This is the last time I will post the rules in a thread, so don't forget them! To post here you must be confirmed [HERE] If you are not confirmed there your post is to be ignored by other members of this thread and shall be deleted and the gold earned removed. It's not hard to join this quest, but I will not have it be basically spamed.

The way this will work is:

• I will post once a week or every NINE posts (whichever comes first) unless requested to do otherwise.
• You may join the thread at any time, aka you do not have to join at the beginning.
• Also, you may only post once between each of my posts.
• If you are skipped, you can still post later on. If you want me to wait for you to post, you have to let me know.
• If anyone has any questions, please PM me about it! Thank you! ^_^

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[currently at The Oasis tavern in Istan, we will be moving around though, so I posted it here.]

Ornell had woken many times during the night and had given up on sleeping before the sun had even thought of rising. She wasn’t sure what caused the nightmares and she was so disoriented when she woke that she wasn’t sure is she was still asleep or dreaming still. Valen had been there though, and he had wrapped his wings around her and murmured words in high draconic that she didn’t really understand. She had fallen back asleep those times, exhausted, but she had had enough of them for tonight. She still hadn’t heard from Leadin either… He needed to be here yesterday. Because today, today was when everyone would be here.

For the moment, while the early morning air was still cold, Ornell sat up on the roof of The Oasis. The city stretched out far in all directions until it abruptly ended at the walls. Those walls were not just to keep beasts out, but also to keep much of the sand at bay. She liked it out here, liked being part of this world. Perhaps… perhaps when ever Lady Era finished what she was doing here, perhaps Ornell would stay. She was made of the stuff of the Material Plane after all and her powers were less, she was the Avatar…

The sky lightened then in a false dawn, the sun not even on the horizon yet. Everyone would be waking soon, getting ready to go on their venture to the Dragonspine Mountains, to find the spot Ornell knew was sitting there, waiting for them. She had no real use for the treasures there, but this band of adventures she had gathered, they would have not only the wealth, but fame as well.

She stood and swung inside her window. Valen was sitting up with a candle lit, reading his book. He looked up as she entered. “I’m going to go find something to drink, I’ll be back up to get my armor and weapons on in a bit. Do you mind staying here?”

“I’m good.” He said, lifting the book up some and smiled. He did enjoy a good book. He was a scholar after all and knowledge was power. He was a more formable scholar then most, also be a dragon, but he looked and acted mostly human for now. This room wasn’t big enough for anything bigger then his hybrid form anyways.

Ornell nodded and grinned back. Her nightmares forgotten for now as she slipped out the door and started down the stairs. She stopped before reaching the bottom to look around the tavern. Perhaps someone was here already and she could join them for a change.

((OOC: Yay! I'm first! lol))

Sava hated the desert. It was terrible. Luckily, she was a dragon, and could get to Istan City fine, if she just stayed away from the sand, and it should get her in a fairly good mood, if only she could stay in the air forever while their in the desert, but no, she had to meet up with the others, even though, she despised the idea of having pirates going along, but, she'd make herself deal with that, and Blackquill is with her to hold her back from snapping their heads off.

Soon, the city came into view. She flew closer, so she wouldn't have far to walk, then, she started gliding down in circles, and soon, landed on the desert floor. The sand going through the cracks of her scales. Her eyes blazed with annoyance, but then slowly, she changed into her human form. She was wearing the same thing she was when she signed up for this quest, except for the weapons. She had her favorites of course, the blade of air and lightning at her sides, but instead of a glaive on her back, she had another sword, her spirit blade, never know when you'll run into a spirit and it needs to die.

She started trudging through the sand, grumbling to herself. Her small Bag of Neverending space hitting against her side, as well as her swords. Her hair was pulled back into a ponytail, but some green strands fell out of it. Sand somehow got into her knee high boots, making her more annoyed, but she soon reached the city gates, and walked on through. A few people noticed her, since this wasn't the first time being in the city with her odd eyes and hair. She had seen Shain here not too long ago. It had been nice to see him, but she was a little sad that he could barely remember her. She shook her head to rid herself of those thoughts, right now she had a quest to think about.

As she walked towards the Oasis tavern, she wondered what they might find along their quest. Blackquill, the fly dragon was also excited to see what would await them, the little dragon was always eager to find out new things, like Sava.

She reached the door to the tavern, and walked in. It wasn't very full, since it was early morning but she noticed a few people about, though, she wasn't sure if any of them was in the quest also. She shrugged lightly and wandered over to a empty table, maybe she could manage to get some elven wine, or something else that had a good taste. Blackquill, who was on Sava's shoulder, looking almost like a dead snake, got up, and flew about the tavern, flying around people, but soon, came back to Sava, telling her that Ornell just came down the stairs from the rooms. Sava glanced up, looking towards the stairs leading to the rooms, and she did notice Ornell.

Jarreth coughed lightly into his fist as he cleared more dust from his throat. He had forgotten the annoyance of the desert. The trivial matter of dirt in the air had never bothered him during his previous journey through this desolate land. His mind was preoccupied with more important obstacles at the time, he reasoned. He was finding his way in a new part of the world, far and away from his childhood home, the Legion of the White Souls. His range was wide while he commanded the cavalry, but it had never taken him quite so distant that the very air changed direction. He spent his first days in awe at the first desert he had visited. While he was used to snow, and he was becoming accustomed to greenery as his term of service continued, the thought of a dry, baking earth had never occured to him. By now, this particular observation had grown old. It was now to the stage of annoyance, and so he coughed.

He had been sitting, watching the morning fire eat hungrily upon the dry logs. He had been up since before the sun. While Aina'Fae was one of the least demanding creatures he had cared for, he still liked to be with her to make sure that all would be well for the day's ride. Long roads were often treacherous, and he did not need to further complicate the matter with a thrown shoe or prickle bush. Aina'Fae had been fine and behaving perfectly, as she always did. Solara's newest handful had barely moved. The reptilian creature simply ate before the sun set, settled down into a ball of scales, and slept until Jarreth woke him when he walked in. Jarreth was fairly pleased with the beast's calm demeanor. It was too large to control if it was prone to fits of excitement.

Jarreth moved to grab a mug that was resting on a table in front of him. He took a large mouthful of the luke warm water and swallowed. He was attempting to rehydrate himself as much as possible before he was forced to leave. Water rations never seemed to last long enough, especially with the sun bearing down. He was extremely happy to see that Solara's creature was especially good at bearing weight. He had plans to stock the lizard up with more water than a camel.

He smirked to himself as he pictured Solara riding among a mass of waterskins. His attention was soon drawn to the stairwell, where motion caught his eye. He had not noticed a new figure enter the tavern over all of the noise.

"Good morning, Lady Ornell," Jarreth said in greeting as he put his drink down and stood in respect. His smirk was still shining on his face.

Solara was sitting beside Jarreth, though she was nowhere near as awake as Jarreth seemed to be. She followed his suggestion and woke up early to take care of the animals. It was a good feeling to be with them before the day began, but that did not stop her from being tired. Jarreth had promised her that she would get used to it, but that did not help her today. She was getting used to his coughing. It had been a fairly constant occurance since they had arrived at the desert. She was not affected by the dust as much as he was. Perhaps she was too busy marveling at the beauty of the city and the landscape. She had so few chances to visit the world that she was taking as much from the journey as she could. Her poor upbringing had kept her from doing much more than simply surviving. It took all she could muster to move from one place to another. Now, with Jarreth's help, she was able to move farther than she ever dreamed. The sky even looked different here. It was gorgeous, even if it was dusty.

Her newest friend, Soote, had made her morning entertaining even at the unfortunate hour. When he awoke, he made a point to scoot over to her and lick her arm. This was fine for a smaller animal, but Soote was hardly lap sized. The giant lizard's tongue almost covered her side. She made a point to wash up immediately, even though the thought behind it was cute. Solara was always shocked at how fast Soote was growing. Before she and Jarreth left the Academy of Magic, he was small enough to fit in a basket. Now, he was larger than a horse. She and Jarreth had discussed Soote in great detail, and they decided that Solara would be riding atop the lizard's back instead of putting more work on Aina'Fae. Solara did love Aina, but Soote was growing on her more and more every day. She finally felt safe around the large beast. She agreed with Jarreth that it was time to make Soote useful.

Her thoughts were swept up in the roaring fire for now. She was always captivated by the flaming dance. She almost did not notice Jarreth stand to greet Ornell. Her gaze drifted to the stairway and the figure upon it. Recognition crossed her face, her eyes snapped to Jarreth, and before she had her balance she was stumbling to her feet.

"Good morning!" Solara stammered.

Falcas yawned, staring up to the ceiling. Their quest to the Dragonspine Mountains would begin today. He shook his head and sat up, reaching for a glass of water he had left somewhere in his room. He found it, nearly knocking it to the floor in his half-woken stupor. Looking into it, he frowned. It was almost gone.

“It's this blasted heat. Can't take much more of this.” He grumbled, pulling on his pants, then his tunic. He looked about under his bed, hand flopping about in search. It closed on a polished wooden handle. He pulled it from the bed with a rattle of chains, the morning star coming out. He put on his coat and used the various straps clumsily sown on to tie his weapon of choice to his back.

He drank what was left in the glass before setting it down and looking into a polished bit of metal supplied to him by the innkeeper. He grunted and straightened his beard. He strolled out the door, feeling a bit better. He strolled downstairs and looked about to see if anybody was up yet. To his surprise, there were two new faces and Ornell. He looked again and saw the woman who had told him about this opportunity. He walked down the stairs and over to her table. He took a seat and smiled.

“Good morning, Sava.” He smiled happily, glad to have someone along he knew. He noticed Blackquill and bowed lightly. “Mistress Dragon.” He said to the shining black fly dragon. He laughed and ordered a mead. “I said I'd look into it, didn't I?”

Keeping himself from the middle of the tavern, an absolutely miserable man that clearly ill-fitted this city's enviroment lay strewn about the top of his recently liberated bar table. Theron lay face down with arms sprawled about the table top, one hand firmly gripping a mug of something; the pirate didn't even know, as the first warm sip sent his tastes seeking something more refreshing. Despite his precarious positioning, his rump was firmly planted in his seat, as moving, or even falling, would entail more sweating. The poor fellow, used to the cool, clear, sea air and the near-frigid waters, was stuck in an arid desert. Sleep was impossible, and the brews were all warm. Theron let out a heavy sigh into the table, thankful for his own breezes cooling his sweat-drenched face.

Not only was he miserable and filthy, but there were women he had quite an eye for that were coming with this... Ornell and Theron was sure he looked absolutely deplorable in his current situation. And as if summoned by his thoughts, the organizer of this charade decended the stairs leading from the tavern's boarding. Lifting his head enough to shift it's resting point from his forhead to his chin, he gave the woman a half-hearted smirk that said, "I'm here," "This better be worth it," and "Good morning..." But he was thinking to himself, Why couldn't we just meet in the mountains? At least it gets cooler as you climb...

Now that his head was up, he gave a quick glance around the room. The only other person he recognized was the sourpuss from the bar back in the waterfall town. He didn't even attempt to acknowledge her, as she probably didn't even care he bothered to show up.

Just then, he winced. He remembered why he had joined this stupid idea in the first place: Iolanthe. A series of curses swam in his head and he certainly hoped she wasn't in one of her jolly moods this morning, or he was going to have a headache all day.

His weary expression was enough to tell everything that looked at him that apart of the lack of sleep, his exact thoughts were, This trip to the foothills is going to suck.

Iolanthe entered the inn, a bit perturbed with the salesman who’d completely ripped her off and she knew it. However, she’d been in a bit of a rush, so negotiations weren’t exactly her forte for the evening. She’d purchased a collection of white threads, a nice little dress that completely wrapped around her body, accentuating her curves, and her thin and bony features. It was quite comfortable… and it fit the climate nicely. Avarice had suggested she lighten up her colors, especially if they were going to be spending loads of time in the desert.

She scanned the area, seeing all the different sorts of lads and lasses that had joined up on Ornell’s little adventure, quest type thing. And it wasn’t until too long that she noticed Theron. A sneaky smirk graced her pale features and she sauntered over to him, whistling one of her favorite drinking songs. She leaned down, and tapped him on his head like a drum. “Ye gotta calm down on yer partyin’ mate.” She grinned, and danced off, fabric trailing behind her. She just hoped the damned fabric wouldn’t get in the way of fighting. Truth be told, she kept her black clothes underneath the white fabric. Perhaps she’d trick the sun into radiated upon her. She also had deemed it necessary to blend in with the common folk, and make herself look benign to others.

A stench rose from Theron, and she rose an eyebrow. Wayy too much partying. Rolling her eyes, she danced around to where Ornell stood, and leaned upon her shoulder. “Mornin’ lassies. Iolanthe accounted fer and present!” She brought her right hand to her forehead, jetting it out in a salute. She was strapped up, ready to go, and ready to make a few coin if Lady Luck allowed so. Avarice had expressed his cynical thinking, but it was all optimism for the brink of broken pirate, Iolanthe. Speaking of Avarice… Where was the ol’ boy? She’d met up with Theron… But where the bloody hell was Avarice? Ah well, he’d show up eventually, she figured.

Iolanthe offered a little wave to all the others circled around Ornell, waiting to hear of the plans. She soon shoved off to get her armor and what nots, so Iolanthe walked back over to the table that Theron had so gracefully planted himself on. She sat across the table, and fumbled with the new fabrics, awaiting Theron to start complaining about her tapping him on the head.

((OOC: I typed this up and forgot to post it last night, sorry!))

Even at this early hour, there were a good number of people there already. She saw Sava first and a smile crossed her lips. The dwarf had made his way over to her table, clearly he knew her and that might have been one of the reason’s he had arrived when he did. The dragons accounted for though. Two against one should they cross paths with one then. More then enough. Next her attention was brought to Jerreth and Solara as they voiced their greetings. She made her way down the last few steps and nodded to them, the smile still there. It was then that she saw the pirate that Valen had voiced worries that he would cause trouble. It didn’t seem like he wanted to move at all. She might have to remedy after a little while if the heat proved to be too much of a problem for her not so little band of adventurers. Also if Jerreth’s cough kept up she was going to have to keep him near the front. The dust would only be worse further back and she needed him able to function at least. Turning her gaze to them she replied to the pair’s greeting. “Yes, Good Morning. Did you sleep well?”

Before an answer came forth, the pirate lass came in, her attention focused on Theron, as sad as he looked right now. She wasn’t sure if she should laugh or feel sorry for the guy. It was he that said he would keep Iolanthe busy though, or was it the other way around? She gave a slight shrug. Most of them appeared to be armed and armored already while she was not. Iolanthe then came over to Ornell to announce herself. She did seem quite ready, which was ironic. “Just so you all know, we won’t be leaving until three conditions are met. The first, everyone has arrived. The second, all of our supplies are here and accounted for. The third, the heat of the day has passed. We will be living before supper, so make sure that the other two conditions are met first. If people aren’t here when it’s time to go, I’ll be leaving anyways. I’m not going to make everyone wait because someone couldn’t be here when I give them practically the entire day to arrive.” She said this with a slight smile on her face and a serious look in her eye as she viewed the first few that arrived.

Ornell felt very plan right now in comparison to the others. Without her arms and armor, she was dressed only in loose fitting light gray pants and top, her cured leather boots adding just a bit of brown. Her wings, too small for flight, were hard to miss though... She shrugged the thought off and decided to join Jerreth and Solara. She knew how best to keep him in the front and away from the extra dust they would be stirring up. She motioned for the pair to sit as she did. She let her gaze rest on Jerreth. “Would you mind doing me a bit of a favor?” She asked calmly.

Late again, he had always been late on these sorts of things; even on the contracts in which he had bound himself. Sure sure, he knew the time and the place of when and where to meet, but for some reason he seemed to forget where it was and what time it was at. The only reason that occurred were a numerous of things; women, money, and alcohol. What could be much more important than that, after all, it was his main source of life and enjoyment. Even still…with the last couple weeks, the woman Iolanthe seemed to be the main focus of his time. There had been no time for such simple pleasures around that woman and while in her company only bad things seemed to happen to him.

When the tavern emerged into his line of view, his pace would slow from a dead sprint and to a light trot. No longer did the thoughts of the past couple weeks linger in his head, but instead thoughts of what could happen during the course of this endeavor at wealth preceded by Ornell. Issuing an inward shrug at the thoughts in his head, his hand would move up to the door to push it open, enabling him entrance through its threshold. Once inside, his soft lavender hues traced the lining of people scattered around the room, taking note of a few he knew. Ornell, who resided within the midst of a group and then Iolanthe who was at a table with an odd fellow who seemed to partake in beaching out on tavern tables for a living.

It was an odd sight truly, one that caused his brow to lift in faint confusion as to what would possess someone to do such a thing, other than the simple, ‘I’m too drink to walk, so imma pass out here, mmmkay?’ Maybe that was just it…After all, it WAS a tavern, but the fact that Iolanthe was at the table belied the idea. At least he thought so from what he had learned about her over the course of the past couple weeks. Issuing a slight shrug to himself, Avarice carefully made his way over to Iolanthe, issuing a half hearted wave towards Ornell’s general direction, before stopping at the table just before the one Iolanthe was at. Propping his hip up against the table in a half dependant supporting lean against it; while crossing his arms over his chest, “Did you miss me? No need to lie.” A wry grin etched across his visage, as he offered Io a quick wink, “On any account, I made it back here in one piece. So what’s the story with this sad sap?” Just to make sure she knew who he meant, a hand would gesture off towards the flopped over frame of Theron on the table before her.

With his head already lifted, he gave the she-pirate a glare at the tapping of his head, but was quickly over it when Ornell spoke. He lifted a hand and gave a thumbs up to Ornell at the plan of leaving after the heat passes. That's all he really wanted. That, and well... to be somewhere else, like the open seas. He furrowed his brows into the table at the thought. All this time with Iolanthe and he had yet to see one, simple row boat, let alone his boots astern his very own.

At this moment, when Iolanthe sat down, he raised his head a bit, resting it on his chin, "Ever since I met ya, lass, I coulda sworn I'd be sailin' my own baby by now... What luck have ya when I end up in the damnable desert, of all places?" It wasn't malevolent by any means, but a serious, though rhetorical, question.

His eyes darted to the other fellow that followed Iolanthe into Theron's vicinity, then gave a glance and a raised eyebrow at Iolanthe that said something along the lines of, I thought you had good taste in men. And at the man's last question, Theron would have made a comment on himself being right there and available for an answer from his own mouth, but truth be told... he wasn't up to talking anymore. And with the heavy influx of people, Theron was beginning to feel more and more ripe.

"Bleh... I need a bath..." He was sure Io knew this... very well, but what she probably didn't know was, "I'm a couple weeks overdue for one..." He had lifted his watchless wrist to his eyes as if pretending to read time. And if it was any indication to Iolanthe just how miserable Theron was in this heat, he hadn't even invited her into the bath with him.

Using both hands to lift him from the table, Theron stood and his cloak fell heavily over his back. Looking down, he was reminded that the sun was sure to blister his pale skin. This was followed with a wince as he turned to walk upstairs with a wave over his head to the room behind him.

Jarreth nodded to show that he had slept well enough. The tavern housing was actually very comfortable, which was not expected given the price. His room had been adorned with soft fabrics and thick pillows. The feathers were not even falling out of them. While the color choices were a bit vivid for his personal tastes, he knew that it would appease many others. Surely, the choice to stay at the tavern was wise. He had not slept better for a long time. The beds at the Academy of Magic did come close to giving him a similarly restful evening, but for some reason he found he was sleeping better in the cool evening of the desert. The night air was crisp and dry, something that was a rarity in the temperate lands.

The knight noticed an incongruency about Ornell's statement of the three conditions that must be met. It was required that all members arrive; however, she was not willing to wait for them should they not be on time. It was a minor inconsistency, but Jarreth liked to keep track of them as a form of mental conditioning. It was a trait developed for information gathering. Among his mental notes regarding the day's schedule, Jarreth considered the list of jobs that he would need to see completed before the day was out. He would need to acquire and fill several new waterskins, rig them to Aina'Fae and Soote, and see if Soote could handle a new rider. He would need to check his armor and the edge of his weapons. He would need to visit the alchemist to see about anything that could lessen the effects of sun exposure. He would need to try one more time to convince Solara to procure a means of protecting herself. These and dozens of other small tasks piled into his mental notebook. It was going to be a busy day. One last choir passed through his mind: enlist the help of Solara to make sure everything was done before sundown.

Jarreth was watching the room and its slow progression to the day while Ornell had been speaking to all who were listening. His attention was quickly redirected back to her as she asked him for a favor. Jarreth's curiosity was stirred. He could not imagine what she would ask of him.

"What is it that you wish of me?" he asked while watching her eyes.

Shadeen’s strides carried her over the ground at an alarming pace. She stretched them out as far as they could go so she’d cover as much ground as possible without running. She couldn’t believe, she just couldn’t believe, that she had shown up late, or would show up late. She stride lengthened a little more at the thought as she shook her head and scanned the horizon for the tavern they were supposed to meet at. She had left Fury in a barn and now turned another corner almost running into someone as she did. Shadeen bowed and apologized hurriedly afraid that she would be even more late now. When she rose a weight lifted off her shoulders as she saw the tavern. She bounded over to it and swung open the door, disappearing inside.

Once inside Shadeen slowed down and scanned the room looking for familiar faces. She caught the outline of Iolanthe and slowly made her way over to the pirate woman. As she walked Shadeen ran her fingers through her hair, pulling out sand that fell to the ground in a stream. The grains rubbed against her skin and Shadeen shook her head as discretely as possible, trying to dislodge the rest of the sand. It came down in a shower about her shoulders and did nothing more than to make her clothes more sandy. Ugg she needed a bath or something. She shook out her clothing as best she could until she was suddenly beside Io.

She tapped the woman on the shoulder and whisper. “Uh ... hey... Savvy? What did I miss?” She scanned the area for other people that she had seen signing up for the test and caught Sava sitting at a table. Most of the others she had never seen before, and the man with Iolanthe were unfamiliar as well. She didn’t know what she should do so she decided to just quickly introduce herself. “Hi. I’m Shadeen,” She directed the introduction to the man, although she couldn’t remember if Io knew her name or not. “Where’s Ornell?”

“Good morning, Sava. Mistress Dragon. I said I'd look into it, didn't I?

Sava smiled at the dwarf, her eyes gleamed cheerfully. At least not everything was terrible in this desert. Blackquill also seemed happy, mainly for being recognized. "Good morning, sir dwarf. Blackquill says hi also." Sava said to Falcas, smiling still. She then looked up and glanced at the many people here. She noticed some from the tavern in The Broken Strings tavern, this included the two pirates she didn't quite like. She grimaced slightly, then returned her attention to the dwarf again.

"I'm glad you did decide to come. I don't trust many people here, even when I probably should." She said, and shrugged lightly. She looked up and over at Ornell, and for a moment wondered where Valen may be at, but her thoughts strayed to whether when they were leaving, but that was soon answered when Ornell started to speak. She listened and her spirits lifted again slightly, when the avatar said that they would be leaving when the heat passes. One thing Sava hated about this place, was the heat, so she was glad that they would wait.

She put one of her hands on her Bag of Neverending space. She knew she had all her things, she had checked several times before leaving her palace home, so she could ust relax until the time they left, the only one thing she may have forgotten would have been the Furfur, which she meant to leave, since the little creature always somehow found its way to her again. How she despised that thing. She tried several times to get it killed, but her tries were pointless.

She leaned back in her chair, and hoped that the servants would take care of her home while she was gone, and hoped that Felix would keep the place safe, she didn't want to go home and find her hoard missing, but she knew everything would be fine.

She thought of when she met Falcas, and remembered that the dwarf didn't know of her true heritage. Sava ran a hand through her black and green hair, a green strand fell across her face. Her eyes seemed thoughtful a moment, as she considered telling him, well, he would find out sometime anyway, since she would have to go find food sometimes when they stop to rest on their journey.

"Well, Falcas, I trust you enough to let you in on one of my little secrets..." She said, and considered what she was going to say again, then, "I'm a dragon." She said. The people who met at the Broken Strings Tavern knew she was a dragon, and she should sometime tell others, since they had no idea, but she wouldn't worry about that at the moment.

Iolanthe’s ear perked a bit, as she tilted her head, listening to what Ornell was saying. She had captain’s blood in her if Iolanthe had ever spotted one! Barking orders and the likes, planning things out, and threatening maroonship if ye don’t get yer arse in gear. Iolanthe chuckled, nodding, finding it most comfortable to simply relax whilst she could within the tavern and a cool glass of ale. Unfortunately, nothing in the damned tavern was cold. It all had stale warmth to it. The She-Pirate nodded her head as Ornell blabbed about the three conditions and what not, but Iolanthe had everything she was taking, for she had never been one for armor, and had a canteen of watered down ale.

As Avarice arrived, Iolanthe looked to him, and issued an acknowledging nod in his direction. Though of course he opened his mouth, causing her to sigh. She rolled her eyes and shrugged a bit as he had asked about Theron. She’d only just arrived, and who knew what was wrong with him. Sometimes he was moodier than a lass! Especially whenever she had told him of this quest! He acted like she’d sold off his soul away from nothin’.

"Ever since I met ya, lass, I coulda sworn I'd be sailin' my own baby by now... What luck have ya when I end up in the damnable desert, of all places?"

The She-Pirate raised an eyebrow, and leaned forward a bit. “Oi, Theron, don’t start that, mate. I ain’t ever asked ye ta stay with meh. Ya can leave whenever ye want, lad.” She shrugged, not exactly appreciating being called bad luck. "And with what money do ya plan to be sailin' with?" She crossed her arms, and shut her eyes in a very fashionable manner, her face smug, “ye just gotta be patient, mate. After this, I perceive a whole new perspective on life, eh.” Well, this all the money and riches this little adventure was promising… They could buy a boat three times over, start a crew, and pillage villages and get even more riches! It was a bargain if Iolanthe ever heard of one, and who knows? Maybe they’d find a nice island to relax upon with all the rum and ale they could ever want. Just entertain’ the idea made her smirk a bit.

Theron stated his need for a bath, and though Iolanthe was more than aware of it, she was unphased by it. Life as a pirate was anything but glamorous… Or hygienic. You’d be lucky if you had a bucket of seawater to wash out your armpits. She merely shrugged as he trudged off to take a shower. Really, that man needed a good lay to perk up his spirits. Maybe that dragon-lass would be up for it… A nice challenge for him. Iolanthe let out a small chuckle thinking of such a thing… Really, such thoughts should be cast out before she verbalized them and got a scolding from a dragon… a frightening thought indeed.

"What is it that you wish of me?"

Iolanthe turned her head, her head tilting, just to make sure she heard the lad right. She stood up, and snorted, running over to Ornell and bowing lowly to the ground. “What is it? Oh highly mistress?!” Iolanthe came back up, winked at Jarreth, and danced back away, returning to her table with a dramatic turn upon her toes, and plopped back into the chair. “Oi, the obedience of males… I applaud ye lassie!” Iolanthe clapped a bit, before wishing she had a nice glass of ale to wash down her performance.

Soon, Iolanthe was accompanied by a young lass by the name of Shadeen. The She-Pirate had remembered her from the recruitment, and grinned at her attempt to try to speak in pirate jargon. Iolanthe nudged her lightly with her elbow, and chuckled, “oi, lass, yer getting’ better at pirate-speak ever’ time I see ye!” Iolanthe assumed that Shadeen had remembered her name, and if she hadn’t all she had to do was listen, with blokes like Avarice and Theron around her, they were bound to say her name sometime.

“Where’s Ornell?”

Iolanthe tapped her chin for a moment, and shrugged, “out ta get her party favors, I’m assum’in. Armor and such, ye know?” Iolanthe nodded, rubbing her chin, satisfied with such an answer.

“I'm a dragon.”

He looked at her, shocked for a moment. He wiped the expression off his face and started a light laugh. He had suspected something ever since meeting her in the tavern for the first time, not finding her the best of drinking buddies, but damned good company and a curious individual. He sat down for a moment, smiling.

“Sorry, it's just that I have been sitting about with a dragon, a race as respected by some as they are disliked by others. I have seen dragons before, but have never spoken to them in person. You were just so casual...” He shook his head lightly and looked her over, taking in the features. Now that his previous suspicions in Taras had been confirmed, he almost seemed to see her in a completely new light. He enjoyed her company, and found it an honor to be trusted with a dragon's secret. Falcas sat down, excitement wearing off. It was too early in the morning for him, he had not been strict about his waking times or activities since he had left the mountains, and seemed quite conscious of the fact now more than ever.

“Worry not, Sava. Your trust has been well-placed. I wouldn't betray a friend, no matter the riches promised. Besides, it would be a tragedy to have a dragon angry with me.” He teased her a bit on the last comment. His gaze danced upon his fellow patrons, an interesting bunch by far. He observed both a knight and a pirate, as well as a few others he could not clearly identify by their immediate appearance or behavior. He shrugged and watched the pirate for a bit, before returning his attention to present company.

“So how did you fare on the way here?” he asked, recounting his own trip. He had nearly run out of water and mead, an equal tragedy if either were to run low. At least to him it was seen as such. He had to bloody his Morning star twice, on a couple of scavengers, one a raving madman, who seemed lost. Though with his smell and brightness, he may as well have been lost in a latrine. Other than these few complications, the trip had been seamless.

Solara uncomfortably returned to her seat after Ornell had returned the wish of a good morning. It was still too early in the morning to decide one way or the other. The chair did little to ease the akward feeling that was still clinging in the back of her mind. She was not used to being so formal, and even though a quick good morning was nothing of consequence, there was a stress about the ordeal that was not there before. Solara had been trying her best, and that was the thought that finally settled her mind a little.

By the time she had convinced herself to calm down, Ornell had started to speak about beginning the journey. This put a sense of forboding firmly in Solara's stomach. Until this point, she had been riding along and watching the countryside. There were frequent patrols on the main roads they had been travelling, and the few longer runs between civilization had been tranquil and serene. Even the desert offered a curious sort of secure embrace in its warmth and slow tide of sand. Now, that protective bubble had popped. They were really intending to leave this all behind and work their way toward danger and uncertainty. By the end of the day, they would wave farewell to the walls and the guards, and once again they would be surrounded by the cruel mistress of the untamed wilds. She turned her head to look at Jarreth, offering herself that much comfort. She knew how to protect herself against the occassional drunkard, but she was in awe at Jarreth's comfort in combat. Solara did not know if she would be able to muster the courage to continue if it were not for the garuntee that he would be by her side. Still, she had no other choice: she had no other way of fulfilling her mother's wishes.

Her casual glance turned into a slight glare as a woman interrupted to insult Jarreth. Her eyes would have given her away had she not done her best to hide them. Obedience of men? Solara had met many men, but few as true and willing to offer aid as Jarreth. With such a small action, Solara's thoughts of neutrality toward the strange woman turned bitter, the first taste of dislike. She reached forward and picked up her hot tea. It was her only option beyond the luke-warm depression that awaited her with any other drink. The bartender had put up a fight until she let him in on a secret: he only needed to provide the water. It was one of Solara's luxuries. While bartering for water, one of the women saw Solara's weary face and offered her a few leaves, winking at her to keep it a secret from the men. Solara was thankful to the woman, and she found it easy to keep the secret because the leaf she had added to the water that morning dissolved away into nothing.

As her ear listened to the strange banter that was happening toward the bar, she waited to see what Ornell wanted.

Ornell had been about to let him in on her idea to keep him out of the worst of the dust, not letting the man know that of course. As admitting to such a thing would be seen as a weakness and she knew no warrior who would openly admit to such a weakness. But if she could prevent further problems, she would. In that moment, Io took it upon herself to... well, be herself. Flame became visible in the darkest part of Ornell's eyes as she turned to Io. The pirate lass was heading back to her seat and Ornell voice was clearly aimed at Io. She did not shout, but simply projected her voice so that it would carry. A useful talent for talking to crowded rooms.

"Don't play with Fire, little girl, or you may get Burned." There was no spite in it, no anger or insult. Just a warning. Ornell gave warning to those she was pretty sure weren't really trying to cause trouble after all.

She didn't wait for the answer as there was no need for one. Instead she turned back to the two at the table. The fire was gone, perhaps a trick on the light. Instead a light smile was on her lips. "I'm sorry for that bit of an interruption, where was I? Oh, yes. A little bit of help, if you could Jarreth. I'm assuming that the pair of you will be travailing by ground, correct?" She knew the answer, seeing them heading out to take care of their animals while she had been out on the roof due to her nightmares. "The problem is that I won't be. I'm a dragon rider after all and the pair of us will be flying. If it wouldn't be too much of a problem, could you take the lead down on the ground? I've had a second map made due to this." She took the copy Valen had made last night, of the map the dragon had made for her, out and held it halfway out, as if she would give it to him, but only if he wanted it. "That is, only if you want to."

Others were showing up. Good. Everyone seemed like they would make it. Now she just had to find out what happened to the caravan that was already supposed to be here with the supplies for their journey. She would rather not have to pull together something last minute after all.

Jarreth did not move as Iolanthe put on her sarcastic show. His body was rigid except for his eyes, which shifted to watch her movements. He was not angry or put off by this woman's actions. He had hardly known she was part of the adventure, so ill feelings were likely to plant a seed that would have plenty of time to take root. Instead, he watched her with a marked disinterest. After all, she was interrupting. His thoughts were echoed by Ornell's words. He wondered with half a mind what Solara might be thinking after the warning. She had been frequently playing with fire, yet she never seemed to get burned. An ember from the fireplace crackled in time with his side thought, as if it was putting in its own opinions on the matter.

Soon enough, Iolanthe had returned to her spot away from the conversation, and Ornell regained her place. Jarreth nodded in affirmation when Ornell verified his mode of transportation. The knight had never flown, and he was not intending to start now. Aina'Fae made excellent time across the land, putting most other animals to shame. Soote, the lumbering lizard, was definately excitable, but hardly enough to take to the sky. Jarreth's thoughts strayed to an image of the giant beast navigating the breeze on tiny wings.

"It would be a fine feeling to be at the head of a column once again," Jarreth agreed happily. "I will, of course, need to discuss the specifics of our supply caravan and any able bodied fighters before we strike out."

Jarreth realized how long it had been since he had been a cavalry commander. Since his fall from the graces of the Legions of the White Soul, he had been predominantly alone at all times. His trip to Istan with Solara was one of the longest distances he had covered with a companion since the last battle he commanded for the Legion. Now, he would be at the head of the column once again. It was a good feeling, but also a troubled one. He glanced across the tavern, noting any of those who appeared to be accompanying them to the Dragonspine. This would not be a regimented division of trained soldiers. No, there would be much less cohesion. He would have to throw out his normal idea of strategy if he was going to be able to set up any sort of defense. Dragons or not, a large caravan of supplies was still a rich target for bandits.

Jarreth returned his gaze to Ornell, "I will not let you down."

Feet touched the floor boards, but no sound came from the creeping Theron, as he hoped to sneak up on Iolanthe after his absence from the table. His sneaky awsome skills were quite rusty, but there was always hope... Sort of. His cape made little noise from the lack of wind, and what noise was made would easily be covered up by the few having conversations; but unfortunately, a floor board creeked not four feet from the pirate lass and Theron bit his lip in the stifling of a curse. He would snap his fingers as Iolanthe would surely turn around the eye the previously ill thief with malcontent, if not completely pulling her blade on him without... or with... realizing it. Shrugging helplessly, he'd comment, "Looks like I need some work, lass. Eh?" Needless to mention that Theron's spirits... and smell... had soared to an improvement from the bath. His eyes were as bright as they usually got outside the view of shiney objects and rum. He was about to order some of the latter, but something caught his eye that was neither shiney nor rum, but even more distracting than both combined.

It would be then that Theron spotted the lovely Shadeen, looking lost, which Theron though was cute, since the woman was obviously a warrior of some kind if she was joining this crew. Sliding around Iolanthe and into the seat adjacent to both ladies, he'd tap another chair with a hand in the invitation to a seat. It was too bad he had forgotten her name since their brief encounter in the tavern back at Cascadia. He couldn't, however, forget that face... or any face of any woman... or so he liked to think. He nodded to her with a warm smile, "Oi, ya lovely lass. Why not join the sea wench and me for a drink before our journey, eh?" While he spoke to Shadeen, he pointed a thumb at Iolanthe, making the fem-pirate the sea wench.

Sava watched Falcas' face as he reacted to what she had just revealed. He seemed surprised, who wouldn't? She leaned back, and took hold of her hair, and pulled the leather off it, then retied it around her hair, grabbing the loose strands of hair and pulling them back. She then smiled when the dwarf spoke.

“Sorry, it's just that I have been sitting about with a dragon, a race as respected by some as they are disliked by others. I have seen dragons before, but have never spoken to them in person. You were just so casual...”

"I'm not like other dragons, and I doubt I'm as respected as the other dragons. I'm part green, and part black dragon. The other dragons don't quite like me, especially how I prefer my human form sometimes." She said, and shrugged lightly. "I prefer to be respected by being a warrior, not because I am a dragon." She simply said. She was glad she was more casual as a human, thats means she fit in good, except from her odd hair and eyes. She tilted her head to look at Ornell, and the people around there. She listened on on some of their conversation, but her gaze was soon drawn to the pirate looking people. She looked around the tavern a while, before she turned her attention back to Falcas.

“Worry not, Sava. Your trust has been well-placed. I wouldn't betray a friend, no matter the riches promised. Besides, it would be a tragedy to have a dragon angry with me.”

She smiled again. "Good, I hate having to eat people when they betray me." She said, and grinned at that. She hated eating any humanoid thing, it was disgusting, so she always avoided it, so, she never ate anyone who betrayed her, she merely gave them a lesson they would never forget.

“So how did you fare on the way here?”

"It was nice. It didn't take long either. I flew all the way here, only stopping if I really needed too. So it was fine, but I still hate the sun." Sava answered, as he thoughts strayed to home, and she grimaced slightly, but her smile soon returned. "How about you, Falcas? How was your journey here?" She asked.

((OOC: Sorry its not the best...))

Iolanthe winced at Ornell, as she verbally attempted to singe the She-Pirate. Instead however, Io grinned and tipped her finger from her head, and didn’t even bother looking at the grump-a-lump. “Cool it, sparky. Just tryin’ ta have a bit ‘o fun.” She commented. Was that really so bad, now? Really, if anything, it was best to keep up the moral of your crew, or there is liable to be a mutiny takin’ place. Now, just by the looks of Ornell, Iolanthe could definitely tell that a mutiny would not be in the lass’ best interest. She’d be a vengeful one – for sure. Iolanthe sighed, not pleased at all with such sour bags along for the trip.

She relaxed in her chair, her legs propped up, her breathing pacing quietly. She figured she might as well get as much rest while there were still bits of furniture around to rest upon. Though the creak of the floor board made Iolanthe twitch, her hand reaching into her boot quickly, unsheathing her dagger, and slinging it towards the offending neck. Her face was hard and she looked up, seeing it only Theron, snapping in disappointment. She sighed, her body relaxing once more, returning to her boot. Iolanthe knocked Theron upside the head and returned to her seat. “Oi, mate, ye shouldn’t make a restin’ lass jump – ye coulda gotten yerself cut.” She grinned and shook her head.

Once Theron had turned his attention to Shadeen, which in a way, made Iolanthe fume. There was no woman safe from this lad, and she had grown a bit fond of ‘ol Shadeen. She was so innocent, and reminded Io a lot of herself before… Well, the turning of the tide. The She-Pirate threw a hard glance at Theron, her green eyes radiating trouble as he tried his suave ways upon her acquaintance. However, he was offering drinks, so Iolanthe kept her mouth shut for now. Sea Wench? Bah. She oughtta go dunk him in that bathwater again and never let the bastard go till he stopped movin’. She rolled her eyes and then looked to Shadeen, her eyes speaking volumes of Theron’s troublesome ways. However, it depended on whether or not Shadeen would pick up on such hints. “Ye buyin’ ye slimy eel?”

Rith was not at the Oasis, or anywhere near it, but yet his gaze still rested upon Ornell and Jarreth as they spoke. Rith still had intentions of going, but he was needed there presently. Rith favored punctuality, but being there early served little purpose. There was still several ours till the heat of the day passed and their supplies had yet to make their appearance. He had business to attend to, minions to keep in check, and it was over all easier to keep tabs on the group while scrying. He’d already done his preliminary research on all who were present and expected to come, from the simple adventurous and cat-loving Shadeen to the mutt dragon that had killed her siblings. Rith was not surprised with Ornell offering Jarreth the chance to lead from the front; he was a competent warrior and as they had learned before had lived within the mountains before. And of course unless they had the wind at their backs the warrior wouldn’t have as much sand coming his way to stir the fitful coughs into life. Ornell likely had a fusion of the two behind her reasoning, unless she simply hadn’t paid attention to his coughing.

Rith found little else in value form the various conversations on going throughout the tavern and inn. He already knew of those who had ties with each other and how tight those ties were. He knew of those who were merely acquaintances. There was no sign of animosity aside from Jarreth’s flop three days prior, but it was possible that such things might arise during the trip. It was clear though, that most of the party would get along well. Rith diverted his attention away from the Oasis and guided the crystal ball’s scrying eye to the incoming supplies. He wanted to know all that she was bringing for their use, though Rith would make use of his own supplies. He also tried to discern the location so he could see how long it would take for the first of the requirements for their departure to be met. And then of course after that he had several more contacts he needed to deal with. His dealings with mindflayers would be time-consuming, but it seemed that he had enough time to handle that and still appear at the Oasis quite early and quite prepared.

Shadeen counted off the things that she had learned about the trip in her head, listening to Ornell speak as well as the others who would pipe in to give suggestions about how to go about things. Sadly it was only with half an ear as she found it hard to concentrate when so many interesting things were going on around her. So many people were coming, and Shadeen would’ve liked to know them all by the end of this adventure, perhaps she would get her chance as well. Jarreth seemed like he knew how to lead and Shadeen didn’t think she would mind following along behind him.

Shadeen barely noticed Theron at first, until Io lashed out and a little wave of shock went through her. She let out a pent up breath when it became clear they knew each other. He offered her a seat and Shadeen took it gratefully, lowering herself and giggled when he called Io a sea wench. “I think she’s rather lovely,” Shadeen said on behalf of the pirate lass.

Shadeen eyed Theron when Io asked if he was buying for the three of them. Shadeen could almost forget how early it was when she was inside the Tavern walls however. One drink couldn’t really hurt, although she would want to watch how much she drank since the brightness of the sun wouldn’t bode well if she were under the influence. “Maybe just one...” She said, sounding a little unsure if she should even have that much.

Ornell nodded at Jarreth’s reply, but before she could speak a young man burst into the tavern. There was a look of pure panic on his face. “The supply caravan has been attacked! I was scouting ahead and when I was heading back to report there was the entire thing under attack! Hurry, please help! I don’t know how long they can hold out!”

“What?” Ornell stood up, the chair scooting back. That would explain why they weren’t here, if they had been attacked… She had to put in a favor to get those supplies, she wasn’t about to lose it to an attack this close to when they had to leave. “I’ll be right there!” Ornell said and left the table to take the stairs two at a time. Pausing at the top she looked down at those who were going on this quest with her. “If you want supplies, and are ready to go, I think you better follow him. Looks like we’ll be meeting it outside of town.” Turning to the young man she said. “Lead the way. I’ll catch up!”

The young man nodded and went right back out the door, pausing a moment outside to see if someone really was coming. He then took that moment to retrieve the horse he had come here on and get atop it. As soon as he saw he was being followed he would turn the horse about and gesture with his entire arm. “This way!” before heading off toward the gates on an already tired and dusty looking horse.

^ * ^ * ^ * ^ * ^

Meanwhile, Ornell burst into the room upstairs and Vallen looked up from his book in surprise. Ornell wished she had already put her armor on. She grabbed it and put it over her head. She started to attach it together properly while she told the steel dragon, “The caravan is under attack. If we aren’t too late we might be able to save it!” Vallen was on his feet then and came over to help her get her armor settled on right. He didn’t have his shirt on because he had decide to use his half dragon form. So as soon as he had finished helping her, he went toward the window.

“I’ll be outside. Don’t forget to lock the window.” He said and jumped out the window, taking to the air. She made sure her swords were settled about her waist before locking the window and pausing to lock the door behind her too. They were going to have to come back to get some things they didn’t have time to pack. She cussed softly under her breath. What luck…

Theron danced to the side at the flung knife, then made a look of mock suprise at the speed it was unleashed. He knew Io was good, but it was much more fun to let her assume otherwise. He went to fetch her knife, taking a moment to wedge it from the wall with a grunt. Walking back, he flipped it up so that the point landed in the table infront of the lass. In passing Io to sit down, he murmured with a wink, "A little to the left next time, dear."

“Ye buyin’ ye slimy eel?”

Theron shot Io the stink eye, knowing that she knew what he was thinking and her attempts at interupting. Dropping his cloak from his back onto the chair behind him, he went to raise a finger to signal the bartender when he was rudely interupted by someone dashing into the tavern in a huff. Theron lowered the arm with a frown, eying the fool before eying the rest of the lot. No one made a move, so Theron sighed heavily and stood up. Yanking his cloak from the chair, he flung it around himself in one smooth motion, the heavy fabric falling around his lean figure. "Dunno 'bout the lot of yas, but I'm gonna need some water for this trip and I'm fresh outa jugs." He walked swiftly out the door with his cloak flowing quietly behind him, only realizing his poorly placed, personal pun when he walked outside.

Jarreth's gaze tightened as a flustered man ran into the room. He appeared exhausted, but apparently he was uninjured. His news was not nearly as healthy. As he spoke of the supply caravan, Jarreth immediately considered the hardships that would be faced if the group did not have enough food and water to brave the desert trials. Exhausted men at arms were barely as good as new recruits, especially those that were starving. His ears listened and his mind trusted them to catch all of the information while he considered his options. Ornell had already vanished up the stairs when Jarreth started to take action.

"Hold at the gates as long as you can," Jarreth forcefully suggested to the dusty man. There had already been enough death for one day. "Those following, you have two minutes to come to arms."

Jarreth coughed lightly and moved up the stairs, turning around only once. "Solara, see to Soote and Aina'Fae. If Soote is not taking you as a rider, then get the long saddle on Aina as fast as you can."

---

Aina'Fae whinnied in the stables. She had already sensed the urgency that Jarreth was in. The loyal steed started stamping her hooves; she wanted to run to the tavern immediately. She paced in her stall, turning slow circles, just waiting. The warhorse was remembering battle. As if she understood her role, she started to nuzzle and nose her way into the openings of her barding.

---

Jarreth's door nearly broke off of the hinges as he exploded into the room. He was fortunate to already be wearing proper clothing to go beneath his armor. With the speed of a trained soldier, he began with his boots and moved upward. Pieces of enchanted and normal metal were added at breakneck pace. He would prepare as best as he could in what little time he had left.

"I prefer to be respected by being a warrior, not because I am a dragon."

Falcas shrugged with a grin. “Aye, a good need fer everyone with a brave heart and a bit of metal in their hand. Unfortunately, it appears everyone with a dagger and a stick is considered a king among fighters.” He grumbled, but with good heart. “Anyhow, I respect ye fer that even more. Many dragon folk demand reverence because they can blow hot air, or cold. Whatever ye got, I guess.” He winked teasingly. “Aye, yer one among few, Sava, and I'm glad ter meet ye.” He tipped an imaginary hat on his head.

“How about you, Falcas? How was your journey here?”

His expression changed instantly. “Bah, lots o walkin, sweatin, and evaporation of good water and mead.” He seemed most offended by the last bit. “Had to hurry here to catch Ornell before you all went on without me. Stayed fer a while in the tavern here. Smelly, it is. Hot, too. Can't wait to be back on the road. I've never sat down for so long in me life without sumthin to bash.” He grew cheery again. Until the Youn man burst in.

Ornell made her comment and it was all he had been waiting for. He jumped to his short feet and stroked his beard in anticipation, drawing forth his morningstar. “Well, shall we dance?” He laughed and ran out the door before anybody could reply, head of his morningstar bursting into flame. He gave a short, hysteric laugh as he flew out the door as quickly as the man had entered.

Shadeen shifted in her seat a little, trying to find a more comfortable position in her chair. She found the task proving to be difficult and all she managed to do was wiggle around a little. Shadeen was about to say something else but as she opened her mouth a man burst into the tavern causing everyone to take notice. Shadeen turned to Theron to ask if they should help, knowing she would anyway, but when she turned Theron was already up. Shadeen hurried and stood up after him gazing around the room to see what everyone else was doing as well. “Io... are you gonna come?”

Shadeen felt for the Katana at her side and once it was happily in her fingers she moved out the tavern door and into the stable. Fury stood calmly in his stall with his head lowered. When Shadeen walked up he raised his head and let out a small snort. She pulled him out of the stall and because of the urgency she tacked him quickly. Once on his back Shadeen followed the others out to the caravan, hoping that they weren’t too late and could still hold off the attackers and save the supplies that Ornell had brought for them.

Sava smiled at the dwarf. They were such funny creatures, but they were also interesting, always seeming to drink a lot and get drunk, she wondered why they liked to do that, but she supposed most races liked to enjoy themselves like that. She leaned back, and watched the dwarf a moment, her eyes seeming to calculate something. But she then turned her gaze to look towards Ornell. Suddenly, a boy burst in through the door to the tavern, and frantically told what happened.

Instantly, Sava merely sat where she was and sighed. Other people stood, and went to get their horses and such. She mumbled a curse under her breath, then stood up and walked to the door. Her feet touched the sand, and she shuddered in annoyance, but continued to walk out. As she went she looked up at the clear sky.

"Dear gods, next time have me remember to bring my damn horse." She grumbled. She glanced about, to make sure the street was wide enough, then She let herself change into her dragon form. She hadn't quite mastered changing into a half-dragon, so she stuck with just becoming her true form. Soon, there was a dragon in the street, but she was quickly in the air, with a simple jump, and a flap of wings and off she was, gaining height with each passing second.

She flew in the air, high above the desert city, but low enough she could see them all. When they get to the caravan she would most likely turn back into a human, to help fight better. But she wasn't about to go walking there on feet in the terrible sand.

How droll to be cast aside like some unimportant piece of paper in the wind. It really didn’t matter though, since he really didn’t need to remain with the self-appearing click of people that formed around Iolanthe. Simply turning on the balls of his heels, he had made his way to a table where he simply resided for the time being, feet up and chair rocked back. Taking his hat, Avarice would pull the brim of it down to shade his eyes, only to then have his hands burry themselves into his jacket to pull out a pair of sunglasses, only to place them respectively upon his face to hide his eyes and shield them from the light that poured in through the window off to his side.

After a spell, there came a sudden disturbance that would bring his feet down upon the ground and all of his attention upon the man. Lifting a hand up to his face, it would push the brim of his hat upwards and then bring his shades down to the bridge of his nose so he could peer over them to get a better view. From that point people seemed to pour out from the tavern, bustling this way and that like chickens with their heads cut off. Sure it was important and vital, but the way they were carrying on made it seem like the end of the world. Offering a slight shrug moreso to himself than anyone, each hand would then move to the edge of the table to use it in pushing himself to his feet.

Readjusting his hat and glasses one final time, Avarice would then proceed towards the door hands dipping themselves within his pocket in a nonchalant manner, at least until he got outside. Glancing wound briefly, a slight look of distaste took upon his face once he witnessed the distance they needed to travel to get to the caravan and the sheer fact that everyone and their grandmother seemed to have horses, which made things fairly annoying. Deciding not to be too picky, his torso would turn in the direction of where the man left mentally preparing himself for the following physicality. Absentmindedly a hand would drift behind him and to the axe strapped to his back, diagonal in its fashion, which would be best for transporting it. The only issue was keeping it from moving the entire time so there was no chance of premature injury or added stress to his shoulders.

Keeping the hand placed upon the lower portion of the axe upon his back, both of his feet would pick up in sudden movement, rapidly following behind the man on horse. The sand would make it hard to keep such a pace, but as long as they were within the city limits it wouldn’t take all of his effort to stay within distance of the leader in this troupe of men and women. What everyone else was doing really didn’t matter much to him at the moment, instead his focus resided on not tripping up and falling to his face…

There were still a few people left inside and not everyone was here. What a wonderful start to things. She jumped down the last few steps and went out the door after most of the others were outside. She paused outside and looked up into the sky, placing an arm up over her head to block out the light.

^ * ^ * ^ * ^ * ^

Valen had taken to the highest thermals, using the heat to get him up to the cooler air. He was still in his human form, but that was about to change as soon as he spotted the unmistakable figure of Ornell. It was her wings that marked her out from above. He saw the others move off toward the northern gate and grinned to himself as another dragon took to the air. Nightwind. He angled himself downward, folding his wings some as he did so. Dropping from the sky he skimmed over Nightwind.

"Glad you could make it." He called with a wave and then saw Ornell below. He finished his dive, shifting into his full draconic form as he landed. Ornell ran up to him and threw a leg over his neck with a practiced ease. He felt her settle and jumped up into the air after the others. He didn't follow close like Nightwind did though. It was never a good idea to try to follow that way with another dragon there. It would restrict both of their movements. Instead the steel dragon rose just above them as they all went towards the gate.

((OOC: A reminder, if you are 'left behind' you can say you still came with everyone else. It's so much easier then playing catch-up!))

Please read this if you still wish to take part in this quest!