Katrina Rix
Apprentice
Del pasado al presente, vivimos en un universo encantado.
Posts: 108
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Post by Katrina Rix on Mar 23, 2006 0:54:24 GMT -5
"... Right. No. Elena. Crutches. Now." "What?" "They're in the corner, beside the head of the bed. How did you think I got to the lavatory?" "Oh." Elena fetched the crutches and helped her friend up out of the bed. "Shaz..." "No, now I'm pissed. Help me out here!" It took a little fumbling before Shazrad was upright and standing. "Two days in bed, vete al diablo." Even weaving back and forth on the crutches, Shazrad towered over her concerned friend. "I'm pretty sure I know which one's Gavyn's room. Connor told me once, though I'm not entirely sure what he thought I was going to do with that information... Now, would you please open the door for me and come help if you hear screams of agony?" Elena flung the door open with a wide flourish and a bow. "Suerte." Shazrad swung out. What would have been a determined stomp was seriously ruined by the crutches. Elena looked at Croco and shrugged. "Matters of the heart." "Heart, blazes! I'm going to throttle him!" Shaz yelled over her shoulder. Elena raised an eyebrow. "Uh-huh. Good luck, limpy." She shut the door and sighed. "Shaz has been chasing our Gavyn for about two months now. I think this may be the last straw. You know how it is around here... Never a dull moment," she explained. "We should probably let it be until the actual crashes start... Maybe a little longer, knowing Shaz. So, you're a dolphinback, too? Where from?" ***** Shazrad was royally peeved. She fumed down the corridor, and the additional complication of learning to use the crutches didn't help her mood. Neither did the fact that they bumped up against her ribs with every step. Two months of dashed expectations and frustration came to a boil and collided with the emotional roller-coaster of the last couple of days and her rough shape, physically. Her temper snapped. Shazrad's poor coordination with the crutches showed itself, and she lurched painfully into the wall, then levered herself up again, muttering viperately under her breath. She hadn't been kidding when she said she wanted to throttle Gavyn. The black-haired woman was furious - with him, with her weak body, with herself. She closed her eyes, still leaning against the wall, and drew her breath in. Far from calming her down, it just hardened her resolve. This time, this once, Gavyn was not getting away. He was going to listen. Shazrad was aware that she had passed well away from rational, and didn't care. She stormed on, managing more on sheer determination then actual skill. The thrice-blasted crutches managed to wheel in every which way, but every stab of pain was a prod that drove Shaz towards Gavyn's room. Outside the door, some part of her normal timidity in his presence reasserted itself, but Shaz shoved it aside. She opened the door, and hopped in. It would have even worked if one of her crutches hadn't gotten caught on the corner of the door. For a second, she hung suspended, then the whole mess collapsed with a clatter. Out of the heap came some language strong enough to peel paint. Gavyn was bewildered to see Shaz, but his instincts took over when he saw one of his patients tumble. He got to his feet and hurried to help her up. By that time, Shazrad had grabbed the corner of the table and was pulling herself upward. She looked, to phrase it politely, horrible. Her hair had bits of mud and twigs that she hadn't managed to work out yet. She had bruises all over, and some blood had seeped through the bandages on her back. Furthermore, she was seething with rage - a general sort of rage that seemed to encompass the whole universe. Gavyn grabbed her arm. Shaz's head swung wildly, then her grey eyes focused on him. "Right. You." She took a deep breath. "Do you have any idea what you just bloody did to me, heh? Do you have even a clue how long it took me to even get the courage to talk to you? How many times I froze up or panicked when I just looked at you?" she belted out, pain in the ribs go to blazes. "Did you know some part of me was actually glad that I got banged up in the Amu so I could talk to you? So then, you leave your stupid note where I can't get it without getting out of bed, and when I don't pounce on it, you throw a snit fit and assume we can't be friends! You're not getting away that easily, Gavyn O'Malley!" Then she ran out of air. Gavyn stared at her, shocked by her ouburst. Shazrad inhaled again, actually looked at Gavyn, and took Connor up on an ongoing dare. "You want to know what I think of you?" Shaz was lighter than Gavyn, but had the advantage of surprise. She flung her weight into the healer, knocking him back against the wall. Shazrad closed her eyes, and smooched him right on the lips. Hard. A second later, she stumbled back and sat down on the table, avoiding jolting the ankle. She glared at Gavyn. "There. Clear enough?" And now, Con has to teach his first class in his underwear.((Remember kids: volatile characters are fun when stressed out! *Evil grin*))
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Kiva
Apprentice
Self-proclaimed Ninja Mistress... with cat ears...
Posts: 171
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Post by Kiva on Mar 23, 2006 22:04:55 GMT -5
(OOC: Okaaay... I think that was a major point jump there... I don't think Gavyn's gonna let her get away with that though... ;D)
Throughout Shaz's outburst, Gavyn remained silent, head bowed, his patience infinite as she railed on him with all the force her pent up emotions could muster. The embrace between them had caught him by surprise, but deep down, he admitted to himself he wasn't disappointed.
“There. Clear enough?” she asked him, her breathing beginning to calm.
“Quite,” he replied, softly. “Now get comfortable, because it's my turn.” He lifted his head, and the look of anger on his face shocked Shaz. He rounded on her with the same ferocity she'd exposed to him just a few moments earlier.
“Do you have any idea what you've been doing to me since the first day I saw you almost a year ago? The first day I saw you, I knew I wanted to get to know you. To befriend you, to spend time with you. I saw how you laughed and joked with Connor, and I wanted to be a part of that. I was bloody jealous of my best friend, Shaz! Bloody jealous of the relationship my best friend had with you!”
He leaned on the chair near the table and grasped the top in a white knuckle grip. All the emotions that he'd pent up inside for so long were also forcing their way out. He was baring his heart to Shaz and he knew that he was setting himself up for another rejection.
“You say I had a snit fit a few moments ago? No, my dear Shaz, this[/b] is a true snit fit! How was I supposed to know how you felt about me when you never told me? Every time I had tried to talk to you, all I'd ever get was a nod or a head shake. You'd look at me the same way an old Triceratops looks at a new fence. You never treated me the same way you treated your other friends. You always seemed cold, distant and unapproachable. What was I supposed to think, Shaz?”
He glared back at her, gooseberry-green eyes blazing, but his tone had softened, somewhat. “I'm tired, Shaz. So very tired.” He pulled back and sat on his bed, propping his elbows on his knees and running his hands through his hair. “Sometimes I just want to throw my hands up and walk away. It's so hard...” he broke off, struggling to hold back tears.
Shaz was stunned to see him trying so hard not to cry. In every stressed situation, he seemed so calm and collected. To see him nearly lose that control was shocking. Shaz hopped over to him and sat next to him, placing her hand on his back.
“It's all right Gav, I'm sorry...” She never got any further than that, for at that moment, Gavyn whirled around and caught her in a firm, yet gentle embrace. He pressed his lips to hers, returning Shaz's kiss even more forcefully and passionately than she'd given to him. After a few moments, he slowly pulled back, his eyes searching her face, waiting for her reaction.[/color]
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Post by Highsoar on Mar 24, 2006 1:38:54 GMT -5
Highsoar was sitting nearby, bruised slightly but not severly injured. She was quiet, almost brooding, saddened by the attack that had just happened. She had allowed her small wounds to be treated and had watched the others but did not interact much. She too saw the conflict between the two Skybaxes and ambled closer, about to add her own threat display until Cloudrunner's human intervened and sent him away.
She listed to APenglow and Safyre talk afterward.
"Yes, your name does fit. " she said to Safyre. "I like you. I understand becuase I know about difference. I speak little, but young ones like to taunt." she shook her head. "Just like young humans. They need to be taught respect."
"The Untamed do more harm than just our bodies. They also destroy families" she spoke up. "Turn one against another. I am here, my brother flies with them. I do not want to fight, but I am left no choice. " The anger and conflict was obvious in her voice.
"I want to know why. What makes them fight and why they hate us. Why Highwind stays with them and try to help him see the truth. He had a human once but he left training behind. I do not know why."
(ooc: I hope to become more comfortable with moving your chars in time, Kiva, but I guess it's a process that takes time. Maybe once I get comfy and start doing it, my posts will get longer)
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Katrina Rix
Apprentice
Del pasado al presente, vivimos en un universo encantado.
Posts: 108
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Post by Katrina Rix on Mar 24, 2006 2:11:45 GMT -5
((Actually, I'm surprised it didn't come to a punch-up. My vaguely evil sense of humor was fully in play in the last post, in case you couldn't tell.)) Alpenglow shifted and woke. He was still stiff and a little crotchety, but he felt a lot better for the sleep. His natural good humor had returned, and he wanted to go out and try some stunts... Of course, it'd be alone. He whistled sadly and wished Shaz was up for a ride. If he did fly with Gavyn, he wouldn't be attempting any of the tricky manuvers. At that point, he saw Cloudrunner below him. Cloud managed to look lost in the midst of the morning rush, and Alpenglow was puzzled. Even excluding Connor, Cloudrunner usually wasn't short on companionship. Alpenglow wondered if his old adversary was really serious about Safyre. What an odd development. The big rusty red male spread his wings and dropped down beside Cloud. The other male didn't even manage a menacing beak snap - always a bad sign. "Where's Connor?" Alpenglow greeted, a prudent distance away. "He's off on some errand," Cloud snapped, glaring at Alp. "So, we're both on our own, heh?" The two looked each other up and down. "Ah, forget it. I'm not in the mood for a fight now," Cloudrunner grumbled. Alpenglow clacked his beak together rapidly, laughing. "Now I know that you must be ill and I must be way too cheerful. Well, if we don't go for each other's throats, the newcomers are snoring and our riders are indisposed, what's left for us to do?" Cloudrunner stared at him blankly. "What the blazes are you up to?" Alpenglow laughed again and exposed his wings to the sun. The big skybax was feeling good. It was a beautiful day, and if something else went wrong, Alp was pretty sure he was up for it. He cocked his head and looked at Cloudrunner with one eye. "Sunbathing." ***** Brightfeather was bored again. Thunderhead was staying with Stratus, but the little maniraptor really didn't feel like a day locked in the musty barn staring at sleeping skybax. That, and she was hungry. She scooted out when a rider slipped through the door, and blinked in the sudden brightness. It was a cloudless day, with soft winds. It was perfect. Brightfeather got up enough speed to get airborne, then coasted above the rookery. It was a beautiful view, but Brightfeather wasn't just after the view. She was looking for large insects or small mammals. Brightfeather was on the hunt, and she was just as dangerous for her size as a Utahraptor. Her vision was superlative for spotting movements. She spotted a twitchy whisker near the compost heap by the hospital, and landed on the roof. It was a tiny primitive mammal, about the right size for Brightfeather's purposes. She flattened herself and curled her iridescent tail under her duller wings. Like most mammals, it had poor color vision, but there was no sense in taking chances. As Brightfeather watched, her prey inched out a little more, exposing itself further... further... She gauger the distance and tried to spot any extra bolt holes it might be able to reach. The little, mouse sized mammal paused to gnaw on the remains of some citrus fruit, and Brightfeather launched herself. At first her flight was quiet, but she soon sacrificed silence for speed, and shrieked as she dove the last two meters. The dromaesaurid's prey froze instinctively, and she hit with her feet first. The impact, combined with Brightfeather's small sharp claws, finished the little mammal, but she had learned from her mistakes in the past. Brightfeather kept it pinned with one foot while she began to feed. Hmph. Fat, slow, tasty critters around here. They don't have me to keep them in line. I like this. She fed delicately, her sharp teeth and delicate muzzle helping to get rid of the fur and avoid the bones. For all that, she was surprisingly quick in finishing her meal. Afterward, though, Brightfeather waddled. She ambled off in search of water, to help her digest and to get rid of the blood that clung to her muzzle. A puddle took care of the later, but Brightfeather fancied cleaner water for drinking... Maybe even tea. ***** "Okay, so we're both idiots who can't manage to make anything unambiguous. Anything else new?" Shazrad left her hand on his shoulder and sat there, strangely silent. All this time, Connor was right. All I needed to do was get brave enough to talk to him... Connor's never going to shut up about this. I'm doomed. The lanky woman was feeling a little pole-axed, especially considering that Gavyn had kissed her. Emotional climaxes aside, her ankle was still throbbing, reminding her that hopping was not an effective, non-jolting means of locomotion, and the ribs chorused that they, at least, had really not appreciated the hug. Her back agreed with the ribs. Shaz decided to ignore their grievances against her. "If you ever need..." She paused, looking up at Gavyn with more than a little wonder in her eyes. "Well, blazes, anything, I'll be here." Shazrad paused again. "Okay, okay, unless Alp and I are out on a mission. But in that case, wait between a day and three weeks, and I'll be here... Unless I get sent somewhere else right away. My point is... Um, something like I'll try to be here if you need anything," she laughed. "That was meant to be moving." It was enough just to hear him breath beside her for the moment. ((Brightfeather: slayer of little ratty things. Fear her!))
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Post by Highsoar on Mar 24, 2006 16:42:50 GMT -5
no, somehow I missed it . You can explain if you want. It's up to you.
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Kiva
Apprentice
Self-proclaimed Ninja Mistress... with cat ears...
Posts: 171
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Post by Kiva on Mar 24, 2006 21:57:07 GMT -5
Cloudrunner was about to reply to Alp's suggestion when Safyre appeared. She looked as though she'd just woken up herself. She ambled out onto the platform and stretched the tension and stiffness out of her muscles. Twisting her head, she preened and smoothed the fur on her body as best she could. She then opened her beak and yawned widely. She then turned her head and caught sight of the two males watching her and she suddenly seemed to shrink in embarrassment. Cloudrunner waddled over to her and cooed a greeting. Safyre's head dipped in a submissive way and she returned the greeting.
“Sorry you had to see that,” she said to both Cloud and Alp. “I forget sometimes that I'm not alone here. My morning routine is a little odd to some people.” She paused. “I hate to say this, but I'm really hungry. Any way I could get something to eat?”
---,--'--(@
Gavyn smiled at her; this time a genuine smile that reached his eyes, causing them to sparkle. He reached up and ran his finger through her hair, managing to dislodge a few of those twigs and bits of mud. “I just may hold you to that promise one day, Shazrad,” he said softly, his voice full of emotion.
He reached an arm around her shoulders and the other behind her knees and lifted her up. Cradling her light form in his arms, he managed to hold her in such a way that did not disturb her back or ribs. As long as he held her that way, Shaz felt strangely pain-free. He carried her out the door and down towards the Rookery. Shaz looked up at him, confused.
“Why are we going there?”
“There's a member of the Untamed there, and I'd like you to tell me if you recognize him. We also need to talk to him about what's going on with his group, and we also need to get a hold of Firefly and talk to him about what happened between Safyre and the other Skybax. You know them better than I do, so I need you help. Are you up to it? If not, I can just let you visit with your friends and I'm sure Alp will be glad to see you. Or we could do both... it's up to you.”
(OOC: I'm sorry my posts are short and kind of stupid, but I'm really bogged down with a full time work schedule and full time school schedule plus homework. Please be patient until I try to find time to write properly. )
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Katrina Rix
Apprentice
Del pasado al presente, vivimos en un universo encantado.
Posts: 108
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Post by Katrina Rix on Mar 25, 2006 19:26:50 GMT -5
Alpenglow was glad to see Safyre on her feet again. "Had to see what?" he asked, cocking his head to one side. "We're all a little slow in the morning." Of course, Alpenglow was living denial of that fact, with his cheerful attitude, but he failed to realize the irony. The big male watched Cloudrunner carefully. Crushes seemed to be catching like a disease around here. Alpenglow looked at the horizon and noted a group of dark grey clouds to the west. It looked like the sun would soon turn to a torrential autumn downpour. "I don't think our nice weather will last until midday. Oh well." "Well, there should still be some fish out for us. Most of the others have already eaten. Follow me!" Alpenglow walked to a small outbuilding near the barn. "Everyone's on fishing duty sooner or later, the younger riders moreso. We take a lot of feeding. Sometimes the fishing crews go all the way to Warmwater Bay, but usually the fish come from the Amu. What the riders don't catch we trade for." He turned back to the door and cheeped loudly. A second later, it opened, and a Baryonyx stared quizzically at them. The thirty foot long theropod barked a greeting. "This is Rus. He inspects the fish and catches some of them, too." Rus grumbled and vanished back into the building. A few seconds later, he emerged, his strong arms toting a basket laden with fish. He had narrow, delicate jaws that were almost crocodilian in appearance. His arms were oddly long and strong for a theropod. His thumb claw was massive and hook shaped, while his body was fairly slender and lithe. The theropod grunted at Alp and Cloud, cocked his head curiously at Safyre, then lay down his burden. Alp explained. "I sometimes join Rus for a late breakfast. We don't understand each other, but he's a good sort. You're welcome to eat with us." Cloudrunner stared at Alp, who shrugged. Rus gestured at the basket, and Alp snagged a fish and tossed it to Safyre. The next one went to Cloud. After that, he tossed a fish to Rus, who caught it expertly in his narrow jaws. Rus selected a fish and handed it to Alpenglow, who bowed his head and burbled cheerfully. Then everyone began to eat. After the first fish, there was no need to stand on formalities, and each saurian selected their own meal. ***** "You know, if anyone sees me being carted around like a day old hatchling that doesn't have its legs yet, I'll never hear the end of this. Ever." Shazrad considered. "Especially if anyone includes Alpenglow." She grinned up at him. "Not that I'm not enjoying this. But, Gavyn, could I please use you as a crutch, instead?" Shazrad's body was banged up enough. She didn't need her dignity to go, as well. Gavyn set her down, gently, and Shazrad put her arm around his shoulder. His arm went around her waist, and the weight that belonged on her ankle went on him. "I'd love to help with the Untamed, if I can. We'll probably run into Alp along the way." She looked at him directly and squeezed his shoulder. "After that, though, you should probably get some food and then some sleep. Running yourself ragged won't help anyone." "So, the patient's lecturing her doctor?" Gavyn asked, a slight teasing tone in his voice. While they talked, they made their way down towards the barn. On the way, Gavyn spotted a familiar pile of feathers. Brightfeather whistled a greeting. She trotted over to them, her stomach noticeably larger and her step distinctly more bouncy. She could see the gathering of clouds, and knew that it would be nasty flying weather soon. That was all right with Brightfeather, because she didn't fly too well on a full stomach. The little microraptor was on her way to the barn anyway, to check on Safyre and Stratus. She was also pretty sure she remembered a keg of fresh water out for the skybax and riders. All in all, the barn would be a nice place to weather out the rain. The small dinosaur fell into step with Gavyn and Shazrad, trotting ahead, then stopping to wait, tapping her large toe claw impatiently. She grinned widely back at them. Exuberance, as usual, seemed to come in waves off Brightfeather.
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Kiva
Apprentice
Self-proclaimed Ninja Mistress... with cat ears...
Posts: 171
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Post by Kiva on Mar 26, 2006 13:24:44 GMT -5
Gavyn smiled at her concern for him. He continued to tease her, knowing that she couldn't make a physical escape from him. “A few moments ago, you chased me down the hall to confront me about leaving you, and here you are trying to tell me to go away. Would you make up your mind?”
Shaz blushed. “That's not what I meant...” she sputtered.
Gavyn chuckled. “I know. You're just cute when your flustered...”
A few minutes later, they entered the barn area of the Rookery and headed over to where Stratus was resting, still being monitored by Thunderhead. Straus had decided not to say anything at all to anyone, being cautious and observing. When he saw the healer and the injured rider heading his way, he managed to shakily stand and await their approach. The rider looked a little nervous about being around him.
Stratus looked down at Brightfeather who glanced back and forth between him and the two humans, cheeping curiously. He dipped his head and gently touched the tip of his beak to her tiny shoulder. The female human gasped and reached forward as if to intercede and prevent harm from coming to the little Microraptor, but the healer pulled her back, not wanting Stratus to get upset. It was simply the Untamed's way of greeting and a show of trust by exposing the vulnerable neck area. He then turned his attention back to the two humans and bobbed his head once to Shazrad.
“Although it may be difficult to believe, I am grateful to see you alive,” he said crisply and diplomatically. “I can only guess as to why you've come here, but if you wish to talk, I will listen and answer.”
---,--'--(@
Cloudrunner loved being so close to Safyre. He didn't care at all what Alpenglow thought of him just as long as Safyre noticed him. Using his beak he pushed the more choice selections of fish nearer to Safyre who ate as though she hadn't for days. Which was true in fact. She hadn't had a decent meal since Nightwing and his cohorts attacked her.
The thought of Nightwing and the promise she'd made caused Safyre pause in her meal. A look of sadness came into her eyes, and her appetite left her. She cooed softly and backed away from the basket.
“What's wrong, Saf?” Cloud asked her. She looked up at him, startled.
“Oh... nothing. I'm full. I think I'll go stretch my wings. The sooner I can start flying, the better. I'll see you boys later.” She ambled off back to the platform.
Cloud wanted to go with her, but didn't. He took a deep breath, dreading the decision he'd made but knew that with Connor away, there was really no better individual who knew him well enough to give him advice.
“Alp? Can I talk to you?” Alpenglow swallowed a fish and looked at him.
“Depends on what about,” he replied, impassively.
Cloud glanced around the room a fidgeted nervously before continuing. “I guess it's really no secret that I like Safyre...”
Alp chuckled. “You practically emanate a crush, Cloud. I had no idea,” his tone held a light sarcasticness to it.
“I'm serious, Alp. I really like her, but... I don't know how to show her. She's so shy, and I'm overbearing.” He looked at Alpenglow, a seriousness in his eyes that proved he wasn't kidding. “I just don't know what to do...”
At that moment, Safyre's familiar shriek echoed back to them. Cloudrunner and Alpenglow scrambled to get to her. They found her on the platform being menaced by Raincloud and Thunderbolt. Rain caught sight of Alpenglow and the others and cawed a challenege.
“I come with a message. Nightwing wants his brother back, unharmed. If you refuse to do what he says, he'll come with the whole flock and take him and the Blue female by force.”
Thunderbolt had separated Safyre from the other two males. She trembled violently as the larger male towered over her. He had been one of the ones who attacked her nest a few days ago, and she remembered him trying to force her out of the air. Raincloud stood between her flying partner and the two males in case they tried anything.
“You have an hour to give me your answer. If in that time you try to run us off by force, well...” She paused ad glanced back at Safyre who was being threateningly guarded by Thunderbolt. “Let's just say I don't recommend it.”
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Katrina Rix
Apprentice
Del pasado al presente, vivimos en un universo encantado.
Posts: 108
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Post by Katrina Rix on Mar 26, 2006 16:55:54 GMT -5
Alpenglow clacked his beak. He saw that some of the other skybax had gathered, called by the shriek... Including his father. Redrain was everything Alpenglow hoped to be in a couple of years - huge, powerful, and partnered with a master rider. There had been a class going on the far side of the landing pad, and a group of skybax, younger than Alpenglow, had heard the commotion. Redrain and his rider had been teaching. Now, they clustered at the other end from Alp and Cloud. Redrain and his rider exchanged glances, then Redrain moved forward alone. Alp lowered his head submissively to his father, and then Rus stalked past. The big saurian was rumbling hostilely, deep in his chest. Redrain cast a warning glance at his son, then at young Cloudrunner, who looked ready to explode. Both stood down. Rus stopped, about two meters from the confrontation. "I suggest you let our guest go," Redrain said, softly. "The injured skybax won't be going anywhere soon. He can't fly," Cloudrunner added. "Maybe in a few days." Rus watched, his eyes revealing little of his emotions. The big theropod gaped his mouth, revealing teeth like a crocodile's - sharp and deadly. Alpenglow inched away from Rus. If anything went wrong, he needed room to take off. Rus's long, flexible tail switched back and forth. The theropod looked almost sleepy and relaxed, but he was on a hair trigger. Rus took his guest obligations seriously. He looked impassive. Rus, unlike Brightfeather, understood the language of the skybax and knew what was going on. He didn't like it. Only a very reckless creature would consider an attack on the rookery, where the strength of the riders was clustered. Redrain looked warningly at Rus, who slowly shut his mouth. "What do you hope to accomplish with threats and bullying? Your friend is being treated for his injuries. We extend to all the same consideration. Soon he will be ready to join you again. Coming in full of bluster impresses no one, nor will it gain you anything." Redrain paused and looked at the sky. It had been clear a while ago, but now the clouds were gathering in the west. His sensitive nose picked up the smell of wet dirt in the distance. "You are welcomed to Canyon City and the rookery. Nasty weather will be coming soon, and we would be pleased to offer you haven from the storm." Redrain's tone was even and pleasant. Alpenglow stared at his father, aghast. Then he lowered his head further. Redrain was capable of attacking, and probably beating, either of the strangers, especially with superior numbers and Rus, who could break a skybax's wings with ease. Instead, he chose the Dinotopian way of friendship and harmony. Alpenglow was ashamed of himself suddenly. He had a long way to go before he was as adult as his father. Cloudrunner looked downright murderous. ***** Brightfeather was glad to see her charge up and moving again. She bore the touch with patience. At least someone wasn't picking her up! She bounced over to inspect his wing. It was swollen, but she knew that would decrease, and it wouldn't be long before he was in the air. In fact, he'd probably be flying before Safyre. She exchanged a glance with Thunderhead. The older skybax left the barn, pausing for a friendly coo at Gavyn and Shazrad. Shazrad took a deep breath. "You'll be glad to know the children your big friend attacked are fine... No, I'm sorry. I owe you thanks, not recriminations. We need to know why your flock attacked our riders and skybax, not to mention Safyre." Brightfeather wasn't really interested in the exchange. She darted over to a scut of water, hopped on the rim, and perched there lightly. She balanced carefully and leaned over to scoop up some water. Her eyes closed and the feathers on her throat flickered as she tilted her head up and swallowed. It was good and cooling. Her body felt better for it.
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Kiva
Apprentice
Self-proclaimed Ninja Mistress... with cat ears...
Posts: 171
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Post by Kiva on Mar 26, 2006 23:29:50 GMT -5
Raincloud barked in laughter. “Don't blame us, old man, we're just the messengers; simply following orders and doing what we're told.” Alpenglow hissed at her disrespectful tone, but another warning glance from his father shut him up.
“No one blames you for anything. We simply don't like anyone coming here and bullying our guests,” Redrain replied, his tone still impassive.
“I wouldn't call it bullying; so much as insurance that our message would be made clear, and that we wouldn't be run through by impetuous hatchlings,” Raincloud continued, her final remark being directed at Alp and Cloud.
“Then you meant the blue one no harm?”
“Nothing as long as none was meant to us. So, may I take the message back that Stratus will return to us when he's healed?” Redrain nodded.
“It's his choice to make, although I do wish that you would leave us 'civilized' beings alone.”
Raincloud flapped her wings and hovered above them. “Frankly I do too, old man. The fact that I've had to deal with these humans here already sickens me, but if Nightwing wants to wage war on the human race and you Rider Skybaxes that side with them, that's his business. I'd rather have nothing more to do with you all, but orders are orders. Let's go, Thunderbolt. Our mission here is done.”
Thunderbolt nodded and turned back to Safyre. “Nightwing wanted me to remind you about your promise. Remember, your friends are safe as long as you keep your word.” Safyre nodded, mutely, and watched as Thunderbolt took off.
She looked around at the crowd that had gathered, all staring at her. Redrain spoke first. “I believe you have something to explain, my dear.” Safyre nodded, but couldn't seem to find the words to speak. Redrain looked so imposing, and the crowd so large, Safyre could not speak even if she wanted to. Surprisingly, Firefly stepped forward, dipping his head submissively to the Master Skybax.
“Umm... Redrain? I was there with Safyre and Nightwing. I can explain the whole situation.” Redrain and the others listened as Firefly recounted the incident on the plateaus and the deal Safyre had made with Nightwing, exchanging her life for Firefly's, in order to ensure his and the other Rookery member's safety. If Safyre went with Nightwing when he came for her, the Untamed would leave them alone forever.
Firefly finished and stepped back to his place. Safyre couldn't make eye contact with anyone as she waited for their response.
---,--'--(@
Stratus sighed and shifted his weight, still trying to get comfortable. “What my brother does is his business, and to cross him would be fool-hardy.”
“But why is he out to make so much trouble?” Gavyn asked, adjusting his grip on Shaz's waist. Frankly, it was hard for him to concentrate when she was so near him like this, but he managed somehow. He helped her over to a bale of hay and she sat down. He remained standing, however, just in case...
“Nightwing was not always this way, nor was that always his name. Before I hatched, my brother actually had a different name and a Rider. His relationship with his partner was not what you have now,” he replied, seeming to focus more on Shaz than the healer. “His partner did not care for Nightwing and forced my brother into dangerous missions that were beyond his ability to handle. On one of these missions, my brother was injured. His partner was punished for the action and he blamed Nightwing because of it. He neglected Nightwing more and more until he quit this academy, leaving Nightwing to fend for himself.”
“During that time, the seed of Bitterness had taken root in my brother's heart, and he swore that he'd have his revenge on the one that hurt him. He found others like him who'd suffered mistreatment or abuse at some point and took them under his wing; thus the Untamed were born.”
He looked at the two humans. “I tell you this, not to justify his actions, but to show you what incidences led him to this.” He yawned. “Now if you'll excuse me, I am tired and would like to rest. If there is more you wish to speak on, it will have to be later.” With that, he tucked his head beneath his wing, signifying that the conversation was at an end.
At that moment, a clap of thunder sounded and rain fell in torrents. Gavyn walked over to the doorway and looked outside. “Well, unless you want to get drenched and catch a cold or something, we're stuck here in this part of the barn until it's over.” Gavyn had given orders that this small wing of the Barn was off-limits to other 'Baxes and their partners until Stratus was better and able to be moved. Indeed, apart from Stratus and Brightfeather, they were the only other occupants.
Shaz managed to get to her feet and tried to walk over to see how bad the downpour was, but she tripped over a pile of hay would have fallen had Gavyn not turned around at that moment. She stumbled into him and he kept her from falling. Unwittingly, she was leaning heavily on him as she tried to regain her balance. Her hands were on his shoulders and his were on her waist, stabilizing her and keeping the weight off her foot while not hurting her ribs or back. Shaz looked up into his eyes and he grinned at the situation they found themselves in.
“Of course,” he said, a slight teasing tone to his voice, “I'm in no hurry to go anywhere...”
(OOC: Now we know why Nightwing is the way e is. But how will the others use this information? I'm intrigued to find out... )
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Post by Highsoar on Mar 27, 2006 0:49:13 GMT -5
Highsoar had gathered with the others, eating, after a bit. She was a little sore and needed to stretch her wings, plus she hadn't eaten in what she thought was too long. She ambled out to the area where the others were eating and joined in.
and had seen the apperance of the enemy Skybax. A short time after, she listened intently to the Skybax's story. Questions filled her mind. What had driven Highwind to joining them? Had he, too, been mistreated? She did not know all of his story, only that he, like Nightwing, had a rider at one point and had left the Academy. She decided to speak to the humans before they went back inside.
"They are brothers on one side. But for me it is not that way. I stay here, but Highwind flies with the Untamed, it was he who knocked me to the ground earlier. I do not know his reasons for his anger, but it pains me. I said I would not fight but he leaves me no choice and I must defend myself."
"Yet I naturally wish him no harm. I do not know what is to be done."
(ooc; i also figured out that I'm still learning about your chars and am not sure I'll get them right if I write them. I'm still getting to know them right now.)
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Katrina Rix
Apprentice
Del pasado al presente, vivimos en un universo encantado.
Posts: 108
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Post by Katrina Rix on Mar 27, 2006 0:52:57 GMT -5
Cloudrunner barked "Safyre, you're not going anywhere unless you want to!" Alpenglow nodded assent. Riders and their skybax were normally fearless, and this was no exception. Redrain turned his head to look at Safyre with one eye. "We won't let them harm you, as long as you wish our protection." The look in Redrain's eyes was suddenly very reminiscent of Alpenglow's. "If they're foolish enough to try an attack on the rookery, they'll regret it!" Rus snapped his jaws in agreement. Firefly nodded his assent, and, near the back of the group of youngsters, Swiftflight added her voice. Redrain looked up at the sky, noticing the grim, overcast look. "Still, it wasn't wise of them to neglect our offer of shelter. Come, let's get to the barn. We can discuss this further out of the rain." Safyre hurried in front of the group. She wasn't sure how to react to the offer of support from the others. Rus joined them, not intending to be left out of any plans. Redrain and Alp, however, lagged behind. "Hello, father," Alpenglow said softly. Redrain looked at his feckless son. "I'm proud of how you and Shazrad handled yourselves over the Amu to save David and Swiftflight. That was a nice piece of flying, and very quick thinking." Alpenglow stuttered, glowing from his father's praise. Redrain never said anything unless he meant it. Cloud caught Safyre. "Are you sure you're all right?" ***** Shazrad tightened her grasp on him. She kept half expecting the last few hours were just some sort of dream. It just seemed too good to be true, ankle and all. Shaz just hoped she didn't somehow blow it. "Nor am I," she said, meaning it with all her heart. Brightfeather sighed. Great. Human cutesy things. She considered trying to find Safyre, but the thought of how long it would take her feathers to dry out was a serious deterrent. Instead, she hopped up to a nice vantage point, high in the straw, and set herself to a serious, feather-by-feather preening session. It was exactly what she needed, and she soon began to feel better than she had since she'd begun her flight to the rookery. Her feathers looked it, too. The disheveled little feather ball became a sleek, avian dinosaur. Shazrad then turned her head to adress Highsoar. "We'll figure it out, sooner or later. In the meantime, come on into the barn, unless you want to get soaked." At that point, Gavyn yawned widely. Shazrad locked her arms around his neck. "What did I say about sleep?" she whispered. "How long is it since you've slept a full night, anyway?" "Oh," Gavyn responded, fighting off a second yawn, "since Safyre arrived, I think." Shazrad's eyes flew open, and she grinned up at him. "No doctor of mine gets to be in worse condition than I am. You deserve a nap, sirrah. Trust me, the straw's as nice as any bed, especially when you're tired." Gavyn opened his mouth, closed it, and finally nodded his head. They maneuvered over to one of the piles of straw. Gavyn reclined, and was surprised at how welcome the hay felt. It smelled sweet, and was surprisingly warm. Shazrad worked her way over to one of the corners and found a pole that would function as a cane. The rider stumped her way over to her saddle. She spared a regretful glance at it. How long would it be before she could fly again? Then she dug into one of the panniers, and fetched out her bag of emergency trail rations. It took her a little bit to make her way back to where Gavyn was laying. The black haired woman was surprised to see he had an eye open, watching her. "Just some food, if you're hungry," she explained, sitting gingerly beside him. "Some dried fruit and more trail bread then you could want. Alp loves it, but he's utterly mad."
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Post by Croco and Speedwing on Mar 27, 2006 1:15:45 GMT -5
((OOC: I think I've lost the roleplay, so just assume that Croco left the infirmary and went back to his quarters for the night...I'll bring him back when the time is right.))
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Kiva
Apprentice
Self-proclaimed Ninja Mistress... with cat ears...
Posts: 171
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Post by Kiva on Mar 27, 2006 23:47:59 GMT -5
It hurt Gavyn to see Shaz in so much pain. He wished that he could somehow take it all away, even trade places with her, but knew it simply wasn't possible. Still, it thrilled his heart to hear the emotions and feelings she felt towards him. He watched her move, openly scrutinizing her and taking in ever detail about her. Her strong, yet trim figure, the stunning blue-black hair, and the silvery eyes that had stopped his heart the first moment he looked into them. Even in her injured state, she was still beautiful.
But exhaustion tore at his mind and body. Shaz had been right in claiming that he needed sleep. When she returned with food, he smiled but waved it away. “I'm not hungry right now, but thank you.” They lapsed into silence and Gavyn closed his eyes. Shaz's soft voice broke the silence.
“Thank you...” she said. Gavyn's eyes opened and he looked up at her.
“For what?” he asked. Shaz shrugged, lightly.
“For... everything I guess...” She looked down at him and smiled. Leaning down she meant to kiss his cheek, but he turned his head at the last second and her lips met his. Her eyes widened and she pulled back, surprised at his audacity. He gave her a mischievous grin and leaned back, crossing his arms behind his head and closing his eyes once more.
---,--'--(@
Safyre nodded, absently. “I'm fine; just a little shaken is all.” She really wasn't in the mood to talk to anyone, but Cloud had seemed to want her attention in a different way. She knew that he was concerned for her, but there seemed to be more than that.
The group had entered the main barn area to hold their discussion, and Safyre took her place near the back. Cloud stood beside her, almost protectively, daring anyone to say anything about Safyre in any way. When Alp and Redrain appeared, Swiftflight timidly stepped forward.
“David and I were talking, Master Redrain, and we believe we may have made a discovery. It's not actual proof, but it's the most definite and plausible reason...”
“What is it, Swift?” Redrain asked, giving the young Skybax the hint to stop beating around the bush.
“You mentioned earlier that the two Untamed were foolish to leave with the threat of inclement weather looming. David and I believe that the reason may be because they are nesting closer to the Rookery than we think...”
(OOC: Not sure what to talk about there, but I figured this was a good opener. Run with this one Katrina, if you like, otherwise I'll write myself into a corner again.
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Katrina Rix
Apprentice
Del pasado al presente, vivimos en un universo encantado.
Posts: 108
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Post by Katrina Rix on Mar 28, 2006 10:36:09 GMT -5
Shazrad gnawed on a chunk of travel bread. It wasn't really so bad - a little tasteless, but palatable. Her attention was focused on Gavyn - the soft noise of his breathing, the faint warmth of his body beside hers, and the unbelievable fact that he felt the same way about her. She managed to finish off her full chunk, despite her dislike of the bland fare. The noise of others entering the barn caught her by surprise, but among the hum of voices, she heard Alp's caw.
Shaz pulled herself up, using the makeshift cane, and hobbled to greet her partner. Alp saw her as she entered the main section, and hurried to her side. The black haired woman flung her free arm around his neck, and Alp curled a wing around his hurt partner. For a second they clung together, relieved to have each other to rely on. The Shazrad stepped back. "Urk. You're soaked, and now I'm wet, too. Thanks a lot." She smiled. "Been behaving yourself, big guy?" Alpenglow cawed, expressing his doubt as to whether Shaz had been behaving herself. He could smell Gavyn on her, and the goofy grin on Shaz's face was worth a thousand convoluted explanations. She shoved affectionately at his beak. "I'll tell you all about it later, nanny."
The two proceeded to inspect each other. Alpenglow spread his wings, and Shaz checked for small rips, raw spots, or cracks. It wasn't uncommon to rub oil along the wings of skybax to keep them flexible and pliant. Shazrad noted, with a guilty lurch of her stomach, a red patch of sore skin. It was very small, but it reminded her that she hadn't been able to spend enough time with her partner lately. Alpenglow's head snaked to look over her shoulder, and she rubbed his crest with the hand that wasn't holding her cane. His damp fur was still healthy, though he would benefit from a good brushing. Perhaps, with the rain, she'd have time to take proper care of her partner. Alp, who always seemed to know what she was thinking, had already made his way over to the grooming station. Shazrad followed Alpenglow.
Brightfeather, refreshed by her toiletries and impelled by her perpetual curiosity, wandered out after the tall woman. She was surprised to see so many skybax - there were thirteen of the gigantic pterosaurs in the barn now, and ten humans. She bounced over to Safyre with a cheerful whistle, darting right between Cloudrunner's wings. Wet pterosaur wasn't a bad smell, though perhaps a little musky. Brightfeather, well-fed, watered, with plenty of sleep, was exuberant and vivacious.
Safyre cooed, showing Brightfeather that she still had the tail feather. Brightfeather cocked her head. Carrying it around seemed awfully inconvenient. She sprinted up to one of the humans, a short young woman with beaded brown hair. Brightfeather whistled to catch the human's attention, then tugged at her leg and dashed away. The feathered dromaesaurid stopped frequently, making sure the human was following her. The girl was curious. Brightfeather pointed at Safyre and the feather. It took a while, even miming making a braid, before the girl understood what Brightfeather wanted. Brightfeather burbled reassuringly at Safyre, who was nervous in the presence of a stranger. Cloudrunner arched his neck protectively, and Brightfeather chattered scoldingly at him. Eventually, the girl persuaded Safyre to let her touch her neck.
After that, it was quick work to find enough of the scraggly skybax fur on Safyre's neck to gather into a little ponytail and secure it with a bead. It was small, but expert hands managed to place the feather inside the little tuft of hair. A extra piece of fur served to tie the feather more securely. The girl stepped back and admired her handiwork. Brightfeather laughed cheerfully and indicated the girl's skybax, a handsome little female who had beads decorating much of her neck. All of them shared a chuckle.
Redrain's mind was on more serious matters. He shook himself, getting rid of some of the water, and turned to David and Swiftflight. David was helping Swiftflight dry off. "It's possible, but then they must have found a way to mask their scent if they're nesting right under our noses. It's more likely that they know of one of the many cliffs and niches to hide from the weather. Still, it might not be a bad idea to look for them near here."
Shazrad told Alpenglow everything as she brushed his fur. It was reassuring for both of them, and the slightly scratchy brush felt lovely on Alpenglow's skin. Eventually, she came to Nightwing's story. "Poor guy," Shaz whispered. Alpenglow nodded and exposed his chin for an itch. "I mean, he's still a jerk, but it makes me glad to have you." Alp whistled an assenting note. The usually close bond between rider and mount was very strong between Shaz and Alp. They understood and watched out for one another, and when they flew together, they worked as one flier with four eyes. Shazrad and Alpenglow looked in each other's eyes, then Shaz got the oil and started working on his wings.
Rus curled up in the corner and watched the scene. Some of the young riders, all around sixteen and fifteen, had started a game of tag. Their partners had joined in. Redrain and his rider were discussing, in quiet, urgent tones. Brightfeather was dancing around Safyre, while Cloudrunner, a step back, looked nervous. Alp was being pampered by Shazrad. All in all, it was idyllic. Rus's head followed the whirling dance of the young humans. His long tail was curled neatly around the rest of his body.
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