The Sun will not Set on Eslantia...

[Kaison of Larris]

Blade cursed as he dropped the red ochre powder, the stuff was priceless, his father was going to kill him, he bent down salvaging what little he could from the muddy ground, he sighed, replacing it in his pocket and taking a pinch to rub into his wound, like he had intended to do from the start. He felt the questioningly push of Dhera's mind on his own, he pushed him aside impatiently, this wasn't the time to answer more of the Griffin's questions, he felt a little bad about it afterwards as he felt the reproaching feeling Dhera was feeling, reach him across the link they shared. He grasped his bow with a feeling of exultation, today was the day, he would catch that boar today, he looked down at the healing wound on his thigh, it had been two weeks since that boar had given it to him, he would take revenge, his father had cautioned him to wait, be he just couldn't, that monster was free to kill the horses and cattle whilst he was 'recovering'. He stood up from his kneeling position, gingerly putting weight on the leg, he smiled grimly, excellent, this would be easy, he passed through the camp at a jog, they didn't really live anywhere, they moved around the grasslands, grazing the horses and cattle as they went. He grabbed his quiver from the side of the hut and his dagger and spear, he was not a very good shot with the bow, but with his spear and dagger, he could bring down that boar.

He left the camp and breathed in the fresh air, marred by the smell of burning, he cursed as he looked towards the border, where the Eslantian soldiers would be sitting by a huge bonfire, the sun will not set on Eslantia, for fear that it will be attacked, he thought sourly, he took several more paces forewords before calling Dhera, he came though he was sulky about earlier. I'm sorry, I was doing something important... Blade insisted, looking at his bonded warily, he wouldn't put it past Dhera to take offence, he was proud animal, though he had never struck out at Blade, he was sure one day he would. I accept your apology my bonded, come, let us go search for the giant pig that struck you down. Blade winced, if the other members of the hunting party hadn't driven the boar away...he would be dead now, and Dhera with him, Dhera had been with Tyke at the time, him and his bonded, a lion had asked that Dhera assist them with hunting, he had agreed not thinking he would miss the protection that Dhera offered. Dhera, being part lion, part eagle, was close to Myra, Tyke's bonded. Blade watched Dhera land, his beautiful golden lion pelt, his vicious talons and razor sharp beak, and the calm majesty that he commanded; Blade could only stand in awe of him.

I know, handsome aren't I...? Blade started, remembering that he shared everything with Dhera, even his thoughts and feelings, I suppose...if you’re half blind and can't smell that is! Blade retorted, he didn't mean it and Dhera could sense that across the bond, it was one of the reasons it wasn't as fun teasing Dhera as it was anyone else. He moved back as Dhera landed, an eagle cry coming from his beak, Blade raised one eyebrow. Show off! Dhera clicked his beak and flicked his lion's tail, Blade moved forewords and stroked his giant beak, he was at least twice as big as Blade himself, who was almost full grown at twenty summers. Hang on, we need to wait for Raven and Rowan! If a Griffin could have snorted Dhera would have done, instead he clicked his beak snapping at thin air. What?! You mean the Freaky man and his pet Striped Horse, why? Blade rolled his eyes, wishing Dhera wasn't so proud and noble all the time. Because he happens to be my friend, don't let Ronan catch you calling him that, it's not his fault he has stripes, I think they make him unique... Blade added hoping that it wouldn't offend Dhera, the last time the Griffin had been offended he had ignored Blade for three days before forgiving him, Griffins are far to noble and proud, he thought gazing across the plain in irritation, Raven knew how important this was to Blade, why did he choose now to be late?

[Raven Arens]

Raven mumbled something in his troubled sleep, ignoring the voice that called him from the warmth of sleep. He hadn't been dreaming, there days it was nightmares or nothing. But how he wished that noise would go away! Raven... he muttered something illegible, before rolling over, not opening his eyes. Every morning since the day he had turned five, that irritating noise had greeted him into the new day. But not this time, just once, Raven wanted to lie in. Raven! Get up, or I swear I’ll poke you with my horn! Raven groaned and rolled out of bed, fully clothes as always. That wasn’t an empty threat, with Rowan you could only be sure that he would take no greater pleasure. He glared out of the tent, knowing that the strange yet humorous unicorn would be standing there. He heard a snort within his head, knowing the word ‘strange’ had hit a sore spot. Luckily for Raven, he and Rowan were always attacking each other with jibes, neither of meaning a single word. Raven loved Rowan dearly, he would have lost his life eight years ago if not for the quick thinking of the young foal. That was the strange things about unicorns, they take ages to mature. Rowan acted like a young yearling, but he was far taller than any normal horse even when they were fully grown, and he had a beautiful silvery-cream horn that rested on his forehead. I mean it, up, now. Or I really will poke you in the stomach with my horn. Raven moaned and staggered out of bed, knowing that Rowan was enjoying every minute of this. Oh, just wait until he wanted a few extra minutes in bed after a long day’s riding, and then they would see who was laughing. Sam thought sourly, hearing the delight of his bonded’s thoughts at this empty threat, and the idea of a challenge.

”You wouldn’t do that, you’d hurt yourself too.”

Raven muttered, storming out of the tent, long spear in hand, with a few rough hunting knives and his belt. How could he have forgotten? Today was the day that he and Blade were going to kill that bastard boar, and avenge his friend’s injury. Raven grasped the spear tightly, grinning to a few friends before looking around for Rowan. The unicorn dipped his massive head – which was still small compared to a large griffin. Pity. I was rather looking forward to watching you leap out of bed like yesterday. Raven chose to pointedly ignore him, and vaulted easily onto the bare back of his bonded. Just shut up for once and go – fast. Rowan snorted and bucked, before tearing off at the agreed gathering point, like a strange back and white arrow. Raven held onto the mane of Rowan tightly, not feeling at all fazed from the buck. He had come to learn that although he hand Rowan were friends, he was still about as wild as they come. If he wanted to do something, not even Raven could stop him. After the first few painful sessions of riding – for both of them as Rowan felt Raven’s pain – he had learned to read his friend’s mind, and know what he was going to do almost before he did. Sam grabbed an apple from one of the stand’s as he past, chewing heartily as the barren landscape snapped by. He saw his friend and Dhera standing waiting for them, neither looked very happy. Especially Dhera. Then again she always looked like that, didn’t she? He grinned as he sensed Rowan’s irritation at the griffin – they hadn’t exactly hit it off, and their friendship seemed to have got worse. But in reality he knew they would die defending each other, Dhera was just too proud to admit it, and Rowan hated Dhera because of that.

Raven quailed inside at the disbelief on his friend’s face, they had always been at odds about what time a person should get up in the mornings. They usually ended with Rowan and Dhera getting in the way and breaking them up before they came to a head – they were too good friends to have a half-hearted fight. Raven knew that he could be lazy and not take things too seriously, but it came with practice, as he had told Blade. It took a lot of work to be a lazy sod 24/7. He grinned and they screeched a halt beside the two, sending dry dust spraying in several directions.

”Uh, sorry I’m late. I, um, overslept?”

Raven grinned, casting a glance at the serious looking Eslantian soldiers guarding their border. His jaw set as he gazed at them, remembering the tragedy that had struck his family eight years ago, whilst he had been here in Noterina. He shook these thoughts from his head, and placed one hand of Rowan’s side, not even fazed at the mad dash to get here. Unicorns had a very high amount of stamina, and did not tire easily. He could match the speed of a Griffin in the air and Raven had never cared to see if he could swim. Rowan didn’t like water all that much, and although he wasn’t exactly scared, he would rather not get his tail wet. He staggered as Rowan pushed him hard with his hoof, grinning and ducking under another swing, slamming his hand against Rowan’s flank playfully. Then he stopped and looked at Dhera and Blade, wondering if he was going to get a lecture because he was lat again – and on such an important day as well. He grinned helplessly and shrugged, kicking at the dust idly with his feet. Looking for all the world like a naughty schoolboy, rather than a young man. He grinned apologetically, the closed he got to saying sorry in these occasions.

[Kaison of Larris]

Blade ran a hand distractedly through his hair, pacing back and forth across a small patch of flowers, he continued to do so until Dhera snapped at him, he might not be getting dizzy but she was, so cut it out! He sighed and lapsed into watching the progress of the sun and the clouds drifting by ever so slowly...he swore and leapt back as Raven came thundering in, late as always, he kept a firm look of disbelief in his face, but he couldn't help laughing as Rowan pushed him over, it was frustrating to everyone not being able to know what another Notorian was saying to his bonded, it had never really bothered Blade all that much. They have no shame! It's like they don't even care! Hissed Dhera in his mind, Blade rebuked her gently, sighing as he flicked his white hair out of his red eyes, his appearance unnerved most people he met, they said he was half demon, it had never bothered Blade but he had never had any friends and plenty of enemies, as he liked to handle things with his fists, and ask questions later. Raven had never minded though, never questioned his friends odd appearance, in turn, Blade had never asked where Raven had come from, why he was here, how long he would stay, he had just accepted him, and that was that. Blade was like that, a hard, practical young man with strong believes in threw old gods and hunting as a way of life. He was a typical Notorian, unlike Raven. Raven was very much Eslantian or Astorian in his way of thinking, his thoughts were free and animated, it made bonding difficult, communication between bonded was said to be a lot harder. Sighing he glared once at Raven to show he disapproved and turned his blood red glare onto Rowan, to show it was equally his fault, before sighing and grabbing his bow.

"If you two have done messing around we really need to get moving, on foot of course, Rowan can follow several meters behind, Dhera is going to fly overhead."

He added, Go on, I've dealt with it, try and follow us without going to far ahead he commented to Dhera, before turning to face Raven and gesturing with his bow to the woods, he set off stoically, his limp evident in the pace they were keeping, though his eyes glared at Raven, daring him to comment, he would never admit it, but perhaps he should have waited longer to hunt the boar, his leg ached, no longer causing him great agony as it had, but it would have been better to wait another week, but he just couldn't, it was a matter of personal pride, there was something no Eslantian could possibly understand. Be careful, go easy, remember what you feel, I feel also Blade felt slightly guilty at that, Dhera had been ill for days when he had been injured, it just showed what a strong bond the to shared, Blade had been born in his tribe, he had bonded when he was five, and had lived with Dhera his whole life, and hers, she had been newly born when they had bonded. He took an arrow out of his quiver as he entered the forest, he sighed contentedly, he would always feel at home here and on the plains, it was natural, unlike Eslantia where he had heard the land was flat. He bent down, grunting at the effort on his bad leg, he touched the trails, his hands instinctively finding the boar trail from two weeks before, the boar had run off, hopefully towards its den where they could stake out and wait for it to return, once night fell, he glanced at Raven and said softly, as he straightened up, grimacing slightly,

“It went North, towards Two Pines, I would have thought its den would be that way, have your spear ready, in case we come across it on our way, I’ll take front.”

He said this in the calm way a hunter does, knowing the seasons will change, the winter bring cold and harsh weather, but the promise of spring being only several months away, Blade moved silently through the forest, talent of treading softly honed from years of stalking prey, you couldn’t catch prey that heard you a mile off. All humans make a racket wherever they go, no matter if they tread softly or not! Blade hissed annoyed and snapped back Hush! I need to concentrate! Dhera withdrew huffily, Blade could tell that somewhere above them a ruffled Griffin would be clacking her beak in rejection. As they followed the boar tracks, they became fresher, several having been made not hours ago, exited, Blade pushed on, he knocked an arrow, and proceeded with caution, then a great black shape leapt at them from the shadows, starting back, though impeded by his bad leg, Blade let loose his first arrow, missed, drew another, dodging as the black shape whipped past him, disappearing back into the forest, but it would be back, soon, he moved several steps towards Raven, motioning for silence, he waited his brow furrowed as he listened for evidence of the beasts location. Be ready to come Dhera, I might need you! Blade felt Dhera’s silent acceptance as they waited for that black shadow to come back, whenever that might be.

[Raven Arens]

Raven sighed as Blade suggested they got it on foot. He felt a lot more confident astride Rowan, his spear long enough to impale anything on the ground with little threat to himself. And Rowan always leant a hand with his own sharp horn and heavy, sharp hooves that were quite unlike those of a horse. He sighed grumpily, trying his best to ignore his friends glare that told him of displeased he was at his lateness. Raven wondered whether it was because he had been late a yesterday, and the day before that, and the day before that. And possibly the day before that. He grinned to himself, clasping his spear tightly before realizing that Blade was already some way ahead of them Stay by me, we’ll take this boar down together if it charges. He decided, noting that Blade had sent Dhera to scout ahead. She would be more use down here if – when – it attacked, but he chose not to say anything. Blade was a far better hunter than he, he always knew best. Sam lightly touched a scar that ran across his chest and could be seen over the break in his patchy hunting shirt. He had got it when he hadn’t listened to the advice of a friend, and would never forgive the trouble that he had caused for both him and Rowan. He winced as his feet snapped a twig, as they often did when he was going through a forest, how Blade could move so silently amazed him. He was like a bloody ghost, moving like that. Something even Raven had trouble seeing him, and his eyesight was better than most. He gripped the spear grimly, crouching low as he followed his friend, once again not choosing to comment of the slight limp that his friend moved with. It was unlike him to be so rash, and that was why Raven had agreed to come in the first place. If he hadn’t then Blade would have come in here alone, and Raven felt that he owed Blade as least the burden of his company.

“Right. When we find it, I’ll just-”

He broke off as the black shape of the boar came squealing through the forest, charging straight at them. His friend loosed and arrow and missed, notching another one be refraining from shooting. Sam swallowed and didn’t even need to look to see know what his friend was thinking. It would attack again, and he knew enough about hunting to know that boar’s were clever beasts. It would attack when they were least prepared, he was sure of it. He yelled as the thing burst out of the forest again, this time heading purposefully towards Blade. His friend unleashed another arrow, that smacked into the flesh of the boar but did little to stop it’s charge. Rowan snorted, charging after the boar with at least twice the speed and rage. Rowan actually quite liked Blade, and hated to see him wounded by such a small creature. Now he wanted revenge as well. Rowan sank his horn into the side of the beast and tossed it high into the air, causing it is shriek was pain. Raven raced forwards, as Rowan jumped clear of the raging tusks of the boar as it tussled on the ground in agony. Raven cursed and jumped lithely over the tusks as they sought to snap into his legs and sweep him off balance. He gripped his spear tightly and jabbed down sharply at the beast’s face, grinning as the spear found its mark. His smile faded as the spear was tugged from his grasp as he was thrown clear, smashing into a tree and sliding down it, seeing stars. He heard Rowan grunt and fall to his knees, winded by the same blow that had taken out his bonded. The boar turned to finish off what it had started, as Blade let loose another arrow, determined to distract it from his friend. It didn’t work, because of his wound the arrow didn’t fly true, and struck the tree where Raven lay, crouching as his vision flickered in and out, dazed. Then there came an almighty cry and Dhera was there, raking her massive claws through the body of the boar, which was puny in comparison to her massive size. The claws killed the boar in an instant, and she threw it aside, clacking her beak in finality. Raven swallowed and moved slightly, pain slashing through his ribs. He scowled, if even one of them was broken he was going to kill Blade. His foster-parents were going to really lay into him now. He grabbed the tree and grimly got to his feet, wincing as each small movement caused pain. He glanced up at Rowan who was still on his knees, shaking at the pain that came through their shared bond. Sam staggered over to him, gently laying his hand on Rowan’s massive neck, patting him gently. He felt the ribs and groaned as he saw that they were red and swollen. At least two were broken. He flashed evils across at his friend, but grinned despite himself, as he always did when they had done something that they shouldn’t have.

”That was fun, when can we do it again?”

[Kaison of Larris]

Blade, knocked an arrow furious that he had missed, he spun around, dodging nimbly to the side as the boar charged at him, not wanting to waste an arrow, he waited, he paused before letting the arrow fly right into the beasts shoulder, it didn't even seem to faze it, not even a little bit. It just seemed to get it angry, the beast turned and charged at Raven, shoving him savagely into a tree, before turning on Rowan, incensed it charged, boars are incredibly stupid animals and it didn't stop to think it might be charging against something perpetually dangerous. Dhera we need you here, NOW! I yell across our link bond, firing arrow after arrow at the boar, none that seem to do anything, Rowan dodges out of the way and falls to his knees, evidently feeling the pain that Raven was through their bond, I am powerless and can only keep firing as it rounds on Raven, he manages to spear it, but in doing so successfully ensures the beast is even more angry, way to go Raven. Get OFF him you oversized PIG!! Blade didn't think he had ever seen Dhera so angry, not even when she had seen the state of his leg when the hunters had persuaded him to come back to camp rather than go after the boar there and then, an endeavor witch would have undoubtedly ended with his and Dhera's death. He watched as Dhera all but ate the boar and tossed what remained off it at a nearby tree. Tossing aside is bow Blade rushed forewords eyeing Raven's ribs in concern, two of them were most definitely broken, he had broken some himself several years ago, not nice and they hurt like hell. He gave a small lame smile as Raven asked a typically Raven question; he rolled his eyes towards the heavens. Talk about the nick of time Dhera, what kept you? Blade asked teasingly, he did however let his gratitude towards her show in his feelings. Well I stopped to admire a flock of crows before I landed, why was the great Blade in trouble again? Blade gave a ghost of a smile in return to Ravens comment on the boar, before deftly ripping the fabric of his cloak to bind Ravens ribs with, he was a hunter and as such thought of things of the spur of the moment, he would curse his ruined cloak later, but now it was of greater importance that Raven was tended to.

He rubbed the swelled ribs with some of the red ochre powder from his tin, grumpily remembering the mornings misadventure, his father was so going to kill him when they got back, but he might be cheered when they bought back a boar big enough to feed the whole camp! He bound Ravens ribs tightly and surveyed his handiwork critically, he nodded absently to himself, as he stooped to gather his bow, he moved with caution towards the boar, he knelt down next to the boar, his leg protesting a little bit, frowning he knew with sudden clarity that the boar was a monster, it could feed their tribe twice over, including the horses! Chuckling softly to himself he gathered the arrows that could be saved, looked with regret at the boar as he realized it was too big to take back with them, he sighed and cut into the boar, taking the heart at burying it under the tree that Raven had been thrown against, as an offering the god of hunting, and lord of animals, therefore sacred to the Notorians, Arnon.

"We can't take it back with us, it's far to big, still I've left an offering to Arnon, I know you don't believe him, but I've asked him to speed you recovery, if he can, he will. He rewards those that are brave in the hunt"

His gaze was fixed on the ground, he himself had prayed to Arnon to grant himself swift healing, he had not been granted the honour, he had been unworthy, but Raven had fought bravely and at great risk, he deserved every blessing Arnon could give. He looked up, his face filled with silent worry, he had been scared of loosing those close to him since his mother had died, he ran a hand distractedly through his snow white hair, his eyes gleaming in the darkness, many people would find it creepy, the first time Raven had seen it, he had called it 'cool', an odd concept and at first Blade had been sure it was insulting, how strange some of the things Raven did were, but still, he was the closest thing Blade had to a brother. He checked around instinctively for danger, finding none, he absentmindedly checked Rowan for injuries, having learned to ride before he could walk, he checked Rowan as he would a horse, Rowan was still feeling the pain of his bonded, so couldn't protest, Rowan was shaken and might have a few bruises but he would be fine, he would have checked Dhera to, but her eyes were smoldering, daring him to touch her, she was just still fired up after the battle, he turned to look at raven with concern showing in his normally emotionless gaze,

"Are you alright Raven? Other than the ribs? If there's nothing more I can do, then we should be getting back so the head healer can take a look at you..."

He trailed off looking at Raven speculatively, he wondered what it felt like to be around himself all the time, depressing, he thought sourly, Blade wasn't much fun to be with, he could appear cold and aloof, and dreadfully emotionless, but he was a loyal and practical man, you could count on Blade to never change, he was the type of person to sit in the middle of a battlefield and check a horses hoof for signs of infection, he had done so on several occasions, and they had all cost him, one way or another, it was why his father, the chief of their tribe had cast him out of the line to succession when he was fifteen, it had been a harsh lesson, but not unexpected, Blade was just to different to make a good leader, it hadn't really bothered Blade to much, he had always been out hunting or rising anyway. He sighed and peered up at the sky Summanus, the god of night, would soon begin his patrol across the sky, the same as he had done for eons, it was reminders like this that prevented the hunters from taking up arms against the Eslantian’s camping right on the border, the fact that life went on, whether Cairon willed it or not, in the end he had so little power.

[Raven Arens]

Raven grinned and poked his ribs gently, glaring at them angrily. How dare they go and get themselves broken, especially when they were supposed to have waited. He didn’t comment on the fact that Dhera could have easily carried the boar back on her back or in her beak. It was a very bad thing to get a griffin angry. Especially this griffin. He stroked Rowan gently, easing him onto his knees and was just about to mount when he heard his friend ask about his health. He grinned and shrugged, telling him that they had both seen him a lot worse, and that she shouldn’t worry about it. He could feel Rowan’s concern wash over him as the Unicorn rose, nudging him gently, beautiful dark eyes filled with sorrow. Raven flicked him gently on the nose, before attempting to vault onto his back, just like he always did. Not a good idea. He doubled over for a second, before directing Rowan with his mind to go forwards. He had often felt sorry for Blade, getting skipped in the line of succession. Not that Raven really minded, because if Blade ever did become king or whatever it was they called their leader, he wouldn’t be able to get into nearly as much trouble. Whether or not he meant to, Blade always helped fuel the adventurous spirit that flew through Raven’s veins. He had never thought of his friend as strange or as a freak, like some others did. Some said he was cursed by the Gods or something stupid like that. Raven snorted. He didn’t believe in the God’s at all, and laughed in the face of any who tried to convert him. He looked at his friend in disbelief as he said he would pray to one of their Gods to speed his recovery.

”Huh. Since when have the Gods helped me? If my recovery is sped up it’ll be because of youth and medicine, not some divine power. And may they strike me dead with a thunderbolt for blaspheming. …No? I guess their all out of thunderbolts today!”

He grinned, walking Rowan gently back through the forest, carefully picking his way over painful bumps. Every movement caused a small amount of agony, and he couldn’t say he was all that sorry about it. He loved the adventure and thrill of battle, and even though it was painful he knew that it would heal soon enough. When they got back into the camp they were met with wry grins and small shakings of the head from basically everyone. They knew that the two young men were always getting into trouble – on more than the other – and that nothing and nobody was going to stop them. Sam climbed carefully down from Rowan, who was snorting in discomfort from that pain that flashed across their shared bond. He staggered a few paced before righting himself and walking into the tent of his foster-parents, who looked at him half-despairingly and half disgusted as they both told him exactly what they thought of him. Sam shook his head and tried is best to keep a mischievous grin from spreading across his face. He almost succeeded. His foster-father tightly bound the ribs and smacked him of the wrist when he complained, telling him that it was his own fault. He ruffled his hair and told him to try and stay out of trouble for a while to give the ribs time to heal. Sam told him very earnestly that he would, and then set off to look for Blade. He found him near the Eslantian soldiers, and his frown deepened when they noticed him, and came closer.

”You, boy. I believe I’ve met your brother. Sam? Queer boy if ever I’ve seen one. Great big wings and golden eyes. He’s in the Eslantian army, brilliant with the spear…”

Raven zoned out, grinning. His brother Sam was alive. He couldn’t believe it. He looked at the soldier carefully, and he certainly didn’t look like he was lying. But he had been at the village, had seen the destruction of it. No one could have survived the attack. No one.

”You must be mistaken. Everyone died in the attack. Everyone.”

He voice broke as he spoke, excitement coursing through his system. Even if there was a ghost of a chance that he was still alive, there was nothing that was going to stop he from going and saving him. He knew that Sam couldn’t willingly have joined the army, even though he had only been ten when the village was attacked. He turned to Blade, but saw a frown of doubt and disapproval in his eyes. He knew what Raven was planning and didn’t agree. Sam felt a small prickle of resentment light within him. It was alright for him to feel that, he was perhaps the strongest bonded Notorian around, whilst he, Raven, didn’t really belong here. He had family, people who cared. And although Raven loved the family that had taken him in, they were still not bonded by blood, like he and Sam were. Might be.

”Aw, come on Blade. It’ll be fun, I promise. We can go together, haven’t you always wanted to meet my half-brother?”

Raven demanded, grin fading as he saw that Blade didn’t look all that exited at all. He scowled and shrugged, meaning to leave this very instant. He saw that Rowan was exited as he was, and this cheered him considerably. But Blade took hold of his arm firmly and carefully, telling him in measured tones that he had best think about this before he went in there like a knight in shining armour.

”If you had your way, I’d be waiting forever.”

Raven snapped, shrugging him off roughly, sending him flying backwards. Raven grimaced slightly, hanging back, not willing to let things lie like this. They had been good friends for too long to part on such terms. Dhera screeched with anger and made for Raven, and he swallowed. Like he had thought earlier, don’t ever threaten a Griffin. Or their bonded. Rowan got in the way and kicked out at the griffin, threatening her with his horn. Raven swallowed and looked at Blade, slightly panicked. He hadn’t meant for things to go this far.

[Kaison of Larris]

Blade rolled his eyes in exasperation, Ravens stoic disbelief in the old gods was irritating at the best of times, he send a silent apology to any angry gods that might have been listening, he followed Raven at a walk, he didn't like riding Dhera into the tribe because, she tended to make people nervous. He knew that Raven would be a great deal of pain for a while, it was best if he didn't do anything over strenuous for a while at least. He watched as the cloud of dust that was Raven disappeared into the camp, he shrugged and set off towards the boarder, Dhera pacing beside him steadily. He sat down several paces from the border, looking at the Eslantian soldiers with interest, they were dressed in full amour and their horses, the few that he could see, were also clothed in thick plates of metal, Eslantian’s, he thought ruefully, always expected the next battle to be just over the hill, or in this case, sitting on the ground just paces away, they were banned from crossing of course, as was he, but it didn't stop them eyeing him distrustfully. He had been sitting watching them for only a few minutes when Raven cam galloping over, he shot his friend an irritated look when he was sprayed by flying dust, it didn't last long however, one of solider seemed to recognize Raven as his eyes grew wide, ”You, boy. I believe I’ve met your brother. Sam? Queer boy if ever I’ve seen one. Great big wings and golden eyes. He’s in the Eslantian army, brilliant with the spear…” Blade's eyes flickered to Raven, he felt a faint pang of jealousy as Raven's eyes filled with joy, he swiftly moved to get rid of the emotion, and he gaze rested back on the solider,

He couldn't felt feeling a little lost, Raven had a brother, but that wasn't possible, was it? He had always assumed Raven had no family left, It might be true bonded, you must feel happy for him... Griffins don't understand family, apart from their bonded of course, baby griffins grow up all by themselves after the first few weeks, most never meet their birth parents ever again. He's not seriously thinking of going...is he bonded? Blade questioned nervous, Eslantia was dark and dangerous, there was no way two Notorians would last five minutes there, especially himself, with his white hair and red eyes, he stood out in any crowd. He frowned slightly as he heard Raven reply, that boy never thought things through, the guards were probably taunting him, wanting him to attack them or something like that, the best cause of action would be to just leave them alone and continue what they had been doing before they were interrupted. ”You must be mistaken. Everyone died in the attack. Everyone.” Ah. So Raven had lost his family, Blade had always suspected that, had never asked or questioned him, now it looked as though he had found out, perhaps in the way Raven wouldn't have chosen, He sighed and shrugged his shoulder helplessly at Raven, he didn't want him to go, he didn't want to go, it wasn't right. Raven belonged here now, hadn't he grown up here? Lived here, fought here, pledged himself to the chief, that he would die here if the need arose? He couldn't just leave on the word of a half drunk guard, had Raven lost his mind? His eyes rested on Raven's, there was anger there, great anger, and resentment, perhaps he had a right to feel like that, after all it was easy for Blade to feel loyalty to this place...he winced slightly at Raven's next words, they were rash and hurried and it was so like Raven to say that... and as for meeting his brother, of course he didn't want to, he knew nothing of the boy and the chances were he was bad anyway if he had joined the Eslantian army, it was all wrong!

"Calm down Raven, don't go rushing into this, they might be lying, then what? Your not a knight in shining amour Raven, be patient, wait, if they are indeed telling the truth, then at least wait until your ribs are healed, ok?"

Blade intoned gripping his friend firmly, to show support, but also to stop him dashing across the border and getting himself killed, the idiot was so gullible! Fun? Fun!? He thought rushing away from the only home he had ever known, into an enemy country and putting themselves in great danger was fun? He was hurt at Raven's reply, he was slow and careful that was true, but life ahd taught him that it was good to wait, in the hardest way, he had lost his mother because she hadn't waited and had stormed out into the dark after her daughter's killer alone. Well, Raven always had bee- He was surprised when he was flung away from Raven, he tripped and landed heavily on the ground, shocked but not hurt, Raven, had just pushed him, him!? That couldn't be right, Raven would never, had never, it just wasn't right... I thought you were supposed to be his FRIEND!! A surge of anger across their link as Dhera leapt at Raven, however was stopped by a sharp horn from Rowan, Stop Dhera, Raven isn't thinking right, don't hurt him, or Rowan! Blade screamed across their link, desperately trying to get through to the enraged Griffin, he pulled himself up, using his good leg as leverage, he dodged between Dhera and Rowan, making calming motions with his hands, Dhera, seemed to calm down, she made a terribly hissing noise, and growling, snarling sound of rage, Blade put a lot of faith in the hope that Raven had stopped Rowan, he didn't want a horn in his back. Blade whipped around his eyes gleaming darkly, Raven had to understand,

"Stop being stupid Raven, your brother might or might not be alive, and either way your not going now!"

He commanded, his voice firm, Raven was metal absolutely crazy, had he lost what little sanity he had? They didn't even know what was out there, what if they weren't allowed into Eslantian territory? What if it was a crime to carry a weapon? He for one knew nothing, and he suspected that Raven did know more than he did, but now much, it was stupid, he had to make Raven see reason,

"Come on, we're going back to the camp, NOW! And don't ever, EVER shove me again!"

He threatened his voice low, he was usually emotionless and calm, now he was angry and confused, he didn't understand, true, Raven had never really completely been accepted, but neither had he, Raven had no reason to...leave, after this brother he had seen fifteen years ago, it was folly pure and simple, idiocy. Even Raven should be able to see that, he had no food, no water, no supplies, and Rowan wouldn't be welcome in Eslantian territory! He glared at his friend willing him to explain. He was jealous, it was a new emotion for him, why should Raven go, after this boy he probably wouldn’t recognize, and leave the tribe that had raised him since he had arrived? Why? Why? Why? WHY?

[Raven Arens]

Raven relaxed as he managed to get Rowan to back off from attacking Dhera, terrified that he might hurt Blade. He ran a hand through his hair – how had it got to this? What he didn’t understand was why Blade didn’t want him to go, wasn’t happy for him, as a brother would be. Blade was like his brother anyway, he always had been like a brother to him, even though he hadn’t been very good at Hunting. They had stuck together, and now, unbelievably, they were fighting.Rowan! Just what do you think you’re doing? Leave him alone, for the sake of every God I have ever cast down! He sent spinning across their bond, heart in his mouth for fear of what Rowan might do to Blade and what Dhera might do to Rowan. They could all end up seriously harmed here. But why was Blade being so difficult? Didn’t he realise how much this meant to raven? How he had tortured himself every night because he had been the oldest, the one who should have been there and looked after his younger brother and sister? He knew that Blade had lost his sister and mother too, surely he must understand what Raven was feeling? Surely if their roles were switched, Blade would do everything he could, even if it was only a rumour by a drunk guard? Dhera looked especially mad, or did she always look like that…? He had always respected the dominant Griffin, but had not ever really feared her. Not until she had attacked him just now, when he had only knocked Blade back a bit. It had been an accident, and sure, it had been a bit harder than was really called for, but he had never really meant him any real harm. Surely Dhera had known that? Rowan snorted and slammed his hood into the ground, tossing his head angrily, letting Dhera know that she had overstepped the line. This seemed to get Dhera all fired up again as she shrieked that it had been Raven who had made the first move. Rowan reared and bucked, challenging the Griffin to say that again.

“No, Rowan. This time I mean it! Back off, or I swear I’ll-”

But Dhera gladly accepted the challenge – she hadn’t really liked Rowan all that much to begin with, and despite being friends she had wanted to fight the Unicorn for months. They charged at each other and attacked – a little more ferociously than was called for. Rowan with his horn and hoofs, Dhera with her beak and claws. Raven tried to get in the way, but ducked as one of Rowan’s hooves nearly took his head off. He stumbled backwards, rushing to Blade’s side, yelling at him to stop them, before one of them got badly hurt. Pain flared through his ribs, which passed on to Rowan and caused him to pause. Dhera shrieked and struck out with a claw, but Rowan leapt aside and speared her with his horn, only to miss and charge past her. Raven grabbed onto his mane and leapt on top of him, fighting him like he would a normal horse, because he wasn’t listening through their bond. Get off me raven, or I’ll buck you! I mean it! Raven grinned and held on as Rowan proceeded to kick and bite and rear, wanting to get him off his back. Dhera was being calmed by Blade, and seemed to have receded into a sullen silence. Rowan, however, was taken over by the power of his wild blood, and for a second or three Raven couldn’t make any contact with him at all – as if he weren’t there at all. He yelled and grimaced as the movements caused him such pain to his ribs that he was forced to let go, and was sent flying from Rowan’s back. The pain of his friend finally bought Rowan to his senses, and he stopped, sweating and shaking, before rushing over to where Raven lay, swearing in three different languages.
Raven rose unsteadily, glaring first at Rowan and then at Dhera, knowing that none of this would have happened if it hadn’t been for his stupid idea of rushing off to save Sam. He knew it was stupid, but it wasn’t going to stop him. He would have to leave without Blade, and he would have to leave without telling anyone. But first his ribs had to heal, and he had Blade had to sort things out. That meant that he was going to have to lie.

“I’m sorry, Blade. I never meant for things to go so far. You’re right, just rushing in aimlessly to save a brother who probably died eight years ago is a stupid thing to do. Forgive me?”

He panted, not even looking at Rowan and closing the link between them, that argument could be fought later, when he had time to think. He was disgusted at the Unicorn for not heeding his warnings and attacking anyway, despite the pain it might have caused both him and Blade. He supposed it was his own fault. The bond between him and Rowan would never be as strong as between a normal Notorian and his or her bonded, because of his blood. It was his fault that Blade might had got seriously hurt along with Dhera, as was as furious with himself as he was with Rowan. He sensed the Unicorn’s shame as he drooped his head and walked away, leaving him standing there, looking at Blade with pleading eyes. If he didn’t forgive him, who then could he look to and call friend?

[Kaison of Larris]

Blade hated this, yes he was an emotionless idiot and he had big issues where compassion was concerned, but he cared for Dhera and Raven more than anyone else alive, he was also incredibly perceptive and it was dangerous it lie to Blade, he was the silent type of person that was classed as the least dangerous, the type of person that would rather lurk in the background, talking only when he had to, attacking whenever he got angry or was insulted. He deserved better than this, Raven probably wanted to find this boy, but, what did it really matter, surely Raven was content to stay here, he had been before this morning, before right now, it was so utterly ridiculous that if Blade had been a more lax person he would have burst out laughing as it was he looked stonily at Raven, one hand resting on Dhera's lion pelt. He was jerked back as Rowan leaped at Dhera, he cursed couldn't Raven control him? Dhera shrieked in anger, talons bared, she swiped at Rowan, but she was to slow, in the air she couldn't matched, except perhaps by a dragon, but on the ground she was sluggish and slow. Rowan lowered his head and charged narrowly missing Dhera, Idiot Griffin, he's angry, Raven didn't mean, at least I don't think he did, leave of! Their bond was strong, so Dhera reluctantly, shrieked a final insult at Rowan, and moved to stand beside Blade, her predator eyes of a eagle daring Rowan to take anouther move forewords. Blade could only watch as Raven fought for command of Rowan, he cursed, he drew his bow, if he had to he would shoot Rowan to protect Raven. However Raven had things covered, though he bashed his ribs quite bad again, that unicorn really took things one step to far!

Blade was tempted to just leave, let Raven leave, if Raven wanted to leave who was Blade to stop him? However, if he let him do that, what kind of friend was he, leaving Raven to face whatever he had to alone? The silly thing was Raven didn't even have to go, especially not now, what with his ribs, he was being blind! He shook his head savagely, he then heard Raven's words, he looked into his eyes and knew with a feeling of utter despair that he was lying, to him, to his best friend, with no guilt, now this was really one step to far, Go Dhera, go. Dhera snapped and took off, Blade looked at Raven, to try and find some evidence that he was about to laugh, shrug off the lie and at least admit he wanted to go, fine, if Raven wanted to play it that way, he would play along, but only for as long as it took to drum into Raven's thick skull that he was still his friend,

"Of course I forgive you, come, we need to head back."

But in his eyes, he let Raven know that knew he was lying, he turned slightly, his face half hidden in shadow, he turned away his tortured expression hidden from Raven, if Raven would lie to him, then who wouldn't? Raven had always been there, helping him, consoling him, generally being there, like no one else had, he had helped him get over the loss of his mother and sister, to be honest he had never really forgotten them, he doubted Raven would ever forget his family either, but if what Raven had just said was true and he had thought his family dead, then the chances were, that they were dead, he turned to walk away, his head low, he didn't really feel like going back to the came anymore, he would go hunting in the forest, come back in a few days and catch up with wherever the tribe had moved to, no one would even notice he was gone, no one ever did, apart from Raven, and if he was going to Eslantia, was it worth coming back? He could stay in the forest, forever, he could live by hunting, make his own arrows...

"Quis est nefas vobis frater? Quare operor vos verto in illud ut diligo vos plurrimi? Si nemus does non sinus per ventus , is mos effrego..."

What is wrong with you brother? Why do you turn on those that love you the most? If the tree does not bend with the wind it will break...He asked softly in the native language of his people, knowing that Raven wouldn't understand, he had often commented on the fact that it was pointless learning a language no one ever used anymore, Blade used it all the time, when he was angry and didn't want anyone to know what he was saying, to calm the horses or to remind himself of the past. He turned back to Raven grief showing in his normally emotionless hues,

"Filiolus volo, you won't leave without telling me, right?"

He asked, his voice slipping into his native tongue and out again, he wanted to go with Raven, but it meant leaving everything he had ever known, he couldn't survive out there, he was a hunter there were no forests in Eslantia, he would starve, and what about Dhera, you could hardly take a Griffin into Bellicarnus... He sighed why did Raven have to make everything complicated? More complicated than it had to be? He waited hoping for the answer that would change everything, that Raven would say he wouldn't go and mean it, his bright white hair blew steadily across the plains, the faint neigh of horses and shouts from the tribe reaching them, it felt like home, always had, always would, but it wasn't home without Raven, if he truly had his heart set on going, then Blade would follow, albeit reluctantly but he would, but first he needed an explanation, why did this brother mean so much to him, after all he couldn't have been more than a few years old when Raven had last seen him, if he had been the eldest.

[Raven Arens]

Now look, Blade. I know what you must be feeling like, but it's so much more than that! I was the oldest, and I promised to look after them, isn't that what big brothers are for? To look after their little brothers and little sisters, to rpotect them and hold them when they cry? But I wasn't there. I was here with Rowan and you, having a good old time. I made the journey back by myself and when I got there, the whole thing had gone, my life had been turned upside down, and there was no one. Then I cam back here, and I met you. I have always thought of you as the brother that I lost, and i always will. We are brothers in all but blood. But I don't belong here, Blade. I never have, and I never will. And I can't ask you to come with me, not where I go. I was supposed to look after them, and if there is even the slightest chance that one of them lived...I can't just let them down again. What if they need me -again - and I'm not there? I can barely live with myself as it is, but if I ignore them again, my life won't be worth living. I'll always have you, I know, but I can't even protect you. Look at that boar - I was powerless without Dhera and Rowan."

He stopped, for fear of sounding childish and walked over to Blade, begging him not to go, to forgive him for not saying the thing that he wanted him to say. He knew that Blade would not want him to go, he wouldn't want his brother to leave. They ahd always been close, and what a pair they had made! he had always got Blade into such trouble...but he ahd never seemed to mind, he had always stood by Raven no matter what his decision had been. Was he jealous? Was that why he was so reluctant for Raven to leave? But no, Blade couldn't possibly be, he was Blade, who never felt much and never said much. Love was something that they had always felt for one another and Raven stiid by what he had said - they were brother in all but blood, and he also stood b ythe promise he had made, that he would die for Notoria if the time should come, and that if would fight by the side of the chieftan if it came to war. But he couldn't choose between his caln and his family, and he looked at Blade in agony, begging him not to make him choose, tried to let him know that he was and always would be loyal to Notoria.

"Please...don't make me choose..."

He whispered, feeling sick, not understanding what Blade was saying. He sometimes did start to go all psyco on him when they were having small argument, and started gibbering on at him in that wierd lanuage. He grinned, some humour going back into his face. he felt the resentment of rowan and reached towards him, only to be shut out. he sat down heavily, head in his hands. was everybody turning against him? Brother, bonded...when would it end? All because he wnated to go and see if his little brother was alive - was that so wrong? No. Then why did everyone keep getting in the way all the time? He could still remember going back to the village with Rowan - who was still a foal - and find ing it gone. He had heard later that his brother and sister had been captured, not killed, and had hoped that they were stil lalive. But then he realised that they had been taken by soldiers, and would habe probably been killed later on, and he had thought no more of it. But Blade muct know how he felt - if there had been a way to bring his sister back fro mthe dead he would have taken it, then why did raven ahve to be so different.

[No comment]

[Kaison of Larris]

"No Raven it's not! Stop pretending it isn't! I need you here as well, you can't just leave, you can't, it's not fair, not on the tribe, we need fighters like you if Eslantia attacks, you brother is in the Eslantian army, don't you get it? Even if he is alive, he is a traitor to everything you and I hold dear, even if you do find him, and he comes here, what will you do then? Just let him stay here? He is Eslantian now, he fights with the enemy Raven that means he is enemy. Forsitan is mereo mereor futurus fugitivus..."

He added the last bit under his breath, perhaps if Raven knew what he had said things might be bad for him, he had said, perhaps he deserves to be deserted He whipped around, perhaps Raven didn't understand fully how betrayed and upset Blade was feeling, just because he didn't show emotion didn't mean he didn't have any, he could think and feel, laugh and cry, the same as any other person, he could feel anger, pain, suffering and betrayal, right now he feel all of them, Raven had only been young when he had last seen his brother, yet he had known Blade his whole life, now he was deciding who was more important, Blade or a nameless brother he had barely known other than a memory so faint it might as well be a figment of his imagination. Cursing the gods Blade looked at Raven and saw how much this meant to him...but Raven had always been so...silly, he had gotten them into so much trouble, inside Blade had seethed, but he had shrugged it off and got on, but now, now Raven was being, to single minded.

"I'm not asking you to choose Raven, you've already chosen, inside, you're already half way across Eslantia, but...take me with you Raven, you shouldn't have to pick, I'll follow you to the ends of the earth, such is my folly..."

Raven was kind and bright, he didn't deserve to be forced into choosing one way or another, it wasn't right and in the end the conclusion would be the same, Raven would win and Blade would follow, a faithful hound. He stopped and sat beside Raven, the sun was beginning to set and he gazed at the sky, the darkness had always been where he ruled, during the day he was venerable to direct sunlight because of his pale skin, he got blistering burns if he stayed in direct sunlight for to long, he remembered the only time he had ever been out of Noterina he had been attacked by villagers thinking he was a vampire, he had never been allowed to the horse market since. He shot Raven one of his grim smiles that for him was the same as a big grin and a throaty laugh and said with the exaggerated calmness that he usually had,

"I am powerless without Dhera, it is a fact, I don't know what I'd have done if I'd have been born any other race... I know you feel a bond to your brother, it's only natural, I felt that to my sister once, I'll stand by you, as always, just...just promise you'll think before getting us into trouble? Because out there -"

He pointed,

"We pay with our lives, understand?"

He broke off, his eyes following the path of a bird, his eyes were once again emotionless, he wondered what the Notorians would think....now that was fun, he stopped himself, don't go turning into Raven now, he didn't know what people like him, who displayed their emotions so plain did for a living, they were bad liars but better friends, he sighed stood up and offered his hand to Raven, a peace offering. He didn't really know what Raven was thinking right now, Raven had dissapeared a few months after they had met, at the time Blade was too busy pretending to be busy so his father wouldn't notice him and send him off on some errand, to wonder where the strange new boy had gone off to, he sighed felt with his mind for Dhera, she had taken her revenge and anger out on a flock of birds. He winced.