Challenges

[HoudiniDerek]

Kimara stood patiently as the two entered the grove, watching Sarora finally get to leash her unpatience in her delight at seeing the girl. Kimara's grey eyes stayed focused on the Dragoon, even during the brief hug that Saira could not stop herself from giving. Kimara nodded at the introduction and watched as Sarora attempted to mind-speak with the frightened man.

"We were fine, Saira. I believe Sarora was a bit more uncomfortable waiting around than I was, but it seems that her fears were unfounded overall. I heard that you did well in your quest." Kimara glanced momentarily at the Dragoon before turning back. "Would you care to tell us about it?"

[Omio]

Forget Len making a sound. Forget Len even thinking. Forget Len even see and feel anything. He went completely pale before he passed out from sheer terror. Unfounded terror, thanks to having been made a Dragoon, but terror indeed. He wasn't in the elite force because of the fact he wanted to kill a dragon. Len kill anything larger than double his size was something he didn't dare think of. He's taken on bears, but nothing bigger. He got rather serious with bears, though. Anything much larger than him would definately scare him plae, and possibly out like a light.

[WolfEnchantress]

"Of course," Saira said with a grin, but before she could begin telling him anything Len swayed a bit, then fell. She lurched forewords and caught his shoulders, staggering back a few steps, and gently lay him down.

Did I do that? Sarora asked sheepishly.
"Yes. I did tell you not to act so intimidating, didn't I? He's not like me, he can't tell when you're kidding about things, or tell the difference between a curious growl and a happy one."
I'm sorry . . . The dragon said quietly, still gazing at them both.

Saira rummaged through her cloak as she told her trip to Kimara.
"I met Len my first day out, and he decided to come with me," She said, explaining the trip to the town as she pulled out a small glass bottle. It was the same stuff she'd used to wake him up before. She unstoppered it and waved it in front of Len, and Sarora wisely retreated to the farthest part of the clearing, tucking her wings in and her tail around her. She put her head on the ground, watching with interest. In reality, she wasn't really far away; if she extended her neck she could touch Saira, but she scooted over as much as she could. She thought about vacating the area temporarily, but Saira warned her that she could be spotted that way.

"I saw a mirror," She added into the description. "And stayed in an Inn, and there were a lot of people." She explained the few fights they'd come across, and the storm, leaving out only a few details of some things she'd rather not say. She glanced down at Len for signs of life.
"Len?" She said questioningly.

[Omio]

Len began to come to, with a headache. Nnnngh... ...wha... "Mmmnn...?" ...Wait a second! And he turned, his vision still too blurry from just awakening to see details, but he saw large figures, two of the, and again, paled. Then lgoci finally began to calm him down, little by little. Should they really have wanted food, they easily would've eaten me while I was out, and if I was really a threat, I would've been disposed of... Len sighed. "S-sorry for being so... ...so shaky, b-but I've always been scared of a-any living thing much bigger than I am." He sounded apologetic, but he still seemed very edgy, nervous, and still somewhat scared. Second time this week that's happened... ...urrrg, I hate headaches...

[WolfEnchantress]

Sarora tensed up a bit, wanting to go over to the one she'd made faint (she found it somewhat amusing, actually) wanting to find out more about this 'Len' character.

"Sarora, please stay there," Saira warned, knowing without even a glance back that the dragon was about to practically pounce over to the two. She froze, watching them, as Saira added small details to their trip she was telling to Kimara.

I want to speak with him, Sarora said, letting off a puff of icy breath that made her shiver.
"You saw what happened last time you tried that," She said matter of factly. "And it's fine, Len, really," she said. "She's a dragon, she's meant to be terrifying." The dragon grinned.
This is true, She said. There aren't many left with much dignity after coming across a dragon. She avoided speaking to Len. She could wait until he'd calmed down a bit. But she did watch him. One could learn much from actions.

[Omio]

Len made little motion, still a bit weak, yet. "N-no, it's an ungrounded fear... ...I-I've had it since I was young." He knew better than to move, but tried to relax. He cleared his mind as much as he could, trying to take the fear away by doing so as well. His thoughts kept smashing his attempts though.
I'll be flattened!
There's NO way I can stand up to something like that!
I can't do something to anything like THAT!
...No, and you don't need to. there is peace.
Then why the heck are they so large?!
If you are so discriminate as to judge by size, then you're nothing but a weakling.
W-what?!
A mental weakling, anyways. You can be physically strong, but mentally, you'll always be weak as long as you discriminate by size alone.

Len managed to come across his resolve on the matter, getting up with a slight stagger. He actually turned to Sarora. "Sorry for the discrimination. I've never come across anything alive that's more than twice my own size. I should stop considering size, and consider personality more... ...But I do have to thank you for that, in a way... ...without seeing you, I wouldn't have leanred about that weakness of mine." I finally have full resolve. Full resolve. How long I've been looking for it, and how sweet it tastes.

[WolfEnchantress]

Saira breathed a sigh of relief when Len stood, apparently coming to the end of some conflict. Sarora was quite pleased, and somewhat amused, by what he said. Saira glanced over at Kimara, who had been previously staring intently at Len. She wondered what it was he saw.

No apology is necessary, She said, and Saira cringed.
"Sarora, lower your voice," She said. "Remember, Len isn't me. If you keep up at your normal volume you'll likely knock him out again." The dragon did as told, lowering her thoughts to a whisper, so she would at least slow down the headache.
I am used to such things. She unfurled from the tight ball she'd curled into, seeming to inflate a bit, and brought her head up, studying him, before doing as she had before, placing it on the ground in front of him as to be eye-level (though this time without the intimidating flourish)
Now, if you would be so kind, Dragoon, - she said the word with an air of distaste - would you introduce yourself? I am curious as to the reason you are, and have been, accompanying my daughter. There was a steely edge in her thoughts, a subtle warning, but otherwise she made no threatening moves. She met his eyes with her own, their crystal depths seeming to bore into him, her tail idly swishing back and forth like a cats, though with the effect of uprooting a small tree and voiding the area of grass.

"Sarora," She said with a touch on the dragon's shoulder. "Be nice now." Seriously. Don't scare him into leaving. She could very well see Sarora's intentions as plainly as if she was thinking them herself. Consider letting him come with us. This had an uproarious effect on Sarora, for her mind immediately went into turmoil, but the only indication she made of this was to flick her gaze to Saira for a half second before focusing on Len again expectantly.

[Omio]

Len nodded. He had faced himself and won, in fear's terms. "The answer isn't so easy in reality, but much simpler in explanation. First of all, by the greater forces, I was to give Saira the three Books of WildMage. Second, I was also to guide her in the learning of the art. Third, I would much rather eliminate my more... ...corrupt of former allies, if that hasn't happened already. Fourth, and lastly, I have taken a very great liking to Saira. I can't comprehend the greatness of it, nor easily explain it. Oh, I guess facing you for to overcome my fear, and forgive myself for the fear - a Magedebt of mine - might be a fifth reason, but I'm not sure if I should count that." Speaking my mind so freely... ...with one of the things I used to fear so greatly... ...how I smile on this change.

Len's expression changed, as he remembered something else. "Mmm! I forgot that we need to go get keystones... Whoops. At least that can wait until tomorrow." And he smiled. "And here I am forgetting to introduce myself fully. Though my first name is not real, the rest is. Saira or I can explain why at a later time. I'm Len Von Nikita. And to note, I'm a former Dragoon. Were I actually one, I'd probably be fighting and losing against you, Sarora, and I wouldn't dare do that, even if I were equipped for that." Have to love professions. (( Fixed. ))

[WolfEnchantress]

Sarora listened with interest at the reasons, looking at them from every possible angle. She'd put aside the alarm at Saira's suggestion for the moment, considering the human standing in front of her. The fourth reason interested her, but Saira's thoughts told her now was not the time to ask.

She did not know whether to believe the bit about him no longer being a dragoon. She was still wary, no matter how calm she looked. And he could just be saying that so he could kill her in her sleep. Which wasn't likely to happen, even if that was his intention, she thought somewhat smugly.

How do you know he wants to come with? She asked, still watching Len.
He does, came the confident reply.
If he doesn't?
Ask and see, if you are unsure.

The dragon did just that, abandoning her usual subtly with such direct questions.

The fact that you came here, and, even though you feared for your life you stayed, gives me two impressions. One is that you wish to continue your travels with us. The other is that you are hoping to gain something from this visit. She narrowed her icy gaze. You are a dragoon, and therefore an alchemist. It is well known among the dragons that Alchemists seek Dragons for their blood. She thought it with a bit of menace, but in reality, if he'd asked for her blood she'd have no qualms about it, so long as he left after he got it.

Sarora. Don't be so hasty to dismiss him. Consider it, at least, Saira pleaded. She knew Sarora heard her, and so she said nothing more, her nervous gaze shifting from Len to Kimara to Sarora.

[Omio]

Len shook his head. "Would I want that, I would merely go back to the city, and do some dirty work. No. I intend not for that bend of Alchemy. I actually intend on the exact opposite, partially hence why I'm am ex-Dragoon. I have their skills, and know their habits. I would easily be the most effective tool against the rest of them. But yes, it's as you said on both ways, though I didn't see the second one so brightly as the first.

"...However, should you disassent, I will understand, and leave you; I've no need to be forceful about anything." As is, I'm already trusting Saira greatly for this. Any more, and I might as well be saying that she's got my life in her hands. Len was completely calm through his speech. There was no evidence of preparation in there whatsoever; everything he said was sincere. "And so, the choice is ultimately thine, Sarora." And here was the point he felt exposed, weak, and a bit scared of what the result was going to be. As much as he hoped to go along, he just had the feeling that he'd be rejected. So far, anyone I've trasured has died... ...even recently, two of my closest - and few - friends were killed by an uprising... ...I don't want the same to befall any of you three...

[WolfEnchantress]

Sarora was silent for a long moment before she picked up her head.

Very well. I will take what you said into consideration, the dragon rumbled, then turned her attention to Saira. I'd like to talk to you. Sarora retreated a few steps, and Saira followed obediently.

he cannot come, Sarora said abruptly.
And why would that be? She asked in a flare of anger.
He is untrustworthy.
He is far from untrustworthy. If anything, -Their discussion escalated into an argument. to a casual observer it might just look like a staring contest, except for the fact that Siara still made the occasional hand gesture. Sarora was as still as a statue. Kimara, seeing as how he could hear them before, might be able to catch what they were saying if he'd tried. Their thoughts sped up, as they often did in heated discussion, to the point where one would have an inkling of what she was going to say, and before she could even form a sentence in her mind the other would get it and begin a response, and so forth.

Finally, Sarora growled fiercely and tossed her head, making Saira jump in surprise. She clacked her jaws together in irritation.

We are getting nowhere with this, Sarora said. Saira crossed her arms.
What if I told you that if you don't let him come, I'll stay here? She asked defiantly. Immediately the dragon's persona changed from irritation to obvious surprise.
You would stay here? She asked. Saira tried her best to sound confident when she said, Maybe. She didn't know what she would do, honestly. The dragon thought this over, caught off guard.
Sarora, please, trust me. I'm not a young girl any more. I can make decisions like this. Sarora's eyes softened.
I know you are not a little girl, and it saddens me. If it means that much to you, he can come. But if I turn out to be right... Sarora left the threat unfinished, and Saira nodded.

She returned to Len and Kimara, breaking into a grin.
"She'd given consent, you can come with," She said, "As long as you're good and don't do anything I already know you won't."
Or I'll eat you, Sarora added, flashing teeth. Saira rolled her eyes.
"She's kidding. She doesn't eat people."
I might try. Who knows, maybe they're good.
"ignore her. Sometimes her sense of humor is a bit off." She turned to Kimara, grinning. "Of course, if there is anywhere you wish to go, we can take you too," She said. He'd done much for them lately, more than could be said for. She wanted to at least return part of the favor, if she could.

[HoudiniDerek]

Kimara had silently watched the procession since Len had regained his consciousness minutes ago. He seemed frightened of Sarora and very tame, which was not surprising if he was really no longer a Dragoon. Of course, a culture as ingrained as the Dragoon culture would not easily go away. It became almost instinctual.

As Saira and Sarora had argued over whether or not to continue their journeys with Len, Kimara had observed the man. He seemed meek enough and his thoughtfulness posed an intellectual side. Kimara knew that he could be very expert at manipulation: It was one of the first classes taught to Dragoons. But, life was not without risk.

Kimara glanced over when Sarora growled. Kimara sensed Saira say that she would not be going if the Dragoon was not allowed as well. Kimara's eyebrow arched oddly over one eye, giving Kimara an expression that was tough to decipher. However, Sarora seemed to settle down and the conversation became more of one among equals than protector over charge.

Kimara nodded approvingly. Saira had done well on her trip and learned well; so too had Sarora. The lesson of age and wisdom were never easy. Usually it was harder on the older person in the relationship as it had been here. Kimara knew that Sarora might later regret the decision (as Saira might), but that it was a decision easily achieved.

Kimara smiled down at Saira as she proffered the invitation. "Thank you, child. Maybe our adventure is not over in the long run, but it is for now. You have done what you set out to do. You have proven yourself to be very capable and hopefully you will stay that way."

Kimara glanced at Len momentarily before continuing. "You will still have lessons to learn as you grow and Sarora might be there for some. If not, you know you can count on yourself and that's a good thing. Don't underestimate that. It's something that not many people can say about themselves."

Kimara hitched up the satchel onto the aging back and cinched it into place. "I have enjoyed our time and I wish you well. I have something for you." Kimara handed Saira a rune stone with an archaic marking on it. "Take this. It can help us communicate over long distances should it ever be necessary."

Kimara smiled and turned to Sarora. "The best thing for me to give you is advice. Never return to the Ularian. Make your home in the Blaze or the Selkia. Your kind will not let you return as the matter currently stands." Kimara seemed to look beyond Sarora for a minute and then the grey eyes refocused.

"If you ever desire to go back to your people, Sarora, come and find me. I may not be able to help, but I will do what I can in what ways I can. But know this: It will not be easy for you. Make sure you are ready before you go back."

Kimara nodded to the trio and turned towards the Blaze Mountain. Walking steadily, the elderly figure was soon lost in the shadows...as though no one had ever been...

[Omio]

Len nodded. "Nono, I can understand those conditions as clear as day, not as if they matter much when I have exactly no intention of bringing any sort of misfortune." If anything, and if I must, I'll put my life before both yours and Saira's. Saira has trusted you with her life, and I trust Saira with mine, so I can trust you fully as well. I care not if you trust me or not; it's an earned thing, so only time will allow me to become a true ally of yours. And Len's next thoughts seemed to be more to himself than to Sarora. ...Trust... ...perhaps, ultimately, we're all players of such a game. As is, my life is already supposed to be forfeit, but I wish to not bind myself to the words of fools. "If you two have nothing to do, and only then, I'll need to go somewhere rocky so that I can pick up and make keystones; a near-essential tool for Wildmagic." They're used instead of other things for magedebts, for small things, like Coldfire, Scrying, and other things.

Your mageprices have all been lifted.

Len blinked, having heard that from nowhere. It played again in his head, to make sure he got things straight. He smiled as he confirmed it. Thanks, whichever greater force you might be. Glad to know I was of benefit. And then he dawned upon something. "Tonight, though, we should rest, so that we can make sure we're up to speed and gear tomorrow morning. Travel can be tough. Also, you two, you might want to kinda go over the last few days. I'll need to practice to ensure that I don't end up screwing things up when I can't afford to. When I finish, however, ask all the questions you wish of me. I intend in staying awake a part of the night. It seems as if Sarora and I have a wide range of conversation to cover." The third dragon is indeed correct. Sounds rather elderly, though I wouldn't mean disrespect by that.

(( I didn't want to go too far, and since HDTV's gone, I can't exactly do much in the matter of things. If he'd stayed around, Len would've actually conversed, and bade him farewell and whatnot. ))

[WolfEnchantress]

Saira grinned at the praise, and took the advice to heart. So far, everything Kimara had said was beneficial. She took the Runestone gently, gazing down at it. Sarora nodded at his instructions as well, but before she could reply, he was gone. She frowned and stepped forewords, as though to go after him, but stopped.

Sarora bowed her head and gave a farewell for them that she hoped he would hear, then looked over at the stone Saira held.
You would do well not to lose that, The dragon said, and Saira deposited it into a pocket (she seemed to have a lot of those) that was in her cloak.

Sarora snorted a puff of frost as Len's mind opened to her own, She listened to what he said and simultaneously threw up barriers around her own mind. The next bit seemed to be not directed at her, but since he had spoken to her in his mind, she heard it nonetheless. She pulled her mind from his, closing off his thoughts.

Did it work? Saira asked. She could tell by Sarora's reaction Len had tried mindspeak.
Better than it sometimes does. If I try enough I don't hear his thoughts, unless he were to think something with too much emphasis, then I probably could.

"Somewhere rocky?" Saira asked. "That's fine, we don't really have anywhere to go back to, so we Sarora?"

No, we do not have a set destination. If you want somewhere rocky, I know where we can go. She said to Len. Though I agree, Saria, you should rest. I will not, I have spent enough time resting. I will talk to Saira until you, Len, wish to begin to cover this wide range of conversation you mention. Then, Saira, you should sleep.

Sarora looked foreword to a conversation with the new member of their party. She'd like to find out more about the one who would be traveling with them, and would rather do it without looking at his thoughts, which was an option now; though she would not do it if she didn't absolutely have to.

Saira sat down, leaning against a tree, and began replaying what she could remember about the past trip and inserting commentary, again only leaving out a few parts. Both of them were silent, giving Len peace to practice what it was he needed to.

((yea, no problem. Side note: Your avatar is moving to the beat of my music. It is amusing me. XD srry had to say it ))

[Omio]

Len nodded as soon as the two were silent, having a feeling they were using a mindlink to communicate. He began jumping around, practicing his jumping often enough to make sure his legs were strong enough for it. Then he turned things slightly more complex as he did some aerial attacks, and then aerial dodges. His landings were all soft and sound, not to mention secure. Then he did something even he didn't see coming, and jumped - the jump wasn't unexpected in timing, but the jump itself, being an eight-foot jump - with a massive leap.

The landing was a little off-placed, and rather loud, but Len was fine. "Hoo-hoo! Didn't expect myself to jump like that randomly..." And then he tried his jump again. He came close to the eight-foot mark again, and smiled once he landed easier. He seemed happy at his newfound power. He was facing sideways from Saira and Sarora as he drew his daggers, spinning them around before doing formed attacks to the air, remaining on the ground for the most part. Parts looked like a dance, others like lethargy, and others like a race. However, all the parts, in their own way, were elegant. Anyone with poor vision would see Len as a blur, and lose track of him easily.

After long enough, though, Len put his daggers away, and wandered over to where Saira and Sarora were, seating himself as if to be making a triangle position. "Whew, that was a good enough workout... ...I should be awake for a few hours now, to say at the least..." And if not, I can easily just make another set of jumps.