.:: Dragonsbane and Nightshade :: Seach for the Cure ::. {Apollo and Kevv}

Guest

Roleplay characters:
Kevv
Estel
Rhavaniel
(I may also throw in Ink, my new Magpie dragon)

PLOT::
Arriving in a new town, the odd Kevv is unaware that shi is carrying a new strand of disease. It is a rare but life-threatening virus only found in dragon species, but when she obtains the sickness, she becomes a host that enables it to be transferred to humans as well. The city soon becomes plagued with the disease, and no one knows what the disease is, where it came from, or how to cure it. Soon, the death tolls begin to rise.

Kevv also begins to get effected by the disease, but it is much slower in her immune system, and so, with the help of the heroic Estel (who is miraculously immune to the disease) and mysterious elf Rhavaniel, they go on a search to find the cure. They find out that only the secret city of elves knows about the disease, and they must find it to obtain the information they need. However, they must first pass a series of tests and challenges before they are told what the answer is.

Once they get the information they need, they then must take another journey to find the cure itself. What will it be? A special herb? Some mystic codestone with a healing touch? Only time will tell, and every day that passes, more people die, and Kevv comes closer to death...

SETTING::
At the beginning, a medium-sized seaside town, surrounded by ocean on one side, and forests and mountains on the other. The elven city is hidden somewhere amidst the forest, though there are many dangers and unknown creatures and monsters in the forest itself. The cure will be found across the sea on an island ruled by... Well, we'll have to wait and see. >8D

Guest

The sun was shining brilliantly down on the noisy seaside market as Estel toured around the booths, humming nonchalantly to himself. It was a pleasant spring day, and he had spent the morning practicing his swordsmanship with the town's blacksmith. He was only a visitor to the area, but he found the he liked the simple city, and had already stayed for nearly two weeks at the local inn. There was just so much to see and do, he wanted to make sure that he got the chance to see everything before moving on to the next town. The people were a rowdy bunch, but kindhearted and friendly all the same, and he had already formed some friendships with the sellers at the daily marketplace. He was currently searching for something to eat, as he had worked up quite an appetite from the morning's sparring.

Estel was an middle-aged man, somewhere around 39 years old, and looked rather good for his age. His dark hair was a little long and shaggy, almost reaching his shoulders, and framed his pale blue eyes. He had a thin layer of stubble covering his chin and upper lip, giving him a rough, worn appearance. He was dressed simply in loose leggings and a tunic, but a brilliant black scabbard was attached to his hip on a belt, a sign that he was more than he appeared.

The scent of cooked fish caught his attention, and he made his way over to a large booth surrounded by a small crowd of people. It was one of the more popular stalls, and for good reason; the seafood and other snacks served there were extremely well-prepared and tasty, and reasonably priced as well. He bought his meal and then searched for a place to sit, choosing a stone fountain that was gurgling merrily in the middle of the clearing within the market. He perched nearby a group of young children who were laughing and running about gleefully. He rather enjoyed watching children; it brought back fond memories of his own childhood.

As he ate the meal, he was unaware of the keen pair of eyes also watching the children within the shadows of a building nearby. Ink was up to no good, as usual, and her current target was an older child clutching a basket of strawberries close to her chest. The magpie dragon was extremely fond of the sweet fruit, and had no intentions of letting the child keep it all to herself. With a twitching tail, she crept closer to the unsuspecting child, waiting only momentarily before pouncing.

As soon as she showed herself, people cried out and scattered. The child shrieked and dropped the food, then ran away from the black and white dragon. Pleased with herself, and ignoring angry shouts directed her way, she scooped up the treasure and ate them with delight.

The people of the town were no strangers to dragons, but it wasn't a very common sight to see such a large and majestic one pop out of nowhere. Estel himself had only met a few others in his lifetime, and he couldn't help but be amused at it's behavior. It obviously meant no harm, since it hadn't even touched the girl, but apparently it had a sweet tooth. When the dragon was finished with the fruit and sniffing around for more, he tossed it the remains of his meal, chuckling. "Here, have that, ye greedy beast," he told it, sitting back and watching. The dragon squirmed in delight and ate the offering. After she was done, Ink sat back and nodded at the man. Thank you, she said, grinning. It's not too often that I find someone so tolerant of my behaviors. You can call me Ink. May I ask for your name?

"Estel," he replied. "And the pleasure was mine. I am not often in the presence of such a mighty beast." Humming with pleasure, Ink came closer to the man, while the people around them finally went back to their own business.

Guest

The two were not the only strange ones in this town that day. Although the one coming to that stand as a bit more silent, and subtle about her approach. Although she was most definently easily noticeable. Her silken, blue and silvery cloak covering her features pretty well, but the cloak itself looked... to be of royalty almost. Although it definently wasnt royalty of Dragons' Cove.... Nor did she really desire to be so. That would end up being to stressful, in her opinion. Though her gaze flickered beneath her hood, seeing all around ehr. A dragon was out here? Well that was fairly interesting. Although she did not sense a rider anywhere nearby. Thus... why was this dragon out this way? Lest it was wild. Though no, that was impossible. If she were wild, she wouldnt jsut venture into a human city. Not being a covian dragon. It took her enough effort to want to enter a town that was for sure. Especially with the scent of human so strong... ugh, it disgusted her.

Kevv did not disturb the dragon, nor the human with her for now. Although she knew a dragon was going to sense another of its kind pretty quick. Especially one as powerful as herself. For well, such a scope of power was rare to reach for any being, no matter what species. But she didnt bother them, having no reason to bother anyone. Her just outt here to get food, rest for a day or two even. Her feet hurt a bit from all the walking thus it would be good to sit down and relax for a bit. Maybe meet a few and speak to them even... eager to know more oft his planet and meet more beings too. Why wouldn't she be? She wanted to know all she could.... hoping to find the guardians soon too. Perhaps sheas close... though she doubted it. This planet... was crucial to have a good alliance with now, because KEvv enjoyed it. This planet was so wondrous.... Not at all boring like ehr own proved to be quite a bit.

She sighed a bit, seing some odd fruits at a stand near anothr which bustled with activity. She smiled warmly, picking some of it out. Giving her pay for it,before she took it with her. Snifing a round fruit ebfore biting into it. "Ooh, good." she said gently. Finding it delicious, thus she began to eat at it properly. Her gaze sifting around some, but the fountain seemed a fine place to sit. The sound of the water flowing a relaxing thing to her. She sat a small distance from the male human and munched at her fruit, purring a bit in content. Her mind thinking on that strange dragon nearby too. She was a strange one for certain. Cute, but strange. Although most bieings on this planet were strange in her eyes. No.. .all of them were strange to her to be honest. Though in more a pelasant manner. She hadnt met too many unlikeable yet in these areas. She was pretty sure that would change at some point. But for now she was perfectly content to enjoy every second of her peace, while she searched for the Guardians and made her alliance with this planet.

Her mind traveled elsewhere some more, rather through her route... wondering where she should go to next. Although she frowned a bt, blushing slightly. She had been sitting here with her tail out! Wel she didnt typically, it drew attention. It was dipped in the water behind ehr though.. apparently her tail had wanted to stretch she supposed. She pulled it up, only to sprinke some on the odd human with it by accident. She pulled it away quick, back into the depths of ehr cloak. "My apologies... It slipped it seemed." she said softly and shyly to him. Her voice a beautiful melody upon the air... soft and yet full of meaning....

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Estel was about to say that it wasn't a problem when he caught sight of the appendage that had dripped water on to him. His mouth hung open in unbelieving surprise, before he finally had enough sense to close it and swallow, managing an uncertain smile. "It's... Quite alright. It's just water, it won't do any harm." He paused, not sure what else to say. The woman - he assumed it was a woman because of her light, melodious voice and generous chest, since her face was hidden - was completely covered, so he couldn't see what the rest of her looked like. He had heard tale of sorcerors and magicians having spells that backfired on them, turning them into creatures that were normally only found in stories and dreams. However, this woman obviously had a tail, a serpent-like tail to be exact, and he had no idea what to think about the matter.

Before he could say anything else, Ink whipped her head over to the new arrival. At first she had ignored it, thinking it another ignorant, silly human, but her attention was caught when she got a whiff of the female's scent. You are no human, she said, almost accusingly. She took another curious sniff, tipping her head in confusion. And yet you are not completely dragon. Why not lose your disguise and show the world your face? I am curious as to what you are, exactly. She spoke to both Kevv and Estel, and Estel looked at the new arrival with renewed suspiscion. A dragon-human? What on earth did this magpie dragon mean? He shifted uncomfortably, looking away and simply trying to ignore the predicament. It probably wasn't something he wanted to get himself into.

Before long, though, a shout could be heard nearby. Ink was immediately drawn to attention, and seemed to deflate, as if she knew she was in trouble. Soon the voice's owner dashed into view, a young, dirty blonde-haired man with a scruffy face and ragged clothes. He appeared upset, or perhaps just embarassed. Ink scrambled to stand and run away, but before she could do so, the man reached her and grabbed onto her neck, keeping her from escaping.

"Bloody 'ell, Ink!" the man growled, but not angrily. He seemed more nervous than rageful. "Ye know ye can't just come into a town an' act like ye own the place. We were tryin' ta stay away from crowds, remember? Oi'm sure a lot o' these people ain't even seen a dragon before. If ye wanted somethin', ye coulda asked me, an' Oi woulda..." he voice trailed off as his eyes caught sight of the torn, stained remains of the basket of strawberries. He groaned, muttering a curse and closing his eyes. "Please tell me ye didn't steal those from someone." When the dragon made no answer, he swore, slapping a hand against his face. "Well, now we have tae leave fer sure. Soon some people'll come an' look tae see what can be done about a thief like ye." Only then did he notice the two people perched on the fountain near him. He grimaced in embaressment. "Oi'm terribly sorry about Ink. She's got this 'orrible sweet tooth, ye see, and she can't seem tae control herself when it comes tae food. There's sure tae be some sort o' punishment." He was only semi-joking, but the dragon took it seriously, and started flailing around, knocking him across the ground and managing to push both Estel and Kevv into the fountain. With a huff, the magpie dragon flapped her feathered wings and took off to the sky, soon darting out of view from the onlookers below.

Terrowin groaned. "That bloody dragon," he muttered, sitting up. "Why on earth did she have tae pick me as her... Oh, damn it." He quickly stood and began to assist Estel and the cloaked woman out of the water, apologizing earnestly as he did so. "Oi've tried again and again tae teach 'er manners, but no, she refuses tae listen ta me. Oi'll make up for this, Oi promise. Perhaps Oi could buy ye dinner? Or new clothes?" With a sinking heart, he realized how lovely and expensive the cloak on the woman appeared. He would never be able to afford to replace something like that.

Estel simply laughed. "Well, I suppose I could take your offer. I had nothing else in mind to do today, and this is the only pair of clothing that I have with me." He pressed out the water that soaked his head, glad that the sun was warm and would hopefully soon dry him off. What a strange day this was indeed.

Guest

Kevv giggled a bit and gave a nod. "Well im glad youre fine with it then." She said with a soft sigh. Her tail went into her cloak and wound around ehr again, out of sight once more. although hearing Ink she raised an eyebrow beneath her hood. Shaking her head softly too. ~I am just as much dragon as you are. Though.... evolved a bit, you might say. Im not of your planet.~ Kevv told her simply. Kevv wouldn't hide truth from another dragon, thus, Ink was going to know what she was looking at pretty quickly. ~However, taking my cloak off.... well... I dont think these humans are used to seeing a dragon. Let alone one who can stand anthro.... it migh make a shocker.~ Kevv told her. IT would be nice to take if off that was for sure. She didnt like having to be so disguised everywhere, she preferred to wear a much lighter amount of clothing then this. This was not her style at all. however it was very necessary in this world for now.

Kevvs' gaze narrowed suddenly however, feeling another coming suddenly. Feeling the connection between this human and the dragon too... so this dragon did have a rider. As she had suspected. Although Kevv gave a soft giggle at the manner the man was taking with her... Ink, to Kevv, seemed like an overly-active hatchling. Well compared to Kevvs' age she pretty much was a hatchling. KEvv smiled warmly, her hands glowed slightly beneath her cloak too. Rather duplicating sopme strawberries from the stand, and they appeared in the basket. It was simple enough to do, thus the damaged property might as well be replaced. Although the manner Terrowin spoke of his dragon made Kevv frown a bit. Seeing what Ink did too though she giggled softly. "Id not try to do such a thing to her, it wouldnt be in your best interest. I would enjoy her youthfulness instead, while it lasts.... im sure it makes the life of a human like yourself interesting." Kevv told him gently. Although Kevv gave a yelp as she was pushed in the water, finally knocked over by the flailing dragon. She was obviously not pleased over tis outcome... Well Kevvs' hood came off at this of course, she shook her head too. "Well this sucks." she said simply. But KEvv did not seem angry, her gentle eyes looking to the cloak around her. She stood in the water, taking the cloak off of her rather. not going to wear something so drenched.

Kevv simply walked out of the fountain, glad of Terrowins' help all the same too. She looked around a bit too. Well considering Kevvs' generous curviness and thigns she had kept the cloak on for a reason. Althoug hwell that mattered none... plus she was winged. which she unraveled from her body, extending them slightly. Well it wasnt like she hadn't been seen now, she might as well not be too shy. Her silken top and shorts luckily not very wet thus she didn't have to deal with that. The cloak kept out the water pretty well when she had fell in. Kevv moved her long mane from her eyes a bit, looking over the two males ebfore her. "Dinner sounds a kind thing to partake in...." she said softly. "Although her manners are alright, trust me, some of our kind can be way worse then that." She said with a chuckle. "She is full of energy, which is admirable at best." Kevv told him. Well definently not taking the same outlook as a human would at Inks' ways. Kevv rather let her hands shimmer a bit, the cloak vanishing into thin air it seemed suddenly. "Although id set those strawberries in your hand down too, im sure whoever owned them will come back for them." She said gently. That basket was hand-woven thus, not something to jsut leave behind for a typical child. Indeed this going to be one odd day. but likeable Kevv figured...

Guest

Terrowin and Estel both stared as Kevv's form was revealed. Estel was mostly shocked at the fact that such a creature could even exist, while Terrowin was both shocked and oddly enchanted by her beauty. She was a dragon, and yet... Not. Her body shape was oddly human, but she had the face, skin, and tail of a dragon. Estel shook his head. What on earth...? The only thing he could possibly think of for such a being to exist was that by some magical means, perhaps a mutation at birth or a curse when she was young. She was obviously intelligent, though, and behaved as a human would. Estel once again tried to hide his shock and managed to smile weakly at her.

Terrowin was only slightly less confused than Estel. He knew of other people, loners and outsiders that sometimes wandered past his home in the wilderness, that had strange body features and other unusual behaviors. This woman - or she-dragon, whatever the case may be - was strangely pretty in his eyes, and he felt some odd urge rise within him as he stared at her curvaceous form. It was this distraction that caused him to miss that the torn basket he was holding was once again filled with strawberries. When she mentioned it, though, he jumped in surprise. So she did possess magical qualities. That was predictable.

He set the basket back where he had found it, but there was no one around to retrieve it. The clearing they were in was now pretty much empty except for the three of them; the appearance of a dragon, its rider, and now this odd dragon-human had scared nearly everyone away, except for a few curious folk who peered around corners at them with wide eyes.

Finally, he regained the ability to speak. "Oi really didn't mean it when Oi said Oi'd punish 'er," he said sheepily, nodding in the direction that Ink had taken off. "She knew that, but sometimes she just has tae make a fuss out o' everything. Again, I apologize fer her knocking you in the fountain. Oi really do need tae teach her how tae behave in public..." he muttered something under his breath, then suddenly brightened. "Dinner sounds lovely, especially with such a pretty lass like ye. An' it seems like ye won't be needin' new clothes after all, seein' as ye appear tae be the magical sort..." He grinned, his usual mischevious attitude back in place now that he was more comfortable with the situation. To be honest with himself, Ink really was a bad influence on him. She could act like a hatchling sometimes, but other times, she could convince him to get into trouble as well. Hopefully she had flown off somewhere where she wouldn't get into more mischief.

Estel nodded in agreement, still trying to get some of the water off of his clothing. "Yes, I fed most of my meal to your dragon, actually, so I would be pleased with dinner, if you wouldn't mind." He offered a hand. "My name is Estel, by the way."

"Terrowin," the man replied, shaking his hand. "It would be my pleasure. Oi know a nice place down the road that serves pretty much anything ye can think of. It'll be my treat." He adjusted his ruffled clothes from his small scuffle with the dragon, then led the two of them a short distance down the street. They saw few people as they entered a rustic-looking log building filled with jolly voices and the clatter of plates and silverware. Terrowin paused at the door, wondering if Kevv would want to put her cloak back on, but realized that it would be silly, since she would need to take the hood off to eat. They then went inside; it was full of people of all ages and sizes, and the air smelled delicious. They were quickly seated at a large table near a window that looked out over the bay.

Terrowin waved a hand at the menus. "Get whatever ye want. Oi'll pay fer it, ta make up fer me companion's behaviors." ((Feel free to PP a bit here if needed, to keep the action going :] ))

Guest

Kevv flicked her tail softly, adjusting her little outfit a bit. Well she had never been too much on clothing, aside from her robe. Thus, she didnt tend to wear any really thick clothing at all. Thus well, her body typically was quite a tease to a males' gaze... But Kevv truly didnt mind that. It was easy to deal with. But seeing Terrowins' eyes taking ehr in pretty fully she giggled a bit, twitching her tail some too. Well he was cute, for a human. But Kevv had never even considered dating a human.... their ways just werent exactly appealing. But Kevv was not one to not try to expand her bounds and give things a chance. However this human would be a bit of fun to lpay at some... he seemed quite nice too. Who knows, perhaps he had a shot. Though that was a bit improbable in all honesty... Kevv jsut had had many bad experiences with humans, it didn't make for a good outlook on such kin with her.

She straightened a bit, turning ehr head some. But ehr mind touched Terrowins' with her gentle, soothing presence. ~You do know, pictures tend to be better then staring.~ She told him. sounding amused, and perhaps flattered a bit. Her soft eyes twinkling in amusement a bit... Although at his words she gave a nod. "Id agree... she is who she is. There will end up being good reason and good outcome to how she is im sure." She told him gently. "I find her cute and youthful... if only more dragonkin were like that. But most of our kind are all serious and straight-backed." She said with a sigh. "A bit of a curse I suppose, were all expected to be so serious and majestic... its very hard for a dragon to be accepted that shows it can actually have gentle fun." She told him. Knowing he would see the point to her words, perhaps not now, but someday he undoubtedly would.

Kevv giggled some more at the mentioning of her clothing too. "Well, as fun as I would imagine itd be for a human like yourself to try to find me an outfit... I dont really think they would be able to fit me with much. My body shape is quite out of the norm." She said, indeed amused. Seeing the nice table and things, looking at the menu as well. Glad she could understadn their language easy. She looked to them though. "Ahh, my manners are slipping a bit I suppose. You two can call me Kev." She told them softly. Seeing a choice few things she liked on this menu, although her choices were more then likely going to surprise them very much. Well she didn't have the typical dragon diet, or anyhing even close to it. Considering an oath she had taken many thousands of years ago, and to this day she stuck to it... she ate no meats. She woudl eat nothing, or slay nothing, for ehr own personal gain pretty much... to her, eating meat was slaying for personal gain.

Guest

Terrowin flushed slightly as Kevv noticed his stare; he looked away, clearing his throat and purposefully taking a long while looking at what was on the menu, even though he already knew what he was going to get. What an odd creature this woman was - so animal-like, yet strangely humanistic. He just couldn't grasp what she was or how she had ended up the way she was. Estel too looked over the menu, and for a few minutes there was silence.

After a while, Terrowin looked up and spoke again. "Ye seem tae know much about dragons, lassie," he said to Kevv. "Oi really ain't educated or experienced with 'em at all, an' if ye wouldn't mind, maybe ye could help me. Ya know, teach me a thing or two about bein' a rider." He really was interested to see what she knew about dragonology, but he also knew that he didn't want to part ways with her after such a short time together. He was intrigued, if nothing else, just to learn more about who she was. And of course, it was always nice to have an attractive woman for company.

Estel lay down his menu and looked back up as well. "Actually, if you wouldn't mind, Terrowin, I was also hoping to get a closer look at that dragon of yours. I have only met a few in my lifetime, and I would love to learn more about her. They're such fascinating creatures, dragons..." He trailed off as a waitress came and took their orders; Estel ordered a savory stew, while Terrowin was more in the mood for seafood, and asked for salmon. They were both surprised when Kevv ordered a completely vegetarian dish; they had assumed, like dragons, that she would have a diet consisting of mostly meat. Apparently they were wrong. It perked their curiousity even more.

"So, Kevv," Estel said, trying to make conversation. "Where are you from? Do you live around here somewhere, or are you a traveler like me?" He himself was simply a man thirsty for knowledge, and he traveled the world just to learn more about people, places, whatever he could find. He wondered vaguely if perhaps she came from an entire tribe or nation of dragon-people somewhere on the planet. He had seen so little of it, he really wouldn't be surprised. He then looked to Terrowin. "You look like a traveler as well, if appearance means anything." He said this because he had noted the many hand-sewn patches that adorned the man's clothing, as well as the assortments of weapons he had strapped to his body. The life of an adventurer was not always a pleasant one.

"Aye, that Oi am, mate," he told him, just as the food arrived. It smelled delicious, and tasted just as good. "Me an' Ink, my dragon, can't really stay in one place fer very long without bein' either kicked out or shunned. Most people just ain't really fond o' dragons, Oi guess, and think that she an' Oi are bad omens, or somethin'." He shrugged. "We're used tae it by now. We've learned tae live off o' the land if needed, an' it's actually rather nice tae just roam the land with a pleasant - well, mostly pleasant - companion. We've seen many places, she an' Oi." He went back to silence as he consumed the meal, pleased that his new acquaintances were so friendly and open.

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Kevv flicked her tail a bit, seeing him purposefully looking away from her. Ahh, human shyness was almost admirable sometimes. She couldnt blame him though.... But her ears lifted a bit, listening to his words. Giggling a bit after. "Well, I am a dragon, thus how could I not know much?" she asked him. "I studied the Dragon/Rider bond a long time.... Though ive never accepted a rider myself. Itd take someone pretty upscale in strength and mind to even consider holding what id give." She said with a sigh. Not mentionin her skepticism of humankind in there either, not thinking that would be too appropriate. Of course Kevv would help him though, she respected him fr even asking. Most humans kept silent with such problems and preferred working them over themselves.... it idneed lead to quite a bit of failure on most of them too.

She let ehr eyes rove a little. Checking tohers out in the place, listening vaguely to the two as they spoke to one another. Well she was glad she ahd found likeable humans at least. This planet seemed to have a more decent crowd of humans then any other planet she had visited so far. Kevv actually was pretty comfortable on this planet, it was so strange. Her own planet was ebtter in many ways yet... to be able to interact with others that were very different from her kind, was a treat. Plus everything else was so different too. The unexpected tended to happen, and it was something pretty new every day. Thus Kevv could hold no complaints for Dragons' Cove.... She was thankful of that. It still would be nice to find the Guardians, or a ruler soon though. She wanted to make her alliance.... from what she ahd seen, it could eb very useful to the people on this planet.

Kevvs' attention snapped back to the humans though at her table, hearing Estel speak to her once more. Although his questions made ehr chuckle a bit. Well those were some pretty big questions in fact.... Although he smiled at it. Such respectable curiousity... "If I told you where I came from, you would more then likely not even believe me." She told him softly. "But well, I travel. Its the only way ill be able to finish what I started by coming here anyway." She told him. Well she wondered if it would be safe, telling these humans about where she had actually came from. She was always keptical about it in truth. Well to tell someone openly you come from another planet, and that you were the empress of that whole planet too.... you didnt get the greatest of opinions alot of the time. Either that or people thought you crazy. Some thought it sheer lies even. Kevv didn't lie though ever. She hated, detested lying... it left a horrid taste on her tongue, she just couldnt do it simply. She would if it were over something life-threatening. but still, she would greatly prefer just speakign what was true. Seeing her food she began upon it, munching at some of the veggies. Though she was more enthusiastic on the fruits. She tended to go for them over vegetables... well simply most of the time, they were sweeter and more tasty. Though some veggies were very good, broccoli with a ton of cheese was just great in her opinion... She knew she likely had their curiousity hugely though, not even telling where she was from. Perhaps if they pressed it a bit, she would... she had a feelign they might believe her, unlike most.

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Terrowin grinned at her response. "So ye'll be willlin' tae help me, then? Oi'm just not really cut out fer this ridin' stuff yet, at least, not without some form o' trainin'. Most o' the time it seems Ink's only around tae keep me company, perhaps tae catch food when Oi'm unable to. But Oi think that bein' a rider means more than just having a companion.... Oi feel like, since Oi've been given this rare oppurtunity, we should do all that we can tae, well, protect people an' fight against crime, ye know?" Having lived as a rogue and traveler most of his life, he had little allegiance with any cities in the country. However, he did have a certain interest in fighting for justice and bringing peace to people.... He just really didn't know how to go about doing it. To have run in to a woman who obviously had much knowledge and skill when it came to the dragon species in general seemed like a miracle. He wondered vaguely how old she truly was. She appeared no older than he (but how was he to tell? He didn't know how to tell how old a dragon was), but she spoke as if she had many, many years in her past.

He continued to eat his meal, but Estel perked up as Kevv spoke again. "Not believe you?" he chuckled, amused. "Why would we ever not believe you? I know that there are many places on the planet that are not explored, and that we really have little knowledge of what lies beyond human reach. Unless you tell me that you are from the moon, or something, then I'm sure I will believe your answer." He chuckled once more, feeling clever. He, too, turned back to his meal, glad for once for a warm, well-made meal. He generally had to make his own meals, and, not being the best cook in the world, had many bad experiments in the past. "Thanks for this, Terrowin," he said as he finished the meal. "It was delicious. And I'm curious to learn more about your dragon tomorrow... Learning about the dragon and rider bond has often been an interest of mine, but I have never had the opportunity to see them in action until now. You dragon, though young a playful, seems like she may have great potential, seeing as she was able to sneak up on that girl with such cunning and stealth."

"Well, Oi hope yer right. She sure can be a pain now, but Oi have tae admit, she is very good at thievery and sneaking around. This isn't the first time that she took somethin' she shouldn't have...." He trailed off, grinning to himself as he thought back over some memory from his past. He then, too, pushed his empty plate away, nodding in content. "It was my pleasure, mate. It's nice tae meet new people, an' ye two are probably some o' the most interestin' Oi've ever met. Tomorrow should be interestin'." The waitress came back, he payed for the meal, and they left the restaurant with full stomachs, conversing about where to meet tomorrow. "Ink an' Oi have been stayin' just outside o' town, in a sea-cave on the shore. Oi suppose it ain't the nicest o' places, but it's warm, an' no one will see us unless they come searchin'. That's probably where she went now... In fact, Oi better get back tae her before she causes more trouble. She gets restless very easily... I'd say, Oi'll meet ye just south o' town by that big, square rock on the beach, around nine or so. Sound good?" When they agreed, he nodded, smiling. "Thanks again, both of ye. Oi'm sure this'll be interestin'." With a wave, he quickly walked down towards the shore, disappearing around a corner a few moments later. Estel looked to Kevv. "Well, I suppose I'll see you tomorrow then?" he asked.

Guest

Kevv gave a soft giggled. Twitching her tail slightly at his response to her too. "Ahh, I will help you of course. Though ive never experienced the bond myself, and for good reason..... I have had friends who connected to humans and elves through it... I trained one or two of them myself in the past." She said softly. "You're very right too. Theres alot more to being dragon and rider, aside from just companionship and the occasional flight." She told him softly. "Im glad youre wanting to do something with your life now though with it... although..." She looke dhim over a bit. "I doubt youve discovered alot of your own potential yet either." But she didn't elaborate on it right now. She would undoubtedly teach him far, far mroe then he expected of her. "Though ill not be able to linger to teach forever. IVe... a few missions to carry out myself." She told him simply. wishing sh could, he was a very nice person. For a human anyway. But well, she had things to take care of ebfore anything so relaxed took place fully.

Kevvs' eyes narrowed a bit, listening to Estel... her eyes twinkled in amusement too as he finished speaking. "Foolish... no Moon is meant to support life. There is no air to breathe, very little food to be had, if any at all. I do not come from the Moon... I come from somewhere far, far beyond your moon." She told him softly. "Although... im certain that conversation will wait for antoher time. Im not sure you two are ready to handle where I came from." She told them simply. Pretty sure a good amount of questions were in their minds by then. She doubted they too much believed ehr either. but.... theyd perhaps get to see that she was not lying. They seemed nice enough and not vile, not beings that would use what they learned agains ther while in Dragons' Cove. She knew appearances could be Decieving, but... they didn't give off any sort of bad aura at all.... They seemed very nice and legitimately good.

Kevv finished her plate though, pushing it away. "Very good..." She said, giving a soft Mrr of appreciation. She stood, rather gettign her cloak back over her as well. Nodding softly to Estel and Terowin. "That sounds reasonable." She told them softly. "Ill probably keep in an inn or something.... somewhere comfortable, where I can bathe...." She said with a giggle. Well she kept very good care of ehrself... she liked a good bath everyday, whcih of course in medieval times was a stretch. "Youll both see me in the morrow.... though unti then, I will bid you farewell." She told them softly. Well at this she walked away, down the cobbled street. Well, finding an inn pretty quick, and delighting them with some gold to get her room.... then of course doing jsut what she said she was going to do. Pretty sure the Morrow would be far interesting.... Though... why did she have a chilling feeling in her mind? She couldnt know. Plus she felt slightly feverish herself. Perhaps stress... she would relax i nthe abth for a bit, that would take care of it she was sure....

((Not too big but, not too much for Kevv to do either so ;p))

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((Hey, just FYI, I'm planning on killing Estel in Tajy and I's one on one, so I need to kill him here as well. Maybe he can get the disease as well, but instead of Kevv, he can't get the antidote or something in time, and eventually dies. Sad, but necessary... It will be a while yet, though.))

The next morning, Terrowin was wide awake by the time the sun was just peeking over the horizon. He had slept soundly next to the warm, soft, feathery pelt of Ink, whom he had forgiven for eating the strawberries that she had stolen the previous day. She had grudgingly accepted his apology, and the two had spent the night inside their little seaside cove, huddled around their small fire for extra warmth. When the morning came, it brought with it a clear blue sky and bright sunlight, and the temperature soared quite quickly. Before it got too warm, Terrowin was out and about, first searching through tidepools and the shallows for his breakfast (he caught a couple fish for Ink, a crab and some smaller fish for himself), then went for a morning run to get himself ready for the day. He didn't know what to expect. Would Kevv be training them to work together? Fighting manuevers? Or simply explaining to them what it was like to be a rider? He had no idea, and so prepared himself for whatever may come. He returned to the cove about a half hour later to find Ink flying around impatiently, ready to do... Anything, really. He knew she was bored of being cooped up in this little cave away from the crowds, but it couldn't be helped. People didn't need to see her; it would cause unwanted attraction. Unfortunately, her wild nature hadn't allowed her to be calm and spend yesterday alone, which is why she had snuck into the city. "Don't worry, Ink," Terrowin told her as she landed next to him, breathing only a little harder than normal. "Today will be interestin' fer the both of us. This Kevv, she seems tae know her stuff, an' Oi'm sure that we can learn a thing 'r two from 'er. So please, be on yer best behavior, and try, try tae be polite. Oi know she's an odd thing, but it ain't nice tae stare. Treat her with respect." With that, he perched himself upon a jutting ocean rock and waited, running through everything he knew about the bond between a dragon and rider (sadly, it wasn't much), as the sun rose higher into the sky.

Estel too had been up since early day, running through the normal training exercises with a friend of his in town. The scuffle hadn't lasted as long as he had hoped, since he had woken up that morning feeling rather tired and sore, with a little bit of a cough. He shrugged it off as a mild cold, and eventually the feelings subsided, though he still felt... Off. After a while, he found himself wandering down to the beach, his curiousity about the dragon leading him down there sooner than he had planned on going. He wasn't quite sure where to find the man and his dragon, but he eventually caught sight of a large black and white form soaring through the clouds, and followed it as it descended straight to where Terrowin was resting. "Good morning to you!" he called, smiling happily. The dragon was an incredible beast, seemingly more dazzling and proud than she had been the day before. He dipped his head respectfully to her, and she nodded in reply, then turned and went back to grooming her feathers.

Terrowin glanced back at Estel and smiled. "Nice tae see ye again, mate. Oi'm pretty sure lady Kevv will be here soon. She doesn't seem like a woman tha' stands fer bein' late tae anything, an' it's about time that Oi told 'er tae get here." He stood, brushing the wet sand off of his rather worn clothing, she posed, grinning. "How do Oi look? Like a dragon rider?"

"More like a man who just finished rolling about in a sand dune." Estel chuckled. "You look fine." They continued to talk as they waited for the dragon-woman to arrive.

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Kevv awoke with the sun the next morning, giving asoft yawn when she did. Rather standing, and frowning. Now whatt he hell was this? She clearly saw, on her wing, a couple... Feathers? They had brilliant coloring and such, theyd be beautiful... if Kevv knew she was not supposed to have feathers. Kevv snorted, rather plucking them from her wing membrane... it was a bit painful. She pocketed them rather. It gave ehr an odd feeling to see them upon her. She checked herself to be sure there were no other ones on her either. Luckily, she found none. How had those gotten there? Let alone seeming rooted like that. They had seemed to grow from her.... but Kevv knew she was not a feathery dragon. No, skin and fur and scales resided upon her. She grabbed a few rolls on her way out of the little inn she stayed within. Well she wanted a meal on hjer way thus, these rolls would do. She buttered them, paid for them, then munched as she walked from the place finally. Flicking her tail as she slid her cloak over herself, knowing she was getting stares from last night of course. She had probably made quite an impression on this town.... but Kevv didnt care truly. She did not plan to be there too long. so, it could writhe and gossip about ehr all it wanted, in her opinion.

She thought a bit, what she would do for the Dragon and rider pair as she walked. Perhaps bring them closer together.... Well she had methods forthat, though most of them she definently wouldnt be using with the two. She knew full well Dragons and riders did not get so close here, liek they had on her planet before. Indeed a dragon and rider on her own planet typically had a much deeper relationship then just a friend. But Kevv didn't expect that. It just came with the strength of the connecton.... being able to feel one anothers' emotions could push things quickly. Alot more quickly then one might anticipate. But Kevv would bring their trust and friendhsip closer at any rate. Perhaps some fighting techniques, even some magic perhaps. She wasnt sure Terrowin even knew he could cast jsut yet.

Although such thoughts in her ceased, seeing the three finally. She shoulded her staff, walking with her gentle steps, eyeing over the three. Such a cute dragon Ink was... A fitting rider she had for herself too. such potential. The curious agd male had came too. Well that was quite delightful. Perhaps Kevv would give him a fine experience for himself. After all, she didnt want him all left out of riding dragons all day. Giving a gentle giggle as she got to them all finally. "Fine morning." She said, finishing off the last roll she had brought. Her thoughts on the feathers a bit... where had they came from? Damnit she didnt grow feathers ever until she had got there. A side effect of the planet? No, couldn't be.... Well she tried not to linger on it. She would look it up later...

((I think we can do that. ;3))

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Terrowin and Estel were chatting away about nothing really in particular when Kevv made her appearance. They both stood, Estel offering a hand for the strange woman to shake. "Nice to see you again," he told her earnestly, eager to learn more about who, and what, exactly, she was. He was confused and uncertain about what she had meant the day before about coming from a place farther than the moon. She had seemed to honest, it was hard for him to believe that she was exaggerating. Was it possible... Could space travel actually exist? He would have to press her more about it when she wasn't busy teaching Terrowin and Ink to be more connected and to work more together, or whatever she would be doing. He was always thirsty for knowledge, and Kevv was like a giant novel just waiting to be read and deciphered.

Once greetings were made, Terrowin nodded at Ink, his eyebrow raised. "Oi think ye will have quite a time with this one," he said, grinning. "She ain't the best o' listeners, an', well, she gets distracted rather easily. She's very smart, though, an' if ye can keep 'er attention, she may be able tae do pretty well. Me, on the other hand... Well, ye got my full attention from the start." He winked at her playfully. "Wot exactly will we be doin', anyway? Oi am terribly undereducated in everything dragon. It was only pure luck an' chance that Ink choose me as her rider, an' Oi never went through any training or anythin'. Oi suppose ye should start out slow, an' just... See how much we already know?" He shrugged; he really had no idea what to expect from this woman. She knew a lot about dragons, that much was obvious, but what would she be teaching them? Would she test them? Study them? Train them in the ways of fighting? He waited eagerly to see what she would do.

Ink huffed. I am not easily distracted, she grumbled, then suddenly perked up and looked into the sky. Oh look, an albatross! She spent a few moments watching the white bird soar around on warm drafts, before turning her attention back to the conversation. Sorry. You were saying? Terrowin just rolled his eyes, giving Kevv an 'I told you so' look.

Estel found a beached log to sit on a few feet away from the two people and the dragon, watching in quiet interest. He wished he had brought his journal; what an interesting documentary this would be. He would have to try his best to remember all that he could, and write it all down later. The fever and cough that he had had earlier was now gone completely, and he hoped that it had just been a fluke, perhaps from overworking in his sword training, or something.

((Sorry it's so short :/ Also, I was just thinking... I would rather give Estel a more epic death than dying from a disease xD I think I'll find another way for him to die x3 ))

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Kevv smiled warmly, lowering her hood once there with them. Shaking Estels' hand with her own as well. Her grip firm, yet her hand soft as down feathers, teeming with warmth. "Tis good to see you again as well." She said softly. Turning to Terrowin though, and Ink. "Good to see you both too." She told them gentlyKevv truly glad to see the same people twice in a row. Truly she didn't get that luxury of friendship here on this planet too much yet... Well strange as she was, it surprised ehr none. Most of this planet was populated by humans, and some Anthrokin. Thus, her energis, her form.. was all extremely foreign to everyone. Thus, she was going to have a time fitting in. But Kevv accepted this fully, and knew eventually she would do well in this world.

Kevv raised an eyebrow, looking the two over. Moreso Ink now that she was close. For a Feral, she was quite cute. Though indeed her attention span seemed.... short. But Kevv was familiar with such things, she didt mind any. Giggling a bit as Ink seemed to watch the bird. "Its fine... an attention span is barely needed for what we shall do." she said gently. "Shame il not be able t teach you everything fully, but... I can help with some of the more structural things." She told them softly. "I think first though.... were going to see what you all know, or are capable of." She said softly. "For there are some... important things with a dragon and rider that most current ones on this planet im sure, lack the education of at all. Im pretty sure many of theirs' connection to each other is fairly fragle, compared to how they used to be where I hail from." She said softly.

Flicking her tail a bit, she turned to Estel. "Youll get to partake a bit too, though later perhaps, I hafta decide if I truly wanna.... wel nevermind, Ill figure it out." she said, turning back to Terrowin and Ink. "You two however...." KEvv thought for a moment. "How closely connected do you consider yourselves hm?" Kevv asked kindly. Well theyd go through a very surprising test or two. She didnt plan to test them physically too much this day. But their minds were going to get exercised and strengthened pretty strenuously. After all, mind befor ematter was a better approach in her opinion. They needed to be close as possible, well close as dragon and rider could get. She doubted them going toe extra mile like most where she was from had...

((All good, mine werent much better. ;p And thats fine.))

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Ink hummed in delight as Kevv spoke. It was not too often that she ran into dragonkin, and though this woman was not completely dragon, and yet not human as well, she could feel an energy similar to her own emanating from her figure. Of course, she was sculpted like a humanoid dragon as well, which, Ink thought, looked rather pleasing to her. She had never before seen such a creature, and wondered how rare her... species.... Was. Even though she seemed similar, there was something else to Kevv as well, something quite.... Alien, almost, that she couldn't quite put her finger on. Whatever it was, her uniqueness had succeeded in getting Ink's attention, and she listened intently as Kevv continued to talk.

"How closely do we think we're connected?" Terrowin mused, glancing over at his dragon. She stared intensely back at him, a soft humming noise coming from deep in her chest. "Well, Oi only found 'er - or Oi should say, she found me - a few short months ago. She helped me fight off an especially nasty gang o' demons back in the depths of yonder forest," he added, motioning vaguely in the direction of the trees on the other side of the city. "Oi don't really know how we connected, exactly, but from the moment we first met, it was like we were fated tae meet, or somethin'. Everything has just... Seemed tae fall more into place now that she's around." He stroked Ink's shoulder fondly, and the humming in her chest increased. "So, even though we really haven't known each other fer very long.... Oi'd say we're quite connected, emotionally and spiritually. Oi really can't imagine wot Oi'd do without 'er now. She's helped me through some o' my.... Problems.... An' we really do work well together, when we can cooperate with each other." Ink nodded in agreement. He has his issues, as well as I have mine, but we're working on it, she chirped. Terrowin smiled warmly at her, then turned his attention back to Kevv. "So, wot would ye like us tae do?" he asked, eager to get started on their 'lesson', or whatever it should be called.

Estel perked up at the mention of possibly helping himself. He did like to take part in events as well as observe them, and he wondered what the dragon lady had in mind. He couldn't think of how he would be able to assist at all, so he simply waited to see what would happen next. The sun was rising on the horizon, and he stripped himself of his dark jacket, wondering just how hot it was going to get; it might be hard for Ink and Terrowin to learn and train if it got too warm.

--

Back in the town, the same restaurant that the trio had dined in the night before was, as usual, busy with loud, happy customers. One of the waiters had nearly stayed at home due to a small sniffle and a slight fever, but had decided that it was nothing major, and had come into work anyway. Within a couple hours, though, the sniffle had turned into a cough, and his fever rose until he was forced to go home by his coworkers. They were a little concerned about catching what he had, and also spreading the cough to their customers, but they hoped that it was simply a mild cold, and that no one would get too sick. Little did they know that the waiter was now a host to an extremely deadly and contagious new strain of disease, and he had infected nearly every person that he had served in the few hours he had worked. It would only be a short while before the disease spread farther around the city, and the symptoms to turn from mild to dangerous....

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Kevv was quite silent as Terrowin spoke. She looked over Ink, feeling her contentment easily, her humming a pleasing sound. As was Terrowins' thoughts on how deeply they were connected. Kevv gave a gentle purr as she listened,, observing Estel a bit too. Such a fine, wise male he seemed. Her mind easily picked up Inks' words, and KEvv thought it all over a second. Fairly pleased with what they said, they truly were quite fond of each other. However.... it probably was nowhere near enough. Yes they had a friendly, perhaps a companion level of connection to one another. However therewas much, much more to this then they were realizing more then likely. Kevv flicked her ear slightly, rather thinking a moment, before taking off her robe. Well she had a more conservative skirt and top beneath of the same coloring as her robe simply, just a bit.... lighter.

"Well it is good to know you both get along. However there is much more to such a connection then you might think. Thebond between dragon and their rider isnt any small psychological commitment, its a magical, binding thread. A thread full of life and thought. It takes much for this to be strong and vibrant, but its achieveable. It concerns me though...." She said softly, giving a purr. "When Ink ran off yesterdayTer, you said you had little clue where she actually was? If you connection to one another was sufficient, lest one of you is intoxicated deeply, or made greatly impaired, you should know where each other are very easily by mind. Itll be found quickly thta true Rider has very little privacy to themselves. A dragon really doesnt have too much either.The mind is a sacred and singular sanctuary, not to be abused by anyone. For a dragon and rider, this is even more true. Though their minds both... should work almost as one. But I will see how deep it is...." She said. "Tell me Terrowin. When Ink was in the city, and she was eating those strawberries, what were her emotions?" She asked simply.

Kevv knew the bond extremely well. She knew exactly what each being in the pair shuld know, and feel. Most every emotion, most every inquisition... they both should feel. Happiness on one should reflect to both, sadness the same. Anger and fear... even lust and desire it worked like that. If the connection was of a sufficient depth. Kevv knew this heat shouldnt affect them too much either. A dragon could care less about heat typically, lest it was one of a more icy descent. A human could just drink sufficiently and keep minimal clothing on themselves and theyd be fine. She couldnt ait though, this would be fun. Well Estel would play a pretty strong part in this, once they got i nthe air. She would take him with her, why not? Though they might be a bit surprised as to what hr feral self looked like, probably not what they expected. But.... she would perhaps explain the reason and the sacrifice she had had to make as to why it was there..... Though her mind moved a bit too. She could feel it... suffering of body. The city they had jsut left was growing ill. Plus.... she had felt such a signal before. That morning.... with that feather.....What the hell was this about?

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She really knows her stuff, Terrowin thought, watching in curiousity - and, he had to admit, a tad bit of lust - as Kevv stripped herself of her robe to reveal lighter clothes beneath. Guess a nude dragon-lady is too much to ask for, he mused, then snapped his mind back to attention. "Oi've thought fer a while that we could strengthen our bond even more, though Oi didn't really have any idea o' how tae do so. It'll be great tae finally get th' feelin' fer our full potential." Ink nodded, cocking her head curiously as Kevv's robe dropped into the sand. She had the strange urge to run over and play with it, but fought the feeling. She looked over to Terrowin as Kevv spoke of knowing each others' locations and emotions. Could their bond really become that strong? It was strange to think that she, being used to having a wild and free life, could be tied down to this simple human rogue. She wondered, not for the first time, why she had decided to allow Terrowin to become her rider. He just had this.... Aura, about him, that attracted her. Even with all his scolding and uncertainty, she still admired him immensely.

Terrowin frowned at the question. "Oi think Oi coulda figured out where she was when she 'ad disappered, but Oi was so concerned about 'er gettin' caught or hurt.... Oi didn't really focus on 'er exact location." His frown deepened. "That was stupid o' me. Oi probably could have found 'er faster if Oi had focused more on her thoughts." He knew that they could pass images and feelings back and forth, though so far, he had only managed to do so in the most extreme cases, and only if he focused hard enough. "It would be nice if we could share thoughts more easily, although.... Oi don't really know if Oi want 'er knowin' everything Oi'm thinkin'." Like at the moment, he couldn't help his gaze as it traveled slowly down the she-dragon's neck to her rather voluptuous bosom.... He snapped his head back up once more, hoping she wouldn't notice. The last thing he needed was for her to get disgusted and leave them....

"As fer when she was eatin'...." Terrowin added, mumbling,"Oi think Oi remember a moment o' pure smugness and joy in me mind, and it seemed strangely out o' place, considering how worried Oi was about 'er. But that was all.... Oi think my own emotions were overridin' hers, so Oi couldn't really tell."

I remember feeling anxiety at one point, Ink added. I thought perhaps it was because I was afraid I would get caught, but I think I now realize that it was Terrowin's emotions in my own mind. She shook her head, snorting like something had tickled her nose. How strange this all is.

Terrowin nodded, tapping his thigh impatiently. This was interesting and all, but he was a man more for action than for words, and he was wondering when they would get started with the physical part of their 'training'. The sun was starting to get to him, and he itched to take of his shirt, but felt a little too modest to do so in front of Kevv. Instead, he unbottoned the top few buttons, allowing a fresh breeze to cool his warm skin.

Estel watched the entire thing curiously, wondering when the action would begin. How was he supposed to help with something he had nearly no education about?

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Kevv gave a soft smile simply at Terrowins' words. Her tail flicked back and forth, listening, watching his eyes a bit. She wasnt fooled when her rbe ahd came off. However she didnt have such an interest in the Rider. No, if anyone would have him, itd be the one he was linked to, not herself. Thus well, he wasnt her territory at all. Although he was slightly young for ehr taste too, she liked a slightly older male if they were human. Although liking a human, for Kevv, was a long shot. She had never been one to get into such creatures... always so reckless for their spiritual beliefs they were. Just way too overboard. Kevv flexed her wings though, leaning against ehr staff slighty. Considering some things in her mind with the pair once hearing them speak of what they had felt across one anothers' chasm of connection in mind. They definently were fairly close for such a pair. Although not quite close enough yet. Though she was most definently going to improve that before anything else.

Kevv giggled a bit. "Not too bad." She said softly. "Youre a bit stronger then most ive seen at your amount of time together, without proper training." She told them. "However.... the mind is the important first step to any bond of mind and soul." She told them softly. "Thus thatll be the first thing I want you to work on. And very often too. Deepen the chasm, strengthen it. You need to be able to see each others' peril as soon as it happens, and to do that, youll need to be able to see everything else almost. However Ter dont expect to be able to see everything... a dragon is compelled to block certain... emotions. Though over time, she will relax over it. But if its done right youve little hope in barracading your own from her." She said to him softly. Yes knowing this all too well. Hell the last she ahd bonded with.... they could tell exactly what each other did at anytime. From the most petty thing like eating a biscuit, to doing things like well, mating or hunting... though mating was far easy to feel and noticeable, its emotions were far too strong to hide. Kevv knew that one all too well.

Kevv giggled a bit at Inks' own thoughts upon this all too. Although she shook her head. ~Strange it might seem. Though in time, youll grow very accustomed to it. Youll figure out its all highly useful as well.~ She said to her. Frowning a bit though. "Although one thing just as important as knowing the mind of your partner.. is ahving good patience." She said, not fooled. Seeing Ter tapping his leg, seeming quite anxious to carry on with things a bit more physical. But Kevv equally knew the mind was the strongest start to a stable, strong dragon and rider bond. "I dont plan to test your physical strength today. But I do have.... one thing I do want you to do." She said. Rather she scooped some of the water from the beach there in a small bowl. Then, set it before him. "The water in this bowl... I want to see it frozen solid. However you cant touch it, nor can you touch the bowl." She said to him simply. Yes, this seemed far pointless. and well ,KEvv kenw it was going to frustrate the hell out f him too over time. But this was also the ebst method of unleashing magic. To frustrate and wring the mind until that gate opened and allowed its use to get the task done. Kevv wanted to jsut surprise him with his own abilities. Before starting to train him physically...

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Terrowin let a proud and slightly smug grin come to his face as Kevv talked. So, they were already bonded well already? Excellent. He had had no idea of how to make their bond stronger when he had first met her, and still had little education in the ways of dragon and rider. Apparently, though, he must have a knack for it. Why would Ink have chosen him in the first place if he didn't? He felt himself stand a little taller, beaming. Ink just rolled her eyes. You and your pride, she mumbled to herself. If I were to tell you what emotions ran through your mind a few moments ago, you wouldn't look so confident. She snorted in laughter to herself.

However, the lady dragon's next words made Terrowin slump again. He wasn't the brightest of minds, and the thought of only testing his mind seemed an excruciating task. When he had asked Kevv to help them, he had expected learning epic fighting maneuvers and how to fight in flight, or something of the like. He was a physical man, built for exercise, strength, and speed, not to sit around and play mind games. Ink huffed at him. She knows what she's doing, you'd be best to listen, she stated, sitting back. She stared at the bowl of water, yawned, and blinked at Terrowin. He looked up at Kevv. "Oi'm supposed tae freeze this? With me mind? Oi don't know how tae even begin!" She seemed serious and insistent, though, so he reluctantly dropped his gaze back to the water. Ink, any help here? he asked her privately. She gave a smug grin, turned to the water bowl, and, concentrating, caused the surface of the water to ripple and then pause for a moment. Then it went back to normal. I could help you, but where would be the fun in that? Smirk still in place, she stood and meandered over to where Estel was sitting, and placed herself next to him, away from her rider. This is something you must do yourself.

Terrowin glared in Ink's direction. "Stubborn dragon," he muttered, turning back to the bowl. He sat in front of it, scratching his head. He couldn't touch it, nor the water itself... How was it possible to freeze it? He thought over what he knew about water and ice. The solid form of water contained the same mass as the liquid form, it simply lost kinetic energy in the particles as the molecules cooled down in the matter conversion. He frowned. So, maybe he had to somehow release the energy in the particles to cause them to slow down enough to form a solid? But how could he do that? He had no idea how to tap into the magic in his brain, if he even had any! But now that he made the effort to think about the task, he wouldn't stop until it was done, or he was exhausted. He was a stubborn man, and didn't give up easily. He slowly began to concentrate on just the surface of the water, imagining the energy seeping out of the particles into the surrounding air, and the water turning solid for him. He continued to stare... As nothing happened. He had expected that, of course. He continued to do so, focusing on different parts of the liquid in an attempt to wake up his mind to the power he apparently held within.

Ink was stunned as the minutes grew longer, and before she knew it, a half hour had passed as Terrowin stared at the bowl. She watched a bead of sweat form on his temple and drop into the bowl, making the surface ripple. She could have sworn that the ripples seemed oddly stiff, but it could have been her imagination. Estel was simply stunned by the man's patience. Even he himself would probably have given up out of frustration by now.

Another ten minutes ticked by, and Terrowin's patience began to wane. Nothing was happening! He tried once more to focus all his energy on the water, and when it calmly continued to reflect his imperfect reflection on its liquid surface, he cried out in anger and swiped out at the bowl. An instant before his palm connected with the bowl, he felt an odd, bursting sensation in his mind. He couldn't tell from where he was sitting, but the water suddenly changed, and when the bowl hit the ground, the sand remained dry. The bowl cracked, and from it came the familiar sound of cracking ice. Terrowin stared in bewilderment. Had he done that? He looked to Kevv, wondering if she had done something. "Wot... Wot was that?" he croaked.

Ink hummed, and Estel let out a low whistle.