Seymour: You're chance at one fight has been used. Any more, and the one who began the bickering will have his or her portion of coins removed.

Me: Honestly, Seymour, they're not kids.

Seymour: It's a way to get them to work together, I feel overwhelmed just listened to at least two of them, and I'm not even involved in the argument.

Me: Don't mind him.

Seymour: [Lifts an eyebrow] This was your idea, madam. Besides, this is how the soldiers in my city are trained when they can't get along.

Tounon: [To Lakkerfax] Yeah, you can light it. But where?

Tesmir: One big, long line on the rafters, leading right over to the dragons. Rowen can help us get the barrels up there.

Meriak: [Hisses and starts trying to knock Jay off balance. But withdraws when Thysal lands]

Me: OK, the Meriak is rather boring.

Mordir: [Doesn't move, but glares up at Thysal with fury]

Chayn: Shawn, hang on! I'm coming!

Tynx: Thanks. [Smiles at Skooter] You're an... otter, right? Can you show me how to fish?

Nameless: [Turns to Stellwento] You're lucky I have no quarrel with you, lizard. Or else you would find yourself in several pieces.

Me: Don't mess with the geckos. They outnumber you, and they have cool powers. Not to mention Kaida would have your head. Oh, and I've thought of a name for you, but I'm not sure if I've heard it before on another character in another book or something. But if I haven't, your name will be Zurik.

Meriak: [Screeches and flies at Erronys pouncing and then pushing off and away again (picture a fly running into a window)]

Me: My characters have become so violent.

Emuna: Shall we work together than?

Gavin: Nah...I'm good.

Me: GAVIN! WORK WITH THEM OR I'M GOING TO MAKE TERMINUS KIDNAP YOU,

Gavin: I mean....sure....let us work together and of course by us I mean you.

Brian: You're inability to keep from being so egotistical never fails to give me a shock....

Gavin: What?

Emuna: Beth's been reading Ted Dekker books again...

Brian: I don't think even I understood want I just said.

Gavin: Well that's great.

Emuna: Ehem...back to the coins...want me to just grab them? Or do you think that would be cheating?

Gavin: Less works isn't cheating it's easier.

Brian: It would probably be cheating...

Gavin: How are we going to get them then?!

Brian: We could attempt working. together.

Gavin: Don't be unrealistic, Brian...

Thysal - You heard him, Mordir. but make it quick. Jay may have a code of honor, but dragons don't.

Ashrai - (Draws his knife and slashes at the Meriak as it flies by, crouching low over Erronys' shoulders) I need a blade with longer reach. What are you, Meriak?

Niarah - I'm thinking Gryphon, like Kurazan's.

Ashrai - Who? Oh wait . . .

Rahor - Yes, those nasty beasties.

Me - Guys, she said humanoid.

Niarah - No, she said like a man with wings.

Rahor - What do you care, you aren't up there battling it.

Ashrai - I am! (Draws his crossbow and fits a poisoned bolt to it) Alright, Kaida, I'm covering you from up here. Erronys, how're you doing?

Lakkerfax: Perhaps Wen could whip up another tornado?

Stellwento: *laughs like a hyena* You've overlooked two things very obvious there no-name. If I were going to be in several pieces, my lack of sense would have done it for me long before.

Umectra: And yet sometimes, admitting you have a problem is not the first step to fixing it.

Stellwento: Who said it's a problem? And second, we're geckos! We just grow our parts back.

Skooter: *cocks head* I don't know how to fish.

Melany: He means he doesn't know how to teach fishing. He can fish alright, but it's off of instinct and what he saw as a pup. I'm sure he'll try though.

Skooter: *bounds to the river*

Stian: *quickly flicks around and knocks his beak against Pirzak's knife hand then begins ramming him in the back*

Aren: *watches from the ground with eagle eyes* If Stian were trying to kill him, his throat would've been cut by that beak before he had a chance.

Erronys: ...

Kaida: *shouts to Ashrai* Erroy doesn't like to talk about it, but he's mute! He seems to be doing fine though!

Stian: *bites Pirzak's wrist and holds fast with his sharp beak*

Me: And the moral of our story is never grab a Chamrosh by the throat, you're just lucky it wasn't the sekon breed.

Zanya - What's a Chamrosh? (watches the whole ordeal in amusement)

Thysal - (Glares at Raczr) Go ahead, make my day. Niarah!

Niarah - What?

Thysal - Watch him! (nods to Raczr) And be prepared to tackle Mordir if I decide to take 'Racky' on.

Niarah - (Sighs, then prowls near Raczr, readying her bo)

Ashrai - You have a gift, Erronys. (Keeps shifting position, golden eyes alert)

Chayn: [Pauses. Looks a bit ruffled and frustrated, but then opens her mouth]

Mordir: You do it, dragon, and Pirzak rips the girl's throat. [Looks at Thysal and Jay] Do what you want. You can't permanently kill me.

Me: But I decide whether or not to bring you back in here.

Mordir: Aye, but you can't live without me forever.

Me:

Seymour: [Smiling as he watches Gavin, Brian, and Emuna]

Mordir: [Looks at Jay] You and I are in a tight spot, boy. So if you and your noble dragon are willing, we can make a trade. Let me go, and I will personally see Miss Shawn settled on her dragon, free from harm.

Zurik: Wait, I thought the girl was bait to get the dragons to-

Mordir: Hush up. But anyway, we both of us get what we want.

Me: Do you really think he's going to believe you?

Mordir: I'm pinned under a dragon and have two sharp points at my neck, do you think I'd be stupid enough to lie?

Me: ....Yes. I won't pity you if you die.

Mordir: Yes you will.

Meriak: [Hisses and glares at Ashrai] You do not know who I am?

Me: They don't live in Piensor, dear. Meriak look just like humans, except their skin is as black as night, as are their wings. I made a thread about them.

Meriak: [Sniffs the air] I smell fear everywhere.... it's so strong.

Me: Don't eat anyone's fear. Except villains, then only if their authors say so.

Tynx: [Follows Skooter] I'll just watch and copy you then.

Chayn: [Roars in distress] Thysal... what do I do? [An almost tearful tone]

Mordir: [Looks at Jay and Thysal] So what will it be? You kill me, there's no telling what the others will do. And there's no guarantee if the girl's safety.

Chayn: If you hurt her, assassin, I'll-

Mordir: [Twists head enough to look at Chayn, flying above them] I'm already being threatened by Thysal, I don't need you too.

Chayn: I think you do. You threatened my rider. I don't take kindly to that.

Mordir: I noticed.

Me: You are going to get yourself killed, Mordir.

Mordir: An occupational hazard. Besides, I know you well enough to know that you won't keep me out long. You like me too much.

Me: Too much I've briefly glimpsed over the possibility of making you a hero.

Mordir: [Face darkens] Why?

Me: It's.... it's a weird reason, but that doesn't matter. Just be careful.

Tesmir: Who's side are you on?

Me: Both, seeing as how I have characters on both sides.

Zurik: [Glares at Stellwento] I don't care what you are, you little-

Me: Oh for heaven's sake, can any of my characters go without calling others names?

Seymour: Probably not. You make them too stubborn.

Mordir: [Watches Niarah]

Me: This is intense. I don't think even writing stories makes me feel like this. Except maybe once.

Mordir: [Voice dripping with sarcasm] Well I'm glad to be of service, m'lady.

Stellwento: Oh you're breaking my heart, look crocodile tears and everything. *rolls eyes* What's that about blowing myself up Fax?

Lakkerfax: Well you don't have to blow yourself up, we just need enough wind to get the barrels in the air.

Stellwento: *eyes glaze over as he considers what would happen if the barrels broke and the oil ignited to create a fire tornado*

Lumevita: Alright, what is that face? I do not trust that face.

Melany: A chamrosh is basically a dog/eagle gryphon. The sekon breed is hyena/vulture, and they have very sharp beaks.

Stian: *hears Mordir's words and shrieks*

Kaida: *eyes darken with rage, breathing heavily she forgets her knife in Merashath's back and let's herself drop onto Pirzak. She keeps the ball of her left foot hard on his throat while working a pressure point on the hand that has Shawn and sinking her teeth deep into the same wrist*

Tanner: Please. say. she's. not. in. my. book.

Aren: *beakpalm* Author, I've tried to teach her technique. How does this happen?

Fulgar: Wasn't someone just saying that humans have codes of honor?

Umectra: Kaida's not exactly... normal

Pernoxnix: There's something to be said for her determination to protect others...

Skooter: *dives into the river* Follow me fox!

Me: I told her not too... (but all the same, I may have bruised my wrist making sure she could bite hard enough to actually hurt.) *thinks about hte crazy fantasy writer thread*

Gavin: *sits down, legs hanging carelessly off cliff* You guys go ahead, I'll wait. Don't forget to grab my share.

Brian: *sigh* You never cease to amaze me, Gavin. *at Emuna* Looks like it's up to you and me, plan?

Emuna: You sure I can't just levitate them?

Brian: No. *looks into pit* You think you could lower me down there and let me grab the coins?

Emuna: Sure...but I'd drop you.

Brian: *scowls*

Emuna: I can go down.

Brian: No...but I know someone who can... *looks at Gavin*

Gavin: *stuffing his face with a banana* What? Shoo wash shome?

Emuna: Ha! You'd have better luck lowering a mule into the pit. Just hold my ankles. *lies on stomach and reaches into pit*

Brian: Hey! I wasn't ready! *grabs Emuna's ankles*

Emuna: *grabs all the coins* Okay!

Brian: *pulls Emuna up* I wasn't ready, you know.

Emuna: Oh, don't be so strict, I got the coins. *holds coins in hands*

Brian: Great...now what?

Me: DON'T GIVE GAVIN HIS SHARE THAT'S FOR SURE!

Gavin: I heard that!

Me: YOU WERE MEANT TO!

Gavin: My share! *holds hand out*

Emuna: *scoffs* I will not-

Gavin: My share! I command you!

Emuna: You what?!

Brian: Uh...oh...

Emuna: *tackles Gavin and they fall off cliff*

Brian:

Me: Why must my characters always find a way to hurt each other?!

Seymour: [Shakes head] You won't be getting your share, young Master Gavin. You did not aid your friends in getting the coi- [Stares in horror as Emuna and Gavin fall off the cliff] Of all the bull-headed humans I've met! [Jumps down after the two and catches them both, then jumps back up to the edge]

Me: I love Luvarians.

Seymour: I guessed. [Looks at Gavin and Emuna] Neither of you are hurt, are you? Now, Gavin. [Looks at Gavin and crouches down in front of him] I will give you a chance to redeem your share of the coins. But, you will have only Emuna to work with. You can argue and bicker, but I wouldn't suggest it.

Me: Why don't you let their author handle their arguing?

Seymour: If Miss Bethany wishes, I will cease. Besides, I have nothing else to do. [Walks over to Brian, picking up his bladed staff as he approaches] Gavin, this task will mainly rely on you, since you are the one who decided against helping the others. Emuna, even though this is Gavin's task, you must help him in what way you can. I put you both together because it's you two who argue most. Now, [Suddenly steps behind Brian and pins his arms to his sides, and hold his bladed staff lightly to his neck, not quite touching him] you both should be able to find a way to free your friend.

Me: [Shakes head] You need a hobby, Seymour.

Seymour: Hey, being prince of the whole Luvarian race isn't easy. It does this to a body.

Mordir: [Smirks at Kaida and Stian] I wouldn't do that.

Chayn: [Roars and dips in closer] Shawn, hold on! [Lands heavily]

Mordir: You're not listening, are you? You're putting the girl's life on the line.

Meriak: [Flies behind Erronys and pulls at his tail, then flies underneath him]

Orrun: I'm joining in.

Rune: What?! I'm having a hard enough time keeping an eye on Tesmir!

Orrun: I'll be fine.

Tynx: [Jumps into the water after Skooter]

Me: My posts are getting really long.

Brian: *struggles against Seymour* This is no longer a trust test!

Me: I'm enjoying this, you control them better than I do.

Brian: Must I note he's holding me captive!

Me: *shrugs* His teaching methods, I can't do anything about it.

Brian: You are cruel.

Me: As previously stated...

Emuna: *hiding in corner shaking* Y-you! *glares at Gavin* YOU MADE ME FALL OFF THE CLIFF!

Gavin: You're the one who tackled me!

Emuna: If it wasn't for your loud mouth I wouldn't have tackl- What is he doing to Brian?!!!!!

Gavin: *turns around* This should be fun to watch. *sits down calmly*

Emuna: You selfish beast! What if he hurts him?!

Gavin: Why do I care?

Emuna: *mumbles under breath*

Gavin: I heard that...

Emuna: *grabs sword* Doesn't matter, I'll get him myself.

Gavin: Good luck with that!

Emuna: *walks over to Seymour* Let him go.

Gavin: *scoffs* Lovely plan...

Seymour: [Tightens hold and brings his blade closer] Simply asking nicely will not free him. Gavin, you must be the main tool in your friend's release. Get up off your lazy hide and get over here.

Chayn: [Roars and half runs and half flies toward Pirzak, then spews poison]

Mordir: I'm not afraid of you.

Meriak: [Screeches and flies downward, tackling Thysal and burying her teeth in Thysal's Neck, then flies off and tackles Kaida]

Me: A bit rushed, but Amazing Race is on. [To Shawn] I t would. Especially this part. [Runs off]

Emuna: *is clearly distraught* Gavin! Get over here now or I'll drag you by your dumb hair and throw you at Seymour! I promise!

Gavin: I'm good. *waves at Brian* Having fun, buddy?

Emuna: *walks over to Gavin* You're a selfish, ignorant, egotistical, lazy, bum, who does nothing but let his father down every day he lives!

Gavin: You dare speak to your leader like that! *stands up*

Emuna: *glares at Gavin* Would you like me to repeat it?

Gavin: *slaps Emuna*

Emuna: *falls and begins to sob*

Gavin: And you're a girl, nothing more.

Brian: *at Seymour* You see what happens when I'm not there...though, I must commend Emuna for believable fake tears...do you mind taking that staff away from my neck? Call me crazy, but I find it uncomfortable and stress-causing at times...

Emuna: *is still crying*

Gavin: You're making a scene!

Emuna: It's all your fault, first I fell off a cliff, and now Seymour has Brian...and...and you hit me!

Gavin: Fine! Fine! I'll get him back...for the powers sake will you stop...

Emuna: *sobs into hands* I want Brian...

Gavin: *scowls* Fine. *walks over to Seymour* I won't fight, give me the boy so I can make the girl silent.

Brian: Oh...so convincing, Gavin... Really..you're saving my life...

Me: *watches intriguingly* This...is...awesome...

Erronys: *flicks his tail like a horse would with a fly nearby*

Stian: *bites Pirzak's fingers until he releases Shawn*

Erronys: *stations himself between Kaida and Merashath*

Malcolm: *growls* Oh make him shut up. *sinks scissor-like teeth into Mordir's neck and thrashes his own head violently, implementing the crocodile death-roll in the air as necessary*

Thysal - (stumbles, knocked off balance by the Meriak, all of her weight falling on the paw on Mordir, yet her claw misses his throat and stabs his shoulder. She regains her balance and stares down at Mordir. Grinds her teeth, hesitant to speak) You get that girl freed, and I'll let you go. If your villain buddies don't listen, then you're skewered, understand?

Niarah - She's a dragon, Raczr. Nicknaming isn't her thing. Don't make me start, though. (Twirls her bo meaningfully)

Me - I love this drama.

Rahor - You would.

Ashrai - (Watching the Meriak and instinctively shoots, the bolt from his crossbow striking the Meriak's wing) Wonder if he's immune to shadowsbreath poison. If not, that was a very bad idea.

Me - (facepalm) All of my charries are on the same side. Hey Zanya? You're evil now, alright?

Zanya - Wait, what?

Me - If you villains need an accomplice, have a Felanai.

Zanya - No one ever asks me about this . . .

Derek: *frusterated* Now look what you did!

Me: Not my fault.

Derek: Is so your fault!

Me: You're not even supposed to be here.

Derek: if you-

Me: Look, kid, if you want to save the girl you'd better get buys.

Derek: kid?

Me: Shawn.

Derek: Oh. Right. *rides at whoever has Shawn at the moment (from behind, where they won't suspect until he's upon them) sword drawn.*

Derek: Wait a minute. Who has her?

Me: Not Chayn. Not Mordir. And probably not Merashath. Though I'm not sure. Not Kaida (not sure I spelled that correctly).

Derek: I don't want to know who doesn't have her. WHO AM I ATTACKING?

Me: I lost track.

Derek:

Me: I think Pirzack.

*Derek comes up swiftly behind Pirzack or whoever currently has Shawn, his sword drawn. With his left hand he reaches out and sweeps her away from her captor (or attempts to sweep her away from her captor) while he swings with his right in an attack*

Derek: This had better work.

Me: Stop glaring at me and pay attention. If this were a film your comments would be out of character.

*Merashath twirls around the instant Pirzak let's go of Shawn. He breathes fire full into Derek's face, and tightens his hold on her shoulders. He swoops around and flies directly towards the barrels of oil, and breathes a fireball in their direction, prepared to fling Shawn.*

Me: I'm not entirely sure that didn't conflict with anything, but if it did tell me. (Kaida, sorry your knife didn't work. A blade is almost useless against him. He has a natural coat of fur that protects him as good as steel.)

Trina: *angers as she looks on at Merashath, runs over to Chayn and hops on, without warning.* I'll help you get your rider back!*

Merashath: Now I have to kidnap another girl. *sigh*

Elanhil: *without giving Kimun any rest, he puts his sword underneath in an 'X' shape, and then loops it around, getting the sword over the bottom of the blade, and under the hilt, forming an upside down 'V' shape. He then twists his sword back to where it was at the 'X' shape.*

Lakkerfax: *jumps out in front of the fireball and absorbs it before it hits the barrels*

Pernoxnix: Emuna, would you be so good as to levitate Kaida's dragon knife back to her?

Kaida: *watches Pirzak and Derek* Huh, I guess that leaves me off the hook. *lets herself fall backwards into the sky*

Emuna: *stops crying* Certainly, Pernoxnix. *Levitates Kadia's knife back to her*

Gavin: *pops up behind Emuna* Surprise!

Emuna: Ah! *drops knife before it reaches Kadia* Gavin! What are you doing?!

Gavin: *shrugs* Waiting for Seymour to give me Brian back...thought it would be fun to scare you.

Emuna: While I'm levitating?!

Gavin: It's not like you can't pick up the knife again...

Emuna: *scowls* I don't know why Beth invented you... *levitates knife Back to Kadia...and this time it reaches her*

Gavin: I often wonder the same thing for you...

Me: I wonder why I even put you guys in the same room...

Me: I can't keep up...

Kai: Get used to it.

Me: *thwacks Kai*

Kai: *wanders off someplace safer*

Roel: Wouldn't mind at all. Mine is definitely better than yours. *blocks slash, and uses it to spin around and slashes at Rahor's legs*

Me: *mutters to self* Honestly, just two days, and there's already two pages...

Kai: So... this is boring. Anyone need my help? Cat-Dragon, where'd you go?

Cat-Dragon: *flies up and lands behind Kai* I am here, master.

Kai: Thank you. What's going on?

Cat-Dragon: I'm not sure...

Kai: *absently fiddles with his katana*

You are going to have to explain that one better... your Vs and Xs aren't exactly the best description tactic.

Maybe take a video of you doing it to your brother... hehe.

Derek: Wait. Do I have Shawn or don't I?

Me: Pirzack let go of her, so I thought you did but apparently Mereshath still has her? That's confusing.

Derek: I think I have her. @Shawn: You're welcome, lady. Hold on!

*settles Shawn behind him as Raedon dodges Merashath's fireballs *

Shawn was firmly in the grasp of Merashath's claws. Pirzak was just holding onto her ankle to keep from falling, methinks. Merashath still has her, and was about to blow her up until the gecko stopped it.

Merashath: So do I have her or not?

Me: I don't know, I think so... Ok...I'll try once more and if that fails I guess it's the vid... Kimun was in the guard position, I presume. Elanhil placed his blade beside Kimun's, on the outside, and then immediately used Kimun's as a pivot, and brought the tip of his sword down to the hilt, notching it just below, then flicking his sword back to the original position. Better?

Chayn: [Glances only briefly at Trina before bolting into the sky, circling back around and charging at Merashath] Ready or not, here we come!

Tesmir: Nice save, Lakkerfax!

Tounon: That was a bit too close. C'mon, Tesmir, let's hurry up to the rafters so we can watch it all blow up!

Tesmir; Right behind you!

Mordir: [Fairly screams in pain as Malcolm bites him, then almost gets louder when Thysal's talon pierces his shoulder]

Me: [Is trying hard not to do anything about it]

Aris: She has this weird compassionate thing towards her characters. WHo aren't real. Like at all.

Me: I know, it's weird. But I'm not helping him. He brought that upon himself.

Mordir: [Trying to stay conscious, glares up at Jay] Not off the top of my head, no.

Me: You might want to call 'em off. You're only purpose in attacking them was to free up Kai and Cat-Dragon. They are now freed up.

Mordir: [Says nothing]

Rune: It's his pride that gets in the way.

Mordir: It is not! [Is completely lying and fails to hide it] I hate heroes.... Alright. I'll call them off for now. But we're not finished yet. [Tries to turn his head, but thinks better of it] Merashath, Pirzak, we're done with the girl.

Zurik: What!

Mordir: I didn't say we're done with the rebellion, moron. Just the girl. The rebellion is far from over. [lares murderously at Jay and Thysal] You happy now?

Meriak: [Screeches in pain and rips out the arrow and throws it back]

Me: What is the poison? I mean, what does it do?

Chayn: [Flies close to Merashath, but gives him a wide berth at the same time]

Mordir: [Looks humiliated, but more so in pain]

Seymour: [Face darkens. He lowers his staff and lets go of Brian] Stay there, please. [Walks up to Gavin and grabs him by the back of his shirt firmly] That is no way to treat a lady. For shame, Gavin! Hitting a woman like that! Apologize at once, and we will try again. Like I said, simply asking will not work. You need to work with Emuna to free your friend. [Roughly leads Gavin over to Emuna] Apologize. Now.

Me: He's usually not this talkative...

Mordir: Can I get up now?

Me: I doubt they'll let you up.

Mordir: I called them off.

Me: Not all.

Mordir: Oh for goodness sake, I called off the ones who had the girl they want so badly! Meriak, Raczr, fall back. But be careful.

Me: And...?

Mordir: I'm not apologizing, if that's you want.

Me: No, there's one more.

Mordir: Who? Klista? She hasn't done anything yet.

Zurik: I'm not backing off-

Mordir: [Shouts as much as he is able] Yes you will! Back down now!

Rune: He's learned his lesson now?

Me: I dunno, we'll see what he does later. Depending on if Thysal and Jay kill him or not. I won't blame 'em for it, either. Mordir's never been this way here.

Orrun: He probably feels left out.

Mordir: I do not! Honestly, I'm not a child!

Me: You're acting like one.

Brian: *watches and shakes head* Gavin will not apologize...

Me: Don't know...I'm working on that...he might end up saving your life.

Brian: You really need to make outlines...

Me: I know.

Gavin: Peasants do not scold Gavin!

Emuna: *scrolls up and reads* Gavin...he said he was a prince.

Gavin: I still remain supreme.

Emuna: If you want your head cut off sure...

Gavin: And more so I will not apologize to her!

Emuna: *begins to sob again*

Gavin: You want him to cut my head off don't you?

Emuna: *in-between sobs* It would d-do nicely...

Gavin: And he scolds me...apologize to her, he says. *crosses arms and looks away* I do not sink to apologies, thank you's, and sorries.

Emuna: *continues to sob*

Brian: She isn't actually crying right?...

Me: *shrugs* Who knows....

Brian: You, actually,

Me: Oh, yah... *continues to watch*

Brian: Well?

Me: Hmm?..oh yah, sure, whatever.

Brian: Stop reading that book! You're not paying attention.

Me: Shhh! Just watch...

Erronys: *realizes Kaida is still free-falling and swoops after her*

Stellwento: *whips up a tornado that touches down on Lakkerfax and the barrels, taking them high into the sky*

Kaida: *grabs the tip of Erronys' tail as he dives*

Erronys: *flicks his tail throwing Kaida back into the air and then follows her*

Kaida: *lands on Erronys' neck and sheaths her knife* Let's ride.

Better, but I am not sure what that accomplished. Not even sure if Kimun would react...

Tesmir: [Watches as the barrels are taken higher up] Shoot. Rowen! Can you give us a lift?

Rowen: [Flies up onto the rafters and lets Tesmir and Tounon mount up, then follows the barrels]

Tounon: Get as close you can!

Me: [Smashes forehead against a tree]

Seymour: You will apologize! Now! You have offended and hurt a woman. Had one of my own soldiers done such a thing, they would been whipped and made to apologize. But seeing as you are not a soldier, but a boy, I won't punish you in that way.

Me: A Luvarian prince is the same as a human king. Same for a princess and queen.

Seymour: You will 'sink' to apologize now, boy. I respect whatever position you may have, but I will not let your behavior go unnoticed. [Forces Gavin to face Emuna] Apologize now.

Me: Repeating the same thing over and over probably won't help.

Seymour: It's the first stage before getting more intense. [Grip as moved form Gavin's shirt to his neck. It's not a strong grip, but firm and not easily escaped]

Me: [To Bethany, out of earshot] Seymour won't hurt Brian, he just needs to make Gavin and Emuna think he will.

Orrun: [To Rune] Boy, I'm glad Tilmere's not that rough.

Rune: Ditto.

Me: If Seymour hurt Brian, Emuna would probably have a arrow stringed faster than Brian could stop her...

Brian: Which gravely frightens me.

Me: You befriended her.

Brian: *scowls* just watch.

Gavin: No! *doesn't like Seymour's hold on his neck*

Emuna: *stands up with teary eyes* Gavin, he seems relatively angry I wou- *just now realizes Brian's free* I have an idea!

Gavin: What makes you think I'll play along?

Emuna: 'Cause you already are.

Gavin: *raises eyebrow* You've lost your mind...

Emuna: Perhaps... *whispers to Gavin* You distract him and I can get Brian.

Gavin: *doesn't whisper* He's a trained soldier, he can fend for himself! You dare leave me in danger I would tell my father!

Emuna: How? He's back in Realta, which we can't get back to...oh, what do you know- Hey look another necklace like the one I have! *points behind Gavin and Seymour*

Gavin: *looks behind* What?! Were? Ow! You could loosen your grip, you know!

Emuna: *dashes to Brian*

Me: Okay, so Pirzack is falling through space right now?

Derek: *slashes at Merashath's claws* Will that make you let go, you fiend? You can't get to me when I'm underneath you except with your feet, which you can't use unless you let go!!

Meriak: [Flies after Derek]

Mordir: No! Meriak, we're done for now! Stop it, or you'll get us both killed!

Meriak: I am under no one's command. Especially one who gets himself so easily cornered.

Mordir: Alright, I might've screwed up trying to jump on the dragon. But seriously, don't do it.

Meriak: [Hisses and continues flying]

Mordir: Argh, you fool! You'll get yourself killed! And me!

Me: [To Bethany] That's a scary thought.

Seymour: [Catches Emuna gently by the arm] Miss Emuna, Gavin is the one who needs to rescue Brian, unless he doesn't want his share of the coins?

Me: You don't give up, do you?

Seymour: No, I don't. The young man still needs to apologize. [Lets go of Emuna, but turns Gavin around to face him. He lets go of his neck, and instead places his hands on Gavin's shoulders] Listen to me. I don't know what happens in your story, or in your world. But odds are, just like the rest of us, you'll find yourself in danger, where there's no place to run, no place to hide. And then, you will wish you had companions who were willing to pull you up and out of whatever trouble you got yourself into. Those two, [Points to Brian and Emuna] are your friends. But you keep going as you have been, you may find that you won't have the support you need. At least from one side. These friendships you have now need to be grown with care, so that in the future they will be ones whom you would trust with your life. But, if you don't, they'll let you fall, and they won't be very willing to pick you back up.

Me: Holy smokes, Seymour, you've said enough to last for a truckload of fortune cookies. [Gets whacked in the back of the head] Ow!

Rune: You're lucky it wasn't Seymour.

Seymour: [Ignores me] So, go on and apologize now to your friend. It doesn't take much. It's hard, but you both will feel better for it. Now, if you have no other complaints. [Steps back over to Brian and pins his arms again, with the staff an inch from his neck] We will start again. Remember, Gavin, if you want your share of the coins, you need to be the one to free your friend. Emuna, I will now give you the option of helping Gavin or not. You do not have to help him if you do not wish to. But, it may be a good idea to discuss things with him.

Me: Half a truckload. [Gets smacked again] WIll you cut that out?!

Rune: [Doesn't appear to have heard]

It's...a disarming tactic...his sword is wedged UNDER the hilt, and he flicks his sword UP.

Merashath: *looks at Mordir.* I take orders from no-one. *swoops upward, and lunges into the tornado.*

Gavin: They'd help me if need be!

Emuna: First mistake I made was helping you.

Me: Emuna, try to be nice.

Emuna: He hit me!

Me: So? You tackled him!

Emuna: But I never hit him!

Me: How does hit compare to tackle!

Emuna: I didn't make him cry!

Me: You were feigning it.

Emuna: So?

Brian: Umm...guys? He's sort of has me captive again.

Emuna: *at Seymour* I'll let you play your game with Gavin and I won't intercede since I know we will only bicker. But if you hurt Brian... *glares at Seymour*

Gavin: *sits down to eat another banana* Not worth coins, you can save him, Emuna.

Emuna: No, I can't, you have to! Did you miss that?!

Gavin: *eats banana* What I missed is why you haven't just blown him up.

Me: *giggles* I made my words purple!

Brian: *raises eyebrow* Uhh-huh...I see that.

Emuna: Don't make me, Gavin...

Gavin: *face full of banana* don't make sho wash?

Emuna: *begins to cry again* It's just not fair. *is now sobbing* I saved your life and now you refuse to help Brian and my cheek hurts and I fell off a cliff and...and...

Gavin: Okay! Fine! Just be quiet!

Emuna: *still crying* You promise?

Gavin: Yes! Yes! I promise...

Emuna: Great! Have at it!

Gavin: *walks over to Seymour and Brian* so...

Brian: Really? Draw your sword man!

Mordir: [Groans]

Me: The whole rebellion thing is really falling on top of you, isn't it?

Mordir: No it's not. The others are just declaring their independence.

Me: Really?

Mordir: Yes, really! Now leave me alone!

Rune: [Shakes his head] I'd give the whole thing up if I were you. Stian nearly killed you, and you're lucky Thysal's talon didn't pierce your heart. You should start surrendering.

Mordir: Surrender? What do you think I was doing a few posts ago?! I know the position I'm in, thank you very much. But I won't quit. I'm sick and tired of being pushed around.

Orrun: Makes for a sad villain.

Mordir: No one asked you!

Seymour: [Looks at Gavin] Come, young master. Let me see what you can do. [Lowers his blade a little, ready to use against Gavin]

Gavin: *draws sword* Who are you calling young? I'm 17, that's marrying age were I'm from.

Emuna: *smiles* At least I got him to help out.

Me: Hey have you read the chapter I'm working on?

Emuna: Yes...and I don't like it one bit!

Me: Awesome!

Brian: You're working on a chapter?...I suppose I wouldn't know that since I've been held hostage for a day....

Emuna: I'd focus on getting out alive...knowing Gavin you're lucky if you don't catch a stray dagger...

Gavin: *ignores others* Since you wish so desperately much to do battle with me...than you get your wish.

Me: Duly note though...I can't describe half the things Gavin does.

Gavin: *Hits Seymour's staff with his sword*

Me: Haha...fail...

Emuna: Could be worse.

Brian: No...that was pretty sad Gavin...

Me: He's not sad, my writing skills are.

Me: *to Rune* Um, Stian's the greyhound gryphon who's been on Pirzak... Malcolm's the red dragon who bit Mordir. *points to the indicated characters*

Skooter: *bobs up and down along the surface of the river as he swims up stream. seeing a fish, he dives straight to the bottom like a dart and returns as quickly as he left.

Tanner: *watches Seymour* That sounds like something my coach used to tell me... *looks at Kaida* maybe if I learn to stay on her good side it won't be so bad.

Fulgar: G'luck with that mate.

Tanner: *to Gavin* I'm 17 too, it doesn't mean you can't still get the tar beat outta you by a 40 pound lizard.

Pernoxnix: *grins*

Malcolm: Erroy! Back off, Fax has the whirlwind rigged!

*Malcolm and Erronys clear off to the opposite side of the dragon battle*

Stian: *falcon dives and lands at Aren's feet*

Aren: Well done my friend. *pats Stian's flank*

Me: Pernoxnix is 40 pounds? How large are the geckos?

Rune: Whoops, my bad. Sorry.

Rowen: [Flies as close to the whirlwind as he dares]

Tesmir: This is gonna be awesome!

Chayn: [Roars] Give back my rider! Assassin, call him off! [Flies after Merashath] Hold on, Trina!

Mordir: I can't call him off, dragon. I tried! I'm not in charge anymore!

Chayn: If anything happens to Shawn, I'll kill you.

Mordir: I'm not the one who has her! And you're third in line, 'cause I have at least two others who want to kill me, too.

Tynx: [Watches Skooter, then watches the water. He dives down as a fish swims under him, but he misses. He surfaces for air] That was close! Where'd he go?

Seymour: 17? I apologize. It is a good age. If you lived in my city, you would be training to become a soldier. [Smiles and easily deflects the attack] There we go. Come, try again. [Lets go of Brian and walks around in front of him, still facing Gavin, but stays close] See if you can get past me and touch your friend here. [Spins his staff, watching Gavin with just a slight smile on his face]

Me: You're getting way too much enjoyment out of this.

Seymour: I haven't been doing much lately, it's good to be up and active.

Tounon: Boy, I'm glad I didn't have Seymour as a mentor. Rousen drove me past my limits, but Seymour would've driven me beyond the point Rousen took me.

Tesmir: I had seven mentors.

Me: You're the youngest.

Tesmir: So? Do you have any idea how brutal it could be? Some days I'm up at the crack of dawn, and others I don't get to go to bed until well past midnight. It's hard trying sneak into the room you share with seven other people, a few of which are rather light-sleepers.

Mordir: I don't think anyone particularly cares about how miserable your life is. You have brothers you care about you, I had a mentor who cared only for power.

Tesmir: Cory's dad wasn't all that bad.

Mordir: You never met him.

Me: I would stop insulting people, Mordir. You're still under Thysal's foot, and Jay still has his sword at your throat.

Mordir: You don't think I know that?

Gavin: I am a soldier, *hits Seymour's staff again, harder this time* I am the chief's *swings sword again* son. Training since I can remember.

Emuna: You really have no idea how to write these do you?

Me: No, but there's a first time for everything.

Brian: *peeks behind Seymour* Gavin you should try hitting his underbelly, it's a weak spot for most creatures.

Gavin: Don't tell me how to fight, peasant!

Brian: Okay...just trying to help...

Emuna: You know he's right Gavin.

Gavin: Stop it!

Me: *shakes head* Never takes advice advice.

Emuna: Yah, remind you of someone?

Me: I can be li- hey! Don't start sounding like my sister!

Emuna: My bad...that did sort of sound like your sister.

Brian: *peeks behind Seymour again* Who's sister?

Me: Brian! Back behind Seymour!

Brian: *sigh* Being captive is boring...hmm... *thinks*

Seymour: [Blocks both with ease] You need more ferocity, Gavin. Attack as if I am your worst enemy. Hit me as hard as you can. Recall to mind what your father has taught, and use it to your best advantage. As for the belly, i would think it's anyone's weakness, if hit hard enough.

Me: [Starts to speak, but sees Rune nearby]

Seymour: [Glances at Brian] I wouldn't advise peeking around, young master. You might find your head removed form your shoulders, and I know that won't bode well for you or for me.

Me: You think?!

Seymour: [Thrusts and spins his staff, lightly tapping Gavin's shoulder with the butt of the staff (there's no blade on that end)]

Me: I should really draw his staff... But then I might completely mess it up...

Mordir: Worth a shot.

Orrun: He's calming down, I think.

Mordir: No, just bored.

Me: Want to go to the chat room? Amanda's there.

Mordir: No! I'll stay here under Thysal, thank you. I've already been humiliated.

Gavin: *swings harder at Seymour's staff* Currently, you are my worst enemy. *Swings sword under Seymour's staff and towards his underbelly*

Brian: I think I can duck a few blows... *continues to peek*

Emuna: If Brian gets his head cut off on account of Seymour I will shoot an arrow through his neck!

Me: Sometimes you scare me...

Emuna: Only some?

Me: Yah, and other times you shock me at how you cry.

Emuna: *scowls* I'm still a girl...

Me: Good point.

Brian: You don't suppose Gavin can beat Seymour do you?

Emuna: If he can't beat him than he shouldn't be the chief's son...

Brian: I thought we already established that.

Me: Guys...we're not disinheriting Gavin.

Brian & Emuna: Why not?

Me - Whoa, it's really gotten crazy in here! Not quite sure what to say.

Thysal - (Glares up at Merashath, then down at Mordir) They aren't listening. I . . . (watches Chayn, then glances over to where Shawn is, thoughtfully cocking her head. Glances down at Mordir once more) This might be a mistake, but you're free if you help us free Shawn. Hop on, Jay, the villain's taking a fly with us.

Niarah - A diplomatic dragon. She's going to get us slain. (watches Raczr with impassive eyes)

Ashrai - (Clings to Erronys)

Me - Dragonsbreath poison is viper venom; it's virtually painless, swift, and very deadly. I don't think it'll work on the Meriak though, since he isn't from Ashrai's world.

Ashrai - (mutters) If only . . .

Niarah - (glares)

Rahor - (Leaps over the slash and brings his blade down upon Roel's head) Doubtless. Mine is an ordinary weapon, nothing unique about it. Not sure about yours.

Kaida: Wait, Shawn's still captured? *growls at herself* Turn around Erroy, where is she?

Lakkerfax: *stamps fore-claw on the barrels and catches himself on fire* LET'S MAKE SOME MEMORIES.

Stellwento: *hyena laughs as the tornado has caused the barrels to leak and there is now a tornado of fire spiraling through the thread* And I'll rig the whirlwind mate... I'll rig the whirlwind.

Skooter: I have wave colors, that makes it easy.

Aren: Tell me again Tahn, why Kaida intimidates you more than the geckos?

Tanner: They're determined to be fool-hardy, she's determined to pick a fight and get it done her way.

Roel: *ducks and rolls out of the way* Mine is not really unique... it's just pretty, strong, and sharp. What more does one need in a blade? *chops at Rahor's legs*

Cat-Dragon: I was not aware that Shawn was still in danger. If she is, I will help you.

Kai: Don't get yourself hurt, k?

Cat-Dragon: Of course not, my master. Will you be joining us as well?

Kai: Nah, sounds too safe.

Cat-Dragon: *confused*

Kai: Nevermind. Carry on.

Cat-Dragon: As you wish. *flies down to Jay* I must note, however, that this alliance only lasts until the girl is safe.