Thread: Light in Shadows (Fates and Flame)

Curious as he was about them, Aezon had to admit he was less than eager to run into one of these swamp dragons. Kaia managed to paint a vivid portrait of the beast, almost losing herself in the excitement of describing them. It was a little odd to see her so cheery over the prospect of a man potentially having his arm torn off, but her tenacity brought the shadow of a smile to Aezons lips. If she was at all excited about the monstrous reptiles of her homelands, it was nothing compared to her joy of him accepting her offer. He never expected to find someone to happy to share in his company. She seemed scarcely able to contain it at first, only to fall into silence once they were back on the trail. Aezon lingered behind Kaia, keeping in stride while remaining uncertain over her habit of gushing one moment and going tight lipped the next. He hadnt spent enough time with people to know if they were all this way. He was pretty familiar with contempt by now, but anything else was a bit of a mystery. He passed an inquiring look at Leiku perched on his shoulder, wondering if all girls acted this way. The spirit merely stared back at him with wide, blank, eyes. It appeared shadow spirits would be no help in the greater mysteries of the female mind. Things only grew more confusing when he looked up to find Kaia stealing a glance of him. She looked like she was about to say something, but just as quickly she turned her attention back to the path. Their eyes only met for an instant, but for some reason it left Aezon feeling all twisted up inside. It felt like he should say something to break the quiet, but hed never been very good with words. Her reaction to his mention of Radiance was proof enough of that. Luckily, Kaia hadnt lost her voice for long. Aezon was quickly learning of her love for explaining things. He listened attentively as she pointed out the footholds he ought to utilize, and carefully followed in her wake. It made for a much easier venture than his blundering attempt alone. He couldnt help but feel a little embarrassed when she pointed out the evidence of that. It seems I was somewhat unprepared, he had to admit. Though, Aezon allowed himself a genuine smile as Kaia grinned back at him. Well, I appreciate the help. Things are a bit easier when youre not constantly finding yourself in a sinkhole. The terrain still proved difficult, though. Solid was a relative term here, as even the best paths tended to be flooded or slick with mud. Kaia was much more surefooted than him, but he could keep up better than most. Aezon had tackled his fair share of difficulties over the course of his life. His determination, along with Kaias studious tips and guidance, had him getting the hang of traveling through the Mist before long. Still, even at his best he felt he could never navigate this place as gracefully as his escort. As promised, things grew a little easier on the riverbank, but nothing could be done about the soft ground which could slide right out from under the foot. Aezon always managed to catch his balance and keep from falling, but Leiku was left to flutter in a panic each time his ride began to wobble. Eventually, he decided it was easier just to fly alongside him instead. Aezon followed Kaia over the mud pit, easily making the leap to join her on the other side. He gave her a curious look when she took on a more serious air and posed her question. His gaze averted at once as she mentioned the shadow root. He should have known this was coming. It was to be expected, in fact. And loathe as he was to speak of his private affairs, Aezon knew he probably owed it to her after everything shed done for him. Kindness, even in small doses, was seldom offered to his people. Even so, he remained silent, refusing to look at her. But Kaia waited, apparently refusing to take a step further until he answered. Eventually, her patience won out, and Aezon met her soft appraisal. You wouldnt understand, he started to say, only to sigh and shake his head. Perhaps it was best just to be honest with her. Kaia seemed understanding and compassionate enough so far. Its for-- His words were cut off as Leiku flittered inches from his face, anxiously pumping his wings in an effort to get Aezons attention. Leiku, he sighed with annoyance at first, only to regard him more seriously as he noticed the spirits state of alarm. What is it? Once he caught on, Leiku sped away, bringing Aezons attention down river. Once it was there, the little black bird fluttered away and vanished, no longer revealing itself to them. Aezon peered into the distance, trying to see through the blanket of fog to find whatever had gotten the spirit so worked up. Hed been traveling with Leiku long enough to trust his instincts, so when he saw inky shapes forming within the mist, he knew better than to stand around and waiting. Without warning, he wheeled around and snared Kaias hand. Come on! he hurried her, pulling her away from the river. We have to get down! He didnt give her time to argue, forcing the both of them into cover behind the nearby brush. Their hiding space provided them enough shelter to avoid prying eyes, but gave enough vantage to see further up river. Aezons eyes focused on the murky water like a hawk. The tension was palpable as he watched, waited, and listened. Soon, they could hear the sound of several oars cutting into the water. He stiffened at the sound and anticipated the boats coming into view. They appeared first as a disturbance in the mist. The haze snaked across the flat water, fleeing from the advancing prows of a set of long canoes. There were five in total, each bearing at least four men. Aezon noticed the padded armor they wore, along with the brutal looking sickles and clubs they carried. It was a small force, but they looked ready for war. His eyes narrowed at the spectacle, remaining perfectly still as the rowers continued to push up river. He didnt know who these men were or what they were planning, but one look told him to keep well out of it. Only once the boats had passed out of view would he dare step out into plain sight again.