of a branch caught his attention. It could've been just any wild animal but the small spark of hope in him wouldn't let him ignore it.

His gaze fell on Arlen as he filled his canteen oblivious to the prince. While his clothing had a much more elven design than those found in Gil'ead he appeared human at first glance. The idea of a human living with the elves was quite unlikely. If anything he had probably traded with the elves at some point for the clothing. That seemed the most likely explanation. If he frequented the area enough to have bartered for elven goods then maybe he could settle the rumor. Or perhaps he himself had been mistaken for a half-elf. It wasn’t often rumors got the details right.

When Arlen showed so sign of noticing him Reru approach his steps light on the grassy shore. The prince stopped only about a meter from him. "I don't suppose you know anything of the rumors about a half elf in these parts do you?" he asked though it was more a demand for an answer.

[Dragonkin]

Arlen did not seem to give any response at first that he had heard the Prince's question. They seemed totally focused on filling their canteen before standing and taking a drink and capping the lid to it. It was then he turned as his chestnut hair flowed in the soft breeze wafting across the lake. He looked to be in his early twenties as he seemed to be wary of the newcomer. A hand instinctively went to the sword at his side but he did not draw it. A mental message was sent to Raiann to be on her guard and to be ready for anything.

Her response mentally was that of concern. "Be careful Arly.. and do not take any unnecessary risks or I swear if you are caught and dragged away I will free you no matter what it takes even if I must brave the entire Empire to get you back!" This makes Arlen smile a bit, he could picture her ferocious assault tearing the Empire apart just to get him back, it was touching.

With a somewhat firm yet relaxed tone the Half-Elf in disguise cleared his throat and finally spoke to the prince. "I have often heard these rumors.." He lied mentally smiling a bit as he wished to perhaps have some fun of his own, that was until he noticed the large dragon down the shoreline behind Reru... this did not bode well as Raiann could see through his eyes just as he could through hers. Was this friend or foe? "I never figured there was much to substantiate them however." In the light of the sun even with magic hiding his elven features his shadow seemed to give off what appeared to be pointed ears. While he had made sure to disguise himself physically he had forgotten about his shadow. Understandable of course given that who really lookks at someone's shadow..

For a long while there was a pause as he kept his hand hovering over the sword hilt at his side. He seemed to be studying the Prince noting things to himself. He had never seen the likes of him before being secluded these many long years even amongst the Elves he did not socialize much outside of Oromis and a few people in Ellesmera. He was not very comfortable around people in general for being a Half-Elf from birth he had not made many friends. Though thankfully he could pass more as an Elf especially after becoming a Dragon Rider, but that was a secret he had kept from the Elves in general though a few did know such as Oromis and Islanzadi.

Arlen's own mind was guarded mentally as that was one of the first things Oromis and Glaedr made sure he and Raiann could do after becoming a Rider. Though he was at a disadvantage if he came across anyone with Eldunari as he had none of his own. He tried to keep his notice of Kamikurai hidden as he kept a sharp eye on Reru instead. "I don't think I've seen you around before?" He tried to further show ignorance. Better after all to appear harmless and ignorant than to show your full hand.

[Emiryal ♕]

Reru was far from the most patient person. It was a bit of an irony given his lifespan was extended by the elf blood in him. He had more time than most but often acted as if he had far less. Given Avendel's Eldunari's state it could be said that he did have less time than others. He could only make a guess at how long he could prolong her existence in the state she was in.

Though his limited patience was about to snap only for Arlen to finally turn his way. The motion of his hand to his sword didn't go unnoticed. That single motion could be quite telling about a person. Their concerns and their confidence or lack of in a fight for one. Reru for his part didn't make any motion to reach for the rapier by his side. Though he had a rider blade it wasn't the one he kept with him now.

"That's unfortunate, rumors can be wrong sometimes," Reru agreed. "Half-elves even existing is a rumor in itself that some don't even believe. But I am quite sure they exist." Arlen's shadow hadn't gone unnoticed nor had the presence of his magic. Though until he had seen the shadow he hadn't been exactly sure what the magic might be for.

"I usually don't come further than Gil'ead let alone this close to the elven forest," he said. Even if he had tried he certainly would not be welcomed in their domain. "Though perhaphs I should've made the effort to come here sooner because I'm certain of two things. You are lying and you're the same as me," he said.

His long hair was enough to conceal his ears without much effort but as he spoke he reached up and with a practiced motion pulled his hair back. His ears were angled less than an elf's but could not be considered human by any stretch of the imagination. "You can relax your sword hand. If I had come to harm you I would've already done so by now," he said.


Kamikurai remained completely still as though asleep. Before they had even landed she had become aware of Raiann's presence. Something she had kept hidden from her rider. She owed him no loyalty of any kind.

As Reru begun speaking with Arlen she slowly blocked some of her mind from him. Doing so too quickly or too much would alert him that she wasn't asleep. It wasn't unreasonable for her to feign sleep after he had pushed her to fly so quickly from Uru'baen to Gil'ead. Either way he hadn't seemed to notice or even be bothered by it.

Reaching out with her mind it only took her a few moments to find Raiann. She gently pressed at the other dragon's mind finding it guarded. "Is that boy your rider?" she asked alongside an image of Arlen. Her words were soft but precise like that of rain drops in a storm. "You should stay hidden I will not tell Reru of you," she said. Should she tell him she feared what he might do and before she could stop it her worry and sorrow carried through along with her voice. "I am Kamikurai," she added. She had so seldom held any conversations with anyone it had only now occurred to her to introduce herself.

[Dragonkin]

It was with subtle grace that Arlen left his hand where it rested. Hovering just above the hilt of what appeared to be was your typical average human sword. Although known by Raiann and Arlen to be otherwise.. the secret remained. Relaxing slightly he did manage to loosen his spell dropping the shifting manipulation of energy hiding his more elven features. He kept a neutral expression on his face before the Half-Elf cleared his throat. As he spoke it was with a voice that seemed inherently young yet with a twist of experience and elegance.

"Rumors can indeed be wrong.. but while you say you may not have come to harm me.. I don't know you therefore why should I trust you?" His tone was not overly harsh nor unkind but rather straightforward. It was simple fact, he did not know Reru, nor Reru him so why even just by them being both half-Elf did that give him any credence to trust? Just because two people are human, as Oromis had taught him in a lesson, did that inherently mean they would trust each other outright? It was therefore prudent to always exercise caution in circumstances such as these, especially in regards to a possible enemy Dragon Rider.

Arlen's face seemed skeptical and rightly so, after all even Reru would probably admit himself that in these times many people had a right to be wary of strangers especially with all the recent tidings and reports that fluttered about now and again. His only comfort in this situation was Raiann who comforted him mentally in the embrace of her mind before she pulled away for a bit to focus on something. Arlen figured perhaps the other dragon had been probing around and Raiann was trying to hide her mental presence.

Dragons are by nature a curious yet mysterious entity. Raiann had indeed been paying attention and assisting with making sure her partner's mind was well fortified through her assistance. While she had her own guarded she then noted the presence of another trying to poke and prod at her mental communication pathways. This was.. curious to her.. Outside of Glaedr she had no interactions with other dragons. Although this did not mean she let her guard down either. She could hear what Kamikurai was saying but her own voice was shielded until she came out from behind her mental walls.

Deciding to investigate this as the words and actions of this new dragon intrigued her, she reached out cautiously with a small tendril of thought, the tone sounded almost musical yet altogether whimsical mixed with a hint of curiosity. "You do not seem as closed off as you might appear... For what reason do you keep yourself separate from your Rider? Our bonds are strong with those we share. So why is it you seem to, judging from what you have just said, keep things hidden from.. 'Reru' as you put it?" If Kamikurai is intelligent they would note Raiann had not given her name nor a direct answer to her query about Arlen. Neither had Raiann probed Kamikurai's mind, it would seem she made an inference based on a simple question and statement which promoted small amounts of wisdom or at least caution.

[Emiryal ♕]

Reru watched as the magic hiding Arlen's features fell away. In many ways the two of them looked quite similar more so than he ever had to anyone he had known. There was little question that Arlen was a half-elf like him. Which meant that for once the rumor had been true.

But he was not surprised in the least by the distrust of his initial words. Given that Arlen was this close to the elven woods and his clothing it was possible he lived with the elves. It was possible that he might share their reserved nature and distrust of those outside their woods. That or perhaphs he knew of his ties to the empire, that alone was reason enough for most to question his very motives.

Regardless he doubted simple words would be enough to persuade the distrust completely. Given how binding the ancient language could be even when used without magic he hadn't wanted to resort to it but if he were to get any further information it was the only way Arlen could trust his word.

"Eka hávr long searched wiol one abr pömnuria own kind. Eka only wish eom thorta oth ono. Neither eka nor pömnuria skulblaka weohnata haina ono raehta now," he said speaking in the ancient language. Having spoken the language for much of his life he knew quite well he needed to be very specific or risk binding himself to them forever. He couldn't promise he would never harm Arlen only that he wouldn't do so today.

Though he suspected Arlen would likely understand what he said the meaning would be felt and clear enough even if Arlen knew nothing of the language.

translation
I have long searched for one of my own kind. I only wish to speak with you. Neither I nor my dragon will harm you right now.


Kamikurai seldom had chances like this to converse to non-empire enslaved dragons. She hadn't been sure that Raiann would even speak to her and hearing the musical voice gave her some hope.

Though the two of them could hardly be said to know each other Kamikurai had none she could really trust around her. The idea of someone free like Raiann made her want to open up to the younger dragon and plead for help. But both Reru and Galbatorix knew the risk of such a thing happening and had forbidden her to speak of her situation.

What she could say would have to be enough. Perhaphs Raiann might even figure out what she couldn't say. It hadn't gone unnoticed that Raiann hadn't given her name nor confirmed her rider to be the boy. But she wouldn't press for the answer, it was likely best anyways so that Reru wouldn't learn the information from her as it was.

"I might have a rider but I am very much alone," Kamikurai said. "I would not say our bond is strong. Reru's gedwey insignia is from his dragon before me," she said. Though she was forbidden to direction make the accusation she hoped that Raiann could figure out in the least that Reru's and her bond was one he had forced on her. She had never given Reru her gedwey insignia. She hadn't hatched for him he had made her do so and created the bond himself. "Our bond isn't like most pairs but it serves Reru's wishes," she added. It was difficult for her to find a way to express what she wanted to tell Raiann without crossing the line that bound her.

[Dragonkin]

For a long moment the Half-Elf stared and said nothing, a gentle breeze wafting past setting his hair to flow aloft in the wind. He did not appear frail nor overly buff. Could there be more to him than met the eye even with the veil of his appearance dropped? Would Reru suspect him to be weak? If so.. The Prince if he to attack would be in for quite a surprise. Although he did not show his hand thinking a few moves ahead. He trusted Raiann was also keeping an eye on things, after all for all her worrying, he found it comforting she always kept an eye on him. Even though she was younger than he.. or was she really? While she had hatched only a few years ago, her egg had been laid who knows how long ago..

For now Arlen while he looked to be relaxed he kept his hand near his sword hilt yet not exactly on it. The words of the Ancient Language were indeed known to him, thanks to learning from the Elves as well as Oromis, and he kept himself on guard as he was accustomed to those using it yet hiding behind it. One saying one thing and yet would mean another. While it was true you could not lie in the Ancient Language it did not mean you had to give the full truth however. This was something Oromis had made plainly abundant to him, not to mention living amongst the Elves gave him ample experiences with such things..

With a gentle tone, his guard seemingly down, Arlen would ask Reru. "So you wish to speak with me? Very well, what is it you wish to talk about..?" His tone was inviting as he gestured to have a seat by the bank of the river on a pair of fairly large sized rocks. Taking a seat he would cross his legs and stare at Reru expectantly. Reru would probably notice that Arlen had yet to speak in the Ancient Language, perhaps he was trying to avoid using it himself? But for what reason if he did know of it? As he sat, more of Arlen's figure could be gleamed by Reru if he was sharp enough...

He did not seem overly muscular or bulky yet he did not seem overly frail or tiny like a twig. He seemed fairly built with bits of muscle, perhaps he had swift speed given his elven traits and a fair sword arm backed as his human traits? As if he had both the best traits of both Elf and Man combined.. Or was there more to it perhaps? Either way the truth of his abilities and extent of his talents unless outright shown Reru would only be able to guess at what he was truly capable of.

"Oh you poor dear..." Came the sorrowful response yet no barriers were opened it sounded more like one giving their condolences for sorrowful news. "To pervert such a sacred bond is a travesty.. I can only imagine how it feels to be forced into this and not for the one whom you were destined." It would seem Raiann was indeed intelligent.. just as all dragons were. She had learned much from Glaedr and Oromis and thus even though she was only a few years old she seemed wise beyond her years. She had intelligently guessed at what Kamikurai was hinting at without saying and by alluding to it in the Ancient Language.. She knew her to be telling the truth.

"You have my sympathy my dear. For the bonds we share with our partners are something truly special.. to be robbed of that experience is a horrible torture.." She expressed painfully yet did not lower her guard, but it did not mean she was without a heart. If anything she had a big heart as it was especially given based on inference Kamikurai could tell whoever this dragon was partnered with it was evident the dragon cared very much for their Rider.. whether it was the boy or not.. it was obvious based on the way she spoke of the bond that paired her to her Rider.

[Emiryal ♕]

Reru wasn't entirely surprised by Arlen continuously keeping his guard up. Though the mere idea that it was simply that they didn't know each other seemed unlikely. It was pretty clear that Arlen was hiding something. Exactly what he wasn't sure but he was hardly being open. The same could be said of himself he supposed but his whole life had been nothing but secrets he kept from others. While Galbatorix knew more than he would've liked he had managed to keep a few secrets even from the King.

Whatever Arlen's reasoning in keeping his secrets for now Reru wouldn't press him to reveal them. Maybe the time would come later to find out. But for now this was the first time in over a century that he had ever met anyone like him he wasn't going to jeopardize that opportunity just yet.

"Of course, in all my years I've never met another half-elf," he said. The stone seat was rather rough and wrinkled with an uneven surface. Unaccustomed to anything but luxury it wouldn't do as it was. Wordlessly he shaped the stone with his magic into a smooth stone surface.

It was rather simple and quick but it revealed the fact that his skill in magic was quite above most. There were few who could use magic without speaking aloud what they wanted it to do. It was something Reru had mastered some time ago. But even he still found his skills lacking for what he really wished to do with it.

Perhaps it was lucky for Arlen that finding the rumor to be true had put Reru in quite a good mood. It wasn't often he was this good natured towards anyone. Though it wasn't likely to last forever. "Surely you understand why I'd seek you out. We don't truly belong with the humans or the elves. I'm sure you've felt the same way."


Kamikurai was quite relieved that Raiann had figured out what she hadn't been able to say directly. Though she knew full well that the younger dragon likely couldn't do anything to remedy her situation. Those that had the power to do so were her very captors. As much as she wished for her freedom she wouldn't ask Raiann to go to her certain death in any attempt to help her.

"It certainly is and it's more than just our bond," she said. "You are fortunate to have a Rider you are close too. There is much I wish I could say. Maybe if you find a way for me I can speak to you more openly. The only one here who might be free to speak has no voice now. Reru's el-" she stopped abruptly her mind erupting with pain.

She was forbidden from telling anyone about Avendel let alone Reru's intentions involving the Eldundari. Kamikurai barely suppressed growling aloud and was unable to avoid visibly flinching. After a moment the pain subsided from her mind. She had no one she could turn to for help the idea of anyone at least listening to her gave her the smallest hope. Though Avendel was likely to be unreachable to them if they could find a way to reach the old dragon's mind maybe she had the power or the knowledge to help. Or in the least talk sense into Reru.


Kamikurai's flinch didn't go unnoticed. Reru glanced in her direction for a moment in confusion. He knew full well she wasn't sound asleep though she looked so otherwise. But what had made her flinch he wasn't entirely sure he didn't bother to keep a constant connection except for a few specific circumstances. Though suspicious he considered doing so now anyways.

[Dragonkin]

Arlen was to say the least skeptical. While it was true he had yet to meet another Half-Elf aside from his sister of course but he had not seen her in years since she went missing it seemed strange here was another Half-Elf given no elves had truly left the Forest since the Fall of the Riders aside from those who were agents of the Varden who had ferried the Dragon Egg stolen from the King's vault many years ago.. While Reru had been speaking the Ancient Language part of him remained skeptical. Either way he was slightly put at ease enough to have a conversation.

"Nor have I." He kept his cards hidden and close to the vest, after all why give away anything to a stranger. For all he knew this Rider was working for Galbatorix, in all his time he had never really heard of any free Dragon Riders aside from Oromis and Glaedr, well not to mention Eragon and Saphira of course but that was only due to the Blood-Oath Celebration, he had remained distant from his teachers while they mentored Eragon, their 'new pupil' he felt replaced in a way.. But he did not dwell on this right now. It did not do to dwell on resentment.

"Hm. I can see the curiosity you have. To meet another of a rare hybrid indeed it is true. Though while I can admit it is difficult living among either race, the Elves have at least been kind to me, while Humans have mocked and scorned me. But I am curious as to where you are going with this?" His tone was that of intelligent curiosity. Yet still he did not speak with the Ancient Language.

The concern from the younger dragon was apparent from the sudden cry of pain made by Kamikurai. Though her barriers were up and it had not bled through, Raiann could tell there was indeed something going on here. Reru's el...? She was trying to put it together... Elda? No that didn't make sense given the context, but given she.. wait a second.. She recalled one of the advanced lessons Glaedr made her swear not to reveal something to her Rider until the time was right... Her Heart of Hearts.. Putting two and two together Raiann was able to piece it together. Keeping it to herself though she merely kept talking with her unaware that Reru was considering connecting his mind to Kamikurai..

It was Raiann's concern that might prove her and Arlen's undoing here and discovery by a possible enemy.. "You poor thing.. a prisoner in your own body, it is a terrible fate to trap one within themselves, Another crime indeed to limit your own freedom.. For it is terrible to shackle a mighty being of the air.. one who should be free to fly and travel.. let alone just be able to speak as a normal living being." Her concern was able to be felt even with her mind blocked to Kamikurai.. She had also partially blocked sections of thoughts as well to keep secret from her Rider learning of the Eldunari as they were indeed connected deeply. A rider and her dragon were indeed a special bond..

Noting that Kamikurai had flinched, and seeing Reru shift in place and look at the dragon, Arlen subtly moved his hand towards his sword hilt ready just in case something was about to happen. He also mentally prepared himself for anything taking a deep breath, but this would just seem to look to Reru as if he was just taking in the day and relaxing.

[Emiryal ♕]

Reru watched Kamikurai for a moment his conversation with Arlen momentarily paused. "Kamikurai what happened? You tried to disobey didn't you," he asked her. It wasn't the first time she had tried to do something against her oaths. While he wasn't entirely sure what she had tried he intended to find out.

Kamikurai broke off her connection to Raiann the moment Reru started speaking with her. She didn't want him to find out about the younger dragon. "It's nothing I just was thinking about leaving for a bit to hunt but you had ordered me to stay here is all," she lied.

Reru was quite skeptical of that but he could tell that something had caught her interest even though she was hiding it. Though he could've made her tell him he didn't. If he pretended to believe her lie he could search her mind later and she might have something even more interesting for them if he let her continute with whatever she had been doing. That and he could punish her later. "Alright then, you may go and hunt if you want. Go wherever you wish just return when I call for you," he said.

With that he turned his attention back to Arlen. "I have lived for over a century and nothing ever changes with how our kind gets treated. I simply wish to change that even if it means going against my father. Consider joining me, you don't have to right now but think about it," he said.

Kamikurai waited for a moment before spreading her wings and taking off seemingly to the west parallel to the elven forest. If she was actually hunting staying near the forest would indeed offer her more opportunities for prey. But all she really was doing was getting out of sight of Reru. Given that he didn't bother to maintain a connection to her it would allow her to speak to Raiann more easily if she was out of sight. Though she wanted to enter the wood and seek out the younger dragon her presence surely wouldn't be welcomed by the elves.

Landing a good ways out of sight she reached out to Raiann's mind again. "I do indeed wish I could be free," she said. "I am always bound by the ancient language like chains."

[Dragonkin]

Arlen once again shifted, but it looked more as if he was getting comfortable as he stared at Reru. With a calm expression on his face he turned to look away from Reru, with Reru staring at Kamikurai, at the lake beside them. He watched as a couple of fish jumped out of the water splashing up water as they dived back down. It made him smile and think back to one of his earliest lessons having to listen to the forest until he could learn no more. While at first it had made him angry and frustrated, eventually it made sense to him learning about life and how everything was connected more than he had realized.

Finally Arlen spoke after having listened to and understood the words the Prince spoke to him, but did not look at the Prince. His tone was calm and his body language showed no hostility as he simply seemed to speak. "Hmm going against your father? Hmm you are one of mystery indeed, you are clearly Shur'tugal yet you fear a simple man?" Arlen finally spoke a word of the Ancient Language but he did not know who Reru's family was and why would he expect the King himself to be the Father. "Either way though you speak of joining something but what exactly?" Arlen's voice was curious as he inquired of this before pausing for a moment, a third party in a soon to be war for the stake of the future of the land... Oromis and Glaedr had taught him many things in but a short time so while young he was no pushover, yet he still had much to learn of course.

It was then that Arlen finally spoke once more. "The winds of war approach as it is hard not to know the stirrings of the land with much that is going on... the Varden on the move, the Empire no doubt will go to fight them.. how could they not, for it is the nature of man to rise and to fall in battle.. Not to mention all for the ambitions of a man who craved power at the expense of all else and would do anything to keep it.." Arlen did not speak with hostility merely speaking as if these were simple facts.


Raiann was silent for a good while as she pondered many things while awaiting a response. Enjoying the calm of the area yet keeping her guard up, she stalked around in the boughs of the forest keeping a good eye on her surroundings, no one outside of a select few Elves knew of her existence and until Arlen chose to reveal it, she would keep the secret. It was for their own safety given that with how everyone reacted to Eragon and Saphira, they did not want to become trampled as well. Finally speaking once more to Kamikurai the words of Raiann were kind and gentle as she tried to offer help. Glaedr and Oromis had taught them many things about the Ancient Language including that of True names as well as Oaths.

"There may yet be a way to free you of these oaths through the Ancient Language itself.. it involves the essence of your true name. True names are always changing when you yourself change even if a little bit.." Her tone was genuine and sincere. "Your oaths become void when your name changes as such.. at least conventional wisdom states as such.." She was silent then for a while keeping an eye on Reru and Arlen from a distance though also wary of Kamikurai if this was a trick.But it did not mean even if she wasn't lying she could try to help the poor dragon have a bit of hope. After all everyone needed hope to survive now and again, Dragons most of all.

[Emiryal ♕]

Reru laughed at Arlen's worlds. "There isn't a single soul alive who doesn't fear my father, simple man or not," he said. Even the empire's most loyal had some fear in their hearts of the king. That's how Galbatorix ruled after all. Those who didn't fear him in some way were fools destined to have short lives.

"The Empire is already making plans to face the Varden, that I can assure you though I'm not free to disclose the details," he said. Having served Galbatorix for years he had some degree of trust enough that his every word wasn't bound by oaths. Though there certainly were some topics that were and ones he could not speak of.

"I do agree with you though I dare not say such things myself. What I want is to find my own allies that can see where the faults like in both Empire and the Varden," he said. It seemed he had got Arlen interested enough to risk telling him.

He found leading conversations with such information often went poorly so he seldom spoke of it unless it seemed useful. Even now speaking it could instantly turn Arlen against even talking to him. But if he wanted an ally some level of honesty was required. "My name is Prince Rerukusu and I am Galbatorix's son," he said. "I am not able to speak openly on that for reasons you probably can guess. But I have never really seen eye to eye with my father."

Just like he had bound Avendel, his father had ensured that he would not be able to share any crucial information or fully turn on him. He was still a prisoner to him. "He didn't send me here, I came on my own. He knows nothing of my whereabouts right now," he said. He wasn't sure if Arlen would believe him but he had acted on his own without his father knowing.

Avendel settled near the edge of the forest. She wasn't sure what Reru was even telling Arlen now since she had not maintained her bond with him after flying past. He could reach out to her at any time and she him but neither cared to do so unnecessarily.

"Yes that much is true, my own true name has changed three times since I hatched, but Reru has always been quick to figure it out," she said. Each time it had happened she had tried to keep it secret from him but Reru was like his father quite skilled in figuring out what true names were. "I don't wish to put you in any danger but I'm not sure I can do it alone," she said. Even if her name changed again it would only be a matter of time before Reru figured it out. Her only chance was to flee though where would even be safe for her she didn't know. Not that it was even an option in the given moment.

[Dragonkin]

At the mention of Reru claiming to be the son of the King.. Arlen fell off the rock he was sitting on in a fit of laughter. It wasn't said in the Ancient Language plus it sounded so absurd.. Who could ever love the King enough to have a kid with him? It was.. it was so far fetched it didn't even seem plausible in a million universes. Sure he said he was a prince but that could just mean he was the son of King Orrin of Surda and he was just messing with Arlen. Eventually he finally said through fits of laughter. "Yeah.. and my father was Vrael!" Obviously Arlen saying this was a joke...

This of course could be merely a bit of his youth shining through after all he was still fairly young.. only in his early twenties. Eventually he managed to calm his laughter down and smiled as he picked himself up and brushed himself off. "Ah.. i haven't had a great laugh like that in a while.." His face showed a smile and his hand didn't seem to be resting on his sword anymore.. was his guard truly down? Either way his connection to Raiann was still very strong but of course he wasn't focused on it. Raiann however was.. and her concern was magnanimous.

In a weary tone she sighed aloud "Oh little one.. be careful.. he might in fact be who he says he is.." Though her words would fall on deaf ears as Arlen was not paying attention to her and so she withdrew but left enough of her presence still focused both on Kamikurai and Arlen respectively. Her concern for her rider was so loving and caring to Kamikurai she could clearly 'feel' it even though Raiann's mind was mostly blocked from her.

Finally she returned the main pull of her focus towards the dragon. "There is always hope.. In the darkest times the beast inside will awaken.. it  is then that you can truly break yourself free of chains and tear down any foe... But all it takes is the will to act and the spirit to endure." Even though she was much younger than Avendel she sounded very wise.. almost like a mother to a hatchling. "I will help you when the time is right.. for none of our race deserves to be bound by chains seen or unseen. But as of this moment there is nothing I can do to assist you except that I will be your.. friend.." her words were in fact genuine and kind. Now while she was taking a big risk and gamble here she felt it was worth it.

[Emiryal ♕]

Reru was far less amused than Arlen was. He frowned watching him. It was obvious that his words hadn't been believed and he honestly wished they were a joke. His life would've been far easier if he hadn't been born into the Empire with a leash around his neck from the moment he'd been sent to live under his father's care.

He was admittedly taken a bit aback by the reaction. Most of those in the empire treated him with fearful respect not daring to ever laugh at him. The novety of finding one of his own kind though was enough to stifle any anger he might have normally had at the disrespect.

"I wish I was joking," he said. "I've lived well over a century. I was closer to your age when my father killed Vrael," he said. "I met him only once when I was quite young."

He hadn't exactly meant to get stuck into stories of the past but he hadn't heard Vrael's name mentioned in so long even in a joke that it brought back memories. Times when he had been happier and away from most of Galbatorix's influence.

"I wouldn't lie about such things. Galbatorix really is my father," he said only speaking that sentence in the ancient language to get the point across.

"I don't make a habit of speaking in the ancient language if I don't have to given how binding it is and how manipulative my father is," he said.

"Thank you for one so young you have a lot of wisdom. I suspect from a mentor of yours, they taught you well," Kamikuri said. Though she had little reason to suspect another dragon. It was more likely and old wise elf as far as she knew. "Being my friend is more than enough for now," she said. "If I am able to and you or Arlen need help I will try." Though Raiann hadn't specifically mentioned that he was her rider she had guessed that. And even if she was wrong they were probably at least friends. "I am too bound to explain much but Reru's rider sword may help," she added.

[Dragonkin]

As Reru spoke in the Ancient Language confirming what he had said as the truth.. Arlen tensed up a bit. He was now incredibly terrified on some level of his being. But he did his best to keep his body language neutral so as to not give away his true thoughts and worries. 'Never give your enemy an advantage over you' Glaedr and Oromis had always said. He left his hand away from his sword hilt.. at least glad his magic facade covering the blade had remained undetected so it still appeared as nothing more than an ordinary blade.

Taking a deep breath and looking out at the water of the lake next to them he remained silent. He was thinking long and hard trying to be careful of his next response. "So it would seem there is more to you than meets the eye.." He seemed a little on edge but understandable given what he had just heard. "What is it you want? Are you here to lay waste to the Great Forest of Du Weldenvarden? To bring the Elves to their knees? For a Century they have remained secluded and left well enough alone the people of the Mad King's Empire.." He of course made reference to Galbatorix without saying his actual name. He was on the inside terrified of whatever might happen next but he was doing his best to hide it.. though there were subtle hints in his body language showing he was nervous.

"I may not fight for the Varden.. or perhaps not yet.. but were I to wish to fight for them? would you try and stop me? For too long the Mad King has trampled everything and everyone in his wake. The world itself suffers from his reign." Arlen had perhaps let slip something by mistake as he spoke. He may have just made a grievous error...

Raiann was able to feel her Rider's anxiety and nervousness through their bond. She mentally worried and immediately placed protective barriers in her partner's mind just in case the Prince decided to try and force his way in... Her concern and worry for her Rider she was very.. protective.. of him and he was likewise the same of her. They were very close which made sense given they had a truly strong bond together. She trusted her Rider would be more careful with whatever happened next.. but should she need to she would leap from hiding at a moments notice to protect Arlen.

She then shifted focus back to Kamikurai and finally responded. "I appreciate the kind words." It was true that every Dragon did enjoy flattery and kind words. "Your offer of help is a kind gesture as well. Though what is this about help from a sword?" She asked perplexed. She also kept her senses about her being careful to hide from Kamikurai just in case the prince decided to join the bond and see her through his dragon. She did not want to give up the element of surprise should it come down to needing to fight.

[Emiryal ♕]

Reru watched as Arlen tensed his hand having gone instinctively to his sword. It was either an nervous untrained soldier or a trained one who knew how to hold their own. Similar actions but a world of difference on the small details. He was quite certain Arlen was no stranger to using a sword not with the confidence he had and carried himself with.

Reru didn't bother to reach for his sword at all. He didn't need it to defend himself. And unlike Arlen's his really was just a regular sword. One imbued with magic but still a regular sword. His rider blade remained on Kamikuri's saddle.

"I'm not here to kill or wage war on the elves you if that's what you're concerned about," he said. At the mention of the phrasing Mad King's Empire he actually smiled and gave a slight nod. He wasn't able to speak openly against Galbatorix but he had no love for his father.

"If you were to fight for the Varden I would be oath bound to be your enemy," he said. He would have little choice in that given his allegiance. "I can't speak against the King," he added hoping that Arlen would understand. If he tried to his oaths would bind him.

"You should be careful who you say such things too though. It could get you in a great deal of trouble," he said. "I didn't come on the King's orders. I came on my own to find one of my own kind someone who might understand my pain."

"The world does need to change and I want to be the one to do it," he said choosing his words carefully. Though the ambition in his expression was quite clear. He wanted his father's crown he wanted to rule and change the world from the throne.

For the time being Reru was in quite a good mood. He had never met a half elf like himself before and though he couldn't talk completely freely it was rare he ever got to talk to anyone who wasn't in the empire or about to die on his sword.


Kamikuri wasn't sure what to account for in the pause in their conversation. Likely conversing with her rider the way it was supposed to be between a dragon and a rider unlike her and Reru.

"I am not free to say more than that," she said sadly. She couldn't explain the eldundari in the hilt without her oaths binding her. "I think you'll understand if you see it. It's tied on my saddle."

It was rare that Reru ever let the sword out of his sight even if it was a sword he refused to use anymore. She wasn't sure if Raiann would even show herself to see it but there was desperation in Kamikuri's voice. She needed help and this small chance wouldn't last. "Please before Reru calls me back look at the sword and you'll understand," she pleaded before switching to the ancient language. "I swear I will keep your existence hidden from my rider and from the empire. I swear it by my true name, please young one it might be the only chance I have."

[Dragonkin]

In a quiet yet almost relaxed nature, Arlen seemed to nod his head in understanding, yet his hand remained near to his sword hilt. He understood the nature of oath's and better he keep his hand near his weapon just in case the wrong thing set off an Oath's bindings. He thought long and hard before finally he sat down on the rock he had sat upon earlier. It was at this time Arlen allowed the magic hiding his more... elven.. features to release so he wasn't expending even that small amount of energy. It could make all the difference for the coming future. He was unaware that while he did so the magic around his sword keeping its appearance different would shimmer for the slimmest of moments. If Reru had noticed... Arlen could be in trouble here.

For a long time Arlen was silent, disturbingly so. He watched the water of the lake beside them. A pair of fish jumping up and down had caught his attention. He watched them for a good moment or two. He then finally spoke in a calm manner. Though the sudden shift in subject might bring pause to the Prince.. "An ant has no quarrel with a boot yet man shall trample it all the same." Whether this was directed at Reru or another was unknown. It could be that Arlen was just thinking or musing aloud. He finally spoke again in a amused tone. "From a Dragon to the lowliest ant, all life has value.. would you not agree?" He did not give Reru a chance to speak before continuing. "Ambition is all well and good but it can lead to the ruination of all without morals or wisdom to temper it." The words spoken seem to be spoken half sided as if he was more than what he was.. could this be some hidden meaning? He appeared wiser than his years but he was still fairly young. He was only 22 after all.

"You may not be here to wage war upon Elven kind.. but don't think I am not wary of you. You are the son of a Tyrant... and that in and of itself is a dangerous fact.. You speak of a wish to change the world this is an admirable ideal, but the way in which you wish to change it might not be a way that makes everyone so happy.." He spoke of course of the Downfall of the Dragon Riders and how it gave the Mad King free Reign to do as he pleases now. Either way he kept a sharp eye out being careful within his own mind to protect it. He kept little to no contact with Raiann aside from the small link open at present just to be safe. He hated it, but in the presence of the Son of the King it was dangerous to do otherwise. However he was not yet running and would at least enjoy having a talk with someone. If perhaps they had a potential ally within the King's own household this could very well help the war effort of the Elves and Varden immensely.

"All things considered for the time being let things stand or fall where they may. It is truly nice to meet another Half-Elf.. While the elves have been kind to me it does sometimes feel odd around them.."  He did not elaborate on that but stared back out at the water and seeing some ducks swim past before looking at Reru he just stared at him while awaiting a response. Truly however at his core the Dragon Rider was afraid of the Prince but he was doing his best to remain neutral in appearance and not to give anything away. He could not let anything slip lest Reru gain an advantage over him.

For a long time Raiann would remain in silence. She would ponder in deep reflection before finally.. Quiet steps would approach Kamikurai from the shade of the great trees of the Forest towards the clearing that Kamikurai was in. She had approached from the left side of the captive dragon, Her scales were a dark blue almost sea like, a cool gem that had breathlessly been shaped over eons. Flecks of white were mixed with blue upon her gleaming eyes as they stared out at the poor dragon. A look of pity was in her eyes and heart as she beheld the radiant fellow dragon before her. How she wished for a friend to fly beside, she adored her teacher Glaedr but it was not proper for him to do much with her outside of training. Here was a 'female' dragon.. someone who she would, if the situation was different, have loved to have spent time with given how friendly she had been towards the younger dragon...

As she finally focused her eyes on the saddle on Kamikurai's back her eyes were in shock as she took stock of the sword and its hilt. Her tone as she spoke to Kamikurai next was of surprise. "An.. Eldunari!? Why would it be set within the pommel of a sword.. that is.. strange.. to say the least." She had mainly been speaking this to herself. She had also been sure to keep this information hidden from her Rider should he choose to strengthen their bond at that time. However she was also keeping a close eye on Arlen. She knew he was up to something judging from the conversation he was having with the Prince.

"I hope one day I can assist you in breaking free of your oaths. This day you have a friend with you Kamikurai.. and when the time is right I will help you be free of your prison." She would speak kindly as she circled the tree ring staying within until locking eyes finally with Kamikurai. A gentle warmth coming from them, as if a mother to a hatchling trying to help them know everything was going to be alright. Her scales reflected light from the bits of rays coming through the cracks of the overhead trees. "You are a very beautiful daughter of the wind Kamikurai.." She did not know what else to say at this time but hoped perhaps by giving a compliment it might brighten her day at least slightly. A little time away from misery always helps after all.