Thread: We Rode on Broken Wings (Arkus and River_Wolf)

Tsia Lilat stood on the precipice of the sky pier, the wind of Dragon's Peak whipping through her short chocolate hair and putting her thick riding clothes to the test. The warm beaver fur kept her comfortable, but anything exposed started to redden. Winter was coming. The first dusting of snow waited just over the horizon. Other forested mountains blocked the storm, preventing it from arriving at the complex, but it wouldn't be long. Everyone knew it. That's probably why the citadel felt so deserted. Most of the pairs were out flying. Tsia's grey-blue gaze watched as they flew above her massive dragon of all shapes and sizes with their human or elven riders. Those with missions left early to try and beat the storm. Those who didn't still found an excuse to go to wing. Hunting, fishing, running drills in organized Flights, or even just for the fun of it. A great feathered head snaked towards Tsia and gently nudged her should. The copper dragon's sapphire gaze lingered on her, long ears flicking curiously as feathery her tail swished with impatience. Tsia nodded and went back to adjusting the leather straps of her riding saddle. It sat neatly between her shoulders where the dragon's massive, feathered wings erupted from her scaled hide. The wind tore at Elyta's crown of feathers and the fur that ran along her spine and down the barrel of her chest. More chunks of fur clung to her fore elbows and hind ankles. These spots helped to provide extra warmth in the cold climate without totally overheating her during the summer months. A good compromise. That and Tsia loved to run her hands through Elyta's feathers and mane. Is everything ready? Elyta's voice echoed in Tsia's head. Yeah. I'd say so. Tsia sighed, stepping back to visually check her handiwork. The saddle-bags were packed and filled to the brim with supplies, including an exhaustive first aid kid and other medical supplies. Didn't forget anything? The dragon inquired, nudging Tsia again. Tsia indignantly shoved her dragon away again. No! Tsia dug into her pocket and produced a slip of parchment. Everything on the list is accounted for. Just making sure. Both dragon and rider huffed at the same time, their gazes drifting towards the open air where other pairs flew with abandon. Is it really necessary to wait for them? So says our Flight Leader. Tsia put her hands on her hips and frowned. The man we're after is from another compound, but he's a Flight Leader too. It'll take more than one pair. He's an egg thief. Elyta snarled, fire licking the open air from partially parted jaws in her fury. Tsia put a comforting hand on her dragon as waves of hurt and betrayal washed over her mind from Elyta. There was no greater sin than to steal an egg, much less three. Dragons rarely produced eggs, some species only had one in a lifetime. Riders knew better. At least, they were supposed to. Tsia couldn't help but wonder what the hell was wrong with a pair to make them want to do something so horrible. Since the rider was human, their orders were to bring him in to await a trial. However, dragons held different laws. The dragon was sentenced to death already, no trial, no chance to explain himself. We can go as soon as the pair are ready... Where are they? Tsia wondered, her thoughts traveling to Elyta. Both rider and dragon glanced around with growing impatience. This was a good opportunity to prove herself to the Flight Leaders. She couldn't do that if they got caught in the storm.