Here Be Dragons

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Here Be Dragons

Postby Mimichan » Sat Sep 27, 2003 10:26 pm

The Guardian was a very busy dragon. She didn't really have time for conversations with fledgling males. Goanuth quickly explained what he had seen, being careful to emphasize the human's ability to speak the ancient tongue. He also made it very clear that Fannie had made no attempt to hide and had actually spoken with the human as an equal.
The Guardian listened to him patiently, only stopping him once to ask for the human's description. When he had finished his report, the Guardian said nothing. She looked thoughtful for a few moments and then looked him in the eyes. Her gaze pierced him with a strength he knew he'd never possess. Suddenly, Goanuth felt very small.

"You will tell no one of this", the Guardian stated it as a fact. "It is, of course, most serious", she continued, "and I commend you for bringing it to my attention, but the matter is mine to handle now. Do you understand?" Goanuth nodded.

The Guardian looked past him as though contemplating something. Goanuth wasn't sure whether or not they were finished. Though he'd been the one to summon the Guardian, he couldn't leave without her permission--to do so would be considered disrespectful. He waited uncertainly. Finally she said, "Of course, you should be rewarded for this information. Tell me, do you have any idea of what position you would like to hold in the Clan once you are old enough? Think carefully."

Goanuth didn't need to think, the answer to that was simple. "D-den mother Fautheiy'l says I show great promise in hording", he stammered.
The Guardian responded, "Indeed? Well, the Elite Treasure Guard does not usually boast a male dragon as one of its members. And you are much too young besides. But if you are willing to wait just a bit longer, I may be able to work something out to your advantage...."

Goanuth had known even then that the Guardian was buying his silence. But for an opportunity to work with the Treasure Guard it was definitely worth it. He bowed his head in assent "The Guardian is wise." He said. She nodded at him and Goanuth knew the conversation had ended.

Looking back on the incident, Goanuth realized that that one-day had been key in shaping his future. He had kept his silence and the Guardian had remained true to her word. Because of her he was currently apprenticed to the Mistress of the Dungeon. Goanuth was the first male dragon and the youngest--only 200 years old-- to hold such a position. No body got into the Elite Treasure Guard without prior experience, and Goanuth knew that this was just the thing he needed to prepare himself. By the time he was old enough to leave the den, Goanuth would have more than enough experience to be considered for training.

For whatever reason the Guardian had wanted him to remain quiet about the incident. It was, he decided, a desire he could easily accommodate. Still, he couldn't help but wonder why the silence was necessary. He also wondered why the Guardian hadn't done anything about it then. Still the Guardian was a creature of great mystery and wisdom. Goanuth had never considered questioning her decision.

Goanuth looked at the prisoner once more. His shift was almost over and Dhagiye, the Mistress of the Dungeon, would be taking over. No, he wasn't surprised at Fannie's presence at all. He had known it was just a matter of time before something like this happened. Goanuth fervently hoped she got what she deserved.

He closed his eyes and began to dream up everything from a good lashing to a life of confinement. He snorted happily. Perhaps the Queen Mother would sentence Fannie to a life of "litter and refuse maitenance". Granted, it was usually work done by a male; but it was still fun to imagine. A noise suddenly brought him out of his dark reverie. The prisoner, it appeared, was beginning to awaken.
Image


"Why do people not notice until they lose it?
What it is that's truly important...
Although I can't afford to forgive even myself,
Because you were there,
I was able to be myself (Natural).
I want to be honest...I want to be kind...
I want to be the adult I once (in my childhood) longed to be.
I go on fighting against the heart to run away...
I go on fighting against that invisible something!"
---

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Postby EireWolf » Sat Sep 27, 2003 10:51 pm

Huzzah! More! :jump:
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Postby Razgriz » Sat Sep 27, 2003 10:55 pm

Iesu no Senshi does it again! :thumb: Moving the story along quite well, and a second huzzah for the Senshi ;)
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Here Be Dragons (cont'd)

Postby Mimichan » Thu Oct 02, 2003 12:00 am

The Guardian's eyes adjusted to the diminutive light of the chamber. It was the Queen Mother's failing eyesight, she knew, that had her living in shadow all the livelong day. It was an odd condition the Queen had that caused sensitivity to light and had the royal handmaidens forever tripping over one another's tails. Somehow or another every one of them managed to get their tasks done. That the Queen was happy-may her flame burn forever-was all that really mattered in the end anyway. The Guardian kept her pace deliberate and steady. It would not do to rush into the Queen Mother's presence. Form must be upheld at all costs. The Queen Mother was adamant about that.

Only a few paces away, the Queen Mother eyed the Guardian's advancement with all the scrutiny of a Dragon Scout surveying hostile territory. Although, the Guardian would never have admitted it to anyone, the Queen Mother's gaze was enough to send chills up her spine. That gaze, she thought, could burn a hole into the side of a mountain. It looked right through you and saw everything you did not want it to see. The Guardian kept her face expressionless. She had no time to feel intimidated. Let some lesser dragon afford the luxury, she could not. When she was at the appropriate distance, the Guardian halted her advancement and made obeisance to the ruler of Aiken'yar. She bowed low, talons downward and held out to either side. With her wings opened and her gaze lowered she greeted the Queen.

"Hail to the Queen Mother, most wise and powerful. Hail to the ruler of Aiken'yar! May your flame burn forever!"

The Queen acknowledged the greeting with a nod of her head. " You are well met, Mithaya, Guardian of Clan Aiken'yar. Tell us, if you can, what news of the attack? We grow restless waiting here."

The Guardian looked puzzled. " 'We', my Queen?" she asked. Her gaze followed the Queen's into the shadows nearby. Ah of course. The Guardian had been focusing so keenly on the figure before her that she had neglected to note the equally formidable one just to the left of her. The figure stepped forward and into plain sight. As Guardian, she was supposed to be aware of everything around her. She was supposed to see what others could not. Her defenses had been caught off guard and by the one dragon she least desired it to. She lowered her head respectfully. "Maisige, forgive me, my senses must be faltering this night."

The High Priestess of Aiken'yar merely inclined her head. "Do not be too harsh with yourself, Mithaya, Guardian and Protector of the Clan. I was hidden beyond your senses. It is an ability I find most useful." Her tone was laced with secrets and her piercing eyes held much knowledge. "But enough of me," she continued, " You were about to tell the Queen of the circumstances above us."

The Guardian nodded. "So far, we have managed to keep them at bay. There is the Rockbiter of course. But it has not caused us as much trouble as we'd feared. Incidently, there is a Priest of Dai'og Theyhl riding on its back. It is my belief, my Queen, that the Rockbiter is not here of its own free will."

The Priestess, Maisige, spoke up. "You believe the creature is being coerced?" The Guardian nodded.

"Yes, Maisige. Its rider wields an odd-looking staff according to the reports I've received. And its movements appear unnatural."

Maisige narrowed her eyes and muttered half aloud. "The Priests of Clan Dai'og Theyhl are known for poisoning innocent minds into submission. 'To coerce is to rule' as they say. It is entirely possible that the Rockbiter is being forced into attacking the lair. Its kind has no quarrel with us. Besides, they are not fighters."

"That is true," said the Queen Mother. She adjusted herself into a more comfortable position on the dais, her tail swinging idly from side to side. "And I have always granted them safe passage through our lands during their Great Migration. I see no reason for them to come against us. Besides, did you not say there was only one? Rockbiters never travel in groups of less than five. They must have separated this one somehow."

The Guardian nodded. "That is my belief as well. If one of the warriors can manage to get rid of the Priest...."

Maisige interrupted, "Go carefully Mithaya. A Priest of Dai'og Theyhl is no fledgling in the nursery! And this one has a great weapon within his grasp. He will not let go of it easily. Do not underestimate him." The priestess waited until she saw the Guardian's acknowledgement and then retreated once more into the shadows.

"My Queen, there is another matter I would like to discuss if I have your leave." The Guardian said. Now it was time to discover the fate of the young female she'd left in the dungeon. While the Guardian had no quarrel with Fannie, it was her obligation to bring this matter before the ruler of the clan. Still, she couldn't help but feel a twinge of guilt. She had known for some time of Fannie's interests. Perhaps if she hadn't winked at the problem like some trivial thing, Fannie would not have gone so far. The Guardian sighed. It was too late for regrets. Fannie knew the Law just as everyone else did.

"This female. How old is she?" asked the Queen. "She is no more than 200, my Queen" came the Guardian's reply.

"200 you say? Why she isn't even old enough to control her flame completely! Is this my lot as Queen of Aiken'yar--to destroy the life of such a young dragon? Has she even bore her first litter yet?" demanded the Queen Mother.

To this the Priestess, who had been listening in the darkness, spoke up. "This young female has bore no young. She is still under the care of den mothers Akaha-n and Fautheiy'l. But she is too curious about the humans. And she is also fond of going where she should not." The priestess of Aiken'yar went silent once more. The Guardian wondered how much the priestess really knew but kept her eyes upon the Queen.

The Queen Mother remained silent for a few moments. " This dragon is but a child. Perhaps the fault lies not within her, but perhaps the fault is with those who are charged with her care. Females at her age are very impressionable and also very curious. It is the nature of a female to wander and explore. The den mothers should be more aware of what is going on around them. Had they been more attentive this probably would never have happened."

The Guardian inclined her head. "As you say, Queen Mother. But what is to be done with the girl?"

"Of course, there must be some form of punishment. Such a crime cannot go unchecked. Yet, I will be merciful in consideration for her age. She is still young. I do not think she is without hope. It is simply a matter of getting her upon the correct path once more. You may leave her in the dungeon for now. I will summon for her before night falls tomorrow." And with that the Queen waved the Guardian away.

The Guardian made a swift bow, backed up three paces, and slowly turned to leave the chamber. It had gone much better for the young one than she'd thought it would. The Queen Mother was in a benevolent mood, it seemed. Quickening her pace, the Guardian decided to check on Fannie once more.

Back in the dungeon, Faien'nithayah groaned softly and opened her eyes.
Image


"Why do people not notice until they lose it?
What it is that's truly important...
Although I can't afford to forgive even myself,
Because you were there,
I was able to be myself (Natural).
I want to be honest...I want to be kind...
I want to be the adult I once (in my childhood) longed to be.
I go on fighting against the heart to run away...
I go on fighting against that invisible something!"
---

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Postby EireWolf » Thu Oct 02, 2003 12:18 am

Yay! So she won't be roasted alive after all. :dance:
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Postby Razgriz » Thu Oct 02, 2003 8:56 am

Awesome work! :thumb: Can't wait to see what happens next.
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Postby Heaven's Cloud » Sat Oct 04, 2003 5:07 am

Nice! I would love to read more. I really like in depth stories!
"So it begins" - Theodon, King of Rohan
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Postby true_noir_chloe » Sat Oct 04, 2003 8:32 am

This is turning out to be a great story. :thumb: I'm really enjoying it and can't wait to read more. You've found your voice and it's really "clicking." ;)

I'm getting curious about the human who spoke high dragon. Is he/she going to make an entrance soon?

[size=84][color=seagreen]YOU SEE


You see into the deepest part of me ---

beyond the fog I hide behind.

You cast your light upon the shadows

that stretch like cobwebs in my mind.

You ease the pain when I am hurting,

and morbid visions from my past

pierce into the realm of Reason

as though I danced on blades of glass.

You grant me strength when I have fallen

and, once again, I've lost my way.

You take my hand in Yours and lead me

into the promise of a brand new day.

You bring order to all my chaos,

yet set my well-laid plans awry.

You place me on a firm foundation ---

then give me wings so I can fly.

You sand away my roughened edges

and polish all the dullest parts

until I stand before Your presence...

a newly-sculpted work of art.

You see into the heart within me,

right through my motives and selfish will.

And yet, in spite of all You see

You say You love me even still.


~by D.M.~

[/color][/size]
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Postby Mimichan » Sat Oct 04, 2003 10:27 am

Thank you so much for the positive comments^_^
To answer your question True_Noir_Chloe...You will definitely be seeing more of the human soon.
Image


"Why do people not notice until they lose it?
What it is that's truly important...
Although I can't afford to forgive even myself,
Because you were there,
I was able to be myself (Natural).
I want to be honest...I want to be kind...
I want to be the adult I once (in my childhood) longed to be.
I go on fighting against the heart to run away...
I go on fighting against that invisible something!"
---

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More Story!

Postby LillyAngel » Sat Oct 04, 2003 2:02 pm

More Story! :jump: It's SOOOO GOOD!! I LOVE IT! MORE MORE MORE!
Image

Translation:Aikou Princess (or Goddess, but I really don't like using that meaning) of love.
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Postby true_noir_chloe » Sun Oct 05, 2003 9:34 am

I'm with LillyAngel - more, more, more! I'm glad to hear the human will reappear. :thumb:

[size=84][color=seagreen]YOU SEE


You see into the deepest part of me ---

beyond the fog I hide behind.

You cast your light upon the shadows

that stretch like cobwebs in my mind.

You ease the pain when I am hurting,

and morbid visions from my past

pierce into the realm of Reason

as though I danced on blades of glass.

You grant me strength when I have fallen

and, once again, I've lost my way.

You take my hand in Yours and lead me

into the promise of a brand new day.

You bring order to all my chaos,

yet set my well-laid plans awry.

You place me on a firm foundation ---

then give me wings so I can fly.

You sand away my roughened edges

and polish all the dullest parts

until I stand before Your presence...

a newly-sculpted work of art.

You see into the heart within me,

right through my motives and selfish will.

And yet, in spite of all You see

You say You love me even still.


~by D.M.~

[/color][/size]
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Postby EireWolf » Sun Oct 05, 2003 2:23 pm

Me too. I check back every few days, hoping there will be more... Great story! :jump:
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Postby Razgriz » Sun Oct 05, 2003 2:39 pm

EireWolf wrote:Me too. I check back every few days, hoping there will be more... Great story! :jump:


Indeed! :thumb:
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Here Be Dragons (cont'd)

Postby Mimichan » Wed Oct 08, 2003 3:50 pm

{Sorry it took so long...I have a crazy work schedule this week so it's been harder for me to write. I'll try to have more up by tomorrow^_^}

The first thing that Fannie's eyes beheld upon awakening were the doors of her cell, which converged in such a manner as to be reminiscent of two great dragons that had locked their claws together--each one's talons filling in the spaces left by the other. The second thing she saw was Goanuth. His countenance had just enough smugness...just enough self-righteousness in it to make Fannie wish a large and very heavy object would fall on him. She closed her eyes briefly in hopes that when they opened again the painful image would no longer be there and that all would be as it should once more.

"Going back to sleep so soon?" Goanuth's voice grated across her eardrums, setting her teeth on edge. "Oh, but you've only just awakened." Fannie kept her eyes shut. She was determined not to react to him. Goanuth was such a vain and silly thing, and it seemed unwise to stretch his ego any further by way of a response. He continued. " You know, the Guardian came to see you. Even the Queen Mother herself has taken interest. Tell me something, how does it feel to be the focus of such prominent figures at so very young an age, hmmm? Ordinary dragons such as myself would truly like to know. Then again, I would have thought of some other way, a way that was, shall we say, a bit less detrimental to my overall wellbeing. But perhaps you are right in your approach. I most certainly have never gained the attention of the Queen. Next thing you know, old Maisige will be swooping down to latch her claws onto you."

Fannie opened one eye and focused it upon her target. "Fharrugis Ma' thai!" The ancient insult flew from her like arrows drawn from a bow. She closed her eye once more waited for the response she knew would come. "That--that is not fair!" Goanuth growled angrily. "You KNOW I do not understand High Dragon!"

Ah yes, she thought. Goanuth, you are so predictable. Fannie allowed herself the luxury of a small smile. "Really, Goanuth? How silly of me. I must have forgot." She could practically hear his teeth grinding together. Fannie decided to add insult to injury and slowly turned her back on the smaller male. Had there not been a thick wall of glass separating the two of them, she might have worried a little more about a retaliaton. As it was, Fannie had only to suffer the ill fortune of viewing him from the neck upwards; which, was largely in thanks to a small rectangular window just slightly above eye level.

"You just think you're so great, don't you?" Goanuth sneered. "You've always thought that you were better than everyone else. But I know all about you, you Human Lover!" He almost ignored the gasp from Fannie and continued on without a beat. "That's right, I know all about you. I saw you with that human years ago. Disgusting! You have the audacity to want to be something less than what you are, to spit in the face of tradition, and to dishonor the Clan and the Queen Mother. And still you manage to somehow lord over everyone as though you were someone to be reckoned with. Well, you're about to get your comeuppance! The Guardian is meeting with the Queen about you even now. It's just a matter of time before judgement is passed and they come for you. I am personally hoping you get a life sentence full of grunt work and perpetual drudgery. But I am not opposed to your being thrown into a lava pit either. The Queen is wise. I am sure whatever they plan for you will be exactly what you deserve. And then I will go on about my life with great satisfaction and contentment." He smiled at her nastily and continued. "By the way, I told the Guardian about you. I told her years ago, actually. But for whatever reason she decided not to do anything until now. Ah, well, who can understand the mind of the Guardian?"

Fannie turned slowly to glare up at the window. "YOU told the Guardian about the human?" Her eyes scanned the room. "I see, and this is your reward? Being here? Well, it all makes sense now. I wondered how you managed to get a position in a department normally reserved for females and at so young an age at that."

Goanuth smiled. "Ah, but this is merely another step in the direction of my goal. The position I am really looking for is a little higher up in the grand scheme of things." Fannie nodded. "You mean the Elite Treasure Guard. The way you drool and carry on over those stupid rocks ...it's pretty obvious where your passion lies. But you are a fool if you honestly believe you'll ever make it into that department. No male dragon has ever been allowed in the Treasure Guard. You're not even permitted inside the Treasure Chamber!"

"You are wrong! The position has been all but promised to me!" Goanuth insisted. Fannie replied "The Queen would never allow a male into her Treasure Chambers, you are all too vain and greedy! And you, Goanuth are the worst of them. Believe whatever you like, but don't say nobody told you when you find yourself still working the dungeons in a few hundred years." She turned her back on him once more. The conversation had ended so far as she was concerned, and Fannie needed to think about what she had just learned. Goanuth had seen her with the human? No doubt he'd been eavesdropping. And the Guardian knew about it for all these years and yet did nothing. Why? It didn't make sense to her, but Fannie knew it didn't really matter. For whatever reason, the Guardian had held her peace until now.

Fannie stared blearily at the wall. There was nothing left to do but wait. Perhaps the Queen would be merciful and grant her a pardon, but it wasn't likely. Fannie was in trouble and she knew it. She sat down on the cold floor and tried to think more pleasant thoughts.
Image


"Why do people not notice until they lose it?
What it is that's truly important...
Although I can't afford to forgive even myself,
Because you were there,
I was able to be myself (Natural).
I want to be honest...I want to be kind...
I want to be the adult I once (in my childhood) longed to be.
I go on fighting against the heart to run away...
I go on fighting against that invisible something!"
---

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Postby Razgriz » Wed Oct 08, 2003 3:58 pm

This is good! I really like the dialog between Goanuth and Fannie, it's very well done. Great update! :thumb:
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Postby true_noir_chloe » Wed Oct 08, 2003 7:24 pm

Thanks! :) I agree - good dialogue. :thumb:

[size=84][color=seagreen]YOU SEE


You see into the deepest part of me ---

beyond the fog I hide behind.

You cast your light upon the shadows

that stretch like cobwebs in my mind.

You ease the pain when I am hurting,

and morbid visions from my past

pierce into the realm of Reason

as though I danced on blades of glass.

You grant me strength when I have fallen

and, once again, I've lost my way.

You take my hand in Yours and lead me

into the promise of a brand new day.

You bring order to all my chaos,

yet set my well-laid plans awry.

You place me on a firm foundation ---

then give me wings so I can fly.

You sand away my roughened edges

and polish all the dullest parts

until I stand before Your presence...

a newly-sculpted work of art.

You see into the heart within me,

right through my motives and selfish will.

And yet, in spite of all You see

You say You love me even still.


~by D.M.~

[/color][/size]
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Postby EireWolf » Thu Oct 09, 2003 12:35 pm

:jump:
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Here Be Dragons (cont'd)

Postby Mimichan » Thu Oct 09, 2003 4:49 pm

The Queen Mother's eyes followed the Guardian's retreating figure as she walked out of the secret chamber room. She had always admired the Guardian for her inner strength, which was something she really didn't feel herself most of the time. Of course, the Queen made up for any weaknesses simply by being the Queen.

"That one bears watching," a voice said from the shadows.

"She has ever been faithful." The Queen replied. " I would trust her with my life. In fact, I have trusted her with it-- more than once. She has never played me false. No, I think you are wrong about her, Maisige."

The priestess emerged from her hiding place. "But can you be certain of that, my Queen? Can you see well enough into the hearts of your subjects to determine who is loyal and who is not? Do not push aside my counsel so hastily." She warned. "Remember that without my guidance your throne would have been usurped long ago. You are not so young anymore. Neither are you very strong. Plenty of younger females would gladly challenge you for the position you hold were it not for me."

The Queen sighed. "Peace Maisige. I do not deny that your counsel is most valuable. I am showing clemency to the young dragon that was caught, just as you suggested, aren't I? I must admit I am not entirely certain why you have taken such an interest in her. But I would rather not involve myself in your affairs."

The High Priestess of Aiken'yar smiled. "The Queen Mother has more important things to worry about. Only remember that I have never led you astray in all of my years of service. Do not lose faith in me now. There are circumstances that are beyond your control and forces that you cannot comprehend moving and shaping the reality around us. This young girl is more important to us than you realize. I am not sure how, but I know it to be true. How we handle her will determine our future, for she may have the ability to topple the very foundations of the Clan someday if we aren't careful!"

"Maisige, what exactly are you suggesting? That this child will overthrow my Kingdom?" The Queen demanded.

"I cannot say, my Queen. But there is something about her..." Maisige shook her head. :"It is not something I can explain. It is a feeling I have that everything we know to be true is threatened by that girl!"

The Queen rested her chin between her claws. "If you are so sure that the girl will bring trouble then why have we not banished her? Under the laws of Aiken'yar it would be a justifiable punishment. Some would even consider it a lenient one. In fact, it would not be the first time a dragon has been banished for this same reason." She ignored the look that comment brought. "Oh, can we stop pretending for just a moment? You remember Mathain as well as I do!"

Maisige said nothing. She remembered him. He had been exiled from the Clan for his involvement with the Humans. In the minds of the dragons, Mathain had died the day he left Aiken'yar. Nobody spoke of him. Nobody 'remembered' him. The whole ordeal had been rather nasty from what Maisige recalled. Mithaya, who had been much younger at the time, had not taken news of his capture well. And when she learned of his sentence, it had taken four warriors to restrain her. Mithaya was kept under strict observation for quite a while for fear that she would try to join him. Although Maisige was not one given to emotions, even she admitted to herself that it had been a sad thing to witness. Mithaya and Mathain had been as close as two dragons could get. They had practically hatched together and it was always taken for granted that one day they would be joined as mates. But that had never happened and eventually Mithaya settled down and accepted the truth. Mathain was gone and he wasn't coming back. It was odd to the Priestess to think that same headstrong girl was now The Guardian.

She answered the Queen, finally. "These are different circumstances. Mathain was a tragedy-- as would be any dragon who was lost to us. Nevertheless, he was only a male. He could not fight. He could not hunt. As sad as it was, Mathain was not a vital member of the Clan. Perhaps if he had been born a female then it would have been different. But Fannie, this young dragon we are dealing with now, is very much female. She has great potential. If we can set her aright, she may prove to be an asset to us one day. But if we simply banish her, there may be consequences that none of us would be willing to face."

"I would just as soon this whole thing be done with" the Queen admitted. "You are right though, you have never led me astray. The girl is yours to do with as you see fit and I will appoint someone to look after the Guardian as well."

Maisige bowed. "Thank you, my Queen."
Image


"Why do people not notice until they lose it?
What it is that's truly important...
Although I can't afford to forgive even myself,
Because you were there,
I was able to be myself (Natural).
I want to be honest...I want to be kind...
I want to be the adult I once (in my childhood) longed to be.
I go on fighting against the heart to run away...
I go on fighting against that invisible something!"
---

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Postby Razgriz » Thu Oct 09, 2003 5:06 pm

Another update! Yay!

Again, the dialogue are delivered expertly and quite appropriate to the characters. Furthermore, I like how we are now delving into the past of the Guardian. I really like characters backgrounds, it makes the reader understand what motivates them, and perhaps relate to them. Great update! :thumb:
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Postby true_noir_chloe » Thu Oct 09, 2003 9:46 pm

Yay! :jump: Oo, I'm so excited to find out about the Guardian and her dragon beau. Hum, what's next?

You are so, like, on the top of your form right now, Iesu. :thumb: I'm on the sidelines cheering you on. :jump:

[size=84][color=seagreen]YOU SEE


You see into the deepest part of me ---

beyond the fog I hide behind.

You cast your light upon the shadows

that stretch like cobwebs in my mind.

You ease the pain when I am hurting,

and morbid visions from my past

pierce into the realm of Reason

as though I danced on blades of glass.

You grant me strength when I have fallen

and, once again, I've lost my way.

You take my hand in Yours and lead me

into the promise of a brand new day.

You bring order to all my chaos,

yet set my well-laid plans awry.

You place me on a firm foundation ---

then give me wings so I can fly.

You sand away my roughened edges

and polish all the dullest parts

until I stand before Your presence...

a newly-sculpted work of art.

You see into the heart within me,

right through my motives and selfish will.

And yet, in spite of all You see

You say You love me even still.


~by D.M.~

[/color][/size]
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Postby Mimichan » Thu Oct 09, 2003 10:57 pm

Thank you so much^_^....I definitely have plans for these characters *insert evil laugh*
Image


"Why do people not notice until they lose it?
What it is that's truly important...
Although I can't afford to forgive even myself,
Because you were there,
I was able to be myself (Natural).
I want to be honest...I want to be kind...
I want to be the adult I once (in my childhood) longed to be.
I go on fighting against the heart to run away...
I go on fighting against that invisible something!"
---

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Postby EireWolf » Fri Oct 10, 2003 1:58 pm

OoOOH... Mystery and intrigue... Banished lovers... Secrets hidden... Good story! :jump:
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Here Be Dragons (cont'd)

Postby Mimichan » Thu Oct 16, 2003 1:29 am

*I should probably apologize for this post in advance. I don't really think it's very good. Of course, I'll leave it to you to decide. Writer's Block has gotten a hold of me these past few days. I have tried to work through it and this is the result.*

The Guardian retraced her steps along the path to the dungeon. Now that the matter was settled, she felt as though a burden had been lifted from her shoulders. Too many memories, she thought. Too many memories of things I'd rather forget. She shook her head. There was no point in visiting the past now. Mathain was gone. It was something that taken her a while to accept. She had even gone so far as to withold her knowledge of the girl's unnatural interests in the hopes that it might lead to information about him. Normally when a young dragon had an encounter with a human, whether by happenstance or no, it was customary to call them aside and give them a good talking to--making the fear of contamination and other nasty consequences the focal point of the conversation. But in Fannie's case the situation had been handled a bit differently.

When the young male dragon had first approached her about Fannie's dark transgression and had given a description of the human involved, her heart had almost stopped. For years she had been silent. She had 'accepted' fate and had gone on to earn one of the most coveted postions in the Clan. Yet there had been a small part of her that still dared to believe that perhaps one day she would see him again. And then, finally, her hopes were realized in the form of a young male who had been barely old enough to fly. The human, who had spoken High Dragon--who wore the same hooded cloak that she had watched Mathain leave in so many years ago--, had suddenly appeared from nowhere and The Guardian knew as sure as she knew how to breathe fire that if she could get to the human then she would get to Mathain. No doubt this human was merely a messenger, a servant of some sort. Perhaps it was unusually intelligent for its species and thus had been able to learn High Dragon. The Guardian wondered how much effort it had taken on the part of Mathain to teach the lesser being such a difficult language. It didn't really matter, though. To her the human was simply a means to an end...an end that would lead, irrevocably, back to Mathain.

No, she hadn't responded in the traditional fashion. She never confronted Fannie and never brought it to the attention of the Queen Mother. Instead, The Guardian had appointed spies to watch over the girl with strict orders to report anything out of the ordinary. The years passed and after some time, it became evident that her efforts had been in vain. Mathain was not coming back. Logically she had always known this. She just hadn't wanted to face it. Besides, she thought,even if he does return, what then? I cannot leave. I am bound to the Clan now and there is no force on the Earth strong enough to change that. The Guardian acknowledged that one of the other reasons she'd decided to turn the young girl in was because she'd wanted closure. She wanted to finally be able to put the past in its place and move on with her life.

"Guardian! Guardian thank goodness I found you!" A voice disrupted the stillness of the passageway.

The Guardian stopped. A young warrior apprentice stood in front of her, trying to get out her message between great gulps of air. The Guardian held a claw out and said; "Whatever it is you were sent to tell me will never get past your lips if you do not take a moment to catch your breath. When you are ready, please continue."

The apprentice nodded after a minute and began her recitation. "Hail Guardian! I have been sent to you from Captain Tegaeya herself to inform you of the situation above. The warriors of Clan Aiken'yar are keeping the enemy forces back and have managed to chase away the Doddon Sai. However, the Rockbiter is still attacking and shows no sign of giving in. The warriors have all been taking turns in dealing with the beast, but it is an arduous task as you might imagine. Also, the Fail'g Rhhwyn and the Mah'n ta Rek have just received reinforcements and are now attacking with more fervor than before. If it is not too inconvenient, the Commander of the Queen's army requests your aid. Your skill in combat is well known and may serve to help the warriors regain their energy. It will, we hope, restore their spirits to see someone like you fighting alongside them."

"Well, I don't know what use I can possibly be. I am not a warrior," said The Guardian. "But if Captain Tegaeya desires my presence in the midst of battle, then I suppose we'd better hurry up and get to her, umm..."

The apprentice hastily replied. "I am called Ahnaii. Apprentice to the Captain and Commander of the Queens Army and a level 4 trainee."

The Guardian smiled. "Well then, you are practically a true warrior already aren't you? But come; let's go find your Captain shall we? No doubt she is waiting for us to come help her fight this batttle." She waited for Ahnaii to turn around and then proceeded to follow her outside. It seemed Fannie would have to wait a little longer. The Guardian began to prepare herself for battle.
Image


"Why do people not notice until they lose it?
What it is that's truly important...
Although I can't afford to forgive even myself,
Because you were there,
I was able to be myself (Natural).
I want to be honest...I want to be kind...
I want to be the adult I once (in my childhood) longed to be.
I go on fighting against the heart to run away...
I go on fighting against that invisible something!"
---

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Postby true_noir_chloe » Thu Oct 16, 2003 7:49 am

Yay! :jump: Writer's blocks are so hard, aren't they? :bang: I'm glad you wrote some more. I think it's pretty good. I'm getting more and more interested about what's going on with the Guardian and Mathain. *cool*^-^

I have a question: How'd you come up with the cool language for the high dragon and the names of all the dragons? Did you make that stuff up?

I love it. Keep writing. :thumb:

[size=84][color=seagreen]YOU SEE


You see into the deepest part of me ---

beyond the fog I hide behind.

You cast your light upon the shadows

that stretch like cobwebs in my mind.

You ease the pain when I am hurting,

and morbid visions from my past

pierce into the realm of Reason

as though I danced on blades of glass.

You grant me strength when I have fallen

and, once again, I've lost my way.

You take my hand in Yours and lead me

into the promise of a brand new day.

You bring order to all my chaos,

yet set my well-laid plans awry.

You place me on a firm foundation ---

then give me wings so I can fly.

You sand away my roughened edges

and polish all the dullest parts

until I stand before Your presence...

a newly-sculpted work of art.

You see into the heart within me,

right through my motives and selfish will.

And yet, in spite of all You see

You say You love me even still.


~by D.M.~

[/color][/size]
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Postby Razgriz » Thu Oct 16, 2003 9:03 am

Pretty cool, :thumb: nice transitional chapter into the combat.
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Postby EireWolf » Thu Oct 16, 2003 10:40 am

Iesu_no_Senshi wrote:*I should probably apologize for this post in advance.


No, you shouldn't! :hug: It's very good! I'm glad to see more of your story; I was getting worried there for a few days... :)
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Postby Mimichan » Thu Oct 16, 2003 10:43 am

true_noir_chloe wrote:
I have a question: How'd you come up with the cool language for the high dragon and the names of all the dragons? Did you make that stuff up?




:grin: Yeah, the names are all made up. The language is really just a bunch of gibberish. However, I am working on an actual language now. I am not a grammar pro or a linguist, so of course its probably never going to be complete in the sense that a real language is. But I love the idea of actually creating my own fantasy language--even if it's just on a very primitive level. It also helps continuuity, I think, once I have established in my mind that "Blarg" means "hello" (as an example)...then I won't be changing it everytime one of the Characters needs to greet someone. So far, I have an alphabet and a few basic words. I am also working on sentence structure. Yes, I have way too much time on my hands. I admit it.
Image


"Why do people not notice until they lose it?
What it is that's truly important...
Although I can't afford to forgive even myself,
Because you were there,
I was able to be myself (Natural).
I want to be honest...I want to be kind...
I want to be the adult I once (in my childhood) longed to be.
I go on fighting against the heart to run away...
I go on fighting against that invisible something!"
---

True Navigation: Two MIX
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Posts: 241
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Location: Somewhere between here and there

Postby Mimichan » Thu Oct 16, 2003 10:46 am

[quote="EireWolf"]No, you shouldn't! :hug: It's very good! I'm glad to see more of your story]


:hug: Thank you. I have also had PC troubles and couldn't get online (another reason for the delays).
Image


"Why do people not notice until they lose it?
What it is that's truly important...
Although I can't afford to forgive even myself,
Because you were there,
I was able to be myself (Natural).
I want to be honest...I want to be kind...
I want to be the adult I once (in my childhood) longed to be.
I go on fighting against the heart to run away...
I go on fighting against that invisible something!"
---

True Navigation: Two MIX
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Mimichan
 
Posts: 241
Joined: Sun Aug 10, 2003 4:00 am
Location: Somewhere between here and there

Here Be Dragons (con't)

Postby Mimichan » Thu Oct 16, 2003 11:00 am

The Guardian of Aiken'yar emerged from the lair, the warrior apprentice only slightly ahead of her. Long ago she and Tegaeya had served as warriors in the Queen's Army. Tegaeya had gone on to become Captain of an elite group of fighters, while she had given up her position to obtain the loftier one of Guardian. And while the one protecting the Clan was required to have skill in combat and strategic warfare, a Guardian was always held separate from the regular warriors. Usually the regular forces handled any minor skirmishes or raids, for they were well able and aptly trained for that purpose. Tegaeya knew her business and she trained some of the best warriors in the Clan.

Indeed, Clan Aiken'yar had one of the best defensive forces in all of the Eastern Tribes. The fact that the Captain was now calling on her for aid meant that the situation had escalated beyond what the warriors could handle. Of course, The Guardian was only one dragon and probably wouldn't be able to do much in the end, but she would do what she could. She decided that Tegaeya probably desired her presence more for the sake of boosting morale than anything. The regular warriors, especially the younger ones, tended to elevate the Guardian's abilities somewhere to the level that was only equaled by the heroic legends of ancient myth. She understood this quite well. The dragons needed to believe that the one guarding them was more than mere dragon. The Guardian had to be something more--something better--than the rest of them. It wasn't an easy office to fill at times, but she had been chosen and she did what she could to accommodate the Clan's expectations.

The warriors had halted the enemy's progress several hundred yards from the lair and had done an admirable job of keeping them from advancing further. Up ahead, The Guardian could see signs of warfare. "It is just ahead, Guardian" came the voice of her guide. Young dragons often had a penchant for stating the obvious. She wondered if she had ever been like that. The Guardian simply nodded. They soon found themselves amid the chaos of orders and strategizing and a myriad of other sounds related to the business of war. The Guardian spotted some of the wounded to the left of her. They all looked so young. She sighed and continued to follow the warrior apprentice Ahnaii.

Captain Tegaeya looked up wearily at smiled at the sight of her old friend approaching. "Mithaya, I am glad to see you," she said. The Guardian smiled. "You look tired, my friend," was her response. "You noticed, eh? This battle has me at my witts end! My warriors are being exhausted with the effort of fending off the Rockbiter, while the Northern Tribes make themselves a very irritating thorn in our sides." Captain Tegaeya snorted. " It is like fighting a mountain with a stick and being mauled by itch-mites at the same time. The Rockbiter is what we fear the most, but no one here really wants to hurt it. We need to find a way to stop its attack so that we can concentrate on the real enemies here."

The Guardian nodded. "You need to get the staff from the Priest of Dai'og Theyhl. He is the one controlling the Rockbiter."

Captain Tegaeya sighed. "If only it were that easy. He seems to have created a barrier of somekind. My warriors can't even get near him! Not to mention that dealing with his 'magick' has left many of them trembling like newly hatched babies. You know how superstitious warriors can be. And the older ones only make it worse by regaling the younger with ancient stories of great dragon sorcerers who could turn their enemies into a pile of mush with the wave of a wand. I would go after his blasted staff myself, but I am needed here."

"And you are hoping that I can do something?" The Guardian asked. "Of course, it won't be easy; but, I will try. The thing to consider is what we know about the Dai'og Theyhl and how to use that knowledge to our advantage. Most of the power that that priest has is due to trickery and deceit. I doubt very seriously if there is any real magick involved. Somehow, he has managed to convince the Rockbiter that we are enemies. We need to prove otherwise. And we need to distract him long enough to get close and separate him from his staff. From what I recall, Dai'og Theyhl are extremely vain and easy to provoke." She smiled wickedly. "Let's see what mischief we can cause."

Tegaeya laughed. "Being the Guardian hasn't changed you much, has it Mithaya?" She turned to find her apprentice Ahnaii gawking at them. "Are you still here? You are dismissed. Go find Ahmissanya and tell her to put you to work."

Ahnaii bowed and quickly departed. "As you say, Captain" had been her response. The Guardian watched her go. "She is very young, Tegaeya. We we ever that young?" Tegaeya glanced at her. "We are not old, Mithaya. You are only 430. Honestly, you have a long while yet before you should be concerned with your age!" The Guardian sighed. " I know. But sometimes I feel old. Sometimes the burden of my office is more than I care to deal with." She shook her head. "Anyway, let's not speak of it further. There is a battle to be won." The two friends began to plan their strategy--all other matters temporarily forgotten.
Image


"Why do people not notice until they lose it?
What it is that's truly important...
Although I can't afford to forgive even myself,
Because you were there,
I was able to be myself (Natural).
I want to be honest...I want to be kind...
I want to be the adult I once (in my childhood) longed to be.
I go on fighting against the heart to run away...
I go on fighting against that invisible something!"
---

True Navigation: Two MIX
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Location: Somewhere between here and there

Postby Razgriz » Thu Oct 16, 2003 12:07 pm

Very exciting! Great mood build up! :thumb:
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