The Rising Dragon

[Monkey Monk]

Caliga's dreams were equally poisoned with nightmares as
Misty's had been. His body tossed and turned as a particular
nightmare began to heat up. Soft mumbling flowed from his lips
as he continued to experience that terrible dream world. In it, he
was fighting a huge beast. It was armed with sharp teeth and
deadly tails. He had only his sword as he parried and fought like
a mad man. However in his dream he was soon struck in the
chest, throwing his sword at his foe. As he laid on his back in the
dream, the world began to swirl around as slumber faded.
However it took long enough for him to see a figure in long
robes slowly walking to him. They bent down beside him and
slowly lifted their hands to their hood. When the cloth fell back
there was a face that made him shocked. It was Misty.

With a gasp Caliga shot up in his seat. His heart was racing
wildly within his chest. It was just a dream, just a dream... Yet it
had seemed so real. A cold sweat clung to his flesh before he
slowly wiped it off with his sleeve. For a few moments he simply
sat in the chair in which he had fallen asleep. Yet the day was
growing and it demanded that he come to life. With a sigh he
slowly rose and began to walk to the kitchen. However he
paused when he saw Misty in there. The memory of the dream
still fresh in his mind, the dragon man turned about and walked
the other way. He went to the front door and gingerly opened it.
With that he stepped out into the new morning and simply
bathed in the wondrous splash of colored light that fell upon him.

[Mama Z]

It was getting harder now to sleep at night, or sleep at all for that matter until her body finally gave up and shut down. Night sweats constantly plagued her body, causing her to wake up and fall back asleep only to be reawaken again by her body's need for water and warmth. It was tiring work but it was a process she recognized easily. Finally, sleep had faded away and yet the sun was barely peaking up over the distant horizon. Shadow covered green eyes looked out the window. There was nothing more to do but to think. Think and nothing more.

Everyone around her took death so hard but yet it was an everyday occurrence. A baby is born, an old man dies. A baby dies, a dog, a loved one, a friend...a demon. She had created friends over the centuries. Watching each as they grew up and died, or dying in front of them. Every time though, as she felt the last of her body's energy leaving her, she would smile and promise all she would return. But when, when will that promise finally fail? When will she not return and just stay a corpse in the ground, a spirit in the heavens?

A tear slowly slipped from her eye, sliding across the bridge of her nose and then instantly dying on her pillow. She was tired, for once, she wanted to be normal. A normal demon, that alone was an oxymoron. But she was sick of living in a world where all she knew was death, between her and her brother what else was there? And now even, two knew beings had entered their lives. Both unique and different in their own ways and they wanted to save her.

Gingerly she shifted and sat up, the grey sky had turned a pleasant blue. Perhaps this mage could answer her questions. Give her the information she needed to survive. Like every morning for lives on end, she got up, got dressed and left her room. She paused down the hall, hearing the clatter of feet and dishes. A smile drifted across her paled features, it appeared someone else was already awake. Barely, she saw Cal's body move away from the kitchen. Two were awake then, was Richard though?

'Am I the last to rise?' She questioned out loud, her voice echoing throughout the small, cozy house.

[Felypsa]

Misty automatically washed dishes and prepared a simple meal for the four of them. She knew a little bit about cooking, so she made the most basic breakfast she knew: pancakes. After a while, she put them on the freshly cleaned plates and set the table for four places. She thought she saw Caliga appear and then leave, but she couldn’t be sure.

The activities were easy and distracting: she didn’t have to linger on the memories of her nightmares. Really, they had been almost commonplace now; they happened nearly every night. Last night was no different, except they played on her worst fears…tears pricked Misty’s eyes.

A ceramic dish slipped from her hands and, with a resounding crash, shattered on the floor. Misty’s eyes flew wide open and she wiped away her tears. She bent down to clean up the mess, just as Lina’s pleasant voice echoed through the kitchen. She doesn’t seem like she’s dying, Misty thought sadly. The girl raised her voice and answered, “I haven’t seen Richard, though I think Caliga is up. You should fetch both, since I’ve just made breakfast for us all. We have a long day ahead of us.”

Slowly, methodically, Misty swept up the broken ceramic bits and put them in the trash. “I’m afraid, Lina, that I’ve broken one of your plates,” she said apologetically. “I could pay for it if you wish. I don’t know what came over me.” It was a bit of a white lie, that last part: she knew exactly what had come over her. The vivid imagery of her nightmares and the wild fear that burned in her heart. But she did not care to mention either of these to her hostess.

[Monkey Monk]

Caliga in the mean time had taken off both his coat and shirt. His
hate as well rested upon the neatly folded clothes. Luckily they
were far enough from the city that he could perform his morning
Tai Chi with no worries. His pale blue scales and wings were put
on glorious display, glittering like jewels upon his chest, back,
and the side of his face. His muscles rippled beneath taunt flesh
and those wondrous scales. Each movement was fluid and
blended into the next one almost perfectly. It was through this
form of exercise that he at last began to calm down, within his
spirit that is. For the moment at least he conflict between the
two consciousnesses within was put to rest. His eyes were
closed lightly with a small smile on his lips.

There was a small falter to his movements when he heard voices
and a crash from within. The knowledge that someone would
come to fetch him was ever present within his mind. However he
selfishly continued his movements. The peace of heart and mind,
if only momentary, was too good to end before the last moment
possible. So he continued on in a relaxed state, wondering what
this new day would bring forth.

[Mama Z]

Upon hearing the crash Lina had moved forth and looked into the same area in which their guest was saying. Without as much as a second thought, the sickly woman moved forward, bending over to help with the china. A laugh bubbled from her throat and she looked up at Misty, 'Dont worry yourself.' She looked down at a piece she held in her hand then held it up, 'Its just a plate. Surely you know they dont have feelings right?'

It was meant to be a small joke, to get Misty to relax and not worry herself over it. She stood after making sure the bigger pieces were picked up and moved over to toss them in a small bin. 'Everything smells delicious, Im sure Richard will be pleased when he wakes up.'

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'Already awake and already hungry.' Came the sleep roughened voice from just behind the two. Richard gave a sleepy smile and a wide yawn. His hair was brushed back and the apperances of a five o'clock shadow were starting to be seen. But none the less, he did look a bit hungry. 'Lina, how come you never cook any more?' He asked as she moved past him to go get Cal. He moved over to take a seat in one chair then just pulled it out, stepping aside and making a sweeping gesture. 'You first M'lady.' He said to Misty, wanting to the cook to feel more welcome then as a slave.

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'I never cook because well, Im lazy.' Lina commented in reply to her brothers choice of words. Yet with the same smile she moved to where she saw the dragon man through the window. Stepping out of the door and into the bright sunlight, she stretched. Oh what a warm day this would be!

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[Felypsa]

Misty blushed when Lina bent down to help her pick up the pieces. At Lina’s light jest, the younger girl smiled, though her face was still tinged with pink. “Thank you,” she said softly, feeling shy all of a sudden. Even though Lina and Richard were both kind and welcoming, Misty couldn’t shake the feeling that she was intruding on their hospitality…the sooner she could go out and get a place and life for herself, the better. If she could.

She bustled around to pour drinks for all of them, wanting to hide her embarrassment. She looked up when Richard came in, and grinned in spite of herself at his rugged “just-tumbled-out-of-bed” look. When he gestured for her to go first, she at first protested, “I am no lady!” But she realized he was only being polite, so she conceded. “But thank you, I will go first.” She did not feel like a slave here. Just an intruder.

She waited until everyone was gathered at the table before eating. Yet still she hesitated. Some customers at The Rising Dragon, she knew, would perform a small ritual before eating their food. They would bless their food and thank their gods and pray. Misty had never done this, but she did not know her fellows’ beliefs, and therefore did not want to seem rude by just diving into the meal if they wanted to follow through with them. While she waited, she looked outside. It looked like such a nice day…Misty felt her spirits rising. But she could not help but think that this was some kind of calm before the storm, and that this momentary peace would not last long. She shook her head to clear it of such gloomy thoughts.

[Monkey Monk]

Caliga came to a stop in his exercises by the time that Lina came
outside. He gazed over at her with his emerald pools of vision.
He watched as she stretched, feeling as if he was in need of
apologizing. A sigh passed his lips as he gathered up his
clothes. Quickly he pulled his shirt on followed by his coat. Once
his arms were in the arms of the latter piece of clothing, he
walked over to Lina. He frowned slightly before bowing his head
slightly. "I am sorry for how I was last night. I was just
frustrated with hearing that there is nothing we can do for you.
There is always something that can be done, and when it is
worth while it will never be easy. Saving you is worth while so I
do not expect any of it to be simple."

Rather than wait for her response, he bowed his head once more
and went to the door. Gently he opened it, leaving it open so
that she could follow. He went to the dining room and was not
surprised to see both Misty and Richard. He had learned over his
time in the Rising Dragon that Misty's cooking was enough to
wake up anyone. Silently he went to a seat and took it. He too
waited for everyone before starting to dine. After all, he was a
guest and was thusly expected to use the up most courtesy.

[Mama Z]

Lips had parted to give a good morning greeting, but soon all thoughts of speech left her as the Dragon-man spoke. Eyes of hazel watched him curiously and just kept staring at the spot where he had been as soon as he left. Facial features relaxed and a sigh left her. Since when did a lowly demon deserve such kindness? Looking back up at the clouds that cluttered the sky for a moment more, she turned and went back into her home. Taking a seat in the spot that had been left open for her, she waited for Richard to pile on one pancake to her plate and then began to eat quietly.

Richard looked for Cal to Lina briefly then mentally sighed. What a day this was going to turn out to be. Reaching over, he placed one cake of pans (e.e) on his siblings plate, two on his. 'Smells great.' he commented sniffing the air around him and enjoying the auroma for it could be a while before they would be able to eat like this again. Waisting no time, he took a bite then grinned. 'Tastes better!'

[Felypsa]

Only when Richard began to light into the meal did Misty also start to eat the breakfast. Of course, she was her best critic, so she didn’t think the pancakes were terrific (not like those that the regular cook at The Rising Dragon made), but they were sufficient. At Richard’s praise, though, she flushed mid-bite. She still liked receiving compliments. Especially because she knew Richard really meant it.

She finished her breakfast quickly. She’d always been a fast eater. Immediately she took her own plate and utensils to the sink, and returned to her seat. Whenever someone else would finish, she would offer more pancakes or to take away their plates. Once a waitress, always a waitress? she thought. It’s certainly going to be hard to kick the habit.

Eventually she sat down for good, staring at her hands and twisting her emerald ring around on her finger. Only when she would be sure that everyone was finished would she pose the question she knew was on everyone’s minds. “So, what now?”

[Monkey Monk]

Silence commanded Cal as he ate his breakfast. His silverware
didn't even make sounds off the plate as he had been taught
not to do so. His table manners were immaculate, making it
seem like he could dine with royalty and fit in. It was how he
had been raised, not that he could remember all the times he
had been cracked over the knuckles for putting his elbow on the
table or clanging his fork off the plate. Soon he was finished,
right after Misty of course, and he kindly thanked her when she
took his plate away from him. He didn't eat too much, but
enough to give him the needed energy that would last until their
next meal. With a sigh he relaxed slightly in his seat, looking
down into his lap as he waited for Richard and Lina to finish.

When Misty voiced her question, Cal lifted his gaze to look up at
her. He thought for a moment before letting his voice speak
out. "I thought we already discussed that? Now we pack up and
go to find that mage." He knew he wasn't being exactly tactful,
which caused a pang of guilt to course through him. With a sigh
he ran his fingers through his hair before looking at the others
to see how they would object.

[Mama Z]

All was quiet until Misty voice her question and Cal eagerly answered. Lina sat staring at her hands, feeling her brothers eyes upon her. With a sigh she spoke, almost as if speaking to her hands rather then her brother, and once again in the forgien tounge from earlier. "U weet ik het niet zal maken." (I will not make it.)

Richard watched her then nodded, "Ik weet het," (I know). Here Lina looked up and Green eyes met blue, for a moment more they spoke to each other without words and a smile formed on Linas face. 'Then let gather my things.' Excusing herself she pushed back from the table and headed back towards her room.

Richard just laughed slightly and stood up as well. 'If I could rest now from such a filling breakfast I would Misty!' He commented switching the subject, 'But alas, I too must gather my things. Excuse me.' He bowed slightly and moved away from the table, following the same path Lina had taken only moments before.

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[Felypsa]

Misty looked uneasily at Caliga as he answered so quickly. But she had expected him to say that. What she wanted to know was what Richard and Lina, both so hesitant, would say. She glanced between the siblings, noticing their different language and their silent communication. What are they hiding from us? she wondered. And why won’t they trust us?

Lina’s acquiescence, then Richard’s, were so readily given that Misty was surprised. I’d’ve thought they’d voice some objection—but they both agreed! She wondered if she should be suspicious. What happened to their uncertainty? Did they think it through during the night and both simultaneously decide it was the best course of action? She mentally shrugged. I shouldn’t complain. At least they’re both coming. Now we’ll surely find that mage, and he’ll surely cure Lina. But even Misty couldn’t be completely confident.

She glanced at Caliga, wondering what he thought of all this. But then she, too, rose, and bussed all the plates and utensils to the sink, where she began to methodically wash them. I had hated this boring activity, once. Now it’s all I ever do. “Soon as I’m done with these, I’ll pack, too,” she said aloud. “Then I guess we’ll get going.” She was only a little reluctant. She had never traveled anywhere in her life except down to the coast of Escavas, but no further. What if I slow them down? she thought. What if I can’t make it? She tried to dismiss such uncertain thoughts.

[Mama Z]

IT was indeed about fifteen minutes or so later when Lina emerged from her room and back down the short hall. Her hair was tied back in a french braid that reached no further past her shoulders. On her back was the cloak in which Misty had made for her, the deep maroon color of it giving her a slightly more pale complex. She was thankful for it, it would keep her warm on the journey. Her bag was slung over a shoulder and drapped down one side.

The contents within it were simple, enough clothing for a few days and of course her flute. It only seemed to be a bit bulky because she hapazardously threw the clothes in, there was no sense in making them feel like she wouldnt make it as well. Zerlinas green eyes glanced around at the small home. She would sure miss this place, who knows when the next time she will be able to see it again. Dance and play within its walls.

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Richard surprisingly took a bit longer then Lina had. But when he did, he looked a bit more awake and stuffed full of their morning meal. Like his sister, he had packed light (how much clothing did one man need anyways?), yet inside held some medicines, for any of them just in case. He looked around the room, searching briefly for Misty but merely assuming she had went to gather her own nessicities.

'Do you know exacly where we are headed Cal?' He quesitioned moving over to the half-man. As much as he loved adventure he was always cautious about where they traveled. For who knows what lurks out there.

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