darkSpyro

The little troll snapped out of it. She lifted her head to look at Shade.
"Oh, sorry Shady. Guess I was... a little spaced out. Good morning." Angora greeted after rubbing her eyes, feeling a little bad for ignoring Shade but at the same time waiting for the stranger's response. This was all for the dragolet. He still had no idea what she was into for his sake...

Meanwhile, Maverick fully woke up. He took a quick shower to be alert, groomed himself and then went to the kitchen to get some breakfast. He was in such a good mood that he decided to cook for the entire crew again, but before doing so, he was going to prepare Ilasi's meal first, hoping she was still asleep so he could make her breakfast in bed. He made pretty much the same breakfast of bacon and eggs for everyone, including Sere and Latnok, although adding grapes in their case. As for Angora and Shade, he got them ham, potatoes and cookies from Alya's own hands. How he missed that little girl. As for Ilasi, he made her some cooked venison, which he put in the platter to resemble an island, with bacon resembling the waves of a sea and a cut egg to resemble fish underwater, with the final touch being three cookies on the top of the dish that resembled a crown. He didn't think the decoration was better than the last time, but it'll still do. Since he believed Ilasi may still be in bed, Maverick went to her room first with her platter and drink on hand, hoping she was there to get her with the surprise...

Ilasi had completed her preparations for the day. She was about to leave her cabin, about to open the door - however, she stopped by the door whn she began to pick up the faint smell of food. Though it was faint, there was no denying it - it had to have ben prepared by either Maverick or Latnok, and she doubted that the latter was currently in the mood to cook for the personnel on the ship.
Ilasi gently opened the door to the cabin, and her thoughts were confirmed with the sight of Maverick and food. "Oh, Maverick! Good morning!" Ilasi greeted pleasantly. "The smell of food - I knew it had to be you!"

"You can be made anew," the stranger telepathed. "Made into something fitter - more suited for taking on the challenges of the world. A form you will prefer and others will respect. You will have the opportunity to live in the world you desire - all you must do is work for it. Remember.." With that comment, the mark began to dim, soon becoming dormant once again.

Angora wasn't pleased with the response. It was still too vague. What relieved her a little was the last sentence, when the stranger said she had to work for it, so perhaps the meaning wasn't as literal as she thought. But one way or the other, she would never know the true meaning of it until she faced it herself. Dissimulating her face to prevent Shade from casting suspiscions, her mind was filled with so many questions. Why would this individual and his society want to help her? What did she ever did for them? Or was it that... they needed her help somehow? Maybe they were just curious about her? Whatever the case, she was still scared by what they would demand from her, but at the same time, she felt special. Orion and Neo had chosen her, and even though they tasked her with a very dangerous battle, they helped her succeed, and gained a friend in Shade in the process.

This occasion was very different though. Her mysterious messenger and whatever society he was part of were individuals she knew nothing about, and whom haven't explained with clear detail what exactly they wanted from her, but after everything she has been though, it couldn't be that bad, could it? The important thing right now was helping Shade and prevent his evil power from causing mass destruction. There would be enough time to worry about what this society wanted from her, but not now. Not yet. For now, she focused on spending the morning with Shade.
"So Shady, pleasant dreams last night? Since I slept early, I woke up early." Angora commented, trying to distract her mind with casual conversation.

Quote: A Guy

Ilasi had completed her preparations for the day. She was about to leave her cabin, about to open the door - however, she stopped by the door whn she began to pick up the faint smell of food. Though it was faint, there was no denying it - it had to have ben prepared by either Maverick or Latnok, and she doubted that the latter was currently in the mood to cook for the personnel on the ship.
Ilasi gently opened the door to the cabin, and her thoughts were confirmed with the sight of Maverick and food. "Oh, Maverick! Good morning!" Ilasi greeted pleasantly. "The smell of food - I knew it had to be you!"

"Oh Ilasi. I see you're already up. Bummer. I wanted to give you the breakfast while you were still in bed. Heh, should've woken up earlier, but I am quite the heavy sleeper." Maverick admitted meekly, almost apologizing, though he knew in part that the delay was due to him deciding to cook for the entire crew too, otherwise he could've most likely brought the food in time.

Angora smiled at his comment, feeling even better that even someone as bitter and cranky as her could do such a positive change to somebody. Of course, she had Maverick to thank, for being so kind and patient with her.
"We're glad too Shady. We'll get through this. You'll see..." she assured, wanting to give comfort to herself as well. Shade looked so docile and gentle right now that it was hard to imagine there was an evil corruption trying to take over. With his black scales and yellow eyes for contrast, not to mention extra extremities, Shade was easily intimidating, yet he never really means any real harm to anybody. Angora still couldn't believe she was friends with somebody like him, even less with Maverick, whom she never imagined she would see again after so many years.

Ilasi gave Maverick a bright smile in appreciation of his efforts. "Well, I could get back in bed if you want to do it that way..." she offered invitingly. Thought Maverick wouldn't exactly be able to give her the experience he intended, it was the thought that counted more than anything - and the food would still undoubtedly be delicious.

Maverick simply shrank his shoulders in embarrassment, believing the spark was gone with her up.
"It won't be the same. It's alright. Just take the platter. I would join you, but I have more meals in the kitchen waiting to be distributed. I know today a few sailors will go to a certain mine to get some strong metal for Oscurito, so I want them to have a hearty meal before they leave." Maverick commented, preparing to head to the kitchen again once Ilasi took her breakfast. He knew about the expedition, but he didn't know who will go, although he was certain Sere and possibly Latnok would be part of it.

Quote: A Guy

"Okay, then. You guys wait right here," Latnok said with a slight smile - especially pleased with Chester's eager response, still amazed that he could understand the beagle clearly now. He began to make his way to the kitchen, knowing exactly what he would prepare - some beef.
Before long, he had the preserved meat out and portioned, cooking with the assistance of his magic. Once it was all done, he had the portions all put in appropriate bowls for their recipients, adding bowls of water and a cup for himself onto a tray, before bringing it back to where his two companions were waiting.
"Here you go," Latnok said, as he presented the tray to Raclaw and Chester. Laying it down, he took a seat on the deck, grabbing his own bowl and beginning to eat.

As then furry duo waited and Latnok soon returned-- Chester sniffed the air and delighted to be hit by the pleasant scent of the well prepared beef, already bowled up and ready for assumption. "It smells delicious. Thank-you!," Raclaw said agreeing with the Beagle's findings. His nose receptors weren't nearly as strong as a hunting dog (despite his sometimes dog-like behavior), but it didn't take canine senses to detect the delicious scent of a proper meal coming your way. Both he and Chester began to chow down, enjoying both the food itself and the present company. He and Latnok were seemingly on speaking terms again and although he usually wasn't one to sleep out on the open deck-- it had been worth it. Latnok had needed the rest and he was happy to have been able to provide that for the beloved Guardian. Little did they know that Mav had also been preparing a meal and that the infamous presence had been in communication with someone again. The fur dragon's thoughts would be happy and content, pleased with Latnok and the new bond.

"Oh... okay," Ilasi said dejectedly. "Thank you. I really appreciate it." Ilasi gently took the platter that Maverick had offered - and, unsurprisingly, was very pleased with how well he designed a dish. It seemed almost criminal to ruin art like that by eating it. "I guess I'll be up there soon to begin my morning tasks." Unlike the previous two days, today was likely to be much busier - Ilasi was well-rested, however, and was prepared to do what she needed to.

Raclaw's positive emotions were influencing Latnok as well.Despite the turmoil that the two had recently gone through, Latnok was in a pleasant mood, feeling ready for the day's mission - this did not, however, extend to his thoughts on other people. Latnok was still extremely wary - what was everyone thinking about him? How could he know who was genuine?
"Looks like we'll have a bit more time to test out our teamwork now, won't we?" Latnok said. "I don't think anything in those mines will catch us off-guard."

It wasn't long before Sere's wyvern became visible in the sky again, Veris energetically flying back. The landing zone was already clear - Veris landed smoothly and without hesitation, and he allowed Sere to dismount. Sere would give the men a chance to eat before giving the order to set sail.

"Agreed.," Raclaw said with a smile looking up at Latnok. Now that he and Latnok had effectively combined their otherwise unique senses-- the 'sight' as he so dubbed it would work to ensure their safety both in the present and in the near future. The fur dragon's tail gently swayed as they ate and talked, further portraying just how content he felt via one of his more animal-like behaviors. He no longer felt the need to hide anything or to purposely act more 'proper' in front of the beloved Guardian. Chester gave a slight smile at Raclaw's more lax behavior in what now had to be a very comfortable environment thanks to his and Latnok's new bond. Elsewhere, Risar relaxed and briefly watched the ocean waves before the order was sent to set sail.

While Angora talked with Shade, she was paying close attention to Latnok and his peculiar pair at the distance. Just how did Raclaw befriend him? Was it because he was always so obedient and submissive? Was it because he was furry and cute, unlike her? Her negative train of thoughts was interrupted with the arrival of Veris and his master. Just then, it occurred to her to ask Shade something.
"Say Shady, since you're a dragon, can you communicate with Veris? I mean Raclaw can through that weird telepathy of his, but can you?" Angora asked, wondering why it hasn't occurred to her or him before. Raclaw didn't resemble a dragon, but he was powerful and has telepathy, but since Shade bearer more resemblance to a wyvern, perhaps he could understand him.

Quote: A Guy

"Oh... okay," Ilasi said dejectedly. "Thank you. I really appreciate it." Ilasi gently took the platter that Maverick had offered - and, unsurprisingly, was very pleased with how well he designed a dish. It seemed almost criminal to ruin art like that by eating it. "I guess I'll be up there soon to begin my morning tasks." Unlike the previous two days, today was likely to be much busier - Ilasi was well-rested, however, and was prepared to do what she needed to.

Detecting disappointment, Maverick smiled at Ilasi.
"No te preocupes Ilasi. There will be moments like yesterday. For now, let's do our chores like we normally do. These days will be busy, so let's just focus on our jobs and do our best." Maverick encouraged, getting ready to leave to feed Dahlia, but then turned to the mermaid and spoke again.
"Hey, I'm off to feed Dahlia. If you feel lonely, you can visit her later. I'm sure she'll always look forward to your visit." he then commented with another smile, leaving for real this time. He would attend his beloved mount and then distribut the food for the crew, knowing that today, and possibly the next ones, we're going to be very busy and stressful.

Ilasi gave Maverick a small wave as he left. She stayed for a little while to sample some of her food - she would soon, however, leave for the main deck to eat with company. As she made her way through, she bumped into Leoquin, who had just left his room after preparing for the day.
"Good morning, Ilasi," Leoquin greeted.
"Good morning, Leoquin. How are you doing?" Ilasi asked politely.
"Well, I feel well-rested after all of that sleep following night duty, so I think I'm good to go. We're getting closer to the island - I'm really excited! Are you?"
Ilasi didn't quite share Leoquin's enthusiasm - this was more a job to her than anything else - but smiled. "We're bound to see some rather interesting things today, no doubt. I wonder what the scouting party will encounter."
It didn't take much for Leoquin to be able to identify the dish Ilasi was carrying. "Wow... Maverick has breakfast ready? I'm going to get me some. I'll see you a bit later."

Leoquin left at a fast pace, not wanting to have to pick a meal he disliked. Ilasi, meanwhile, eventually came back onto the main deck, where she encountered Latnok, Raclaw, and Chester. Being in the mood for some conversation, she came over.
"Good morning, Latnok, Raclaw, Chester. How are you all doing?" she asked.
"Latnok turned to Ilasi and gave her a cold, hard gaze. "Why are you asking me that?" he asked roughly.
Ilasi was somewhat taken aback by Latnok's uncharacteristically (at least to her) cold mannerism. "Oh, uh, I'm sorry, I was just... wondering how you were doing..."
"Tell me, Ilasi - what do you really think of me? Spare me any flattery - tell me the truth."
Ilasi suddenly realized (or at least had a strong suspicion of) what was causing this - Latnok had learned what Angora had thought of him, and what Raclaw had thought of him, so perhaps he was trying to find out about the others.
"Well, uh, um, I think that you... are a great teacher. You've looked out for me."
"Do you really think that?" Latnok pressed. "Or was it all just some attempt to appeal to me? Perhaps you also found my lessons a waste of my time, like Angora did. Perhaps you also fear what I'm about to do next, like she did. If my own friend can lie to me for so long... why should I believe that you won't? How do I know if you're really the person I think you are?" Though somewhat subdued, Latnok's voice leaked a hint of anger as he recalled the experience of learning of the painful memories.
Ilasi didn't immediately have an answer. Already, what started off as a good morning was soon becoming very concerning - what did she do? What could she do here? Feeling incapable of looking Latnok in the eye, she instead looked down and off to the side.

Although Angora was still a little angry at Ilasi, he found it despicable the way Latnok was treating her. She only said good morning. No need to be so rude. The only thing that pleased Angkra was knowing that Ilasi was living in the flesh just how horrible Latnok could be. She wasn't happy that even after all he made her go through and after everything he learned about her, Latnok was still talking bad about her. She got up to go there to say something to him... but then she sat down again, hugging Shade and almost wimpering. She was too terrified of him to face him like she used to. All the pain, all the hurt he caused, it still lingered in Angora's mind. There wasn't a facade anymore. All she felt for him was fear...

At Dahlia's enclosure, Maverick fed the dirt buffalo some oaths and the played with her for a little while to get her much excercise. He didn't want to make her run on that island or on the deck, knowing the presence of dragons scared her, so he opted to excercise her from there, even if there wasn't much space.

Angora felt embarrassed for the display. No matter how much she tried to hide her fear, she just couldn't. She was glad for Shade's support, but it made her sad how much patient he had with her. Looking at the dragolet deeply, she started wondering something.
"Shade... why did you chose us? Why did you choose to travel with me and Maverick? You... you could've done like Raclaw did and travel with the Guardians. Better to have them as friends than us, and who knows? They probably could've contained the corruption better than we did, and maybe even helped you find others of your kind. Don't you want that Shady? Find others like you? I bet you'd be happier with them." Angora said gloomily, believing Shade would've been better off with his own species rather than two tiny creatures he should be considering prey.

Having enough play, Maverick left Dahlia, promising to get Ilasi for her if the mermaid didn't visit in these next hours. He returned to the kitchen to heat up the already prepared food, and once it was pleasantly hot, he took the cart and prepared to leave, having enough meals to feed a few of the crew members twice...

Angora didn't complain or moan with the hug, even though it was becoming a little too tight for her. Still, that pain was far better than the mental trauma Latnok made her suffer.
"Still haven't given up on your search? If you're not of this world, it may prove rather difficult even for the Guardians, but hey, maybe there are some dragolets out there that landed here just like you." Angora commented, trying to give him some hope, even though it was a scary thought having an entire group of creatures like Shade. He was still rather young according to himself, and if they grew all their lives like Earth dragons, it was possible there were even bigger than him. But if they turned out as gentle as him, it wouldn't be so bad.

As Shade expressed to her something so personal, she had an idea.
"Well, if we do find your kind, why should that mean we should separate? Why should we say goodbye? Maverick and I can stay with you afterwards... of course, if your kind accepts us. If they're as gentle as you are, it shouldn't be a problem." Angora said, trying to disguise her doubt. Shade was very friendly to them, but it may not be the case with the rest of the dragolets. Was he an exception? Or were dragolets naturally hospitable? She was really hoping it was the latter, so that they wouldn't have to say their farewells if Shade ever encountered his clan.

Although Angora wanting to feel honored, she felt rather guilty.
"That's very nice Shady, but I think you'll be happier with your own kind. We've had our fun time, but if they accept you, there's no point in denying yourself the chance to be with those like you. Come on. It must be a little tiresome following us at such a slow pace and being used as a mount." Angora stated, not wanting Shade to limit himself for their sake. Just like herself, Shade has been denied the chance of true happiness many times, particularly because of his corruption and unstable powers, but if the issue was finally solved, he would have the chance to choose the life and mission he had always seeked.

Angora didn't wanted to insist on the matter, so she just let Shade decide what to do with his life.
"Fine, fine Shady. If that's what you want. We just want you to be happy." Angora commented, knowing it should be his decision to do what he wanted, although it made her rather sad to know he would give up being with his own kind, something he has been questing for, for the sake of being with them. Shade even looked ready to accept some criticizing if others didn't accept his unique friendships. Still tired from the chores earlier, Angora lied her head on his belly to doze off, wanting to receive the warm rays of sunshine and enjoy the dragolet's company.

MEANWHILE...Quote: A Guy

Leoquin left at a fast pace, not wanting to have to pick a meal he disliked. Ilasi, meanwhile, eventually came back onto the main deck, where she encountered Latnok, Raclaw, and Chester. Being in the mood for some conversation, she came over.
"Good morning, Latnok, Raclaw, Chester. How are you all doing?" she asked.
"Latnok turned to Ilasi and gave her a cold, hard gaze. "Why are you asking me that?" he asked roughly.
Ilasi was somewhat taken aback by Latnok's uncharacteristically (at least to her) cold mannerism. "Oh, uh, I'm sorry, I was just... wondering how you were doing..."
"Tell me, Ilasi - what do you really think of me? Spare me any flattery - tell me the truth."
Ilasi suddenly realized (or at least had a strong suspicion of) what was causing this - Latnok had learned what Angora had thought of him, and what Raclaw had thought of him, so perhaps he was trying to find out about the others.
"Well, uh, um, I think that you... are a great teacher. You've looked out for me."
"Do you really think that?" Latnok pressed. "Or was it all just some attempt to appeal to me? Perhaps you also found my lessons a waste of my time, like Angora did. Perhaps you also fear what I'm about to do next, like she did. If my own friend can lie to me for so long... why should I believe that you won't? How do I know if you're really the person I think you are?" Though somewhat subdued, Latnok's voice leaked a hint of anger as he recalled the experience of learning of the painful memories.
Ilasi didn't immediately have an answer. Already, what started off as a good morning was soon becoming very concerning - what did she do? What could she do here? Feeling incapable of looking Latnok in the eye, she instead looked down and off to the side.

"Latnok wait--," Raclaw said stepping forward and placing the tip of his tail in-between the two shipmates. "What had happened between us and what happened with Angora was a special case, based off events that had occurred long before the ship. Ilasi wouldn't have even been there and thus would have no reason to judge you based off those past events. Think about this-- you and I had both been corrupted by Darkmatter thanks to his influence on Shade. We were not entirely the same people that we now are. And even if she had been there, she wouldn't have experienced those events in the same way nor would she have blamed you for them. She would only have the events on the ship to base an opinion of you off of and might very well be telling the truth.," the fur dragon then carefully said looking up at the troubled Guardian. How he reacted or how Angora reacted wouldn't have necessarily been how *Ilasi* would've reacted to such an event. The last thing he wanted was for Latnok to judge everyone's character based off their own interpretation of what had occurred. Most on the ship would've only seen Latnok post-Darkmatter-- and his more recent interactions with certain others such as Angora would've mostly been ignored since the troll didn't exactly carry a high opinion among her fellow ship mates.

Angora took a while to respond since she was listening to Raclaw's defense. At least he did what she didn't dare to do. As upset as she still was with Ilasi, she didn't deserve such crappy treatment from Latnok, especially if he was the one with the issues. Once she was done hearing, Angora looked at Shade and nodded before responding.
"I guess we're stuck with each other then." she said jokingly, with Shade insisting so much Angora had no doubt the dragolet wanted to be with them no matter what, regardless on whether he found his kind or not. Shade was more or less to her what Raclaw was for Latnok. Such loyalty. Such tolerance. But unlike the Guardian, Angora really believed she has changed thank to Shade and Maverick, and no matter how bad Latnok wanted to keep treating her, it won't change the fact that she still had very dear friends. Sere himself was present when she contributed to the White Shadow, and even if he never admitted it, he now knew what a valuable ally she could be. Her actions and friends made her a very special troll, and Angora wasn't going to let anybody make her feel otherwise.

Latnok took a few moments to contemplate what Raclaw was saying - perhaps he was being too wary. Ilasi, at least, had shown herself to be of good character - but the one doubt remained, Latnok recalling Raclaw's hidden thoughts about him. If Raclaw could pull one over on him, then...
..."I'm sorry, Ilasi," Latnok said almost reluctantly. "I don't know what my place is anymore. I' not the man I thought I was. And I'm not sure of who are real friends and who are just allies. Nevermind me..."
Though Ilasi was still somewhat unnerved by the encounter, she recognized Latnok's legitimate effort to apologize. "Uh, don't worry about it too much. Please. If you ever need someone to talk to... uh, rather... well, if you ever need me to help you with something, please let me know. Oh, not that I don't think you can do things yourself! Just... well, I want to help if I can."
"Thank you," Latnok said nodding in appreciation of the gesture. "Please, have a good day. As good as you can, anyway. Forget about what I said." Despite his words, Latnok was now more unsure than ever - if Ilasi didn't dread his presence before, perhaps she did now. Maybe it was just best for him to avoid the other crew members as much as possible.

Angora contemplated the apology, and simply shrank her shoulders. Not the best apology she has heard, but was glad Raclaw managed to stop Latnok from being such a jerkass. If only she could have his valor. But like the young Guardian was going to avoid the crew members, she was going to do the same to him, suspecting he still had the same low opinion of her despite the revelation.

Not wanting to spy on them anymore, Angora lied down on Shsde's back, once again pondering many things.
"You know Shady, today is the day Sere and a few others will go to those mines to get the metal necessary to restrain you. Perhaps when this madness is finally over, he will give us the permanent hexphage cure at last." Angora said after noticing their bodies were once again getting filled with the infernal infection.
"Whether he admits it or not, we helped a great deal against the White Shadow, hexphage and all. I even cushioned him and Veris' fall when they fell into the ocean. Heh, tell me if he even bothered telling the crew that. He omitted it so that everybody here could still continue treating me like crap, cause of course, who wants anything to do with a troll?" she then commented, showing how bitter she still was with the subject and how negative she was in how the rest of the crew members treated her and her friends. They all hated them due to the Guardians badmouthing them, denying them the chance to have a decent relationship with them. For Shade and herself she cou,d understand, but for the dear, innocent Maverick? In Angora's opinion, it was unforgivable. It was a good thing the hybrid was winning them over slowly.

As Latnok no doubt contemplated what he had just done-- Raclaw went right longside the Guardian and 'hugged' him with his tail. He looked up at his beloved Latnok and gave a gentle nod, as if to say that everything would be alright. Chester briefly rubbed up against him... doing what he could to support the troubled man. Elsewhere, Risar briefly watched the interactions and was pleased to see just how close the furry trio had become.

Unsure of how to proceed with any further conversation, Ilasi left the trio to their own devices, instead finding a place alone on the deck to eat her food. Meanwhile, Latnok continued to eat his food, feeling somewhat better thanks to Raclaw's efforts to comfort him. As the others ate, Leoquin continued to search the deck for the source of food the others were eating.

Maverick went to the main deck, and felt rather unpleased to see Leoquin, the first face he spotted once he got the cart upstairs.
"Breakfast. Get breakfast." he started calling, moving the cart around as he yelled. Unlike other times, the meals weren't decorated, or if they were, Maverick didn't out much efforts into them. Angora and Shade's platters were the only ones pleasantly decorated, but he had left them in the kitchen to prevent the other crew members from taking it. To avoid looking like he was playing favorites all the time with his two friends, he decided to feed the rest of the crew first and leave them for last at least this once...

Quote: Spyroconvexity

“I’m going with them. This is my fault and I want to help out anyway i can!

"Oh right. Forgot you were going with them. Hope there's enough space for you in those mines. Good luck." Angora said, not remembering when Sere obliged to his request. Shade could really be a great help to them. Not many creatures were a threat to someone as big as Shade, except of course, beasts like behemoths, but she doubted they would even encounter one on islands like this. As she talked, she saw Maverick distributing the food, and waited patiently for her and Shade's turn...

With the announcement of breakfast, Leoquin eagerly came over, his hunger stoked by the smell of the food. He took a quick glance through the dishes before taking one with poultry, not being particularly picky this time. "Hey, thanks," he said neutrally to Maverick as he walked off somewhere to eat his meal.

Maverick continued distributing the food among the crew, being plenty for everybody. When it was time to pass besides Shade and Angora, he spoke to them.
"I'll get your food soon guys. Just feeding the crew first to avoid any... you know." Maverick commented, but Angora understood immediately.
"Go go. We get it." she assured, as she let Maverick leave. He even got food for Raclaw and Chester, not having known they already ate. As soon as he was done with the crew, he was going to bring Shade and Angora's food, hating to leave them waiting for too long, especially knowing how hard their stay on the ship has been.

With the crew mostly fed, Sere rang the bell, and the crew members began to gather around for the announcement.
"Good morning, sailors," Sere said. "We are setting sail for an island today - it's within the danger zone. Expect turbulence and storms - and I wouldn't be surprised if there was combat of some sort on the way. We have faced great dangers already, and have come out on top every time - this time will be no different. I thank you all for the great work you have put in so far. We are setting sail right now; get with Risar for further orders."
With Sere's announcement complete, the crew began to disperse, the sound of chatter filling the air. Some sailors (most likely on Risar's orders) began to pull up the anchor, and before long the ship was in motion.

Angkra was very uneasy with the announcement.
"I didn't know the mines were in another island. I thought you were going to venture here." she commented, having believed the marsh island was the place to be to get the metal. Did Sere mentioned something about another island? If he did, she clearly missed it.

Maverick was below deck,taking the cart back to the kitchen. He was hoping there would be some leftover food for tomorrow, but the sailors took advantage of the extra portions to repeat. He would be upset if it wasn!t for the fact that they were probably simply preparing for the journey ahead. From the hallways, he could hear Sere's announcement, muffled but understandable.

Once he left the cart and dishes in the kitchen, grabbing a Shade and Angora's platters on each hand and strapping their drinks to his belt, he headed to the main deck again to get their food before they headed to the aforementioned storms.
"Go ahead my friends. Enjoy. Look, I even added some of Alya's cookies for extra pleasure." he commented gleefully, still missing that little girl greatly. The meal was enough to raise Angora's spirit. She had completely forgotten about Alya's cookies, and then remembered Maverick also purchased her father's milk, which was exactly the drinks he brought. This was going to be a pleasant breakfast indeed.

As Maverick had passed around the meals and handed him/Chester their usual bowls-- Raclaw felt somewhat guilty for already having eaten breakfast on Latnok's dime. However, he didn't want to seem rude and knew that the food would likely go to waste anyway. "Thank-you.," the fur dragon politely said as Maverick handed him what was essentially his second helping. Chester didn't complain about the second meal and had happily chowed down in front of his two best friends. Raclaw gave a smile as the Beagle ate; the two furry companions would keep Latnok company with however he wished to spend his time.

Risar, meanwhile, had began issuing orders and keeping the ship heading towards its new destination. The large minotaur seemed rather proud giving orders -- something he was very very efficient at due to both his menacing presence alone and his deep echoing booming voice.

With everybody fed, Maverick returned to the kitchen to better arrange the dishes. He wasn't in the mood for washing them now,mbut felt he has arrange them in a way where they would easily break if the ship started to move around during a storm. Risar didn't seemed to have an order for him for now, so he made his way below. He was thinking of releasing Dahlia for a while, but with Veris nearby, it was probably not a good idea. She was slightly more afraid of the wyvern than she was of his friend.

Quote: Spyroconvexity

Shade licked his lips. “Oh looks great!” Shade first ate a cookie. “Oh this tastes so great!”

Angora had decided to save the best for last, so she left the cookies behind and started to eat Maverick's meal first. She noticed however, with what Shade left after some cookie crumbs fell on her head.
"Starting with dessert? You greedy, gluttonous beast. Careful you don't bite your tongue." Angora mocked jokingly, in the mood to tease him. She still though a dragon eating cookies and drinking milk was too hilarious.

Eventually, the horizon began to slip away from view. As it did so, Latnok looked over it. Leoquin was on navigation duty at the moment; Ilasi was attending to her water purification duties. Latnok himself didn't really have anything to do - he wasn't leading like before, and Sere had not given him another job. He would endeavor to make himself useful where he could, though he wouldn't go out of his way.

Maverick arranged the dishes in a better way, making sure none of them would be too exposed if a storm hit. The ship was already on the move, tackling the ocean yet again. The White Shadow wasn't a threat anymore, but Maverick knew too well the ocean hid many other dangers. Knowing they would be navigating treacherous waters with an unstable climate, he also knew Dahlia will be obviously nervous. Being done in the kitchen, he headed to the dirt buffalo's enclosure again, finding the animal sulking in a corner.
"Don't worry girl. I'm here." he said comfortingly as he sat besides her, ready to take a nap with her if necessary. Ilasi was doing chores, and at least Shade and Angora had each other. Plus he doubted Risar would assign him anything, given the job he knew best was already being done by Leoquin, so Maverick stayed there, not wanting to leave his beloved mount all alone. With all her nervousness, Maverick was still surprised how she chose to stay with him despite the obvious dangers he usually faced. Heaven knows how many times he tried to release her, yet Dahlia always chose to stay with him despite the adversities.

As the horizon soon became nothing but a blimp-- Raclaw and Chester watched alongside their beloved Latnok. They were now heading into the danger zone and would be ever closer to the destined Falcon's Beak. 'And my parents.,' Raclaw thought looking out onto the ocean. He was an effectively domesticated fur dragon that had been collared, misplaced, tamed, raised alongside a dog, and trained to act more like some kind of dog/dragon hybrid rather than the proper dragon he would have otherwise been. Furthermore, he was a dragon whom had both accepted and willingly allowed himself to be claimed via an unbreakable collar-enforced bond. Part of him couldn't help but to wonder what his parents would think of him-- and of Latnok.

Would they accept him as he was today? Or would they scold him for not acting like a proper fur dragon and for willingly depending so much on another, despite the powerful and very real bond that had formed between man and dragon? What if he was forced to choose between them or Latnok? Would he even be able to choose between his own parents and the powerful bond that had formed between him and Latnok? Part of him hoped that they would accept that aspect of himself, while another part feared that might outright reject him because of that aspect. Chester, sensing that his dear friend needed it, gently placed a paw over one of the fur dragon's larger paws. The little Beagle had often noticed that Raclaw's delicate mind tended to wonder whenever he was worried about something-- and he wanted to support his favorite fur dragon whenever and however he could.

"Dragon? I thought you said you were a dragolet?" Angora answered, mocking his previous words.
"Well whatever. You ain't getting my cookies." she then added, punching one of his toes in a way that wasn't painful but very annoying. She still had a way to go before finishing the main breakfast, but she was also making sure Shade didn't sneak up and stole one of her desserts.

Though Latnok wasn't particularly paying attention, Raclaw's own thoughts did not escape him. The dragon had his own concerns, much like himself; undoubtedly, it was quite a bit that he had committed to. "Raclaw... don't worry about that for now," Latnok said. "I'm sure we will all figure out something which works for everyone involved. Whether that be making a few adjustments to the relationship, or finding a way to live together - somehow - we'll manage it." Latnok wasn't quite sure how exactly that would be feasible - but they had figured out other tricky situations. This one wouldn't be any different - he hoped, anyway.

As the ship moved on, the water began to get somewhat rougher. Despite the increased turbulence in the water, however, the sea was not outright dangerous at this time.

As Angora and Shade ate, Maverick remained with Dahlia, already feeling uneasy with the change in water current.
"Listen girl. You'll be lonely and scared here. Let's go to the main deck. I know you're scared of Shade and Veris, but they won't hurt you." Maverick assured, getting up to motivate her to leave. Shade was gentle and polite and knew he wouldn't hurt Dahlia, but Maverick was a little worried about the wyvern. His predatory instincts were much stronger than Shade's, and given his gluttonous nature, he was afraid Veris wouldn't be able to resist some hunt. He would have to tell Sere about it so he could keep the wyvern under control. Maybe Angora could help too since Veris seemed to really like her.

Dahlia got up and followed him with much hesitation. Maverick was considering leaving Dahlia to walk around the hallways, but she didn't do good in every enclosed spaces, not to mention it would be really bad if Veris was returned to his enclosure and encountered Dahlia all alone along the way. Such a problematic scenario, but Maverick didn't was his dear mount to be by himself, so this was a little risk he was willing to take. Shade could also save her if Veris went a little too crazy.

"You're right-- I'm sorry.," Raclaw said cutting off his immediate train of thought and leaning towards the beloved Guardian. Latnok was a man who was just as dedicated to their relationship/bond as Raclaw himself was. And if he could learn to live with man, than perhaps his parents could as well. Besides, they still had to find his parents and it would still be some time before they made it to Falcon's Beak. There was Shade and the blood moon to deal with first. And who knew what other dangers would await them once they got further into the danger zone? One thing was certain, however, and that was that they would get through it... together. The trio was the perfect example of how man, dragon, and dog could live in harmony. He gave a slight smile to Chester as well. The little Beagle had adored him and would always be there to support him.

As the ship continued forward, Risar kept things sailing as smoothly as possible. He would have no orders for ether Mav or Latnok for the time being-- the former not currently being needed and later still only answering directly to Sere himself. As for Raclaw and certain others, they ether had their place next to another or had the Hexphage to keep them away from most tasks. Raclaw and Latnok had proved that the bond between man and beast could be very real indeed. And Angora/Shade showed a very similar relationship. He had never expected to be so reminded of his old master upon stepping foot aboard the Guardian ship. And now he was the one giving orders.

Maverick came with Dahlia to the main deck, looking around. The atmosphere was humid and cold, though it was no trouble for the dirt buffalo. He was more concerned about the wyvern, so he was making sure he was far away when he brought his mount into view...

Quote: Spyroconvexity

Shade chuckled and was teasing her to get at one of her cookies. “You wanna bet I can’t sneak one?”

"Try it and I'll bite you." Angora said playfully, pretending to be menacing. Although she did intended to give him a little nibble for real if he intended to rob her of her dessert. Whether he used his claws, snout, or even tail, she was going to pay attention. She swiftly devoured the remaining of her breakfast to eat the cookies immediately, not only to avoid Shade, but to prevent the storm from catching up to her...