"Morning Melaniya. Zoran." A raspy voice said. Turning to the sound, Mel saw Avanir sit down with the two of them.

"Morning, Avanir. I take it that your morning has been relatively decent?" She asked, doing her best to smile at the new addition.

However, before Avanir had time to reply, Cedric approached the table. "Forgive me Mel, I don't mean to interrupt, but I'm gonna need one your boys this morning. If you could send one to meet me at the armory soon, I'd be much obliged." After his quick request, he left, most likely to prepare whatever needed to be done. Mel sighed, well wasn't she ever popular.

"Sorry guys, but I need to go find someone to do the job. Zoran, you can finish your breakfast. I'll find someone else." With a brief apologetic smile, she put away her dishes. Freya had enough to do these days.

Despite the sudden demand for a piece of Mel, the busy female hadn't gotten the chance to talk to anyone really. Oh well, that was the downside of having power.

After exiting the dining hall, she quickly spotted Kieran, but he wasn't exactly looking too competent at the moment. So Melaniya gave him a quick nod before heading out to find the only other person left, Nathair.

@Renny@Crazy Doctor@Athoriel@bluetommy2@taistelusopuli

Even in his human form, Kahgon commanded a powerful presence. Tall and lean, with muscles that rippled under his traditional, draconian style of wear that consisted of durable hide and rough cotton, which was represented by the colors of his tribe: charcoal and gold. His hair of blackened ashes were tightly bounded in rows of braids that ran parallel to each other, before intertwining into a singular pony-tail kept together by an ornate hair-piece that flowed like black flames in the wind. His angular face pierced his surroundings with a deathly, sharp gaze as he watched the recruits bramble about during first light as they try and get ready for their daily dose of morning drills. Kahgon was standing on top of a small hill that overlooked the training yard, using his crimson eyes to scout the men below. As the mount of the Guild's Battlemaster, the responsibility of training these bratty children had also befallen on Kahgon's shoulders.

Suddenly the dragon growled, lips pursing into a displeased snarl. With a heavy stomp of his armored greaves, Kahgon gave an ungodly roar that echoed down the slopes of the hill and traversed across the lands of Eclium. Below, terrified yelps of recruits could be heard followed by the frantic barking of orders from the squad leaders. In seconds, the group of men below began to march with a more refined and disciplined stature. Kahgon smirked, folding his arms and gave a satisfied nod to himself. He stood there for a few more minutes, alone and on top of a desolate hill, a silent and angry sentinel watching over his future riders as the rising sun burned with vigor behind his back.

---------------------------------------

Soon enough, hunger forced his ever-watching eyes to divert from this morning's unfortunate batch of recruits and gave them a small moment of privacy as Kahgon headed towards the cafeteria for some breakfast. While on his way, he noticed that the Guild itself was more lively than usual - messengers here and there, and orders could be heard barking from every corner of the Guild. It was then that he remembered what today was. Another kin would be joining their ranks, and they will be subjected under the Master himself, for that matter. "Huh. Was so used to this place being as dead as my own mother, too. So much for a quiet morning." Shrugging to himself, he rounded the corner just in time to see the Lady herself: First Rider Melaniya exiting the dining hall.

Melaniya's strong, and Kahgon himself had deemed her worthy of respect. The title of First Rider should not be taken lightly and he knows just how capable she was. So as they chanced upon each other, the dragon took a moment to give her a slight nod before going his way past her, not even bothering to give a second glance back. It seemed like she was on an order from the man himself, so he knew better than to impede her by asking about her feelings or if she was enjoying this morning's weather. Besides, Kahgon doesn't just greet anyone he sees. Melaniya should know his temperament by now.

So leaving her to her duties, Kahgon bursted into the dining hall while thumping loudly at his stomach with his fist. "Freya, my Queen! I knew my nose did not deceive me. Did you save any broth for your handsome and almighty King?" Kahgon chuckled, a deep rumbling in his thick chest. He took a seat next to Avanir, his rider, and gave his old friend a pat on the back before taking a loaf of bread and ripping it in half. Taking a bite, he turned to Avanir. "Dear Rider and friend, I hope you've consumed at least five bowl-fulls before I arrived. God knows you need some thickness to your frail frame." He glanced up at the rest of the company, giving them a mocking wink.

@Crazy Doctor @Knight of Doom @BytheSpleen

​Nathair kneeled towards the open window in his room, by his sturdy bed. The rising sun shone bright and warm on his face. His dark clothes and leather armor soaked the heat of the fiery Queen and relaxed his being. Nathair closed his eyes and rested his hands on his knees. Keeping his back straight and chin up he began his morning prayer. "Father of the Northern Coast, Mother of the Northern Sea, Guardians of the wind that is free..." Leaving the gray walls and ascetic furnishing behind the closed eyelids Nathair returned to the moment when the sun rose that winter morning, now more than a year ago, when he found his friend cold and motionless by his side.

Since his arrival to the Guild, he had tried to leave that moment to the past where it belongs but a brother is always a brother. Once the first rays of sunlight creeped into his room he had his clothes on and he left his room to exercise. He jogged to the castle wall and climbed on top of it. Then he ran. He ran as fast as he could if there was a roof or a surface in a jumping distance, he would jump. He ran around the castle dodging, evading, climbing regardless of obstacles that came to him. This was as close to the forest and mountains as he would get here. The ones in the distance were too far for a morning excersice.

He came to the watch tower, to the end of his run. He began climbing carefully but swiftly. He had come almost to the top when his left hand slipped from a small dent in a rock where he had is grip. A flash of a cannon ripped his mind for a moment. Quickly he clawed to the rock and his hand found a secure place. He was not going to fall yet. After a short breather an some extra hearbeats he kept climbing up.

Soon Nathair reached the roof of the tower. He stood up and looked towards North for a moment. "I won't fall again", he said and bowed his head for a moment. After a short moment of reverent silence he sharply lifted his head towards the horizon again and took two steps back to the edge of the roof. Nathair closed his eyes and leaned back. He was in air only for a short moment but that was when he felt alive. His past distanced itself from him rapidly. His home, his friend, his love, all that died or burned that winter in that small village stayed on that roof with the sunrise.

"...keep me safe and my wings strong. This, is what I pray." Nathair opened his eyes and stood up when a sharp knock on the door pulled him back to the room right before he fell to the haystack. This knock, didn't wait to be allowed in. He turned around and greeted, "Ma'm", with a nod when the door opened. "How can I serve this morning?" @Knight of Doom

With a lot of interest the small female dragon, currently in human form, also small, stared at the new arrival from a fair distance. It looked like Thora would get another dragon to "play" with. Already the thoughts of things she could do elicited a small snicker from her. Still, Thora decided to leave the new dragon alone for a while as she knew how pissy one will get when delivered to this guild. Especially when captured and brought here by hunters. Oh, the humility of that she could only imagine having more or less voluntarily chosen "unpaid employment", as Thora liked to call it, in this guild. Of course her previous master and breeder received a generous enough payment to get her off his hand. She had only been trouble for him, so she heard, so he was pretty happy in the end to get rid of Trickster Thora.

Thora's thoughts got back on track as she walked back to the main building to pick up some food. Of course she'D welcome the new dragon with a nice welcoming prank, but that had to wait for a while, she reckoned. "I'd be a terrible dragon if I ruined her first day...", she mumbled aloud, but she smirked after that. But I can ruin her second day... She chuckled at that thought. Oh, it's gonna be great!

As she entered the dining hall, she spotted her rider, Zoran peacefully eating with some other riders and dragons. A broad smile spread across her face as she slowly sneaked up on them and right behind them broke out into snickers her face contorted into a smirking grimace.
"Kukukukukukuku!"

(@Whoever is in the cafeteria and close to @Renny)

The earth rolled by under, like the spine of a great verdant dragon. Sid flew between it and the cotton bud clouds that blanketed the sky. The only hint of his motion was the constant hum of moving air and the small clouds that ran past his vision.

For a dragon there was no other place as natural as being in flight, no greater freedom. This was something all dragon’s understood at least instinctively. For Sind it was a constant reminder of what could be, if only he knew how. He often pondered how humans, as powerful as they were, never learned how to fly, or how to grow wings. It was strange how they were so strong yet at the same time so weak. It was a puzzle that intrigued him greatly…

He sensed the warm currents of a thermal a little ways of to the east, he banked gently to ensure that his path connected with it. He felt the warm air caress his feathers as he caught the thermal, and began a smooth ascent. As he pierced the cloud cover his vision was surrounded by the grey of clouds, and his nostrils overflowed with scent of fresh moisture of morning cloud.

Then suddenly he broke past, and into a world of light and warmth. The radiant sun bathed him in its warmth, its gold rays causing his cobalt scales to glitter and his feathers to shine iridescent. His feathers shone like they were happy. Sind was most definitely happy.

As he noticed the position of the sun, he decided that it was time to go back. His rider, Mel had probably just finished her morning training. So drawing his wings close to his flank he dove back into the sea of clouds below him. It was time to sprint back to guild, test how much he could push himself. It was something he did every day, see how fast, how long he could go.

Time had moved past the heart of morning by the time Sind reached the guild. Unfortunately he was slower today than usual, mostly due to a stronger than usual head wind. He banked until he spotted the grounds, with their soft sands to ease landing. It was normal landing without much fuss, which meant it was good one. Drawing his wings, legs, tail almost inwards but in a direction he couldn’t quite see. Soon enough he was a human, all limbs and no wings.

Now to look for Melaniya, at this time the best place to search was the dining hall. If he was quick enough he’d be able to catch her just before she left. So jogging into the guild he made headway to the dining hall. Lo and behold he found her two thirds of the way down.

“Good morning to you rider, how went your training eh? Good or great?! Cause my morning flight terrific!” he said, his sunny demeanor breaking through his usual timidness. Most probably the comfort he shared with his rider.

Then he noticed Nathair, causing him to quickly revert back to his timid demeanor. "Oh u-um good morning, sir...." he said his eyes downcast.

@taistelusopuli@Knight of Doom

Calahna shook her head once more at the black and red dragon, wondering how she could possibly think it am using to see someone choke was mind boggling to her. Calahna was a more gentle dragon; She believed that all beings should be treated with respect, and kindness- at least until they no longer deserved it. Even though, Calahna does not let herself sink down to the level of those who are rude to her.
As Calahna tidied the kitchen as best she could, she could hear a booming and powerful voice erupt from the dinning hall. She sighed, as she heard the voice call for Freya.
"Please, excuse me Danzenth... I must tend Kahgon."

After gathering the same mush that everyone else was eating, Calahna swiftly came to Kahgon's side. "I'm afraid Freya is rather busy to tend to you herself," She placed the tray of food in front of Kahgon, straightening herself with her hands intertwined, she looked to the others at the table. "Would anyone like anything else?" She awaited patiently for any answer from the others at the table.

@tatszico@PyroDash888@Renny@Crazy Doctor

The new dragon was spectacular. Spines dotted the length of its back, bisected with dark stripes that gave way to violet hues at the tips of its appendages. From each claw grew an enormous spike, seemingly capable of piercing right through an armored soldier. It was the dragon's temperament that was the icing on the cake: prideful, aggressive, defiant. A dragon's personality said many things about its deadliness - having talons may be one thing, but the gall to rip out throats is another.
From the window of her office, Damiana watched as the new arrival was stripped of its bonds, and Sigil came to announce his place in the dragon-rider hierarchy. She'd woken up particularly early to get a glimpse of the dragon's arrival, and for sake of privacy. As she admired the dragon, her hand danced across a slip of parchment, forming a concise note.

New dragon arrived this morning. Female. Lively, untamed, dangerous. Abilities yet to be revealed. Rider is to be Guildmaster Sigil Cloudfury. Identifiable by severe claw spikes, purple coloration and black stripes.

The Ambrosian folded and sealed the note, affixing it to the heel of the carrier pigeon on the windowframe.
"Fly," she commanded, giving it a guiding toss into the air. The bird unfurled its wings and soared away from the White Dove's keep, message in tow. So far, her communications from the guild had yet to be discovered. This was a reliable way of keeping her associates updated on its activities.
With her errand out of the way, Damiana stood from her desk and draped her cape over her shoulder. She was dressed in a wine-red doublet with gold embroidering and leather trousers tucked into tall riding boots. Though her duties here demanded a different style of attire than the Ambrosian courts did, Damiana did not shrink when it came to quality.
The ambassador locked the door of her office behind her, making her way through the fort's halls to the dining hall, which was already lively with a handful of the guild's riders and dragons.

There was a familiar sensation as the dragon's will entered his mind. At her words - harsh, threatening, and utterly defiant - Sig could not help a small curve at the corners of his mouth, a faint smile. A proud dragon was always the fiercest. Beasts that had spent too long in captivity became cognate to their human masters, dulling their killer instinct. That was the most valuable part of a dragon. Mankind was simply weak.

Sig turned and walked, moving toward the far side of the cluster of guild facilities. As he walked, he stayed close to the dark dragon which stalked after him. He could weather a swipe from a claw, his armor would take the brunt of the blow. But a full-bore stream of dragonfire found cracks in even the tightest armor, melting flesh and bone alike. It was always safer close to a dragon than it was far away - too tight of an angle, and their fire would be near useless.

Concentrating on the stream of consciousness that had entered his mind, Sig formed a mental connection with the dark dragon.

"You belong to me now," he said aloud. "No other. You will remain by my side at all times, and you will address me as 'Master'. You will hold no other rider before me. If you have a name, discard it. From now on, you are simply my possession, to obey my every command."

In his mind, Sig sent another message. I do not care where your allegiances lie, nor what you think of me. You can call me what you wish, as long as you take heed of my instructions. I am known as Sigil, and I am the leader here.

A bird took flight from one of the keep's windows, interrupting his thoughts. The Melchiorre woman's rooms. A pigeon could contain messages of any nature. Sig did not censor his mercenaries' letters. He was not careless enough to leave his secrets about for a defector to stumble upon. While the noble newcomer did seem a tad too big for the small pond in which she now found herself, she did not seem suspicious, and Sig chalked her demeanor up to simple ambition. As long as she proved herself useful to him, the rest did not matter.

He returned his attention to the dragon. "If you fail to be of service to me, you will be destroyed."

I do not wish to harm you, but I must know your loyalty is with me. In order to achieve our goals, everyone in the White Dove must be of one mind. I will not bar any method of forcing your cooperation.

Between several tall structures, the two approached a giant celelyrium gate. Sig whistled, motioning upward with his hand, and several men posted nearby started moving. The gate lifted slowly and smoothly off the ground, accompanied by a symphony of clicks and creaks. The opening beckoned entrance into the Dome, a massive enclosure and the only place in the guild in which dragons were allowed to fly.

Follow me inside, Sig thought at the dragon as he turned to look at her. What is your name?

@Ambra

The human was utmost... curious. She expected him to be oppressive on the spot, and it frustrated her; if he had been more cold, more brutal with her, then she would have the right to roast him alive. But, other than the object with the sharp prongs around his waist, he did not flourish or prod her with any weapons made of that celelyrium garbage. Nyx narrowed her eyes, her scaled lips twisting into a frown as the human reached out towards her mind, as well. The words that he spoke via telepathy completely counteracted the words that escaped his lips. She supposed that he was the riders' leader, and bearing such a title meant that he probably shouldn't be very soft with her. Yet the dark-scaled dragon did not find comfort within his words. She still wanted to tear him to shreds and burn the unholy place down, fighting any brethren that protected the place.

The man's name was Sigil, or so he said. Nyx was surprised that he had gone so far as to state his name. It was the first time that they met and he chose to confide in her with his identity. The beast simply snorted out puffs of smoke as she growled and glowered at him. Perhaps it would be best to listen... for the time being. If she fought him here, the other humans and their traitorous mounts would be upon her within a heartbeat. There was a slight pause as the man looked upwards, and she too, inclined her head to see what had caught his attention. It was a bird escaping a spire, batting its wings as it soared into the distance. What she wouldn't give to be that small fowl. If she decided to fly about here, she would be grounded... most likely for a long while.

He continued to spout nonsense about loyalty, saying that the 'White Dove' had to have a similar mindset in order to strive for their goals. The dragoness couldn't help but scoff at him. 'You take me from my home and kill my family, and now you ask that I be loyal to you? You must have the brains of a squirrel,' she spat at him, swishing her tail in disbelief. He couldn't be serious. But she remained quiet after that, doing as he wished and stepping into the large cage that the humans had built. Nyx craned her head as she swept the area with her violet oculars, baring her teeth slightly. This time, she did not reach out towards Sigil with her mind. This is like a cage. They have taken me out of one enclosure and placed me in another.

The Guildmaster asked for her name, and blinking, she turned towards him. 'What is the use of asking for my name? You are likely to replace it with a pet name, like the filthy beings you are,' Nyx snarled, looking away from the dark-haired human. 'But if you must know it, I was called Nyx by my kind.'

Her heart gave a painful lurch as she remembered how her father and mother were struck down before her very eyes. They were unwanted by the humans, who stated that they were "too old" to be used. But Nyx refused to falter in the presence of a human; her face became deadpanned as she looked away, shuffling her wings slightly.

'You stated that this "guild" of yours had goals. Perhaps it would be easier for me to... "cooperate" if I knew them.'

@Tancuras

Zoran smiled at the First Rider and shook his head. “None at all. I’ve been distracted recently, I apologize,” though he made sure to show the utmost respect to her, with a slight bow and closed eyes, he also couldn’t help sharing a glance at her beauty.

When the other approached, he greet them each with a mute wave of his hand. The last character to approach though had held a special connection with him. The small laughter that danced on his head placed an irritated smile on his face. He reached behind him and touched her head with a tender hand. He could do this much thanks to her size, any bigger and he’d have be cold and wary of her every move.

“Nice to see ya, Thora. Do try and be a bit less obnoxious today. We’re in the presence of other Riders, including the First.” he pointed out, rubbing her hair as if she was his charge.

@PyroDash888

Avanir looked up at Kahgon. “Ones enough. You know I cant eat five bowls. If we do we’ll eat the Guild out of business. Plus I’ve got to run around and protect you remember. You know coz your so fat from the food and cant move.” He laughed showing it was in jest as Kahgon sat down opposite him. The laugh transforming his face from dark and haunted to normal, but it soon returned to its natural look. He waited until Kahgon got his food before speakingWhile waiting he turned to Zoran and spoke. “How’s your training going. Are you still practising with your katana everyday?” Avanir’s face showed there would be only one right answer for him. “Come practise one day. I’ll help with any faults you’ve got.”
Avanir saw Calahna serve Kahgon so started up his conversation with him. “The new recruits?” He didn’t elaborate, he knew Kahgon would understand his meaning. He wanted a report on how the recruits were going. What was the groups like, and who needed to leave. As he listened he leaned back in his chair, nodding. “Any true warriors? Or they just the normal bunch of jumped-up shits looking for glory.” Avanir nodded at Kahgon’s response. “And the new dragon? What type? How will it fair here? Freedom or captive?” After talking about the new dragon the two of them discussed training recruits and when to practise in the afternoon. While they were talking Thora came behind Zoran and snickered, the sound of her laughter making Avanir’s hand instinctively touch the hilt of his dagger. Sighing at his reaction he shook his head before carrying on eating and talking. As he finished his breakfast Avanir got up and handed his bowl to a passing server. “I better go. I want to see this new dragon. Kahgon, Zoran, Thora.” He nodded once at all of them before he left the hall, sliding between the tables and chairs with unnatural grace born from years of dodging sword strokes. As he opened the door he came face to face with Damiana. He nodded to her then brushed past walking.

Avanir passed some new trainees but didn’t bother them yet. Not until the second bell rang indicating the start of training would he start there training. He unsheathed his long dagger from its sheath and spun it gently in his hand. As he made his way towards the dome he spotted a tree a few metres to his right. Without slowing his walking pace he flicked the dagger quickly. He watched it as it spun and lodged into the wood, the blade quivering in the bark. Altering his course to yank the blade out, he carried on his path towards the tall dome.

Avanir stopped. His eyes blinked rapidly as his grip on the dagger tightened so his hand was white. Collapsing to his knees, he bent over and roared. Pain, anger and sadness all expressed in an unearthly roar that tore at his throat. He stabbed the dagger into the ground, and writhed on the ground. His free hand curled up the dirt, the dmap earth squeezing between his fingers. As the wave of pain rolled over him and dissipated he opened his eyes slowly. Avanir rolled back onto his knees and panted as he looked around. A few people were staring at him or moving towards him but he waved them away with a earth stained hand. Snatching his dagger from the dirt he got to his feet and staggered slowly towards the dome. The only difference from before the attack was the small tear rolling down his face. He dashed it away and wiped the dirty blade on his trousers before sheathing it. He was always angry after an ‘attack.’ Storming off, Avanir went closer to the dome. He could see Sigil and the new dragon entering, under the gate, as he watched through the wrought iron and Celelyrium bars. He wanted to see the dragon in action. Sighing he kneeled in the dry dirt and watched.

@tatszico@Renny@PyroDash888
@PajkaNight
@Aristo
@Ambra@Tancuras

Melaniya crossed paths with Kahgon. He gave a slight nod in her direction. The brutish dragon was picky about who he respected, which was understandable. Not giving out respect made the respect that was given all the more valuable. Earning Kahgon's acceptance was a considerable achievement for Mel. However, their personalities didn't particularly mesh too well, unless the topic was training.

Finally after searching through the guild, Melaniya was able to locate the rider she was looking for. The First Rider knocked before opening the door a bit unceremoniously. She really didn't want to keep Cedric waiting for too long.

"Ma'm", Naithair nodded, "How can I serve this morning?"

"I need you to assist Cedric, he's waiting for you in the armory," She demanded. There was no need to waste anymore time. The busy girl then turned around to head down and find Sind.

Halfway down the staircase, she ran into her mount. Well, speak of the devil and he shall appear. Instantly, the dragon perked up and asked her about the rider's morning. “Good morning to you rider, how went your training eh? Good or great?! Cause my morning flight terrific!” But in an instant, his eyes shifted to something behind her and he deflated. "Oh u-um good morning, sir...." He muttered. Turning to see what had caused her partner's sudden change in mood, she saw Nathair. He had been headed in the same direction as she.

Oh. That made sense. Sind always has been a bit awkward around others. Giving a soft smile at her realization, the female rider turned back to her dragon. "My morning exercise went wonderfully. Have you eaten breakfast yet? I'd like to get some practice together as soon as possible." She replied.

@tatszico@taistelusopuli@Grimoire

@RainDash@tatszico

To behave as though a fledgling would, Dazneth, would be inviting scorn and punishment to your way. As your rider has urged thee, I'd rather not see more Celelyrium embedded into your hands and feet for the last ruse you made. It's a pain that no one, dragon or man, should suffer. I'd gladly take the punishment in your stead, but the Riders are insistent to discipline you regardless of how many scales blockade their path. I cannot help you if you go that far, unfortunately. Will you do me kindness and heed me for once?

Freya was soon sweeping off bits of bread crumbs here and there, before she procured a bucket filled to the brim with steaming-hot water. After ushering any diners out of their tables, she began to splash on lye onto each table, and scrubbed with a massive broom. One more rinse, and now the tables were clean again for the month. Thirty days later would require the same treatment, for there were always feasts to be had.

Kahgon, if you could ever hope to consider me to be your Queen, you'd have to lay me more than thrice over. If you'd have the mind to consider that I am no longer capable of mothering my own broods, you'll find even the most forcible of methods will bear no fruit. Now run along, goat. This mare's been spent.

@BytheSpleen @Crazy Doctor

Daz let out a growl at Freya's comment. "I know my battles, Freya. I won't let you take any punishment for me, because I know I can take it. Freya, you just keep appeasing the humans and I hope that you are happier in the next life. Tell Kahgon that the only thing he is king of is his imaginary hill."

With that, Daz was gone. She decided to maybe not pester a human right now, maybe later though. If she remembered. She skittered around the hallways, blasting anyone out of her way if they didn't move first. Ultimately, she made her way to the Dome, to try and see what the big, ugly human was going to do next. He had a new dragon and Daz wanted to see who it was. Curiosity would probably be her downfall one of these days, but for now she couldn't resist. On her way, she saw another human fall over and get back up.

Was it a holiday where humans kissed the dirt under their feet? Daz wondered. She moved right next to the weird man and stared at him. He didn't look drunk, like the other human she'd seen earlier. She even sniffed him to make sure. After she finished checking all this, she outright asked him.

"Are you drunk? You fell over back there. Humans don't fall over often, so are you drunk? If so can I have some?" she asked, politely respecting his personal space this time. Her head tilted this way and that much like a bird's, trying to make it apparent that she was curious. Humans seemed to always be confused about her emotions when she didn't make it clear for them, so she tried to for this weird, possibly drunk, human.

Kahgon chuckled at the returned jab made by his rider, nodding gently. Being partners for so long, Kahgon knew somewhat about Avanir's...condition. And even though the dragon himself feels no obligation to tend to the well-beings of his captors, Av had proven himself to be what they would call a friend, though he himself would never admit that. Still, as with overseeing the training of the worthless band of younglings, it was also his responsibility to tend to the well-being of his Rider. It was a good sign that Avanir was in moderate health this morning. At least, for now.

Right as he swallowed the rest of his bread, Calahna swooped in before him with a tray of fresh food. Kahgon gave a small curl to his lips, thanking the young dragoness with what would be an appreciative smile, though it may not look like it to others due to his very intimidating factors. But brutish and disciplined as he may be, it does not mean that he is uncompassionate.

Turning back to Av, the two began to talk about the fresh batch of cowardly sheep that they were tasked to turn into deadly warriors of the Heavens. "Eh. Nothing but a bunch of useless sacks of meat, waving around their little play-things of brittle iron. They think they are destined to become warriors but little do they know, they are like fresh babes still suckling on their mother's tit." Kahgon gave a low growl as he gently spooned in mouthfuls of broth, politely wiping his lips with a folded napkin with each bite. For a dragon, he was quite hygienic and clean. After all, a respected former war general should have both insurmountable fortitude and impeccable professionalism. "But there's nothing that you and I can't do about it. We'll break them and reforge them in dragon-fire. Same as what we always do."

Minutes later, his Rider had finished his meal and dismissed himself. Kahgon himself was still quite hungry, so as he pushed his empty bowl away, he grabbed another loaf of bread to idly chew on. It was then that Freya presented herself with a quick quip of her own in retaliation to his earlier mockings. So she must've still heard him despite being occupied with another matter. Intuitive as ever. Kahgon gave a small bark of laughter as he responded, "Dear Freya, know that your stinging words are only heeded by me as a mere challenge. Do not tempt me further, as I will undoubtedly take you thrice over, and more." Kahgon gave her a soft and teasing grin before finishing off his meal. Deep inside, he mourned for her shattered mind. Freya was one of the many examples of the unrest that Kahgon has harbored against the humans, with an exception of Av and the other White Doves. No matter how lavishly he was living at the moment, one thing still remained true of this world - he and his kind were merely captives and are only to be used as tools.

But the Freya he knows now seems content with her adapted life and for that, he was grateful. As long as she was in no pain, 'broken' or not. To him now, she was just as 'normal' as they all were. And so with a final wipe to his mouth, he threw the napkin on the table and stood up. Cocking his neck side-to-side to pop his stiff joint, Kahgon gave a grunt of a farewell and made way from the cafeteria. Second-bell was to be rung soon, and he would like to meet up with Avanir to discuss today's training regiment. Remembering that his Rider wanted to see Sigmund's new steed, the sinewy dragon proceeded to the Dome.

But as he rounded the corner, he accidentally bumped into a passerby. He gave a rough growl of surprise, sharply taking a step back. It was then that he noticed that he ran into Damiana Melchiorre. "Ah." He gave a small sniff, eyeing her up and down. "Forgive me, Rider. I did not see you there, and did not intend to disrupt you from your way."

To Kahgon, she was quite a strange one. Normally, he would have instantly abhorred her just from her background itself. Nobility tend to treat his kind with the most animosity, and in turn, he had vowed to kill them all should he be given the chance. But from Damiana, there was no sense of that innate hostility, and there was also the fact that she was a Rider of the White Dove ; essentially, she was considered his ally if anything at all. Still, he cannot shake the fact that she was covered with a thick stench of mystery that unnerved him. Indeed, he was wary of her.

"You might want to hurry up though. Looks like breakfast is getting cold." And with that, Kahgon gave a polite step to the side, and was again on his way to the Dome.

@Crazy Doctor@PajkaNight@BytheSpleen@Aristo

​Nathair nodded at Melanya [@King of Doom] as a sign that her command had been heard. During his short time with the Guild, he had understood that Melanya was not a woman of long exchanges when she was giving commands. I might bother some, but not him. Where he came from, work was work and other things had to wait until after work. At some other time, at some other place and position he might've actually attempted to have a chat but not now. He had been given a task to do.

Before heading out Nathair turned back to the window and closed it. "See you later", he said to the scenerey at the mountains in the distance. He took his kampilan from the rack on the night table by the window and put to it's sheath. Then he took the karambits and strapped them to his thighs. Without delaying any more he headed towards the armory where Cedric @Athoriel was expecting him.

The stone walls and simple pillars echoed his steps as he paced towards the armory. The breakfast was already over so he would have to grab something if he had time or wait for lunch. Both were fine for him. He reached Melanya in the stairs towards the dining hall and was Sind @Grimoire talking to her. Nathair can come across as hard and cold because of his sharper facial features. Especially now days because of his general gloomy being. No wonder Sind went silent and drew back, given his timid nature. That was not what he in his heart wants. As Nathair passed the two he pulled a friendly smile on his face. "Ma'm, Sind", said briefly as he nodded.

Nathair paced down the stairs and swinged into the armory. As he opened the heavy door, he notified Cedric @Athoriel of his prescence. "Sir First Sword", said he, "I was to help you with something."

Cedric looked down the edge of his blade, oil cloth in hand, it held a few nicks on its sharp edge from use, but nothing too serious to warrant a reforging. The heavy doors behind him swung open with a creak that broke the silence of his careful observation. He tossed the oil cloth onto the bench beside him, turning around to face the newcomer, before slamming his sword into his scabbard. He was met with a sharp-featured man, dark haired and with a reasonably easy demeanor about him.

"With me Rider." He commanded, beckoning with a free hand as he moved toward the back of the armory, swiping a ring of keys he had left hanging on the spike of a war hammer. He slowly shifted through the series of keys, flicking past the ones he had no need of til he came to a worn looking piece of iron, placing it betwixt his thumb and fore finger as he regained his former pace toward their destination.

"I dispatched another member to relay orders at the domes gate." He explained over his shoulder. "They're to let no one enter, other than the Guild Master or myself. You are to accompany me in a small delivery, nothing glamorous, just some heavy lifting." He continued sliding the iron key into the lock of a celelyrium coated door that stood twice his height. He gave a sharp twist and the lock turned with a thunk, he gave a slight sigh and then put his shoulder into it, giving a strained grunt as he pushed the door open, a loud scraping of metal on stone echoed through the armory as he did so.

"Pass us that torch." He requested in a soft tone, gesturing to the sconce on the stone pillar just behind them, trying to not come off as some demanding asshole. He then extended a hand to accept the torch, giving a nod of thanks as he did so, before plunging it forward into the darkness, illuminating the rows of shelves that held each riders saddle. Carefully he lit up the torches along their path til they came to the shelf at the back, somewhat bare, but for the single saddle that occupied it. A simply ornamented saddle, timeworn yet clearly cared for, gleamed by the light of the torch. Cedric placed the torch in the empty sconce beside it and looked it over with some admiration, sliding a hand along the polished contours of its design til it found it's way underneath it with a firm hold.

"And now we have to haul this heavy bastard to the dome." He said with a grimace. "Don't worry, the doors are open, and there's a cart waiting for us." He added reassuringly, placing is other hand on the saddle as he waited for the recruit to make a move.

@taistelusopuli

Thora looked absolutely unamused at the rubbing of her hair she received and grumpily batted away the hand of her rider. "Just because I'm small doesn't mean you can treat me like a kid...", she declared rather annoyed and pouted. "Also, I don't actually care who's here or not, they're just humans like you. Why should I care about something like ranks? I obey you because I like you, if I didn't I'd cause a lot more trouble for you." Thora grinned her irresistibly cheeky grin showing her sharp canines. As she sat down on the chair right next to Zoran, she tapped his shoulder and nodded approvingly. "You're cool, though, no worries." She grabbed a random bowl and started munching on its content with delight.
"Ah, yes!", she suddenly exclaimed while still chewing, "If you got time, we should do some flying today together. Well... if we're allowed to anyway." She gulped down. "I saw the new dragon arrive couple of minutes ago."

@Renny

The Dome's eastern gate fell heavily behind them, throwing up sand and dust. Sig walked on, leading the dragon known as Nyx deeper into the complex. The Dome surrounded a huge section of the guild, enveloping many of its buildings, a perfect cage for dragon slaves to flutter about in while they fulfilled their duties. But it served a second purpose: the Dome was a bulwark against rival dragon riders and other dragons alike, forcing them out of the sky. The guild was nearly impenetrable when fully manned.

Our goals, he said to Nyx through telepathy. They are many, and perhaps one day I will share them with you. For now, they only thing you need to know is that we seek the Fallen Stars. Sig stopped, turning his gaze to meet Nyx's eyes. That is why I would like these tests to be concluded shortly. There will be another campaign soon, and I need your cooperation. It is best for both of us if you fulfill what I ask of you without hesitation.

Still deeper they walked. Sig did not give Nyx a chance to speak. He would not, until she had passed her first test.

The Guildmaster finally stopped before a small windowless building. Its exterior was old sun-bleached stone, but a large gate of celelyrium was build in the front wall. At their approach, the sound of steel scraping stone could be heard within, but not even the harsh Solisian sun could pierce the darkness that hid inside.

"This is your first test," Sig said, unlocking the gate and heaving it aside. From within the darkness there was a gleam of two amber eyes, and a beast lunged forth into the sun, screaming, hissing, spewing erratic bursts of flame. Celelyrium bonds held back a veridian dragon as it thrashed. It was emaciated, hardly any tone in its muscles, and its underbelly was sickly pale.

Sig knew the beast well. It was his last attempt to train a new mount, and a miserable failure. He stood casually to the side, leaving Nyx to face it.

"Kill him," Sig said coldly. "If you cannot do this, you are no use to me. It is restrained and starved. It should give you no trouble."

@Ambra

Avanir was in a bad mood now due to the attack. Having someone sniffing him and asking him questions didn't help that mood. He knew that most dragons were curious creatures but never this curious. Sighing he just shook his head, at Daz, in answer to all the questions. He put a finger to his lips and went back to watching through the bars of the dome. Watching as Nyx and Sigil opened the cage he knew what Sigil was doing. He mummered almost so it was inaudible, "Sigil what are you doing?" His hand absentmindedly drew his dagger and he started to spin it in his hand, the blade laying parallel to his hand and spinning like a clock hand.

@RainDash
@Tancuras@Ambra