(w h i s t l e) as we go, - sing a merry tune -

[Alexa]

Everyone’s nerves were on ends. Xan could feel the anxiety, tension and even loathing stinging the air, especially the dark looks both Tandri and Cain seemed intent to glare one another even though Cain was far to the top and Tandri trudged in end of the group, her horse content to plop along. He wasn’t sure if she was being purposely defiant or…no. As Cain turned around and barked an order for her to hurry up and stop dilly dallying, Tandri only smirked with a wisdom that said ‘make me’. He had seen the lady rush off before; her horse was built for speed. She was doing it on purpose. He couldn’t help but grin at her obvious enjoyment. Cain had been doing a good job at finding ways to irritate Xan all night while they went on. First he was talking too loudly to Kai, next his horse was taking too long sipping water and later in the night when the winds picked up and Xan had offered Kai his cloak Cain went on and on how much he’d regret it with the cold and he didn’t want to hear one bit of complaining.

So maybe he was cold, Xan wasn’t about to utter a word with Cain’s super hearing skills. He could feel the man was on edge, Xan wasn’t the only one being snapped at, everyone had their fair share. He was one of the few who chose to keep silent. He couldn’t help but observe how the only person Cain didn’t snap at was Melya, oh no, instead he completely ignored her as if she wasn’t existing to their little merry party. Suddenly a wide grin broke across as he grinned over at Kai. “Want to have some fun?” he wrote on a piece of paper and handed it to her, a wicked smirk lit up his eyes. So Cain could hear everything, the man didn’t have eyes in the back of his head.

Tandri however, had excellent eye sight, she could see the paper perfectly well and snickered, the obvious look in her eyes said “I want in on it” Whatever caused Cain grief was game to her. She even went so much as to slow down when she saw a pretty blue jay that landed on her finger. It puffed out it’s feather chest and offered a couple soft chirps and Tandri let loose a few matching whistles to encourage the birds. She sent the lot a wink and seemed to mouth ‘watch this’ the bird chirped back, she offered a few more soft whistles and soon she had a whole chorus of birds chirping and singing out. Cain lost it, he spun around on his horse cursing.

“A little peace Bellevue!” he snarled, urging Vlad forward. The birds, in panic, flew away from the enraged elf. Tandri just snickered, “You used to be much more enjoyable company Wolfe, history has left you bitterer than I am,” she replied, and Ethereal shoved right past Vlad, pinning his ears while Tandri delightfully didn’t look back. He seemed frozen in back. Audaciously, she turned her head over her shoulder and twisted her lips into a smirk. “Hasten your strides Cain, we don’t have all day to dilly dally,” she reminded him with a snap of her voice.

[Heather]

She itched to say something anything, but the warmth of Xans cloack gave her a peace of mind to keep her mouth shut. She didn't much like the mood of the situation and felt down right sorry for melya who kept closest to the end as she could. When the paper touched Kai's hand and she lingered for a moment near Xan's skin before taking it. Her eyes scanned over it quickly before nodding hapily towards him, it was time they did something damn well anything then sit around like bad children. Ohof course planning tricks only furthered a reasoning that they needed to be watched but she edged Emiliea closer to Heavenly and gave a look as if 'what do you have in mind?'

Fox choose to stay out of all of it, laughing when he watched tandri's actions but other then that his stony glare forced between Cain's shoulder blades was enough for him to be contempt. He did slow Kit as Tandri moved forward to move beside Melya, lending her a kind smile; something she seemed to need as she gave him one back. He mouthed the words 'you ok?' she only nodded she semed extra quie from what Fox could tell. No man should have the right to reat a lady with as little respect as Cain did to the wolf girl. Honestly he could at least taunt her as he did everyone else..but to ignore her? "Why are we taking the longer way? Through the swamps would be easier." melya finally spoke but her voice was almost unaudiable. She knew the paths all of them. The swamp having been where she was attacked. It was one of the far shorter ways then what they were taking, that much she knew. Yet as the words left her mouth..she knew without a doubt; she shouldn't know that at all.

Fox raised an eyebrow, "You know how to get there then?" he asked Melya only clamped her mouth shut and watched the ground. He shrugged but stayed by her side for somewhat of support to her. Kai glanced back at the two and shook her head, this was just too...suffocating. One of the reasons she hated the keep, and the group of people. She waited barley what could be considered paitionly for whatever Xan was thinking of doing. Tuging his cloak tighter around her frame watching Cain for but a moment. Something about whatever Tandri kept mocking him about...could it have anything to do with the silence he gave Melya? No, that didn't make sense at all, he must just hate wrewolves. The racisit.

[Alexa]

The idea of going through the swamps froze Cain inside, he viciously turned on Melya and spoke to her for the first time since he had came back from Sidhe. “Only an ignorant brain dead senseless idiotic silly little girl would say something so completely useless,” he snapped and moved Vlad to the front. “We’d have to back track to get to the swamps by now, and through fighting the knee-thick water, quick sand wholes and vermin that travel across the swamp it would delay us even further.” His muscles had bunched up and locked, he was obviously on edge. “As it is we’re only half a mornings run to the city, so stop complaining and hurry up,” he advised in a snap, “And conduct yourself in a more intelligent manner once we arrive,” he suggested, his dark glittering eyes landed on Melya.

Silence washed over them, most of the riders being completely stunned at what had just happened. Callista silently sighed next to Cain. The way she glittered her eyes and huffed a grand amount of smoke at her rider, he was being chewed out in a more private matter. Calder looked over at Melya and nosed Tandri, he looked up with her with soft eyes and Tandri felt quite sorrowful for the amount of anger Cain had suddenly out lashed at her with. She quickly filled the silence with her chatter. “Technically,” she began in a matter of fact, smartass tone, “senseless and idiotic in the same sentence is redundant. I would have pegged you as someone so high and mighty in his elegance and etiquette to speak in a more decorum matter,” oh, but she was far from done there. “A gentleman at your stature should conduct himself in a sincere and manner with propriety.” She then glanced at Melya and offered a kind smile, whispering softly, “You’ll have to forgive his brutality and cave man behavior. Lord Wolfe has under gone quite the ordeals,” she gave a wink, “All the elvish gossip reaches my ears, he hasn’t always been so rude and uncouth. If you can believe it, he actually makes a fairly good father to his three children,” she paused. “Perhaps that’s why he’s so bitter, being a rider is a dangerous job, but now I’m just speculating and creating assumptions.” She cranked her head to glance over at Fox, “Hopefully with time and some allowances to his behavior, he’ll calm down. He’s a shame to our race in his current state, I won’t have you thinking elves as such pompous and arrogant prats who feel the need to negate and dictate over everything.”

Xan had fallen silent, Rosalind chatting softly to him in his mind, every now and then she’d cast a glare at Kai. She was none too happy when he gave his cloak to Kai. Rosalind could feel the practically feel the ice on his skin, even though Xan was perfectly warm. “I hope you don’t catch a cold or something worse Xan,” she clucked her tongue at him in disdain, all while giving the silent message of anger to Kai. Rosalind was quite good at getting secret messages across. Xan only smiled though and gave his Dragonet a fond look, “I haven’t been sick a day in my life Rosy,” he promised her, “Don’t worry about me, I am as healthy as Heavenly here,” he swore, much to Rosalind’s dismay.

Up ahead, Cain felt the familiar power of the border coming to them. He felt a shiver run up his spine as they crossed through the enchanted seal. Behind him Xan had the same feeling, “Whoa,” he muttered, and suddenly an entire city lay in front of their feet. Cain kept riding up to the biggest building in the back of the city, made out of gold – which gave Sidhe the name the Golden City. In the back when they went through the barrier, Tandri felt the rush of her past magic, how strong it had been the reminder of what she gave up nearly broke her up into tears but she raised her head and remained strong. “The city,” she spoke softly, “has had many names, not only has it been labeled as the Golden City, Sidhe, The Rebellious lands, many also call Sidhe the Scared Isles, the Fairy Fort, and other names exist. I’m sure Cain can give you more historical points, hopefully without biting off your head,” though the last words she spoke were mumbles.

[Heather]

Melya's face did not drop, it lit into a glower of hatred. "From someone who's own father bested him in sowrd play infront of the community I hope you learn how to hold your tongue." her words were hissed and it hurt to take such a tone with him. She moved forward her horse galloping through the barrier without the slightest thought. "I highly doubt Beriana, Damon or Duncan would much care for such things." she shot back at him, her eyes flashed something and as she crossed into the city she froze. The names tasted swet on her lips, warm even and she felt the need to sob. Quickly she dismounted Tabion at her side as she shook her head, knowing every name of the city every hiding spot. Where the best place to go at night cold be, it all hit like a brick wall and she was left utterly speechless. Gone was the anger, now left was a hollowed heart full of regret and she didn't understand a second of it.

She would avoid Cain at all costs would take her chances through the swamp when they left if she had too. Something was wrong with her when he was near, a longing that bit into her soul and refused o release her. Her eyes found a willow tree in the middle of the small park that she knew held initals of a CW + MT but they could not belong to her.

Kai froze when the sharp words of Cain came forth, and almost lost it as Rosalind singled her out with wonderful looks of hatred. When they were through the barrier she dismounted and for once through-out the trek moved away from Xan to stand near Tandri. The dragonette's looks were enough to physcialy harm a person if allowed to. "Beautiful." her words were whispered as she glanced around. She'd never been to such a place before, it nearly chocked every ounce of mystery and spat it all back up within this place.

Fox had noticed Cain's words as something deeper then what he was saying. yet what they meant went beyond his understanding and he decided he hated the man right then and there. He also didn't miss Tandris reaction upon entering the place. "You ok?" he asked not bothering to look around, he didn't want to stay here. It was amazing yes, but he wanted out fast...thoughts hit him like soild oak, like this place had caused him trouble in the past.

[Alexa]

“For christ sake,” Tandri complained as Melya strolled one way and Cain, in temper gnashed his teeth and actually rode the opposite way. She was nearly beside herself as she glanced back at the four companions who stood where they were. “Well,” she sighed, not quite sure what to do, she didn’t want to call on the favors or associations she had in Sidhe, she didn’t want to see the people she had once called friends. She could see the sympathy in her eyes, the pity in their hearts as they remembered Tandri, one of the greatest witches, who controlled her magic with great imagination and total control over her powers. She had had a gift, and the gift had been offered up as a sacrifice to protect the sacred isles. Thankfully, she wouldn’t have to call up on some of her old acquaintances.

The boy hesitated, and then finally saw no way out. They were here and their guide had left us. “Until Cain comes back, there is a place we can go,” he couldn’t see any other choice and funny enough, he trusted to tell them his greatest secret. “When I said I’ve been everywhere but Sidhe…I lied,” he admitted. Without pausing, Xan went on while he turned Heavenly to the right and began to walk. “My mother and two sisters live around the country side, we can avoid the city and hope Cain comes back when he feels the time is right,” he hoped at least that he would come back. “My father,” this was the only point he hesitated, “was a right hand man for Kala. We did not approve of his cruelty, so my mother, I and my two sisters ran out when I was ten and his was about to begin my training. We lived in Sidhe for five years, after that I deicded to train by going around the city,” he shrugged, “So there it is, how I was here and who I am. Judge me as you might.”

Xan wasn’t very as he continued to walk up to a pretty cottage house, big enough to house around five people and small enough to be considered pretty and quaint. It was obvious there was love here when an older woman looked out the window and bliss and relief turned to her face when she ran out o embrace her son. Behind her trotted two girls, one at the mature age of twenty three who seemed just as excited to see her brother returned. The other, a small girl of fifteen trailed behind her, more curious of who Xan brought with him. For a moment Xan was caught up in being with his family, but soon remembered his companions. “Mother, Seraphina, Trissa,” he announced with a broad smile, “Come and meet my companions and fellow riders,” at the word, his mothers eyes glistened with pride, and his sisters quickly became astonished, “The beautiful lady Kai and regal Tandri….and Fox,” he winked and heard muffled laughter behind him.

The girls were torn between looking at the dragons, and a new piece of flesh. Tandri felt the firmilar feeling of envy cross her face as she watched Seraphina seem to curve a smile at how Fox seemed to move. She actually felt cold inside, and wasn't quite happy with how her eyes continued to stare at him. She wouldn't have it, Tandri decided that immidiatly so she gave a twinkle of a laughter and looked over at Fox, "Poor Fox, not considered anything. Well," she winked, "I consider you heart breaking handsome." When she saw Seraphina look away, a bit put out but not quite given up, she knew she'd have to do better than a few compliments. How come Kai didn't have to deal with that?

[Heather]

The ground felt all too familiar a she moved quikly her eyes glistened as she collapsed in her favorite hiding place. No, not hers...she hadn't even been here before! The old bell tower remained in all it's broken glory in the middl of one of the oldest graveyards in Sidhe. She sat beside the cracked bell andpulled her knees in against her chest. Trying to control her breathing the best she could, but now and then a sob shook her core and escaped as a gasp from her lips. Tabion remained at the bottom knowing she didn't need him right then. Nothing the dragon said would help the confusion destroying the elven wolf above. "Maybe we should, find the others again Melya?" "What's m last name Tabion?!" "Melya-w-Telarka" he almost hushed out the w but the mistake was not left un caught. She shok again. "You're wrong, I want to leave Tabion please. Don't make me stay here" her words were painful to hear and the dragn almost agreed, "I miss people I shouldn't know. I hate him, Cain, hate him so rude and mean disgraceful and I hate-" "No you don't." Tabion wispered and she silenced herself. Hidden to anyone unless they knew she would have gone there.

Kai smiled and prayed she didn't look like they'd been on a long trek and rushed the whole way. "You're family is beautful Xan." Kai said easily handng him back his coat and realizing she had no idea what to say. Except the look his mother gave him melted a cold spot in Kai's heart. "It's very nice to meet you all." was what she could manage knowing her face was holding a slight tinge of color to it a she stayed just a bit behind Xan. She didn't like being nervousm it was just a group of people that was all!. Airea snickered behind her, an eye roll as she sat at her ankles. "You're very lucky to have Xan." what the hell wa she supposed to say in a sitution like this 'you're son drives me crazy..in a good way?...that I have no idea what the hell am I thinking!' her mind raced like that as Airea's low grunts continued.

Behind her Fox raised an eyebrow, "Why thank you?" his laughter roled off his tongue as he dismounted facing the woman, "My you didn't tell me how beautiful you're family is Xan. Obviousl..you're looks aren't from this side mh?" he nudged Xan hard in the side but held his charms easily. He just about shoved Kai forward next to Xan as he did so, far too much enjoying the scarmbled look in her eyes. "I only need Goddess Tandri's approval anyways." he shrugged Kit stomped the ground behind him.

[Alexa]

Cain’s muscle trembled, his heart beat slowed, his breathing became shallow and irregular. How had she known all those little clues about his family and past life? A tremble rose in his body as he continued to move Vlad forward. Without fully knowing where he was going, for once Cain let his heart decide and traveled slightly unwillingly to the steps by the bell tower. Vlad delivered his rider with utmost haste to the entrance of the court yard. The wind shifted and caught Cain off guard as it howled through the empty square except for the girl haunting his dreams, the girl that caused every tear to fall from his eye and every smile to grace his lips. He pulled himself together and made long strides, walking past the fountain and flowers and approaching Melya. He drew frowned when bending down to meet her face to face. Behind him Vlad seemed to finally settle down and Callista wore a satisfying smile. Her eyes practically glowed when he took out the circular golden ring and slid it perfectly on her fingers. Instead of shock, for the first time Cain looked perfectly whole, as if he had never been hurt in the first place, as if he had never suffered in the first place. “Forever and for always,” he whispered before sealing his lips passionately against hers.

Xan’s mother beamed brightly. “Oh, I know. Not a day goes by that I don’t think heaven for giving me such a good boy,” she kissed his cheek and gave him an extra hug before turning towards the door, “Your just in time, I have tea set on the stove and cookies coming out of the oven,” she declared. Instantly the two girls brightened, “Oh you must stay!” Seraphina cried, directing her passionate outburst toward Fox, “It’s been so long since we’ve had such a handsome visitor!” Behind him, there was a snort that came from the very lady-like Tandri. “I think I’ll tend to my horse for now, he was stumbling a bit,” Tandri replied dryly. If anything, this fed Seraphina on. “Use the stables,” she said quickly before grabbing Fox’s hand, a wide set smile, “Wait until you try the delicious O’Dell cookies, Fox, I baked them myself you know,” she freely informed him. Another sort, only this time it was by Tandri’s horse.

The idea of a warm tea and cookies had Xan smiling as he walked into the warm house hold, let by his mother. “Hang your cloak up here darling,” she turned warmly to Kai, “And Kai sweetie, you just warm yourself up, you all must be freezing, I’m sure if you need a new set of clothes we’d be happy to provide, a warm bath perhaps?” she suggested kindly. There was nothing cold or hateful in the eyes of Xan’s mother, she was one of those rare people who were completely good. Her smile could light up a room and right now she was beaming, seeing the looks her son was finally sharing with another young lady.

[Heather]

She watched him come, her heart stopped a full three seconds before restarting as the urge to scream at him dimmed. The want to slap him across the face died down, as the warmth of the ring on her finger rippled in her mind. Knowing just how many years it’d claimed ownership on her finger, as he spoke she could barley wait for the kiss she knew would follow. The kis was something she could never forget, the feel of his lips against her own; the way her stomach danced into knots that wouldn’t change over time. Every kiss her first kiss, every smile every pain all of it hit her hard and when she was able to move even an inch away to speak to him tars fell silently. She managed a smile but it faltered somewhat her hand raising to touch the side of his face knowing it was already committed to memory. The first words she wanted to speak battled for position, “Are they ok…safe?” she knew he’d know, she missed her children even when she didn’t know it. They had been the gap in her heart every night, every shift her body took to hunt. Leaving her hollow and empty, “You were very mean too” was the second the third was another kiss that filled the space in her heart further when she needed to breathe she sighed against his lips her body shaking with the effort. She kept her eyes closed, fear that if she opened them she’d meet the hateful stare that had been before.

She was dizzy to the nearness of passing out, but the thought she’d fade from this moment kept her near him. Arms wrapping tightly around his waist, he was the only thing keeping her afloat as the thoughts of her attack became clearer than ever in her mind like someone had turned the light switch on after years of nothing. “I’m so, oh god Cain, I took the shortcut I always took it I-sorry I don’t even know what to say I”her words fell as she opened her eyes to meet his gaze, Cain her Cain had always been hers since the first glace. The first smile. He had her before he had even spoke.

Kai was drowning quickly as the warmth of the house melted any false coolness knowing in that instance she needed the man beside her. She took his hand quickly without even thinking of the action, “They’re all so nice Xan.” She whispered into his ear, wondering if Luke would have ever brought a girl home if she’d be the type of mom offering tea and cookies… “I think I will take up the offer of a bath.” If only for a moment to think but she noticed the girl hanging on the door frame. ‘Xan is that you?!” the girl’s voice lifted an octave into the fake cuteness that had kai’s stomach churning. ‘On second thought I’d love cookies.” She wasn’t leaving not as the red-haired beauty came skipping forward to hug Xan, Kai noticing herself being brushed out of the way her hand left to cool.

“Can I help you with anything Ms.O’dell?” she asked quietly but a look was given to rRsalind, as if ‘well there’s always another option.’ She moved forward her hand flexing as she did so. The voice of the woman talking rapidly, ‘I can’t believe you’re back Xany!” Kai almost puked at the nickname. “Really it’s been far too long.” Kai moved with a deep feeling of well, she was pissed off. She had no claim on Xan, none at all and she hated it. Airea followed Kai a trill of smoke snaked towards the girl who’s name was Kathy, stupid name.

Fox gave Tandri a fleeting look of help, wondering if he could flash an SOS and yet loving the look Tandri gave Xan’s sister. “Really you made cookies huh? I love a woman who can cook. Though if they’re amazing horse-riders wll it out-beats cooking.” He knew he spoke just loud enough for Tandri’s elven ears to hear him. “Beautiful home Ms. O’dell truly a marvel that just shouts its kept by a good woman.” He added his compliment to the lady of the house as any good gentlemen should. Yet he was careful for once not to flirt, it was odd to try to stop something that came so naturally.

[Alexa]

How cute, Xan’s sister made cookies with her little toy oven. “I bet their not even low fat,” she mumbled with no consideration on how her loud her mumble was. She ran a hand down Ethereal’s flanks, as if she really was concerned for her horse, thinking he might have come up lame. Of course there was absolutely nothing wrong with him. She just needed a moment to compose herself before she served her own fully cooked meal. Seraphina de la crème, she would call the flaky tasting, dried up meal. “I bet their chalk full of carbs,” she warned Kai, a twinkle of nastiness gleamed in Kai’s eyes, “this is the trouble we get for traveling with good looking men,” trouble, trouble, trouble and did Fox have to flirt with her so outrageously? Honestly, it was indecent. The glare Seraphina was able to aim at Tandri was an accomplished one for sure. She knew how to turn her head at just the right moment and then go back and laugh and smile sweetly at Fox. Tandri had to check back her anger and clench her first before finding a more mature state of mind. This child was of no matter of hers. “We should be moving on,” she reminded them quietly, “I’m sure Xan will want to come back later, but for now it is best we make it to the capital. We have obligations after all, and should not tarry,” of course the silly girl couldn’t let it be.

“Ohhh, but I you haven’t tasted my fresh baked goods yet,” she proclaimed, her eyes began to be derived of their sparkle. “I’m sure plenty have tasted your fresh goods,” Tandri snapped before flicking her hair behind her back. The girl retreated into her place, as was right. She wasn’t going to be sassed by some girl. “We can’t wait for Cain to finish licking his wounds like an injured cat,” Calder agreed as he slinked up besides her. “If the word gets out we are here, it might bring the O’Dells some unwanted visitors, I’m sure Xan you would hate to bring that on your family,” Tandri felt a bit guilty for the point Calder brought up. Talking about brining danger to family was hitting below the belt, you didn’t mess with family, it was all some people had.

Xan’s face did seem to fall at the prospect, “I’ll be back,” he promised, a grin lighting up his face, “And Kathy it really is marvelous to see you, you’ve grown so much since I last left,” he winked and then went to grab his mother for a hug and to kiss her cheek. “I promise, I’ll be returning soon, as the next opportunity I have. I won’t be bringing any unwanted visitors to your door mother, that is a promise,” and one he fully intended on keeping. It seemed it had been so long since he had seen his family, the pain of leaving them so quickly was evident on his face, though Xan new that what they spoke was truth. Even Rosalind, who had hissed immediately at Kathy and attempted to take a chunk out of her leg was happy at the idea of leaving. The look she sent Kai spoke of a truce as she looked back at Kathy and shivered at the possibility.

“The riders don’t have time for any foolish girls to tag along,” she snapped when she saw the idea pop into Kathy’s head to tag along. She went so far as to huff out smoke and snarl when Kathy wasn’t prone to leaving her Xanithel. Rosalind only sneered at the nick name. No rider was going to be called by the name of Xany, she would see to that. Xan wore a frown as he shamed Rosalind, “What has gotten into you?” Apologies were in his eyes as he looked over at Kathy, “I’m sorry, usually she is far better mannered than this,” he swore. Rosalind just huffed out more smoke, “Usually humans don’t irritate me this much,” she snapped back, her eyes glistening as she watched the girl. He felt a bit uncomfortable with the sudden radiation of hate that exploded out of Rosalind, not quite sure what brought it all up. “Well,” he managed to choke out, giving another glance to his family, “I swear, I will be back as soon as possible,” Serephina giggled, “Only if you bring your charming friend back brother, will we let you in,” she winked over at Fox and Tandri nearly growled.

Wait. Maybe she did actually growl.

[Alexa]

His pressed his forehead to hers and whispered her sweet name against her ear again. “I was lost without you,” he nearly cried with exuberance, holding the one thing he cherished above all else. The leading lady of his life had waltzed back in to save him from perpetual doom and darkness that had been his to despair in. The years that had dragged along without his sunshine, his flame of eternal hope had withered him into a hard pressed and angry man. With the light of his life back and safe in his arms the darkness all but vanquished from his eyes, the coldness chased from his body. Love wrapped around him and warmed his heart and soul. With her mentioning how mean he was, he gave a weak laughter, “Melya, my darling my dearest, I thought you were your own killer. Did you expect me to be nice? It took all my self-control not to rip your head off when the notion of you being the one who murdered you in the clearing came into my head,” he kissed her forehead, and mumbled an apology, “I was only half living without you, I wasn’t really here, barely existing,” he mumbled and crushed her body against his in an embrace. Never again would he live without his Melya. When her kiss came he took her lips hungrily and satisfied himself of a thirst that had existed for nearly ten years.

When she began to grow frantic in his arms, he soothed her down, “They are safe as can be darling, but missing their mother and it will be out first thing after we reach the capital,” a bit of guilt rose in him at the thought. “And I completely left the others deserted in the middle of a city to rush after you,” he frowned to himself, but it was hard to feel anything but euphoric when finding his wife had been re-born to him. “We should find them, I shudder to think what trouble they have already caused alone in the city,” he knew he’d turn out to be a horrible baby sitter. At least he had warned the Sidhe government in the first place, it wasn’t as if it would be a shock.

[Heather]

The laughter that dropped from her lips felt wonderful against the stress building in her mind, Airea feeling the pressure and twitching his tail. “I’ll make sure we get back as soon as we can Ms.O’Dell.” she said her voice gentle, glad to have Tandri there. For some odd reason it felt good knowing she wasn’t the only one with a problem. Though she doubted either of them would voice the annoyance they were feeling, it’d look childish. More so then their snide remarks were anyways, “I’m sure Kathy might have bedtime when we get back though...” she did sarcasm like a second langue as she strode past the girl air defiant. The girl looked like an over-endowed pre-teen. She couldn’t help stopping though and moving quickly back to Xan’s mother and giving the women a warm hug. “I’m sorry.” She said softly.

She knew how it must feel to see her son, only to have him whisked away again, the hope with an edge of pain mixed in. “I’ll watch after him.” It made her smile as she stepped back knowing for once she wasn’t faking a look for someone. Her empathy towards the woman was truer than most things she felt. She didn’t however, like the look on Xan’s face; along with the feeling she needed to fix it. “Perhaps we could, come by for dinner? If it’d be alright with you Ms.O’Dell…” another thought graced her mind as she smiled at Tandri and the hints of an opportunity played out.”Me and Tandri could even get some practice in while we wait? That way we’re still working somewhat. I love loop holes don’t you Tandri?” she asked the flicker of amusement in he voice. Kathy hardly seemed the girl who could come close to keeping up with Kai, let alone Tandri. Plus she did need an actual practice with someone who could easily beat her.

He had watched everything with emerald glazed amusement at Tandri ‘checking her horse’ and that now and again Kai would mutter something barely audible. He wasn’t stupid on what was happening, the fact Xan seemed confused was all the more rich. “I’d love to taste your cooking Ms.O’Dell.” he didn’t respond to Xan’s sister but politely smiled at her and pat her shoulder, “Then maybe we can have cookies hm?” he couldn’t help but at the least be polite. Not to mention he glowed in the response Tandri gave every time Seraphina gave him a look or a smile.

At the mention of the girl’s ‘practicing’ he gave a hearty nod, “That’d be great! I mean you should use your time wisely no matter what, of course.” He coughed somewhat rising from his place bowing to Ms.O’Dell before heading to the door frame leaning on it slightly. Just to make sure they would he had to add, “Though what it’d be worth to watch… I doubt there’d be much to it…” he couldn’t help the taunting smile that licked his features.

The very sound of his voice had her heartbeat set within its normal rhythm; however fast it was even for an elf. She gave a swift nod, “They were planning to overthrow you on the way here...” she trailed off a small laugh toppled forward as she spoke against his neck. Her words moving like the pattern of an early snowfall, “I’ll never leave you again, the first time.” She almost chocked a sob forward but held on to her voice. “Never again will I be so careless.” She kissed his neck finding her way to his lips once more. This time the kiss wasn’t of desperation but a new start, and of a hope she hadn’t even had but an hour ago. She pulled back as she smiled, “We should leave before I find reasons to keep you here.” Her words were slightly breathy as she stayed in his arms Tabion giving a grunt that came off as a cough. “They’re heading to the capital now-ish..So if we could move along?” he was trying his best to be patient which was hard for the ball of energy.

“Sorry Tabion.” she closed her eyes licking her lower lip slightly as thoughts whirled in her skull, some taunting her others rejoicing at what she’d found. She had to make it up to him, the rest of her life would be spent finding ways to fix all the hurt she’d brought to him. Never would she have even thought she could, it made her sick to think of it. She’d promised in front of hundreds to honor him, love him and never once, harm him. Her fingertips found his hand and brought it to her cheek to feel the warmth of his hand. “Ok, we can go now.” Her voice was quiet kept for the moment they were going to leave, back to being riders and trying to save the world. For all of it, she knew it’d be worth just this moment alone.

[Alexa]

Anger. Irritation. Jealously.

These were emotions that Tandri was not accustomed too, she wasn’t used to feeling as if the only relief she could receive was by punching a wall, as an elf she wasn’t as violent or aggressive as humans tended to be, though Tandri had to fight longer and more often than most elves since she was living outside of the walls in Sidhe. Tandri could have resided quite safely and well in the sacred isles, but after her magic had broken down from creating the safe wall, she refused to stay where she had lost and suffered so much. It was giving her goose bumps by just being back, she rather preferred to flee back to the dragons hold as quickly as possible. “Dinner?” her heart fell, they had to come back? “We have a lot to do, and not a lot of time to do it,” hopefully no one asked her to expand on that statement, it was something she had said quickly to hope it looked like they really did know what their next steps were.

Of course, Kai would come up with a blood loop hole. “Oh, they’re just…terrific,” she muttered, her eyes didn’t betray her feelings of dread at the prospect of staying longer in Sidhe than she saw necessary. Well, at least she could work out the knots in her muscle and the tension building in her templates. She would have to be careful though, Tandri felt a bit like a ticking bomb, waiting to explode for every second she had to stand in this godforsaken city.

Her lips curved into a nasty smirk when Fox practically caressed the girls shoulder. “Oh, but it wouldn’t be productive with just you and I, Kai, we need to evaluate each other,” her took on a bit of sparkle, “And since this needs to be as realistic as possible, there are no rules, your only limits are your imagination,” yes, that meant magic was allowed. She grinned, imagining the possibilities, “And then we should leave as soon as possible, it is not wise nor convenient to tarry when there is so much to do,” again, hopefully no one would ask exactly what there was to do. Tandri would put her life on the line in order to get out of the golden city, she wanted out and she wanted out now, not sitting hear and watching the little dirty blonde twit try to seduce men with her half baked chocolate chip cookies.


Xan dwelled on the idea of leaving his family so soon. It did his heart good to see his mother embrace Kai, the knowing smile play on her lips when she would glance at him and catch him having only eyes on her; it was as if Kathy didn’t even exist. He didn’t want to believe what Tandri said was true, that it was so important that they left so quickly. He felt suddenly guilty, holding them there when there are other demands to answer, “Well, if it’s too much to bother, we can hurry back, since it’s on such higher importance.” He could always come back for a day, now that they were residing in a place that could bring them to Sidhe in less than a day if he ran his horse hard enough, though he’d feel terribly guilty about making Heavenly work so hard later on. Still, he’d be able to see his family and protect them better than ever before and that lightened up his sprits.

The idea of seeing Kai fighting had Xan grinning ear from ear, “If we can spare the time, it would be a magnificent thing to see, and it would still be productive,” he looked over hopefully at Tandri, who seemed to break and nod. The guild still settled in, he could feel she didn’t want to be here one bit, her emotions had been raging since they walked through the door and he felt only worse when Serephina made it worse by dragging herself over Fox and trying to charm him. He would remember to mention something to her later, he didn’t want his little sister trying to tag along with a dangerous crowd like they would become. The riders were going to have to start being more careful than ever before. If they had been carefully walking a narrow line before their dragons came to them, now it felt like he’d be toeing on egg shells.

Once Fox moved to the door, Xan joined him with Rosalind smirking at his heels. “So we’ll go to the capital station, see what they need from us and what information they can give us and then we can come back here for a bit?” he looked around hopefully and was glad that no one voiced out any objections, though he felt the dismay fall from Tandri as freely as rain. Obviously Sidhe was not a happy place for her. On the other hand, he wanted to hear what his mother thought of Kai, she always had the best insights on people.

((Sorry this is all I had time for, I will add Cain when I come back or as soon as I can. ))

[Heather]

((Tis ok was working anyway. Just post for Cian next time)

Kai clapped brightly heading towards the door Airea s=quick at her heels as she nearly danced out the door. Glad she had bought Xan more time with his family, that and she wanted to see how far she'd come in her training. Trying to tone one’s magic and body alone without any proper help is a rather hard thing to accomplish. "Thank you Tandri." she whispered a soft smile filled her lips. "I really appreciate it." she wasn't about to pretend Tandri had to say yes, because she didn't. The elf could have just left them right then and there if she really wanted. "I do think everyone should practice though..." now that she really thought about it her scheme seemed like a real idea instead of a way to feel better.

She stood beside Xan as Fox thought about the option, leaning in so only he could hear she smiled. "You have an amazing family Xan. I should say I’m rather jealous." she laughed softly as she turned her attention to Tandri. His household as it was now contained warmth she felt beside Xan himself. His mother's hug melted another frozen place in her heart that felt raw, but felt all the same.

"No rules mh?" Fox's grin was nothing but a child-like amusement towards Tandri as Kit meandered towards them grazing here and there. "I like it, see that's a real woman no pre-tense." he cocked his head to the side his smile dimming somewhat. "I don't think I could bring myself to even try to hurt you though..." his frown didn't pull into a full smile as he hoped it would as he moved forward. He knew he was right, the thought of hurting her in anyway made his stomach sick. "Plus I avoid fighting girls whenever I can, chivalry and all that." he could make out the sound of Kai 'gagging' behind him.

"Shoot me now." she whispered to Airea whose laughter was more a series of grunts than anything else. "Not all women think they can be equal when it comes to fighting Kailzya." he uttered with a father-like tone. Kai merely shrugged combing her fingers through her hair; "They just need to learn how to take a hit Airea." he only smiled at her. She was too stubborn to convince she couldn’t keep up with the others even with the little training she had. No, she knew all of them could beat her at this point. She wasn't going to pretend otherwise, what she needed was that. Someone she could learn from and grow, that stubbornness to keep trying is what had her alive today. One of the million reasons she was Airea's rider.

Fox was still speaking as Kai once more tuned in, her fingertips idly brushing over Airea's skull wishing to rest instead within Xan's hand."Now if you really want I don’t see any problem in training everyone with everyone...unless you have some sort of pair off in min?" he questioned. He glanced at the other two riders behind him before facing Tandri a tempting smile forming. "This could be a very dangerous idea you realize?" but he could feel his dragonette buzzing with the idea.

[Alexa]

Cain gently picked up her soft right hand, pressing his lips on the knuckles. A familiar and comfortable light had entered his dark blue eyes, causing them to glint and glitter as they once had in a happier and better time. “I know we won’t fall back into the same rhythm we had, it has after all, been a long and lonely ten years wishing for you,” but in his wildest dreams Cain had never considered this possible. At the time, allowing himself to believe that Melya was still alive would devastate him in time when the denial age finally passed. For the sake of their children, he didn’t allow them that type of false hope.

They mounted their horses in rhythm, as if they had only parted yesterday and were now meeting after a lonely night instead of a decade. Cain barely let go of her hand, his eyes hardly left her face and at every opportunity he snuck in a small fluttering kiss to remember the sweet taste of her skin, the gentle and giving taste of her lips.


The elf couldn’t help it; the cocky grin naturally took its place across her face. “You know what happens when men show me chivalry in a fight Fox?” she asked, smirking slightly, “They end up on their ass and can’t sit properly for a week,” a fight thrown was no fun at all, and Tandri had no qualm with practicing moves between friends. It was the actual killing that always caused a bit of her heart to wilt inside, the persons face haunting her for weeks and wondering who else she had given misery to because she had killed their loved one. It was a hard road to walk for an elf; most weren’t cut out for war, for battle and killing. While she might be cut out for it, she had regret and guilt that kept her more human than elf. If she didn’t allow herself to feel, she might become a monster, a killing machine. She would terminate herself before that happened.

“I was thinking women kick the men’s ass, for the first round,” Tandri raised her voice a few octaves to be heard as Ethereal walked on, away from the cottage. She knew Kai was on her side when it came to the two childish girls sucking their thumbs and whining back at Xan’s cottage. She had no claim to Fox, but that wasn’t going to stop her from trying her damn hardest to make one.



The idea of fighting had Xan’s muscles nearly perking; he enjoyed the good tussle every now and then. One that didn’t result in death was always appreciated, he rather liked when his enemy ran off or it was a rumble between brothers. He had the same sentimental as Fox though with fighting against females, especially Kai.

He wasn’t really sure he could hit her. Tandri would be easier, he could already see she was a hard ball with fighting and he wouldn’t receive any mercy from her so he should give none as well, Fox went the same way. Rosalind could feel a bit of his anxiety and smiled, “No one will be severely hurt,” her wise word seemed to do the trick and Xan put his faith where it belonged, in the hands of his dragon. "Is that the capital?" Xan asked, only to distract himself from worrying about the fight. He could handle himself, that wasn't the problem. He wasn't used to fighting for the hell of it though or practicing with others. What if he messed up and hurt one of them? Xan rarely felt remorse, but he would loose sleep over it if he hurt any of his companions - even block head Cain who at times, he had a strong desire to shove over a cliff.

[Heather]

It was odd, the notion she'd been here so many times before and knew every inch. Most of all a place as large as this, spreading out miles beneath her feet. Even odder, was the fact she could pay attention to anything but Cian. She knew how to act around him, yet kept getting nervous. As if it shouldn't be her memories, that maybe she was the killer. Though she painfully knew that was wrong, the scars dancing along her left side were proof enough of that. Hell it was one thing she was worried about. Never had she needed to appeal to anyone so the scars were nothing. Yet now...her head shook twice to argue with her mind. He wouldn't care, because Cian wasn't like that.

My she was working on a rather large head ache that was almost blocking the things around her. Melya soon enough caught a glimpse of the other riders and raised her hand to wave. Stupid. She could feel the rising color blending into her features at the thought of all the questions. Her fingers squeezed lightly on Cian's hand in reminder he was still there. Would always be there. Had to be...


"Yes!" Kai pumped her fist in the air much to the amusement of her dragon. "Calm down Kailzya, honestly act your age." for his comment he received a glimpse of Kai's tongue as she smoothly slipped it out at him. "Nice, very lady like." his words this time however were muttered and more so to himself then anything. He knew what Kai knew, she'd lose whoever she fought.

That bit at her nerves now and again, taunting her as the weakest link for the moment. She couldn’t control an ounce of her magic without hurting herself or well, herself. She'd only recently acquired a skill at fighting, let alone magic. She was more aware of her movements which managed to help but did little to add strength. She truly needed the practice, but she was dreading being beaten already. That and the fact she'd be fighting Xan made her stomach do that odd flip over and over as they walked. Slumping forward against Emilie she heard Airea chuckle once more. "It's not funny." Kai whispered. "It is, when it's so obvious to me, that's what makes it funny." "What is?" Kai glared at the dragon as he answered. "You’ll figure it out eventually." that was it, Kai almost screamed at him but silenced herself. Figure out what? There was nothing to figure...

He worked up a beautiful smile that sparkled as he watched Tandri; never had he met such a person. He would have thought woman, but she was far different then even any men he'd met along the way. No she was something worth watching, maybe even getting your ass kicked for. He was rather looking forward to whatever ass whopping she wanted to deal out to him.

Would he let her win? Normally the answer would come an easy yes, but this time he was treading murky waters. If he let her win, she'd be pissed. If he lost, he'd look bad. If he won she might think to prove herself. None of these options were looking in his favor. Dropping back some he came along Xan, his smile still held but more so he forgot he was doing it.

"Either way, we're screwed...as far as I can tell. Unless you've got any ideas?" he glanced at the man beside him, head cocked to the side with a comical expression. "These girls are going to wind us up dead. And I don't mean from this little training exercise." he muttered and for once a frown clouded his thoughts. "If I weren't smart I’d say they were just some spell thought up by Kala herself." it seemed smart enough, something that could distract you so easily, or shut you down entirely couldn't be a good thing. Yet by god it was a wonderful thing to watch. Only when he heard Kai giggling did he look up, "Is that Cian and Melya....?" he grunted. "Told ya, woman." he shook his head as he muttered a few more phrases. Cian's dumb look was enough proof of the power woman had to hold somewhere.