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Lightbringer
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Aeloria | F | Light | Resistance Member | Unbonded | M: Nicodemus, Bonded Pairs, Dragons The echoes of her talons clacking against the cavern floor melded with the murmurs of voices resonating through the vast, dimly lit space. Aeloria moved with cautious grace, her delicate wings tucked tightly against her sides, the iridescent scales glimmering softly in the subdued light. The cavern, with its high ceilings and twisting rock formations, felt both familiar and foreign—a sanctuary for her kind but a reminder of the tumultuous times they were enduring. As she settled in among the crowd, finding a quiet spot toward the back of the gathering area, Aeloria took a moment to observe her fellow dragons and their riders. She had always admired the camaraderie that radiated from the bonded pairs, their movements so in sync and their connections palpable. The vibrant colors of their scales mingled with the varied hues of the riders’ attire, creating a tapestry of resilience and hope. Yet, as she watched them, a wave of longing washed over her. Her heart sank at the thought of her own past, the bond she had once shared with her rider. The memories were bittersweet, a mixture of joy and profound loss. She had loved fiercely, and when that bond was severed, it left scars deeper than any physical wound. The pain of losing her rider had etched itself into her very being, leaving her wary of forging another deep connection. The voice of Nicodemus, the Resistance leader, cut through her reverie, drawing her focus. He stood on a raised platform, silhouetted against the glowing fungi that adorned the cavern walls. As he spoke about the recent mission that had not gone as planned, Aeloria felt a heaviness settle over the gathering. His words resonated deeply within her, each recounting of lost riders pulling at the threads of her heart. With every name he spoke, Aeloria felt a sharp pang of empathy. She could only imagine the pain of loss that weighed upon those who remained. Her own emotional scars made it difficult for her to engage with the idea of bonding again, despite understanding the necessity of new partnerships for the Resistance. The thought of opening herself up to the possibility of loss again was terrifying, and it left her feeling distant, like a shadow amidst the vibrant life surrounding her. As she listened, Aeloria’s thoughts drifted, swirling in a tempest of hope and fear. The mention of unclaimed members seeking bonds sparked a flicker of interest within her, but it was quickly extinguished by doubt. Could she endure that heartbreak again? The thought of standing before a potential rider, allowing herself to be vulnerable, felt insurmountable. Her wings twitched with restless energy, reflecting the turmoil within her heart. She longed to be part of something greater, to contribute to the fight they were waging, yet the barriers she had built around herself felt impenetrable. Amid her self-reflection, Aeloria sensed the collective hope of her kin. The determination that flickered in the eyes of those around her was infectious, even as her heart remained heavy. She was reminded that the fight they faced required strength, unity, and the willingness to take risks for the sake of the Resistance. As Nicodemus finished his address, Aeloria felt a shift within her. She could remain in the background, cloaked in her uncertainty, or she could take a step forward, confronting her fears. Today wasn’t just about others; it was about her journey too. This moment called for introspection, a choice that could lead to growth. With a deep breath, Aeloria steeled herself, the determination igniting within her once more. She might not be ready to bond today, but perhaps, by being present and allowing herself to be part of this community, she could find a way to heal. Aeloria glanced at her fellow dragons, feeling a sense of belonging stir deep within her. Though she was still unbonded, she was not alone. And in that realization, she found a flicker of hope that perhaps, one day, she could open her heart again. For now, she would sit among them, listen, and continue to seek her place within the Resistance. |
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Neutral
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Deosientanth - Teor | Male | Unbonded | Seer | M: Maximillian - I stood at the front, my head raised and looking at the leadership. A impressive sight.
I closed my eyes slowly as Nicodemus started to talk about the deaths. We lose far to many, we lose those who don't deserve to be lost.
I sighed, letting myself stay pent up is the only thing keeping me going. But I so desperately wanted to stop and chew over what happened. But I knew I wasn't ready to face that.
The second I heard Nicodemus talk about unbonded riders, my eyes ripped open. Looking at Nicodemus straight in the eye, I wasn't that far from him, being very close in the crowd. Suprise and excitement passed through the crowd in murmurs, but many of us dragons were not ready, and I doubted the humans were either.
But Nicodemus was right, without another half, the rest of us were not at our best, incomplete.
I tilted my head and watched the riders walk to the raised platform, the unbonded at my eye level. There was six of them, each varying from different sizes, colours and shapes. Much like dragons. I felt the hesitation of the others around me, each of them doubtful and scared. I was scared too, hurt also. But it's true, we need more bonded.
I just..., instead of letting my head get to me, I stepped forward. Then immediately regretted it, in no realm was I ready for this, but if I sniffed around the platform, perhaps it would give the others confidence? I made myself take another step forward, violet flames lighting up my underscales. I neared the raised platform, I raised my head. My eyes skating over the six, I took another step and let a puff of violet flecked smoke.
I was wrecked with nerves, why did I do this? Oh right, confidence. Confidence, Teor. Confidence, Teor. Confidence, Teor. This seemed to become my very own mantra, instead of backing down like I so badly wanted to, I lunged the rest of the way, the platforms stone almost pressing against my chest as I lowered him head, my neck curling gracefully.
I stood before the humans, but I didn't let them see my doubt, or fear. I let them see my power, my glittering scales and my sharp teeth. I was a creature born for battle. With my head lowered, I looked at those avaliable. Nothing too strange, but my eyes caught on a doe-eyed boy. He was small, slightly smaller then the others. Pretty for a man.
Despite his size, I saw power. Strength. Just like when I saw her... before I knew it, my memories were forming around me, not a vision. Instead of the boy before me, I saw a girl, brunette waves flowing from her head and amber eyes sparkling up at me. I shook my head and let out a tiny whimper. Too raw. I looked sadly back down at the man and closed my eyes, allowing myself to stalk back into the crowd. Hopefully I didn't hurt his confidence to bond. He deserved someone good. |
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Darkseeker
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Mag'nar Azarmaeldan
Fire Dragon | Male | Unbonded | Mentions: Jurate, The Unbonded Riders, Others
Smoke billed from between clenched, bared teeth, a look of displeasure etched into black and red scales like it was it's natural setting. Which, for Mag'nar, it kind of was. He had waited as patiently as a Fire dragon could for the meeting to start, though his typically foul mood only soured more the further the day carried on.
"Oh stop brooding you old brute," Jurate's light, slightly feminine voice for a male dragon scolded him, a slight rasp to it that told Mag'nar his friend wasn't nearly hydrated enough.
The fans on his cheeks pulsed in response, directing unnerving eyes onto his long time friend and snorted out another puff of black smoke. "You expect too much of me if you think I'm just going to sit here amicably, Jura," he spoke, gravelly voice vibrating in his throat. Despite their banter, venomous words often traded half heartedly, Jurate and the fire dragon were as close to best friends as two polar opposite elements could get.
Mag'nar's attention was stolen though as Nicodemus, the Resistance's Leader, announced that pairing between unbonded riders and dragons was necessary, causing a growling grumble in the males chest. He couldn't disagree with the logic that was no doubt behind the idea. The would need dragon rider pairs, working together, to have any hope and regaining their freedom and restoring Ederia to power. However, that didn't mean that Mag liked the idea any.
"We should go," Jurate spoke, interrupting his thoughts and Mag'nar hissed, snapping his jaws at Jurate.
"No. Not you. You're still healing, and you will not fight. We both know you are not built for it," it was not meant as an insult to his friend. Mag'nar knew his best friend's temperament, and his resistance to violence and bloodshed. He would not see his friend's soul corrupted because he was forced to go against his very nature. Leave that to the brutes, as Jurate liked to say, like himself.
"Fine fine," the water dragon said with a sigh, waving a webbed food as he swayed his tail in the water. Normally Mag'nar would never have been found so close to the water's edge, but for Jura, he always made an exception. "But you should, Mag'nar. You're experienced, skilled, and, very well equipped for matters of war and violence. You would be doing an injustice to us all if you didn't go forth and claim a rider," Jurate reasoned quietly, drawing an aggravated snarl from the already fiery tempered lizard.
Still, Mag'nar could not really argue with Jurate, the water serpent was wiser, more intelligent than himself, and he often accepted Jurate's own words as facts. So if he was saying he should choose a rider, than it was likely true.
Without a word, Mag'nar rose to his feet, shaking out his heavy form, his wings creating a fwhupping sound in the air before pulling in tightly to his sides. He moved with a slow, but steady pace, hissing and growling at anyone in his way to move out of it. Before long he reached the platform, growling all the while as he looked the various riders up and down.
He did not desire another male rider. No. He couldn't explain it, but his instincts told him that he would never submit to a male rider, at least for a chosen one. He would never allow another male to ride upon his back as he had Silas to do once upon a time. A female then. |
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Lightbringer
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Akuryō Yamishinigami
Dark Dragon | Male | Unbonded | Mentions : The Superiors [ind] , Other Dragons [ind.] , Valencia The young male had arrived before most ; he had made it a point to do so, it was so he could observe everyone from a distance. He found a spot upon a ledge, high and away from most prying eyes. With his darkly colored scales he mostly blended in with the shadows, only his pale face would be visible and his molten colored eyes. He thrived in shadowy environments - and this was a good way to keep his mood satisfactory, after being awoken from his usually time of rest. He was a nocturnal creature, and right now he'd rather be sleeping than enduring this boring meeting. And that's when he noticed the members of this resistance gathering ; both humans and dragons alike. He could feel the feathers on his face flare out slightly at the sight, he wasn't that good with interactions with either species - though he tolerated his own more than the fleshy creatures known as humans. It wasn't like he didn't want to trust them ; there could be advantages to it, but he was wary of those shifty creatures and thought it to do better and stick to his own brethren. He slid himself more into his shadow, keeping himself hidden, he didn't want his presence to be discovered just quite yet. His eyes bore down on the humans ; the little squishy beings, quite delicate in form and mind. Much easier to kill than a dragon, and much more delicate to toy with - such fragile things they were . He didn't know whether to be proud that they had put aside their grievances to make a weapon to hurt a dragon or to bear more hatred and suspicion towards them, either way - they weren't in his good graces currently. Yet, he knew how to play civil and will do so unless this group gives him a reason not to do so. Humans were greedy creatures, and they wouldn't stop at anything to achieve their goals - no matter who it hurt or how many were sacrificed. How many more of his dragon brethren would have to fall before they were satisfied ? How many would be hunted and lose their lives at the hands of these creatures, who at times couldn't even come together to make a decision even if it saved them. It was frustrating ; humans were shifty, and he didn't like the idea of bonding with one. He could see the imbalance at times, how there were some who were worthy of companionship of a dragon, and then those who didn't care about the sacred bond and how it was supposed to be a bond of mutual trust between the two. Some were even foolish to try and lord over their dragons , were humans so foolish to think dragons were easily tamed . Well he, for one, was not easily impressed - nor would he be satisfied with just any human as his Bonded. He wouldn't choose or have any wet-nosed or sniveling creature upon his back, that would be most shameful. He gave a huff of annoyance at the thought. His thoughts quieting down as Nicodemus began to speak ; now that was a human he could somewhat respect. A man who commanded a room with authority ; he held himself proudly, and he was a good leader . He could command attention through respect and fear if needed ; and he also admired his partner, Kikimora . She was his equal in everything, and she was a fierce creature - one who didn't back down easily and he could respect such determination and grit. He admired his leaders and that was something he wouldn't say out loud but it was true. He gave a hiss of his own , at the mentioning the injures sustained by Kikimora . He would love to get his talons on the person who did such a thing to her ; why he was quite positive they wouldn't have lasted a minute with him before running away. His talons tapping impatiently and slightly digging into the ledge as he thought of the things he'd to the fiend. He was relieved to hear that there were eggs lain, and that they would be protected . But he wasn't so sure that the mother should allow the humans around the brood so early ; either way, he would make sure none of the humans tried anything with the little ones, if they did - they'd be terribly sorry . He was growing bored of this meeting now, it was just updates about things but what caught his interest was the mentioning of some humans that would be thought to be good riders ; his face soured at the thought. His last rider left a sour taste in his mouth , Titus , a bastard of a man who viewed him more as a servant than a companion . He didn't know how the male got away with what he did, but he wasn't sorry that he died . He watched as some of the humans named, did indeed come forward and some of the dragons had began to inspect them . He certainly wasn't going to be doing up their in a hurry - he didn't exactly want to be first in line to chose, dragons were temperamental and territorial , so things could get nasty and he wasn't quite in the mood for a fight at the moment . He closed his eyes, and began to drift , but oddly enough he felt someone was watching him. And opening his eyes, he noticed a young woman , with hazel eyes staring at him. Tilting his head like that of an owl, he started back at her - quite amused , wondering how she saw him , aside from his face ( that was most likely the reason ) she had an interesting scar on her face. There was a quiet strength about her, and also a burning rage within her eyes that seemed to promise vengeance. Interesting. Maybe this wouldn't be so boring after all. He silently made his descent from his perch, his footsteps being silent as he slunk his way through the crowd. Giving a slight growl and occasional snap of his fangs at those that were in the way and not moving. And he made eye contact with the girl, staring directly into her soul, not even blinking his eyes at her . He didn't even speak to her, just tilting his head, watching her . Before opening his mouth, and revealing his retractable fangs - letting out a rattling hiss, before it turned into an almost rumbling churr and the the soft sound of what could be related to a fire being extinguished. He ran a tongue over his fangs, inky black liquid coming from them as he did so. He quietly observed her reaction , coming closer to her - out of curiosity. Would she falter under his little display ? If so, he would be a bit disappointed, she seemed more interesting than these other humans . Maybe she would humor him and prove him wrong. She sure didn't appear to be a weakling of any sort ; she seemed strong . Could she possibly be a solid option for his rider . |
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Darkseeker
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Valencia Cobris-Strix | Unbonded Newcomer | Mentions: Akuryo (Dir.) Her veins ran dry as she watched the mask descend from where it was perched, snaking its way down between the other scaled beasts at the back of the cave. Valencia remained still, her chin strong as she awaited the approach. Perhaps it was leaving, or heading to someone else. But that quickly became a distant thought as she met the molten eyes that pierced into her core. They were trained solely on her, it was obvious that it was stalking her and her alone. As the creature came straight up to her, cocking its head to the side at an unnatural angle, Valencia kept her muscles taut. Did it not like the way she had looked at it? Maybe it was going to end her life right there, she knew the callous nature that many dragons possessed. She had witnessed many riders tick off a dragon and end up as its midday snack. The clicking start of a sound from its throat began and its maw drew back, opening to reveal the slender fangs that popped out from the gums with a slick sound. The huff of its hot breath ruffled her hair from where it was pulled back into a tight braid, her eyes narrowed at the assault but did not close. She refused to close them. The liquid that dripped in globules from those fangs as the tongue drew over them, Valencia couldn’t help but ponder if that colour was indicative of any deadly aspect. A poison perhaps? That would be a desirable trait in her dragon. A single bite and their quarry would be dead. That hot breath only drew closer as the beast reared its split jaws towards her, Valencia did not flinch as the scales came within a millimetre of her nose. Her heart was pounding beneath her chest, rattling the ribs, it was a natural reaction to an apex predator being so close. The urge to run, flee from the potential danger was rampant within her nerves. One spook and she might have bolted, but she steeled herself. Despite her tendency to freeze up, it would take a more specific circumstance to bring that about. “Do it.” Valencia whispered, her lips drawing into a thin smile. “Kill me if you want.” Her taunting words drifted from her vocal chords with ease, begging for the creature to end her life. Did it really matter if it obliged and split her in two? The resistance would continue and she would be with Dammon. In reality, the only thing stopping her from joining Dammon since his death was a raging vengeance that overruled every other thought. Valencia kept her gaze upon the creature, meeting those glowing orbs with her own intensity. The teasing nature of her words lighting up her eyes with the same incredulous glint, a predator of her own nature. Certainly not top of the food chain, not when dragons prowled the lands. But there was a good reason her code name was The Lioness. |
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Darkseeker
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Magnus Doorne | Unbonded Newcomer | Mentions: Open. Nicodemus, Valencia, Akuryo (Indir.) As the names of the fallen were listed by his new leader, Magnus could not help but feel out of place. In fact, he barely knew anyone here. None of his old classmates were with them, all presumed dead in the destruction of the academy. Keeping in mind, Magnus did not even want to sign up for the academy, his father had forced his hand. Now he stood before all these hulking reptiles and poor unfortunate humans in a dusty cave while a war raged outside. He didn’t even know if his family were alive or dead, likely the latter and he actually hoped they were. If for the simple fact they wouldn’t have to endure the famine and immense danger that now loomed across their home lands. The news of new dragons drew little emotion from the man, his expression never falling from one of indifference as he gazed out across the gathered group. He had never bonded to a dragon in the first place, the attack had come just before their proposed ceremony and thus he had yet to feel the strange connection some riders possessed. Frankly, Magnus thought it was rather creepy. The way they could talk in their heads, it gave him the heebie jeebies. Magnus had actually turned to leave when Nicodemus had begun to call out names of new riders, pointed straight for the small barracks room he had been assigned. Then he heard his name, the second to be read and he whipped around. The tails of his braids grazed across his nose and jaw with the motion. A frown etched into his broad features, he stared towards the platform. He had never ridden a dragon let alone been bonded to one. Why did they choose him? He had no experience, how would he make a good rider? There were so many other options. And they picked him. He knew his skills based classes bore good marks in comparison to his cohort, but they had no access to that. The young man debated simply walking away and refusing the proposal. However, he was sure that would come to bite him in the rear. That and the image of his younger siblings looking up at him in awe, sparkling eyes and adoration for their dragon rider older brother. His lips pulled into a tight grimace before he began to step towards the platform. Once upon it, he looked out into the mass of humans and dragons. He couldn’t pick one out that tickled his fancy, he didn’t know enough about them to be drawn to any particular type. By the time he had brought himself to the platform, he had schooled his face back into neutrality and kept his expression blank. The only thing that intrigued him was this weird wingless dragon approaching the blond woman at the end of the platform. Why would anyone accept that thing? It had no wings, kind of useless in an airborne war, in his opinion. Raising a hand, he dusted his opposite forearm of dusty debris. The bronze skill dulled from many days restricted to the cave, he hadn’t seen daylight in a long while and it was beginning to take its toll on his complexion. Drawing a more gaunt look to his usually youthful appearance. Magnus kept his position on the platform, watching as dragons looked their way and either approached, threatened or simply ignored them. He hadn’t interacted with any of them, so the notion that one would choose a forced bond with him was a long shot and Nicodemus was more delusional than he thought. |
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Darkseeker
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Ian Lyons
Resistance Second Command | Male | Bonded Rider | Mentions: Eidothea, Nicodemus (ind), Kikimora (ind), Unbonded Riders (ind) Sitting on a medium sized rock at the base of the perch upon which Nicodemus and Kikimora sat addressing the gathered crowd, tucked into a tiny intendation in the rock wall, Ian felt his mind fighting sleep. He hadn't rested well after the complete disaster of a mission the Resistance had attempted. The victories they claimed and information they'd gleaned entirely slipped his mind with the overbearing weight of the losses his group faced. It wasn't that he was particularly close with anyone that hadn't made it back, but to think that he would never see another smile on that man's face, or hear another hiss out of that moody dragon's jowl. You never fully appreciate the people in your life until you've lost them. His eyes burned from exhaustion, and his throat felt tight from the tears he hadn't allowed. In spite of the sadness he felt even now, a yawn slipped out of a clenched jaw in defiance. Ian, where are you? What? He'd been here. Where was she? He rolled his eyes in her direction through the link, hoping she felt his exasperation. Now that he thought about it, though, Thea did seem nearby. He looked around, not finding the cool-toned water dragoness. Well, maybe he should be asking where she was. Didn't she know that this was a mandatory meeting? And they were second in command, they really couldn't be affording to miss these things. Nicodemus has started the meeting, I'm not covering for you again Ohh, that sounded really bratty! She had another thing coming if she thought he would be getting an ear full for missing a meeting again. He'd made it to this one in time! Not to mention that his excuse last time had also been perfectly valid. He'd been up late running supplies arround, so of course he wasn't going to make it to a meeting the next evening. Leaning around the rocky pedestal that their leader sat giving his address, Ian spotted a shimery, graceful tail peaking out from the other side. Oh, they were just hidden from each other. Their leader had finished his address, and the recruits he'd called up were making their way through the crowd, followed by interested dragons, so he took the opportunity of chatter amongst the crowd to slink over to Thea. The man stood from his little cubby, hearing his knees release a cracking noise in protest, and stretched luxuriously. Liesurely, he made his way over to the slightly elevated spot upon which his bond had placed herself to listen to the news. Alright, I'm here, happy? he teased as he stepped up to put himself on the platform with her. His warm gaze drifting to the unbonded riders looking nervous and excited, he then glanced to the slightly intimidating group of dragons that were looking over the riders to be as if these humans were each a lamb and the dragons were butchers determining which would make the cut for the dinner table. I just hope nobody gets eaten, this was a bit of a high request our leaders made, the man thought to Thea. Heck, she'd chosen him of her own free will, and he hadn't been entirely convinced she wouldn't turn him into finger - or, talon - food. |
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Darkseeker
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Ciaran Human | Female | Unbonded | Mentions: NPCs (dir.) ─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ─── A cloaked figure was making its way through a small village, using the shadows to disclose their figure and avoiding contact with the villagers here unless needed. Eyes of intense copper illuminate in the dark, the upper half of their face casted by shadows. Ciaran was making her way to the meeting, having left a village to get food for the others with what money she had left. In her arms was a crate of supplies - nothing too impressive. A couple loafs of bread, a small bit of fruit, and a small thing of dried venison. Her eyes shifted around, making sure no one was following her as she made her way back. Scanning the shadows for anything or anyone that is deemed suspicious. Her stomach grumbled, interrupting her busy thoughts and she stopped in her tracks. Ciaran placed the crate on a table, reaching inside to snatch a loaf of bread for herself. Ciaran leaned against the wall beside the crate, taking tender bites of the stale bread. The dry, bland flavor hitting her taste buds, reminding of the cold hard reality she now lives in. It was strange, as the bread absorbed the flavors of the other food in the crate. Apples, venison, and of course, the crumbly delicacy of the bread itself. Such weird flavors clashing together to make a god awful masterpiece. Ciaran watched the busy main streets through the cracks of the alley passageways, observing the townsfolk as they wandered around to their usual task. With her eyes focused elsewhere, Ciaran was unaware of two figures making her way towards her, until she felt a quick tap on her shoulders. With a jump, Ciaran dropped her bread that was almost gone, facing whoever touched her. She didn't see anyone else at first, but when her eyes shifted downwards, she noticed two village girls around her age gazing back at her. Blushes on their tanned faces, their hairs neatly brushed compared to her bedhead, and they were wearing rather comfortable clothes that Ciaran secretly envied. Ciaran doesn't know what to say at the moment, so she awkwardly shifts on her feet, averting her gaze to avoid direct eye contact. "Oh, a shy one? How cute," the feathery voice of the redhead entered her ears, with the bit of tease causing a small flush to form on Ciaran's pale cheeks. The friend that accompanied the redhead nudged her friend in the side lightly with her elbow, giving her a playful scolding look. "Don't scare her away, now, they're close to tripping over themselves already," the brunette teased. The two girls giggled in unison - their laughter unheard through the buzz of the village. "You're a rather handsome one. Aren't you, stranger?" The redhead, despite her friends light warning, teased Ciaran once more. Stepping closer to the cloaked figure with her hands folded behind her back and a flirty grin on her face. The young maiden radiated confidence that Ciaran envied, but it was also smothering quite a bit. Ciaran cleared her throat, dropping an octave to her voice to disguise her real one, sounding a tad bit on the masculine side if a man were to speak in a higher pitched tone. "How do you know I'm attractive if you hadn't seen my face?" She asked, curious about their answer as her arms crossed below her chest. The brunette grabs one of her sidelocks that wasn't hidden by her hood, twisting the dark strand between her fingernails. The action alone caused Ciaran to freeze in place, the pupils in her eyes dilating in surprise by the sudden touch from the stranger. She observed as her hair was being toyed with - like a kitten playing with a piece of string. The brunette smiled, bringing her hair to her lips to leave a faint kiss, which stunned Ciaran much more to the point her ancestors could sense her astonishment from the heavens. "Oh, we're very good at reading people, and you, my dear, are charming." The redhead continued her friend's sentence with a cheeky smile, poking Ciaran on her toned bicep, causing the taller woman to tense her muscles, "Even if they don't think they are." Her smirk grew as her finger felt the firmness hidden underneath Ciaran's clothes, tilting her head to try to see Ciaran’s full face that was masked by the hood and shadows. “You feel nice,” the redhead purred and the brunette added with a sly smile, “and smell nice too.” They moved closer together, pressing themselves against Ciaran’s taller, muscular figure. Their combined perfumes make Ciaran’s head spin in a not very good way - their united smells making her head pound. The brunette noticed the stale half-eaten bread on the floor, while the redheaded noticed the clothes she’s wearing. All tattered up and degrading steadily. “Oh, dear. We can’t have a precious thing such as yourself eating scraps and looking like that. You deserve the best,” the redhead booped Ciaran on the nose, making Ciaran flinch then pull her head back to avoid further contact with her face. The brunette was nosey, taking a peek inside the crate, noticing the food inside and the poor state they were in. A pout formed on her face, then a huff left her lips as she stubbornly crossed her arms over her chest. “Not good at all.” She agrees with her redheaded friend, nodding her head then promptly takes Ciaran’s wrist. “You have the right to taste the best quality substances and not pig scraps. You need something delicious!” “Like me,” the redhead added with a wink. Ciaran, not getting that the girls were flirting with her, was extremely concerned by the proposition. Ciaran rubbed the back of her head, for one, to make sure the hood was on still, and two, an anxious habit she does whenever she’s in a situation she deems as stressful. “I…appreciate the offer…but…I’m not a cannibal. I find eating humans, well, disgusting.” She visibly cringed, ensuring she was using her disguised voice. “Don't give up though - I’m certain you’ll taste good for someone else.” The two girls looked at each for a bried second before switching their gaze back to Ciaran. "Clueless about the arts of flirting, eh?" "Simply adorable." They pulled Ciaran along, dragging her towards the marketplace so they can buy her a few things. ─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ─── Mentions: The Bonded/Unbonded Riders (ind.), and Keo (ind./dir.) Ciaran returned to the hideout where the others were taking sanction in, holding a crate filled with food that wasn't close to disintegrating away. The taste of the stale bread, however, lingered on her tongue a lot longer than she wanted. She arrived just in time to hear some of Nico’s speech - discussing the loss they suffered after a failed mission. Ciaran was quiet, adjusting the new clothes on her body, not used to having clothes that fitted so well on her body. Those girls really did spoil her. A new black gambeson, black canvas trousers, knee-high leather boots of black. Not to mention her cloak recently washed and patched up. Looking good - really good. As for what the ladies asked in return…it was a kiss. Yes. Yes. They wanted a kiss from the “handsome stranger”, which is a bit weird, not going to lie. Ciaran can’t judge them too harshly; as they’re probably inspired off whatever fantasy romance books they’ve been reading. The good part is that she didn’t kiss them on the lips, as she was a bit disturbed on kissing strangers on the lips, so she gave their knuckles a smooch like a dashing knight would do. Ciaran placed the crate of fresh food down on the table, and eagerly grabbed a loaf of fresh bread. Chowing down on the food like there was no tomorrow. Her mouth desiring the taste of good quality substance than the skin of another human being, or dragon, for that matter. As she ate, she quietly listened to Nico’s speech out of respect and to silently mourn their losses too. Ciaran examined the other riders and the dragons to gauge their reactions; observing how focused some of them were on Nico’s emotional speech. However, she felt a smoldering glare her way, making her side-eye in that direction. Keo. In the flesh. Staring daggers at her, for whatever reason. Ciaran blinked in confusion, her eyes shifting to different spots in the room before focusing on her fellow unbonded rider again. She tilted her head, a small frown formulating on her face that read ‘something wrong?’ as she kept eye contact with Keo for a few seconds before turning her gaze back to Nico. Ciaran doesn’t know why Keo was upset, yet there’s a good enough reason as to why, as on her neck was the presence of dark red lipstick. The mark settled right over the beauty spot on her neck. A very intimate place that only couples do to show romantic intentions…or sexual ones. To add the stench of perfume that clung onto her, with her nose gone scent deaf as it had quickly adjusted to the fragrance of the two ladies who smothered her this morning. Ciaran was too focused on trying to be polite (albiet highly awkward) during the interaction to not seem rude, which worked in her favor, as she managed to snagged free food and fresh new clothes. |
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Darkseeker
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Cassia Glennd
Resistance Member | Female | Unbonded Rider | Mentions: Nicodemus (ind), Kikimora (ind), Unbonded Riders, Mag'Nar, Akuryō "Hey! You can't have that, it's mine, you glutton!" Orvyn yelled at Cass as she shoved down the piece of bread she'd just yoinked off his plate. Her eyes watered as she forced the dry, crumbly piece down before he could rip it out of her mouth. It hurt going down, and she almost regretted nabbing such a large piece. A pair of moss toned eyes looked her up and down in betrayal and distaste, but she knew he'd forget about it in a moment. They were like siblings, and he almost always gave her a piece of his bread willingly, anyway. He just hadn't this morning, and she was too hungry to allow that. She didn't care that he'd risked his life just the last evening, she deserved this bread. He grumbled his discontentment and went back to picking at his plate, which almost made her feel bad. Usually, she'd have had an earful for a few minutes, but maybe yesterday was worse than she'd been led to believe based off the little information she'd gleaned. Cassy made quick work of the rest of her plate and excused herself, no longer wishing to be anywhere near her depressingly quiet best friend. Going back to her living space, the woman slipped out of her sleeping clothes and put on an outfit that was worthy of seeing the light of day. Some straight legged, dark grey pants with a loosely fitting navy blouse and a black belt to bring everything together. Then she slipped on her trusty pair of boots under her pants, of course. Cringing a bit at the cracks in the leather, she made a note that her boots needed a replacement. There were a few spots where she'd almost rubbed a hole through the leather, around the soles. Quickly braiding her hair into a slightly lopsided braid, Cass ran out towards the main cavern to which they'd been beckoned for a meeting. She was about to find out why Orvyn had kept so to himself this morning, but it was worrying that the news couldn't be good. Finding a place towards the back of the crowd that had gathered, Cass could just make out the raven haired Nicodemus and his bond, Kikimora, looming behind him on the highest point in the cave. Their leader's face was difficult to read, but she sensed the dismal mood hanging over the people and dragons gathered. Nicodemus' opening words revealed what Cassia had feared. They'd lost bonded pairs. They'd lost people, and, worse, they'd lost dragons. The Resistance couldn't afford to take too many hits like this. Though the rest of his address had silver linings, Cass knew that nobody was in the mood to celebrate. A clutch of new dragons, especially out of Jarogniew, was exciting, but didn't quite cut through the cloud of distress fogging everybody's mind at the moment. She allowed herself to find a small solace in the news, nonetheless. New dragons meant new pairs, which was vital for winning this war. It seemed their leader knew this, as he continued to say that some dragons and unbonded riders would be choosing each other today. This came as a shock, and she wasn't sure how well it would work. Had the dragons agreed to this? It just seemed very strange, but it was a good start to combat the losses they'd taken. Against her will, Cass also felt a small glimmer of hope that she would be chosen as one of these new riders. As she attempted to quell the feeling, trying to shake it off, she then processed that she was the first name out of their leader's mouth. What? She'd been looking forward to the day a new dragon would appear that would choose her by instinct, but she was ecstatic that she'd been chosen for this. Then she was fearful. Had the dragons agreed to this? Or was the bread she'd just stolen to sate her own hunger about to go toward satisfying a beautiful but terrifying creature? Unsteady legs carried Cass toward the platform, and she tried without success to mute the mutters around her. "Her?" "She's just a dog to be sent on errands" "Of course she was chosen after she's shown that she'll do all but roll over for a treat" They weren't wrong. She was a follower, and she liked following. Every once in a while, though, it paid off. Like right now. Clambering onto the platform, shoving down the fear growing in her chest, Cassia made the attempt to appear brave as she stood among the other people called to be a presentation for curious dragons. She'd neutralized her face for the most part, but anybody with the slightest ability to read emotions could tell she was intimidated. A few of the approaching beasts caught her eye. One looked particularly intimidating, a large fire dragon the color of burning coal, male by the looks of it. He seemed ready to make a snack out of anyone in his path as he made his way to check out the platform, and she was standing at the end of his path. Meanwhile, around Cass, one or two dragons were already arrived and eyeing the fellow riders to be who stood by her. A dark dragon had approached the rocky pedestal and seemed to be judging one of the other riders in particular. He was haunting to look at, and Cass couldn't help but be glad his gaze hadn't turned to her. Not that she was scared of dragons, she'd seen many on the daily, but they'd never paid her any mind. Suddenly being the focus of these magnificent beasts was almost disturbing, but excitement still seemed to shroud the fear in her belly. |
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Lightbringer
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Maximillian Cantacuzene
Unbonded Rider | Male | Mentions : Other Unbonded Riders (ind) , The Leaders (ind.) & Aeloria Max wasn't sure what he was getting himself into when he signed himself up for the resistance. He was definitely sure of the cause they were fighting for ; though he was rather skilled in combat , he didn't have a mount like most did. And he secretly envied those with dragons, he hoped that one day he would have the privilege of flying aside his fellow resistance members . However, he was more of a versatile member within the resistance, he worked with the healers to help injured members and was learning about how to help hurt dragons as well. It was fascinating ; learning how to care for an entirely different species ! He also got to help with training , and he appreciated it - it helped him from keeping his skills rusty and made sure his skills were sharp and ready on the chance he was called for assistance. He was content with where he was within the group, yet he wished that he could experience what the Riders did. It looked like such a precious and intriguing bond they shared, and he secretly wanted to know how it felt to fly high in the sky - it must be an experience one couldn't even begin to describe or imagine. Currently he was going over the stock in regards to medical supplies , they were alright for now, but they definitely would need to make a run soon if they were going to keep up with injures . And it seemed injuries were becoming more common, and he didn't like this at all. He probably should start focusing on finding some medicinal herbs in case they didn't have any medicine. But he'd cross that bridge when he came to it. Right now, he had a meeting to get too, and so he made sure to do one last check before leaving. Giving a soft hum he found himself following the crowd to the location where the meeting was being held. He was relieved that the Leaders had come back ; but was worried at their injures, he'd make sure to look them over later . His face grew somber at the mention of the loss of members. It was becoming a more common thing, and he wasn't happy about that - he could only imagine the pain of the family members when they hear that their loved one was gone . He also hoped that their fallen members were at least were resting easy now ; dying for a cause they believed in . However the mood changed at the mention of dragons eggs being lain. He was excited for the dragon eggs, he had never seen a baby dragon nor cared for one - so this would be a wonderful learning experience for him to engage in . Not to mention, someone would be fortunate enough to forge a bond with them and they were the future of the Resistance . He could only swear in his heart to make sure nothing happened to the little creatures , after all they were rather important. He was sure the meeting was over, but then Nicodemus started talking about how low the pairings were. And Max had to hold his breath as his name was called for one of those to be considered as a Rider. He felt his heart beat faster at the thought, and he tentatively made a step forwards as he was called and stood on the platform where the others who had been called were standing . He was approached first by one of the dragons, he had seen it before - it was a pale colored dragon, the light violet and navy hues catching his eyes. He blinked as it came closer to him, not exactly afraid or scared but more so wary of it. After all, he knew some dragons weren't exactly happy with the proposition. But it seems the dragon didn't want to be chosen by him, as it decided to walk away. And Max had to stop himself from huffing in offense, was he really that undesirable ? But the next dragon that caught his eye was quite the sight - her luminous scales were a dazzling display, she was quite literally the epitome of light . She was a serene and graceful creature ; and not to mention a rare dragon as well, there weren't many of her species out there - or at least, not found by humans . He could only wonder who would be selected to be her rider. And then he noticed another dragon, a pale faced one, one with scales that glittered and reminded one of an endless night. He wasn't sure what species he was, but he had to guess Dark, as he seemed to be the opposite of the Light Dragon . And it seemed the male was quite focused on a girl, and had already made his choice. Well that was one less dragon to be picked from. He also didn't envy her at the dragon's rather strong display, but she didn't seem shaken and he had to admire her strength. He let his eyes wonder a bit ; noting how Nicodemus was confidently standing next his dragon and carefully watching everything . He couldn't help but admire the older man, he was quite a leader and his dragon wasn't one to be messed with ; she was fierce as she was beautiful. He looked towards Callisto and his mount, a look of surprise at the uninjured pair, and he gave a soft hum to himself . That's when he noticed Ian making his way in, walking in that lazy manner of his with a stupid grin on his face - one full of warmth and teasing . Yet it was directed at his dragon, the coral colored female snorting water in his face at whatever he had said. Earning a stifled laugh from Max, he chose to clear his throat and ignore his own thoughts. He needed to focus on possibly bonding with a dragon. The unbonded dragons were a rather impressive bunch, and he hoped that he could impress one enough to be chosen as its rider . |
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Fall 
Day Weather: 
Heavy Rain
