Reach For The Stars {Feast!}

[Admin]

There was a time, I was so lonely,
I never thought I'd be out of the dark,
Deep in my heart, there was a longing,
To never give up anything that I start.

The hatching was over, as evening began to settle about the Weyr, and people started to stream towards the dining hall. Amongst them was the Weyrwoman. Kalith, her clutch safely Impressed, caused a stir over at the herdbeast pens as she found something to eat. After her many sevendays of vigil where she had almost eaten nothing, she was starving. Social niceties far beyond the understanding of the fiery Queen on most occasions, she carried only a little caring about the feast that was occurring. Fajra, of course, had to attend. She had organized it, entirely by herself, as they had no proper headwoman and Avalle had only limited experience in most things. So, into the hall she strode. Food filled tables and trays and made the air smell divine. Wine was already being passed around freely. It was a big celebration for the Weyr.

F'del had been delegated over the weyrlings, but some of them would doubtlessly be arriving for the festivities soon. She gave them some time, mingling mildly. Finally, however, she moved up to the high table, where the honored few were allowed to sit. It was crowned by the chairs for herself, O'sho, and Avalle. The crowded room was quieted by the clear ring of a tapped glass. She was perfecting the art of it. Once it was quiet, she offered a controlled smile. "Welcome everyone, new weyrlings and all our honored guests! However, congratulations must be offered to those who Impressed especially. Welcome to your Weyr! F'del and Altith will be the weyrlingmaster for your group. Congratulations, Starseekers!" She raised her glass, setting off a wave of congratulations and clapping. After a pause, she stepped down.

For a moment, she let herself almost be caught up in the crowd again. Then she moved towards the side. Once she was free, she turned her head back. It wasn't hard for her to find O'sho. She gave him a look, hoping he would notice. She was going to check on Osro, after his little performance at the hatching earlier. The hatching had held plenty of excitement in and of itself, but she wanted to make sure he was fine. With any luck, the failure of a crcecheworker had managed to actually keep a hold of him that time around. She might have kept an eye on him herself, but she had no interest in exposing him to red Izkeeyerdath. The sands weren't a good place for young children. Brushing off the front of her dress, she left the party like a queenly ghost, firm and obvious but not intruding, and headed for the creche for a short while.

In the background, a dirty blond haired harper played elegantly on a fiddle with a disgruntle face. Paget had found the hatching wondrous, but she hated the required fanfares. Wandering about, trying to see if he could find Rhysia, Paralee, or Sprocket who had to be S'ket or something similar, a certain yellowrider was grinning like a very charming banshee. He also wouldn't have minded finding R'ish. It was a good day! New dragons in the Weyr! Outside, Annith let out a loud croon from where she perched across the bowl at their Weyr. With a steady calm, K'ber wandered amongst the crowd, after giving a hearty clap for the new weyrlings. He kept to the edges. There wasn't really anyone he wanted to see, and Detritath stood like a sentinel outside. W'al made small talk like a whiz and Kerath lurked, ready to great any attending dragonets.

I , I gotta reach for the stars,
No matter how far they are,
I gotta believe in life,
I'm catching the stars to shine.

[4horseshowgirl4]

Hatchings were wonderful, but the aftermath was just as good, if not better, especially if everyone had made it out relatively unscathed. B'nyur loved a good excuse for a feast and the fine food and wine that came with such a term. He politely took a glass of wine from one of the drudges with a wink before settling into a chair midway down the table. He was one of the first ones here, but he didn't mind that. The second hum of the day-- this one of excited human voices, clinking glasses and silverware, and footsteps-- began to fill the hall. B'nyur sat back easily in his chair with a soft smile. There had only been one mauling today, and A'mor and Noyth had taken care of it. He wasn't Dekistee's biggest fan to begin with, but judging by the rate she'd left the Sands, she was going to be fine. That poor dragonet that had chosen her, though... it always pained him when someone tried to reject their dragon.

Oveth was happily settled back in their weyr, curled up on his couch. B'nyur touched the sweet Blue's mind affectionately. {That silly Weyrling, trying to pretend that her mindmate's not perfect for her,} B'nyur mused to the dragon. {But she'll come around.} Oveth said nothing; he was too happily sleepy after such an exciting event. Thinking of the words was too much effort. Besides, His was just talking to himself. He didn't need an answer. B'nyur just smiled again. Oveth had his faults (who didn't?) but he was perfect. He simply couldn't fathom trying to reject Oveth. He wouldn't trade the simple-minded Blue for the biggest Bronze or the wittiest White. He couldn't imagine living without him. He should probably get out of his chair to go congratulate C'fael, but he took a moment to be lazy. Fajra gave her short speech, and he clapped heartily, for F'del, but mostly for the new Weyrlings.

---

L'ven was another one of the earlier arrivals. He was dressed fairly nicely, his Wingsecond knots standing out sharply against the white shirt, as was L'ven's intention, of course. He was quite proud of being named the Wingsecond of a high-level wing the second he graduated from Weyrlinghood. But, then again, who wouldn't be? He had yet to meet his Wingleader or fellow Wingsecond, H'loric and L'can, respectively. Stories of H'loric seducing a Candidate had circled the Weyr, though. L'ven was quite curious to meet the man who would be running their wing. For everyone's sake, he hoped the Ironrider was competent, but O'sho and Fajra wouldn't put an idiot at the head of one of their high wings.

L'ven listened attentively as Fajra spoke, then got himself a glass of klah. He had decided that him and alcohol didn't mix after he and K'ber had made fools of themselves at Pratyba's graduating party. He kept an eye out for Avalle, O'ris, or, better yet, Lynx, but Avalle had a special chair marked out for her at Fajra's side, and L'ven decided it was better to leave her be for now. He didn't see O'ris or Lynx, either. What a shame! Mine, go congratulate a Weyrling or something,

[/color] Valleth interrupted bossily, like it was the most obvious thing in the world. Like the new Bronzerider![/color] {I don't like the new Bronzerider,} L'ven replied irritably, fully remembering Lyam (or L'am, as he now was called), even if Valleth didn't.

However, after a few more lonesome minutes, he decided bad company was better than no company. Spotting Tylar (T'lar?), he made his way over to him. T'lar was a familiar face if not quite a friendly one, but perhaps they could be civil or even amiable to each other now that they were in a warm, cheerful banquet hall and T'lar had now found his lifemate. Impressing was one of those things that helped a person's happiness, believe it or not. "T'lar now, right?" L'ven said as a greeting, smiling gruffly and offering a hand. "Congrats on Impressing. That Purple you have there is a good-looking fellow. What's his name?"

---

Pratyba, naturally, was late, coming in just in time to hear the tail end of Fajra's speech. She wanted to give an appreciative holler when she heard F'del had been re-hired as Weyrlingmaster, but she had enough self-restraint to keep from doing that. Doing such things in the Hatching Sands was one thing, doing it during the Weyrwoman's speech at a formal feast was quite another. She didn't know any of the Candidates, well, Weyrlings now, but she was happy for them. She had just recently been a Weyrling herself! Faranth, being a full-fledged Dragonrider was weird. She was expected to be... mature. Pratyba almost shuddered at the thought. Thank goodness Oorth was just as much as a goofball as she was! (And, also, that Oorth wasn't trying to sneak into the dining hall with Pratyba this time, like she had at the last feast...)

"F'del!" Pratyba shouted happily, giving the Purplerider a bear hug. "Congrats! You're going to be awesome! I mean, come on, you got me through Weyrlinghood alive, you can handle anything! Even that evil-looking Red! Hmm, who do you think was worse, Irath or whatever-that-Red's-name-is? I'd say the Red, just 'cause she's going to be bigger. Lots bigger! And Tesla's so good with Irath. But, anyway! How have you been? I'm great! It's so weird being a Dragonrider! I don't have to do chores anymore! Woohoo! Let's go sit down-- I'm starving!" Pratyba chattered on and on, grabbing F'del's wrist and plunking him down into a seat next to her. She happily took a swig from a glass of wine before plowing into the rich food in front of her.[/right][/font]

[purnip]

So far, L'am was able to determine the pros and cons of this Impression, as he was unable to prevent himself from making such an analysis. It wasn't as if Lebeth was eager to become aware of the boy's every thought, as he was caught up in the moment. The absentminded young one hadn't even briefed over the Weyrling's mind and L'am nearly joined the brigade for the feast alone. He had impressed a Bronze, which was from what he understood, the highest ranking male amongst dragonkind. That would earn him instant status and recognition that he would have otherwise had to have worked harder for. Nothing he couldn't accomplish however, if he had Impressed a Fighter instead. This Bronze was not at all part of the standard L'am researched. Lebeth was completely oblivious and in a perpetual state of enjoyment brought on simply by existing. Sometimes, once in a while, something would catch his attention. More often than that however, the Bronze stood with his eyes whirring greens and blues, staring off at him and randomly bursting into chatter with L'am about things he could answer himself if he paid attention to his surroundings. A lot like a child. Always obliged to keep his bonded informed to the best of his abilities, L'am would try to explain, only to find the Bronze asking a very similar question later on. Perhaps this was a phase...

But Lebeth certainly wasn't stupid. Fate wouldn't have been so cruel as to hand him a pure head-case. Or would it? He did want to Impress by any means necessary, under any condition, to any sort of dragon. He had gotten his wish.

That would be when weighing pros and cons no longer mattered. He couldn't forget that sincere moment of happiness when Lebeth's cheerful voice echoed in his mind. He felt connected to this creature that he had only met hours ago, like he would defend the Bronze hatchling with his life should the need arise. But shards...it felt like L'am had just become a father. Was he going to have to look after an overgrown 'son' for the rest of his life? Was he ready for that sort of commitment?

He was leading the Bronze towards the Dining Hall now, thinking about how in the world Lebeth would survive when he practically needed to be held on to in order to prevent him from getting lost in the crowd. Still cheerful as ever, he was enjoying the atmosphere itself and was so caught up in the excitement that he was not paying attention as to where he was going. Lebeth was granting nothing along the way with any special attention. He felt everything come together as one, powerful sensation.

L'am came to a stop when the crowd before him, made up of former Candidates, their awkward dragons, and various guests. Lebeth practically crashed into him, but fortunately the boy had good footing. "Lebeth, I beg of you, please pay attention," he said, sounding worried when he was otherwise annoyed. He was around a lot of people. He needed to save face, especially with eyes on him so early for having Impressed such a large and shimmering beast.

But L'amMine--

Pay attention, L'am repeated, this time as a strong thought. He turned to Lebeth as he said this, making eye contact. The Bronze stayed quiet for about a few seconds, but he simply had to continue. He had a reason for bumping into His and he needed to tell it!

But I wanted to find out if this feast you spoke so highly of was going to be any fun! And I did not wish to get left behind again. I am merrier when around you. Lebeth grinned, giving L'am a playful nudge that nearly knocked him over again. He did not know his own strength. That was...concerning.

Yet there was nothing to be concerned of. The young dragon would never intentionally harm him--his bonded sensed it. Yes well, I'm quite flattered. I still would appreciate it if you minded your ways. You could leave a bad impression if you bump into someone.

Impression? But L'amMine! You are the only one that belongs to me! You need not worry!" His eyes swirled with many colors again just at the memory. L'am couldn't help but laugh at the misunderstanding. Cute, and yet sad. So very sad. He needed to somehow incorporate more sensibility into this young one before he grew out of his spongy learning stage.

What I meant was, you could end up upsetting someone. That would be a bad thing, L'am thought in response, loudly once more to keep the Bronze's attention. He may just have a headache by tonight.

Oh! I believe I understand. So, when is the feast going to start? Is it starting?

L'am sighed. Lebeth would understand for a few minutes, but he would probably remain oblivious to those around him or their personal spaces. "I believe Fajra is about to give a speech first." Perhaps he should have been more specific. Oddly enough, the dragon questioned him no further. He had lost interest. The Bronze was awaiting the start of this ambiguous 'fun' concept and cared not for Fajara or Farja or whoever HisL'am spoke about. He was ready to live some more and embrace life! Not get caught in the thorny wake of little details. His would sort through all that for him. Lebeth may even teach his bonded something about looking on the bright warm side of life and to enjoy it for what it was worth, and that would be a lot. L'am would have fun for a change, instead of worrying what 'he' or 'she' or 'they' think about him.

After the speech was given, L'am took the opportunity to look around. He knew that for sure, Jasra was still on the Sands when he departed with Lebeth, and he wanted to find out if she Impressed. He had spent most of his time behind the scenes feeding the easily distracted Bronze and understand him. He must have been more complex, because once in a while the dragon would say something clever. It turned out however, it was much to chance. He was utterly oblivious when it came to specifics and sometimes slow to answer, as if he had not caught the question the first time around. But he was always in a good mood. L'am had a feeling he would never see warm colors in his dragon's eyes.

Who else was there? Ah yes, Lasd. He was still on the Sands too. As was Engrye. As was Rhysia. He could not spy a single one of them. If only he had known what colors they had impressed, so he could simply seek them out by dragon. Meanwhile, Lebeth was watching L'am with curiosity. What could His possibly be up to? Was this what a 'feast' entailed? Standing and looking?

------------

"Looks like it's dinner time for the people now," Rhysia announced to herself as the group of newly bonded weyrmates was being lead to the Dinning Hall.

Raeterith, her newest and best friend in the entire world, slunk her head under Rhysia's limp arm which was for once not jammed into place by a pocketed hand. Am I allowed to accompany you? Her eyes hinted a bit of yellow, as she feared to be left behind. She wanted to remain with Hers always. They needed to stick together to keep the other alive, so it felt. Rhysia didn't mind this attachment at all and felt just as strongly. She wouldn't be going to this feast if Rae couldn't come along.

"I wouldn't go if you weren't allowed," she reassured her. "But I think this feast is for the both of us."

The Green's eyes sparkled with blue again. Magnificent! We may remain united then! She rubbed her head against Rhysia's side with tender care. She didn't even nudge her the slightest out of balance. Reaterith would take loving care with Hers and nothing less.

They disturbed no one on their way to the Dining Hall. Raeterith followed her bonded very closely as they navigated though the crowd to get in a good spot to see the Weyrwoman make her speech. Once the speech was over and done with, Rhysia clapped and grinned, still having a hard time believing her magnificent luck. She had someone to love and care for her, just like her mom did before she passed away. The dull ache in her heart returned, and this was something that did not go unnoticed. Raeterith would address it immediately.

What causes you such grief, MineRhysia? This is a festive time. You should be in great spirits! The Green worried, her eyes once again a lime-green yellow.

"It's just...my mom would have really liked you," she began. The rest she thought, though she was unaware that Rae could pick up on thoughts. She thought that it was as if her mother from beyond had sent this creature to watch over her in her place. She wasn't sad, but happy. Happy and sad all at once. She didn't want to replace her mother, but Rae was so wonderful--the best thing to have ever happened.

Mine, my beloved mine. Your mother will live in your memories forever. She has not been replaced. She is part of a past that cannot be changed and now exists in your mind for as long as you live. The past can be harrowing, but it ultimately leads to a present that does not have to remain on the same path. I am here. I will protect you. I will not replace your mother, but I will care for you as you care for me. Eternally.

Rhysia's eyes were tearing up. She embraced the young Green again. Such a wise and wonderful creature..she would have been looking for friends, but she found no reason to do so now. She was perfectly fine with Rae, and if everyone else in the world had disappeared, she would have felt little remorse for the departure. Rae was her world, as she was Rae's.

[fidelli]

Fdel was one of the very last riders in - he had made sure that those Weyrlings who had decided not to join the feast were bedded down in a room (any room really, they had tons to spare and he would work on room assignments later) and then he had slipped inside, letting Altith wing his way to where the other dragons had gathered. It was a party for all, and Altith greeted the dragon's with a cheerful whistle. Meanwhile, the dark haired rider was being congratulated and cheered, and that meant that he must have missed the speech - but not matter. He took it all with that gentle smile of his, and moved on, looking over the crowds with a practiced eye to find the weyrlings.

Except his eyes kept going to the graduated ones. Shard it, he would have to do better than that. He looked for the dragonets again, fixing each new rider in his mind so that the next time he scanned, he could find them. Amused at himself, the Purplerider turned to get a glass of wine - he was not a heavy drinker thankfully - and found himself suddenly run into. 'F'del!' The voice gave it away, as her peered down at the girl hugging him. 'Congrats! You're going to be awesome! I mean, come on, you got me through Weyrlinghood alive, you can handle anything! Even that evil-looking Red! Hmm, who do you think was worse, Irath or whatever-that-Red's-name-is? I'd say the Red, just 'cause she's going to be bigger. Lots bigger! And Tesla's so good with Irath. But, anyway! How have you been? I'm great! It's so weird being a Dragonrider! I don't have to do chores anymore! Woohoo! Let's go sit down-- I'm starving!' Amused at her rambling - look, a human Altith, he let her lead him to a seat and sat down next to her, amused at her appatite and her mannerism.

Now that she wasn't his responsibility, and he wasn't being looked down at for everything she did wrong, he had no problem with her... Not that he had ever had a problem with her before. Despite her actions, she really was a gentle and kind soul who wasn't all that awful. She just needed... Guidance. AND HE DIDN'T HAVE TO DO IT. Amused even more by this, he took a sip of the wine he had grabbed as she had accosted him, and nodded, taking advantage of the silence she given him by eating. "Thank you, Pratyba. I appreciate that. Most likely it will be Izkeeyerdath - Red's are always handfuls. Even more than hyperactive Purples and Pinks. I've been fine - I've caught up on sleep that I seemed to have missed dealing with Weyrlings." Not too much sleep - the rider was an insomnia, but it was still more than he had been recently getting.

"I'm sure you take being a dragonrider all in stride though, darling." He grinned at her, happy to be able to face her on equal terms, and took his own first bite of the wherry he had been cutting into smaller bites. "So what have you been doing with your time? I mean, you managed to instigate a full scavenger hunt of the Weyr despite having chores, so I wonder what you can do now with all this free time?" He was smiling, the same gentle smile that F'del always wore as he ate and talked to her. It was nice, this whole being friends with people. Pity he wasn't very good at it.

---

A'mor was not, particularly, in the best of moods. Maybe because he hated being pushed, or he had gotten blood all over his hands for nothing, but that little girl had rubbed him the wrong way. Therefore, he was all for going up to his weyr and crashing when the Hatching did end. Noyth had other ideas. The little stone gray dragon had informed him that he WOULD be going to the the Feast, and he would be enjoying himself, while she winged her way over to the other dragons gathered. A'mor always did what Noyth said - despite his great love of hating what she asked him to do - and went.

But he was NOT going to have fun. Therefore, he settled himself in a chair, gathered up a cup of wine, and waited. Waiting for something, he wasn't quite sure. Waiting, maybe, for his little sister to walk in. And as she did so, he rose, putting down the cup, and hurrying over to where she -

CRASH

"SHARDINGGOLDENEGGS." Well, that wasn't the nicest thing that had ever come out of his mouth, but he had just tripped over a loose stone, and onto a dragonet. Pushing himself from the Cyan dragonet, Noyth was focused on him at once. Apologize to Desearth at once! He snarled at the gray in his mind, but focused down at the dragonet at once, eyes scanning her for any damage he may have caused. "I'm sorry Desearth, Weyrling. It was a mistake. Is she alright?" He turned to the Weyrling, and bowed, a half one, but an apologetic bow none the less. "Master Healer A'mor of Gray Noyth - I apologize for this. I should have watched my step."

The Gray slipped into the mind of the Cyan, offering her own greeting. Hello little one. My apologies for ridermine - would you like me to eat him for you? And she was serious to, he knew with a grimace. The rare to speak Gray only ever told the truth.

[carolin]

J'vert had been all to happy to leave the sands with Canlarth after the hatching. He had to feed her and make sure that she was well taken care of. He knew what was coming after the hatching and was trying his best to stall it some how, but really he knew he couldn't.

It is alright mine. No one will hurt you when we go to the feast. It will be fun, and musical. The pinks eyes swirled with amusement. J'vert jumped at the voice in his head. He still was not used to that. "I..It's not that...I just..don't like crowds.."

I will be there with you, even if they do not want me to. So do not worry. I am sure that you will be able to talk to a few of the others to help relax you. Then we can sing together. How fun will that be? He had to admit it he was looking forward to making music with the pink. She had a good ear for it, it had shown when she was wandering around the sands, even if she was just hatched. Why thank you mine.

"It's only th..the truth."

He spent the rest of the hatching with Canlarth completely relaxed, until it came time to go to the feast its self. J'vert wasn't used to being around so many people at once. He usually hid when it came to parties, and feasts and the like, but here he was, hiding in a corner of the room. Really he did not like to be in such big crowds if he could help it. He felt rather uncomfortable when it came down to it.

Just relax, mine. Go talk to some of the people you know. It will help. The pink nudged him gently. J'vert looked down at the pink and scratched her eye ridges. "I know..but...I don't feel comfortable here..There are just..so many people." He whispered, only wanting her to hear him.


Carolin was upset she had missed the hatching. She knew it was important that she helped get the feast together, since they had a lot of guests, but she had wished to sneak out to see the new ones hatching. Luckily now that all of the preparations were done she was able to escape to go check out the newest arrivals.

There were a few in the hall, and she couldn't help but smile as she noticed the new pairs interacting together. It was a rather nice and heart felt moment. She had other things to attend to at the moment though. She was rather hungry herself after cooking, and not eating pretty much all day. That had been the worst part about it. She didn't want to wait for the feast so she could stuff herself and head to bed. That had sounded like such a good idea earlier in the day, but now it didn't feel that way. She looked around until she managed to get herself a mug of Klah. She did not drink, and wanted to keep away from such spirits. She had seen what they did to people and preferred to stay with what she had to drink.

[jack]

Always quick to arrive—if he arrived at all—R’ish slid easily into the slowly growing crowds, a placidly pleased smile on his lips. The Hatching had been a surprisingly uneventful one, in the best of ways, aside from a mauling from a Red. But that was to be expected from the grumpy creatures, and everything else had gone off without a hitch! Well, for the most part.

Humming softly, the Pinkrider made his way in and out of the crowds, occasionally speaking a word or two to the people around him, but usually just offering up a slight smile and a wink or two. Unlike many of the promiscuous riders, R’ish wasn’t so well known about the weyr. He had people he liked, and he had people he spent time with. He didn’t Search…he didn’t really meet any of the weyrlings, and didn’t even know many of his own wing especially well. But he didn’t mind things that way—he preferred to concentrate on those important to him. And speaking of important…

With a lop-sided grin in place the young man immediately zoned in a particular individual, his eyes flashing with adoring mischief as he settled into a sashay, making quick work of the distance between them. ”Hey there, handsome.” With a wicked look set firmly against his features the Pinkrider slid his arms around the blond’s neck, pulling him down for a quick kiss before withdrawing to lean against his side familiarly. P’nay. Good, beautiful, lovable, reliable P’nay. Yes indeed—laying claims on gorgeous men and making it well known that they were quite claimed was what parties were all about.

----

Considerably later in the party—after the majority of the people who would come were already situated in—a bit of a rarity at feasts such as this ambled in. Looking tired, with a bit of a circle beneath his eyes, B’rak shuffled about the groups with the distant air of a person who wasn’t exactly happy to be there, but who would get over it. Much like his dragon had become colder around groups—distancing himself with the annoyed huff of an embarrassed man too proud to admit his wronging—B’rak too was finding himself less and less happy to be within throngs of people. But, following the responsibilities of his rank and his experience, he still found himself lazily wandering about, his chin lifted and shoulders back powerfully.

His eyes awkwardly wandered from face to face, recognizing few and far between, and seeing many as people he’d rather avoid. For a moment his stare alighted on Fajra,, eyes growing slightly cold before, with a warm smile, he greeted her with a tilt of his head and then made a hasty—yet no faster than his usual ambling pace—retreat. It was in his fleeing that his eyes found a form he preferred a thousand times more, and with a surge of happiness in his heart—plagued by a strike of guilt he wasn’t sure where came from—he took the space between them in three great strides.

Immediately, an arm reached out, sliding to the healer’s shoulders and pulling him close. Lips were pressed fondly against the man’s temple, and B’rak smiled merrily at his capture, winking. ”Good evening.” He chirped, voice light with forced mirth, ”Feeling alright? I saw one of the Candidates was bloodied a bit.”

----

Almost directly after B’rak’s arrival—his hands full of another person—F’let barreled through with a laugh, his brown eyes bright and wide with cheer as he stampeded through the crowd with the agile nimbleness of a particularly hyperactive rabbit. In tow—and not seeming quite as eager to be dragged around as F’let was eager to drag her—Durian frowned, giving a soft squeak as she was nearly shoved into poor F’del before being yanked off again.

Get yours under control! Angry and not ashamed in the least to share, Mesreath bellowed loudly at Doppelith, the sound of his furious stomping about notable even in the dining hall from his location outside.

Oh don’t worry, Mesreath! F’letMine won’t, ya know, hurt her! He just wants her to play her drums! With a laugh that sounded like an excited bird, the much leaner dragon flexed merrily at Mesreath’s side, his eyes whirling with cheer and eagerness even as F’let skidded to a stop next to the Harper, grinning wide and proud.

”Hello, Harper!” The dancer announced, pushing Durian forwards and pressing her drums into her arms, ”Do you mind if we join you? Durian is very good on the drums! She has a lovely beat—you two could make an amazing tune to dance to, I’m sure!” Laughing cheerfully, the blackette fell into an eager twirl, his long tail of hair swirling with him in time to the long strips of fabric that trailed from the under-layer of his hipscarves.
The Purplerider had clearly dug up one of his favorite outfits this evening, a bright Purple and Green—purposefully picked, I might add—get-up that was made up of many layers of see-through fabric on top of thicker textiles…that at least hid some of his lean body. Shirtless as usual, a few strips of fabric and dangling jewelry served in its place, giving him the air of a recently freed slave taunting his masters with the remnants of that which bound him.
…or it could be F’let just being a devious fellow who was trying to get a rise out of his favorite Greenrider.

Unlike F’let, however, who was decked out, Durian’s level of ‘dress-up’ was considerably less. But unlike herself, however, there was a touch of color to her wardrobe. Donning a simple set of brown pants and a cream tunic, she looked unusually feminine, a belt about her waist showing off her subtle curves and hipscarves dyed in various shades of red and brown—from F’let—providing a stark contrast against the much darker pants. There were earrings in her ears for the first time in a long while, the simple wood hoops oddly fitting against her pale skin, and going well with the wooden bangles on her wrists and the simple wood-chain choker about her thin neck. Her hair was up as usual, but was strung with beads—courtesy of her brother—that matched the scarves about her waist.

She smiled at Paget—after regaining her footing from the drag around—and inclined her head in a short bow, her drums held gracefully in her long fingers. ”I’m sorry for him. He’s a bit…I suppose you could call him spontaneous. I’m Durian of Brown Mesreath—he’s F’let of Purple Doppelith. Would you mind if I played with you? I’m not properly trained in most respects, but I’m told I have a way with drums.”

----

Why in the world are you feeding that? Its very noisy—you shouldn’t encourage its loudness.

”Well he’ll just get louder if I don’t give him something.” Javyk replied with a chirp, her lips spread into a lopsided grin as she set the bowl before the whining canine, who set into the meat as voraciously as Buscarth herself had set into her meal previously. Playful fingers reached out, burying into his ruff as the girl stroked the animal’s neck, tugging his ear lovingly—and getting a glance in return—before she set to the rest of her duties.

I don’t think I like it. Why do you keep such an ornery thing? He’s annoying.

Javyk snorted at this and turned around, softly flicking the dragonet on the nose. Immediately Buscarth’s face scrunched up, her wings rustling as she stiffened and straightened, her eyes whirling softly. ”But Iii do! And since its my animal, I get to keep him.” Grinning in victory, the teenager turned on her heal and began to sashay away, the Cyan giving a thoughtful humph before plodding abruptly after. A trip to the stables—where Joskep eagerly greeted a meal, a neck rub, and a quizzical snout-to-snout greeting with what he believed to be a large blue Moonii—and an extended ‘please get out from beneath the bed Moonii I promise she won’t eat you’ discussion while laying on the floor later, the duo was finally ready to leave, Javyk already dressed in the closest she was going to come to ‘formal’.

In a simple dress—the demanding assurance of Buscarth that it was a thousand times better than the pants and shirt that Javyk wanted to wear the only thing that got her in it—uncannily similar to Buscarth’s own shade, she lazily made her way towards the feast, the stubborn hatchling waltzing regally at her side.

Almost immediately after her arrival, Javyk set into the food, plopping a particularly juicy fruit into her mouth without hesitation. MINE. Why would you eat before saying hello to people? Its rude. I don’t like it.

With the draconic version of disapproving annoyance on her slim cyan face, Buscarth set to absolute glaring, but Javyk only spared her a look after a second piece of fruit was dangling in her fingers. As defiant and obnoxious as Buscarth herself, the weyrling lazily placed it in her mouth, taking her time to savor the mouthful before—with a wicked grin—she leaned in close, ”Becaaause I’m hungry!” She chirped, winking, ”Unlike you, I haven’t eaten an entire herdbeast this evening.” Laughing, the teenager swirled and began to prance off, Buscarth giving a huff before trotting after.

Well that’s stupid! Why didn’t you eat when you were feeding the annoying barky thing?

----

Careful fingers delicately twisted a tiny tool, driving in an even tinier screw with minute, barely noticeable twitches of the wrist. Bright eyes were wide in concentration, and a full lip was being continuously worked between the boy’s teeth. With less pressure than it took to sigh he pushed against the tool, and the soft cling of metal falling into place echoed in the air.

S’ketMine.

The boy froze, the voice startling him, but with a blink glanced out of the corner of his eye at the creature. Sentiath was perched patiently at the man’s side, his eyes calmly whirling as he observed what the Smith was working on, clearly only minutely interested in it. The moment he had S’ket’s eyes on him, however, the blue looked keenly up at him, blinking his big eyes solemnly. The feast has begun. We should go—it would look good.

Immediately S’ket scrunched his face up, sticking his tongue out immaturely as he scratched at his cheek, leaving a broad smear of grease over his face. Seeming unaware—or simply uncaring—of the smear he stuck his bottom lip out in a pout, huffing. ”Ah…I don’t…I don’t think its such a big deal. I mean…there’ll be girls there.” Frowning, he set to twiddling his thumbs, but at an indignant huff, looked up. Little Cogs had glided down from his wardrobe to perch upon Sentiath’s head, ignoring the indignant look he received. The flit gave a very loud screech when S’ket began to look back to his tinkering, and the gray-head shot up with a surprised blink, having not heard the quiet creature make such a noise in a long time. Cogs set the Smith with a dangerous stare, his eyes whirling with a faint flicker of red as he hissed, Sentiath seeming mildly amused as he tilted his head to listen further to the stern Bronze. ”Oh come on Cogs! I don’t ha—“ A growl and S’ket shut his mouth, blinking as the flit rustled his wings and dug his claws into the dragon’s hard skull.

A five minute staring contest and a harsh nip to the ear—with a few insights from Sentiath—later, S’ket was scurrying downstairs, the Bronze perched on his shoulders and the dragonet plodding along beside him, snapping his tail into the man’s knees whenever the boy stopped. Image was important! Image was one of many things that dictated rank. Sentiath would not allow his Mine to let his image fail so.

So into the feast the teenager stumbled, immediately seeking out an especially lovely—and uninhabited—corner in which to lurk, chewing absently on a meat bun he shared with Cogs. Sentiath sat like a royal hound at his side, acutely observing those around him and his wary Mine. Observation was another good thing. When you observed…you learned. You learned and you discovered and you found who should be respected…and who should be ignored.

[Nia]

Avalle was one of the first ones into the Dining Hall, greeting Fajra with a quick wave before she scoped out the Feast for herself. She would have helped, really, she would have, but... well, she just didn't know anything and would probably mess something up. She'd learn by Callistath's eventual Hatching, though. Shards... just the thought of that made her feel a degree of anxiety. But she was sure Callistath felt even more confused... afterall, the choice of Jr. Weyrleader (not that she cared about that at all) and her mate was entirely her own. So by now it could be anyone.

Speaking of Callistath's prospects, she spotted L'ven and gave him a wave, but then went to go sit at her chair and listen to Fajra's speech. She felt pretty important sitting there, and even Avalle sat straight and poised without urging from Callistath, and felt a surge of proud emotions coming from the Gold. Well, at least she was proving that she could sit like a poised lady without Callistath's assistance now. Not that she was sure it'd last long. When Fajra's introduction for the new Weyrlings was over, Avalle got up slowly and decided to look around for someone to talk to. Should she go address one of the new Weyrlings? But wouldn't they think that was weird? She couldn't just pick any random person to talk to... they might think they were in trouble or something.

Go talk to the new Bronzerider, then,

[/i] Callistath suggested, and Avalle sought out the small Bronze through the crowd of people. Why? He's not going to be old enough to fly you, she pointed out, though she was kind of curious about what kind of person he was. Besides... she was allowed to socialize. And she should socialize, she'd been stuck inside doing paperwork for so long she couldn't even remember the last time she'd ventured outside. So she approached the younger boy, giving a small smile as she walked to him and his dragon. "Hello. You're the new Bronzerider? I'm Avalle of Gold Callistath, it's nice to meet you," she said, hoping she sounded as eloquent as her dragon did. Not that it really mattered... she just wanted to at least form an opinion of the new Bronzerider.

------

I don't waaannna gooo, R'ori whined from where he lay facedown on his bed. Vediameth prodded him with her nose, but the black-haired boy didn't move. You didn't go to the last one. F'let will be there,[/i] her last sentence was said rather sing-songy, as though she was teasing Hers... and she was. I'm tired. Go away. It wasn't that he didn't want to see F'let... it was just that he was tired. And he didn't even know anyone besies the Purplerider... what was the point? It wasn't like he was allowed to get drunk at this party... not that R'ori was certain he ever wanted to get drunk again after what happened last time.

Vediameth prodded him again, laughing in his mind when he reached an arm around to swat at her. Eventually, after even more prodding and annoying from his Green, R'ori sat up and rubbed his eyes, then crawled out of bed. He got changed into something slightly more presentable and climbed on to Vediameth. If I get drunk again it's your fault, he deadpanned, but the dragon merely laughed in amusement as she took off, letting Hers off then going to sit next to Doppelith and Mesreath. Hello, Doppelith. You seem very cheerful today,[/i] it was almost a joke... Doppelith was cheerful every day.

R'ori was late, so he slipped in unnoticed and looked around for someone he knew... which was really only one person. It didn't take long to spot the dancing blackette, and his choice of outfit immediately made R'ori give a small sigh. Vediameth and Doppelith colors, huh? Well, it didn't really matter now. Most people knew about their relationship from that embarassing situation with the eggshells. He moved closer to where F'let had chosen to dance and stood off to the side to watch. He really was rather graceful... it was even kind of beautiful, if dancing could be described as such. He was pretty glad Vediameth had gotten him to go. I told you it'd be worth it,[/i] she quickly commented, laughing lightly again in his mind. Sharding dragons...

------

Engrye didn't really want to go to the feast. She wasn't a sociable person and she expected she was just going to be sitting alone and watching everyone else talk. But Desearth wasn't going to hear it. Don't you want to go see everyone? They're all so wonderful, aren't they?[/i] she said cheerily in Her's mind, and it was just so much happy that Engrye was starting to get a headache. But I don't like any of them, she replied flatly, adjusting her twintails in the mirror. Desearth gasped as if that was the worst thing she'd ever heard. Mine! How can you say something like that! Everyone has something good inside them![/i] Engrye figured it wouldn't be worth it to argue.

So with the cheery Cyan's insistance, and it didn't take long for the two of them to arrive. Desearth followed Engrye as the red-head went to go get some food so she didn't look weird standing by herself, but was stopped by... someone falling on her. Engrye spun around in rage, prepared to verbally lash out at whoever had just fallen on her Desearth, but was stopped by: Don't yell, Mine! Go check if he's okay, that must have hurt,[/i] nothing but concern for the man filled Desearth's mindvoice, and it confused Engrye enough that her facial expression softened and she ended up not yelling at A'mor. He had just appologized... and Desearth didn't seem to mind. A Master Healer, Mine! Wow, he must be great![/i] she commented dreamily.

"Yes, it's okay, she's fine," her voice still sounded rather annoyed, but she wasn't unleashing the fury on A'mor, so that was a start. "It's okay, really. She gets distracted easily by things around her, she probably didn't even notice. I'm Engrye, by the way," she introduced herself, her facial expression slipping back to it's normal narrowed eyed expression. She recognized him as the one who had healed Dekistee on the Sands... but she was sure he didn't want to be reminded about that. Dekistee surely wouldn't have been cooperative. Desearth gasped in response to Noyth. Oh, no, please don't do that![/i] she sounded rather shocked, I'm perfectly okay! Is Yours? I'm sorry Mine didn't ask,[/i] she continued with a very happy tone, appologizing for Her's lack of attentiveness. She should have asked if he was okay first! Silly Hers.[/blockquote][/size]

[Birdy]

Tomarth had refused to leave Paralee’s side. He seemed to be glued to her side, watching her with a slowly whirling eyes . Where are we going? I not hungry anymore. Not hungry, he said, with a nod. Paralee grinned at him. “Oh Tomtom, the food here is not for your eating pleasure. It is for mine. And the rest of….the weyr…” she said somewhat thoughtfully, her voice trailing off. “Yep, food for the peoples Tomsies, for riders and weyrlings and other people.”

“Besides, you have meet all the other dragonets! Remiel’s and Rhysia’s and Jasra’s. Well maybe not Jasra’s. She’ll probably eat you! We can’t have that Toto,” she chirped, pushing the image out of her head. She’d heard what the Red had done to that Dekistee girl, and didn’t plan on letting Tomarth feel the red’s wrath.

Tomarth followed her as they entered the dining hall, looking around at all of the people and dragonets. Paraleemine where are they? The ones you’re looking for? he asked, trying to match the faces to the images from His’s head. Paralee beat him to it though, darting through the crowd as she saw her face. Tomarth blinked, where was His? Paraleemin I see to have lost you, Paralee appeared once more in front of him, patting his head. “You think I would forget you?...for longer than a few seconds?” she grinned,” Come on!”

Paralee made her way through the crowd, Tomarth in tow, towards the girl. Putting a finger to her lips Paralee stepped slowly behind the girl before jumping forward and wrapping her arms around her in a surprise hug. “Sooo, I see you Impressed too!! And to a loverly green! Such a pretty thing don’t ya think Tommy?” she chirped, looking over Rhysia’s shoulder to see the green. “Hi pretty!” she said to the dragonet.

[kyrillion]

You gettin' tired yet, Oom?
You want to go to the feast.[/color]
That's not what I asked you...
I am fine, RemMine! Let's go.[/color]

Grinning, one hand in a pocket and the other resting on the royal purple's head in a gesture of part fondness and part disbelief, R'miel strode lightly into the bustling dining hall. It was warm, the room lit by the welcoming golden glow of candles, and the smell of food hung tantalizingly in the air. Tonight was a night to remember; he was glad Oomieth had agreed to stay up with him for a bit, even if he didn't quite believe his claim that he wasn't a bit sleepy.

He didn't go for the food right off - he wasn't all that hungry. The adrenaline and elation of Impression and worn away and left him feeling more than content - and seeing as how Oomieth had eaten his way through most of a wherry not so long ago, his fullness was enough to tide his rider over for the time being. Instead, he took a moment to scan the crowd in search of someone familiar... and soon found it in Paralee. Grinning, looking as laid-back as ever and, for once, feeling it, he made his way over, spying another Candidate who was only vaguely familiar. She'd Impressed to, it seemed - a green, and a pretty one at that.

"Paralee!" This time, he moved in to give her that hug that a hungry Oomieth had gotten in the way of last time. A brief smile sent in the way of the dragons, Tomarth and Raeterith, and then he turned to offer a hand and a grin - only slightly flirtatious - to Rhysia. "And I don't think we've really met. R'miel." He offered, his signature suaveness happily effortless. He wasn't sure his newfound feeling of stability would last, but riding on the wave of confidence from his Impression, he felt indestructible.

Oomieth, privately amused at his rider's storm of giddy emotion, came to sit by his side. Turning to regard Tomarth and Raeterith, he waved his tail in a little dragon-wave as he'd done at the hatching. Hello again, brother. And cousin, it is pleasant to meet you.[/color] ("nice to meet you", R'miel corrected quietly, but with a smile). Yes, yes - very nice.[/color] He amended with a modest dip of the head and a rustle of awkward wings. He would need some time to grow into them.

However happy he was to acquaint himself with the blue and green, his attention drifted elsewhere nearly as soon as he finished his greeting. Where was his brother? He hoped he wasn't getting into any trouble - he had sensed some competition between Feeroneth's and Lebeth's, earlier, and a bronze was no good adversary to have. Eyes touched briefly with orange in worry, he sent out a tentative call.

Feeroneth?[/color] The tone of his summons was all pleasant curiosity - the worry, at least from Feeroneth, was hidden. Much as his rider disguised things and stowed them away, although Oomieth's motives were entirely different. "You're not starting that again?" R'miel mumbled to his dragon with a bit of weariness - how long was he going to insist on playing babysitter? He didn't need that sort of responsibility, especially when he was so young. Why he insisted on it in the first place...

It is not always a bad thing, you know.[/color] Interjected Oomieth absently, still on the lookout for his flamboyant and almost-pink brother.
"What?" R'miel was genuinely confused, brows furrowed as he glanced briefly down at the purple.
Responsibility.[/color][/size]

[purnip]

Someone was finally approaching him, but this was a face he did no recognize in the slightest. It would not prevent L'am from being friendly however; in fact, a new face required excess positivity. He let the concerns about Lebeth slip away from his mind for the time being. There would be no need for such private matters to stay bottled up and swarming in his head while engaging in conversation.

"It's a pleasure to meet you as well, Avalle," he replied with a soft smile. Of Gold Callistath. This was not the Weyrwoman he was hoping to meet, that was for sure, but simply belonging to a Gold revealed her status in this guild as high. This would not be the sort of person he could risk offending. L'am worried little of this. He knew it was best to concern her with little if no special attention. He was certain that she would not take the time to remember yet another admirer of her rank. He would not be able to help the admiration, which would have bordered on envy if he wasn't watching his thoughts and feelings carefully. L'am was aware of a dragon's ability to read the minds of others. He had yet to know the extent, but one could never be too careful.

He offered his hand for a shake. Though a gesture normally given to men, he would not exclude Avalle on the basis of gender. "I'm Lyam, and this would be..."

Lebeth was chuckling, watching the boy with amusement reflected in that jovial expression of his. What is this 'Lyam' you speak of? You are L'amMine and nothing else.

Since when had the Bronze started to pay attention? Not to give the youngster too much credit, he didn't seem to notice Avalle at all. His eyes were still fixed on L'am as if waiting and anticipating his next course of action. His sure liked to wait around a lot. It was funny, and a little sad. Lebeth would see to it that His learned to live more dangerously. Standing around and staring at everyone and thing is too taxing.

Yet the Bronzerider chuckled as well, realizing that he had made a mistake in his introduction. "L'am actually. L'am is the name now. It's going to take some getting used to but I won't miss the 'Y' after long." He winked to the Bronze for the save, thankful that he had caught on to something, but Lebeth was no longer paying attention. He finally realized that His was speaking to someone and was watching her with ephemeral attention. She wasn't there a little while ago.

"And this is Lebeth," he said, half turning to give the young Bronze a pat on the shoulder. The dragon did not seem to register this as he continued to stare at Avalle. "He's ah...probably a bit tired after stuffing himself."

L'amMine, I believe the Weyrwoman has concluded her speech. Has the feast begun?

Yes, it has. I want to mingle a bit before retiring to our new quarters, L'am thought to Lebeth.

Lebeth was still hungry, in all honesty. He had eaten less than a Bronze ought to have due to his short attention span. There were smells in the air he started to pick up with his none-too-sensitive nose. Only because he was hungry. The smells were enticing. May I help myself to the food provided? My hunger lingers.

No. That was the first thought that sprang to mind. He was sure that Lebeth's obliviousness would land him into trouble if he tried picking food off the table like a canine picks up on scraps. It's distasteful to pick food off a table when you haven't been excused to do so, and I do not believe the food provided here is meant for dragons. It may give you an upset stomach. I will feed you more, if you still wish, when we retire.

Lebeth could choose to ignore that, if he so pleased, but he was foolish enough to listen. He should have gone with his instincts and let his hunger guide him to the tables. Now he knew it was 'distasteful'. He didn't want to be 'distasteful', did he? It had the prefix of dis-, which was generally negative. Lebeth wanted to remain positive. Such was the glory of things. His did promise to feed him again anyways. So the Bronze stopped his questioning and regained his cheerful disposition. Soon there would be more food for him, but he did hope His would stop talking and get moving!

-----------

Rhysia was, at the time, getting ready to wait for some food. She did have breakfast that morning, but skipping lunch caused her appetite to spike. Raeterith was sticking very close to Hers, but she did not see Paralee or her Blue approach. Her attention was solely focused and entranced upon Rhysia. After her bonded's 'moment' earlier, she did not wish for her rider to go out of sight.

The girl gave a squeak, similar to that of a mouse. She wasn't used to being sneaked up upon--Rhysia did all of the sneaking in the past. The Green that was by her side shot a perilous glare at Paralee, her eyes shifting hot red, but they softened again when the sound of the other girl's voice caused Hers to laugh at her startling.

"Haha! I haven't heard a sound like that come out of me in a loooong time. You broke a record, Paralee!" She was so happy. So happy she was to have both of her favorite friends around her. She remembered quite vividly Paralee's Impression; it was the first!

Raeterith was calming down. Hers was fine. The girl was not attacking her. She spared a glance to Tomarth and greeted him, though her first impression of Blues was not such a great one. Greetings, cousin Tomarth. Her brother that had been upon the Sands was especially cold to her. Tomarth was not however...he didn't seem to be the same. She was further calmed as Rhysia reached forward to give her a small stroke on the nose.

"This is Raeterith!" Rhysia said gleefully. "She's pretty, but Tommy's super cute!" He was. The Blue had such cute markings. Still, she wouldn't trade Rae for the cutest.

"Paralee!

"Huh?" Rhysia glanced over her other shoulder as a boy approached them. She did not know him, but she vaguely recognized him from the Hatching. He knew Paralee though, so maybe he was cool too. Her shyness was returning as he approached. A piece of her hoped he wouldn't speak to her. She wasn't sure if R'miel was safe just yet.

Do not fear the boy. You are always safe when I am around, the Green reassured.

That was around the time that the boy introduced himself to her. Rhysia stiffened a little before giving him a slight nod of her head in greeting. "I'm Rhysia," she replied, and her introduction was not at all as stiff as her frame had become. It sounded courageous and even just a little arrogant. She added a smirk as well. She was timid, but not when she felt defensive. Charm blew over her, so it was of no help for R'miel to be charming. Rhysia was a tough girl when the need arose. "If you're a friend of Paralee's, you're a friend of mine."

When Oomieth greeted her, Raeterith also bowed her head in greeting. Likewise, cousin Oomieth. She was none too sociable with the other dragons. If they needed her, she would be concerned over them, but since she had found Rhysia, she found it hard to care for anyone else when no one required her attention.

[hatori3070]

All three flitts sped out of the window, rushing to join their Mine and her new dragon. They were so excited to meet her! She had to be wonderful to have Impressed to Jasra, and they chittered animatedly to each other on the way. Jasra noticed just in time, and sent them an image of Dekistee's mauling, along with an order to not land on or around Izkeeyerdath. The last thing she needed was for Iz to kill one of her firelizards and ruin tonight. It was already so wonderful, part of her feared that she would wake up at any moment. But taking one look at Izkeeyerdath stilled those fears. Her mind could not have come up with her on its own. Do not be foolish Mine. Izkeeyerdath had acquired some patience after eating her fill, but that was mostly reserved for her rider. The three firelizards that were now landing on her would be extended that patience by association only for so long. They peered curiously at her, but heeded Jasra's warning. The Red was dangerous and held barely contained disdain for the creatures. They were small and useless, doubly so now that Jasra had her. Her eyes were tinged orange with her annoyance, but with her belly full, she remained silent for now. You require food. We will go to the feast now.

Jasra felt Iz's dislike for her trio, but also ignored it as they went on their way to the feast. She doubted the volatile Red would ever actually like them, but all she needed was tolerance. They will be tolerated, for your sake. Jasra jumped a bit. It would take some getting used to, having someone in her head like that.

They soon arrived at the feast. Everyone was giving them a wide berth, trying to avoid the attention of the Red sub-Queen. Jasra couldn't help but smile, thinking it funny that they believed being farther away was safer. If Iz decided to teach any more lessons, distance wouldn't matter in the slightest. The Weyrwoman gave her speech, naming the new weyrlings the Starseekers. Starseekers. I like the name. It seems fitting. She was trying to make conversation, but Izkeeyerdath apparently didn't feel like talking. Well then, she'd just have to find someone else to talk to. Looking around, Jasra spotted Amara and Black Veejarth. Their conversation earlier had been interrupted, so Jasra walked over to them. It was now to the point where the crowd's fear was annoying for them both. Izkeeyerdath snorted, and would have slashed a few of them to show them their stupidity, but Jasra noticed her thoughts as her eyes became tinged with red. Iz, come on. It's not worth it, and you'll ruin the feast. Ruining the feast was of no concern to her, but Izkeeyerdath did acknowledge that it would accomplish nothing. It would simply make them fear her more, and their fear would make them act even more foolish.

"Hi Amara! What do you think of the feast?" Jasra was glad that someone would talk to her. But now she would have to be the one to approach almost anyone she wanted to talk to. Few would want to risk approaching Izkeeyerdath and possibly catching her in a bad mood, well, worse than usual.

[mangonumnum]

L'sd scooted in while Fajra finished her speech. He had done his best to look nice for the event. His hair looked like it might have actually been brushed and had been pulled back tightly so that it wouldn't fall during the evening like it was very accustomed to doing. He was wearing a pair of boots that, while they had seen better days, were nicer than anything he usually wore.

His shirt was still relatively white, but it looked like it was from a few years ago as it fit snugly in some places. He wore long blue pants that he hadn't cut up yet. The overall picture was awkward, but he had been trying. Tabeyiith marched by his side, a slow blue-green swirl in his eyes.

Mine, what is happening? There are so many people here. What's going on?

It's a celebration Tabeyiith! For all the dragonets like you that found Theirs. It's a feast. L'sd responded with a grin, gently scratching the blue's eyeridges. Tabeyiith seemed to like that and his eyes swirled faster. He looked around, taking everything in. He looked slightly confused, but as long as he stayed close to His then he figured he would be ok.

L'sd, though, looked slightly confused too. He didn't know many of the new Weyrlings, but he wanted to socialize. He looked around for L'am or Rhysia or maybe even the girl who Impressed the green that had helped out Tabeyiith. L'sd was certainly grateful the green had helped. He was sure Tabeyiith would have figured it out, but it might have taken a lot longer.

As L'sd entered the room, he spied Rhysia. She seemed busy though. She was talking to that girl- the one who first Impressed- and a boy who had Impressed the purple. He shrugged and continued on. Maybe they could speak later. He soon spotted L'am as he approached one of the food tables, Tabeyiith closely behind him.

"Lyam...errr L'am!" he called, quickly correcting himself. It was hard to even call himself L'sd. He made his way through the crowd, making sure Tabeyiith could get through as well- the blue had a strong build and was, thus, a little bulkier. When he reached the new Bronze-rider's side, he extended a hand in greeting and congratulations, "I just wanted to say congratulations! What a great dragon- a bronze! I'm really excited for you."

Mine....who are you talking to? Are you not happy that you have me? Isn't Tabeyiith a good dragon? L'sd had to chuckle. The poor little blue didn't yet understand how L'sd loved the thing to death even though they had just met. It was what L'sd had been looking for his entire life-something to complete him.

This is a friend, Tab. His name is L'am. And I think you are the best dragon in all of Pern. I'm just excited for my friend too.

Oh, I understand, Mine. Should I introduce myself? the blue looked up at his Mine and waited for the nod of approval before turning to Lebath and saying Hello! I am Tabeyiith. This is L'sdMine. He helps me figure out things. Isn't he great?

[Birdy]

Paralee giggled happily at Rhysia’s reaction but wasn’t totally oblivious to her green’s reaction. “What do I win?” she asked raising a eyebrow then laughing once more. Luckily the green didn’t seem to be too bothered by Paralee so she continued to cling to the other girl.

Tomarth, still at Paralee’s side, blinked at Raeterith. It’s nice to meet you too sister Raeterith, it seems ours are friends. Good friends, so we should be too right? he said, with a draconic smile. He hadn’t seen the green on the Sands in his rush to find His. Perhaps she had hatched after him. Yes that would explain his not seeing her.

“That’s a pretty name, Raeterith!” Paralee said with a grin. Then, hearing her name, whirled around and spotted Remiel. “Rem- er R’miel!” she squealed, returning his hug with an enthusiastic of her own. “Nice to see you again! And you too Oomy,” she chirped to the purple. Tomarth returned Oomieth’s tail wave once more, Hello to you too Oomieth, he said to the purple.

The blue looked at His. So now I have met two out of the three you wanted me to meet. We’re almost done! I am getting tired, ever so tired Mine, Tomarth said with a wide yawn, showing rows of tiny teeth. Paralee patted the blue on the head, You could always sit down Tomtom, she said, quite amused by the fact that she could indeed talk to the dragonet privately.

[theknightwhosaysni]

They weren't late. That was a good sign. T'lar lurked in a quiet corner of the party, clearly unhappy about being here, though he was enjoying the food, obviously. Of course, T'lar was licking his fingers clean with an odd smile on his face, and that would probably clue anyone who tried to watch him into the fact that he was enjoying his food.

Fee had managed to persuade him to change, clearly, as T'lar was now dressed in his Gather clothes. Fancy, and crisp, he gave off the air of someone who planned on going somewhere important, though T'lar certainly was of the opinion that he looked ridiculous.

Fee had been quite adamant that he not only looked fine, he looked good, however, so T'lar had done as the dragon suggested, and worn his clothes here, not that they did any good back where he stood, as far away from the others as he could get.

T'larMine, we should go interact, ya know? Fee had been fairly quiet for the majority of the time they'd been there, but at last he'd raised his voice from his silence. I'd like to meet some of these dragons we'll have to live with for a long while. I bet we'll even have a roomie, won't that be fun, Mine? Fee grinned draconically, a slight baring of his fangs, and his eyes whirled cheerfully.

T'lar groaned, raising his eyes skyward, "A roomie? Where do you come up with these things?" he sighed, before lowering his eyes to gaze at the small dragonet settled near his feet. "I really hope we don't end up with one, though." he added a few seconds later.

I hope we do. It would be quite fun, wouldn't it? Fee smiled again, Yeah, we'll be able, to talk to someone, no matter what, and it'll be so much fun! Fee sang out cheerfully.

T'lar groaned, "You know what, we might as well go interact." he didn't feel like arguing with his dragon anymore. It would be a waste of time, to tell the truth, because neither would win or lose. They knew each other inside and out, after all.

Fee inclined his head, Mine, that's what I've wanted to do since we've shown up. I want to go see my brother, and I also want to meet the other dragons. Won't it be nice to get to know them? I'll be able to see which ones of them really need my help, you know? Like, really, really need my help.

T'lar groaned, but he began to amble slowly into the crowds, wandering aimlessly along, but heading towards L'ven, it seemed. T'lar wasn't paying much attention, to tell the truth, he just wanted to get through the crowds so that Fee would stop bothering him.

However, Fee had already been sidetracked. Oomieth! he sung out cheerfully, Oomieth, how is Yours doing? Does he need any help from me? Do you need any help from me?

T'lar glanced down at Fee, quirking an eyebrow, but he didn't really comment on anything. It wasn't like he would've said anything, even if he'd had time. He hadn't noticed L'ven heading towards him, but he did greet the Bronzerider with a small, tight smile. Their meeting had been so long ago, he didn't really remember much other than falling. Well, that had hurt. But, in all honesty, he didn't really care. That animosity was in the past, T'lar could live with that.

"Yeah, T'lar, that's me." he said, still enjoying the sound of his new name. He was a dragonrider, as his name revealed, and even if he didn’t ride a King, Fee was good enough for him. Fee would help him out quite a bit in climbing the ranks, hopefully. Anyways, he had to introduce Fee to L’ven, ”Yeah, he is, isn’t he?” T’lar smiled slightly, before going on, ”His name is Feeroneth, actually.”
Fee blinked as the topic of the conversation drifted towards him, My name is Feeroneth, indeed. I like it, don’t you?

---

Amara didn’t want to be there. It was clear from the nervous shift of her weight from foot to foot, and from the way she chewed on her lip anxiously. She hadn’t wanted to be there at all, but Vee had insisted on it, though he’d done so rather politely.

As if sensing His was thinking of him, Vee spoke softly, So, Mine, you’ll be all right, won’t you? he blinked up at her, taking in her worry calmly, his voice sweet, I mean, I know you didn’t want to be here, but it’s important that we’re here. You know, as Weyrlings and all…

Amara smiled, glancing down at Vee, ”I’m all right.” she replied softly, ”I just don’t want to be here.” she gestured widely around them, ”It makes me nervous to be around so many people that I don’t know.” she added, blushing slightly.

Vee gave a comforting rumble, It’s all right, Mine. If it makes you feel any better, you should imagine them to be naked. It can make you feel less awkward. he promised His, tilting his head upward to gaze steadily into her eyes, providing an oasis of strength and solace.

Amara winced, ”That makes it even worse,” she looked slightly freaked out, probably from imagining the people around her naked. ”It makes them a lot scarier.” she winced again, and edged backwards, winding her way towards the back of the room with Vee at her heels.

He wasn’t very happy about heading away from all the fun they were going to have, but he was too polite to say so. It wasn’t worth it; they’d get back into it later. He’d work on making her see that the people around them weren’t dangerous and scary. She was far too worried by people to have actual fun. That would have to be fixed at some later point, but for now, this would have to do. At least they were there, Veejarth was sure he could work out a way to get them to have fun somewhere around here. Couldn’t be all that hard, could it?

They’d been lurking over by the wall, Amara half-listening to Fajra’s speech, noting the information that their Weyrling group was going to be referred to as the Starseeker’s, though the rest went through one ear and out the other. The rest of the information could be learned at some later point, as, mainly, Amara focused on not looking as nervous as she actually was. She’d stopped chewing on her lip, but she was still shifting her weight from foot to foot, trying to keep her face impassive, but she’d never been any good at hiding her emotions. Her face was easier to read than an open book, honestly.

Veejarth was the first to notice Izkeeyerdath’s approach, as well as Hers. He bobbed his head in greeting, a small smile on his face. At last, someone to prove to His that humans weren’t all that bad. His did like Jasra, Izkeeyerdath’s bonded, he remembered, and having His with Izkeeyerdath’s might make her a little less nervous.

Amara smiled, bringing her arm up in a quick half wave towards her friend, ”Hey Jasra!” she glanced at Izkeeyerdath, bobbing her head in greeting towards the Red as well, before going on to answer Jasra’s question. ”I’m liking it, I suppose.” she replied. No need to go into detail about how much she disliked being surrounded by people or anything like that. Honestly, it would make Jasra doubt that they could be friends all the more, considering the distance in ranks between their dragons, and Jasra was certainly one of Amara’s very few friends, she didn’t want to risk losing the girl.

[fidelli]

Nim was a rider. A full rider too. It took some getting used to, mind you - she hadn't expected any of this, even after Zucherroth had carefully dragged her out onto the sands and declared that she belonged there, so that he could Impress. And they had done it even - her and her little Blind White had managed to do what no one expected. There had been bets, and there had been snickers, and there had been mocking. She had lived with it, and she had pummeled people - it was Nim's creed in life. She was like an over-protective mother to her little defect child - despite that Zucherroth had an empathy level that was beyond the charts, and he could see anything alive. It wasn't seeing, persay - it was as though he could sense the rider, dragon, or animal, and their... Brainwaves. Weird.

As usual, Nim had been trying to figure it out again - how her dragonet had managed to be better than what everyone had expected. He was so hyper-sensitive, the little white managed to be a better flyer than most of their class. He just seemed to know where the drafts were, and how to ride them - mind, he couldn't stay up over an hour anyway, and he would never be a star flier, but she had faith... If the Thread were alive, didn't that mean that she and Zuchie could sense it, and still Fly? It seemed so - they were ringriders, in the Queen's wing, no less! That didn't really mean anything - it just meant that he couldn't be put any higher, but still. It meant that when Thread fell, dragonmen would fly. It was how it was meant to be. Of course we fly, silly AnimatamoraMine. What else do you expect us to do? Even your BrotherNoyth's will Fly, even if it is not for too long before he goes back to his healing. She snickered at that. Yes, A'mor would fly - and he wasn't happy about it. Something about an idiot sharding Bronzerider from Southern that he had known, or something... She didn't pay attention when he started ranting.

Which meant that Nim, as she much preferred to be called but didn't have the heart to tell her dragon anymore - because really, Zuchie didn't listen - could have run into the "idiot sharding Bronzerider" and never know it was him. All well. She had Zuchie had indeed gone to the Hatching though - she enjoyed Hatchings. She had missed the renegade's Hatching, unfortunately - she had been visiting her friend at Southern Hold. He had a wife now - it was scary. He was only 18 - and she... She was seventeen. The same age as his wife. Not that she had had much to do with her friend's wife - the woman was a jealous thing who thought that he and her were about to go do... Well, needless to say, Nim put a stop to THAT right away. She wouldn't ever have to deal with that, thank goodness - Zucherroth was a White, and even to that extent, she knew his mind. He was too childlike - he wouldn't ever Fly anybody. His mentality in that direction was clear. He knew about Flights - he just didn't see female's like that.

It made Nim feel more secure. She enjoyed that, actually. She knew that she would never be kissed, or never have sex - hell, she would die a complete and total virgin - but that was alright to her. She couldn't miss what she didn't have, right? Except for sleepless nights when she tossed and turned because she felt like she was missing something, she didn't bother. If she did, she might end up like P'nay. Hah! She had given advice to the rider - or, Zuchie had given the advice and she had channeled it through. Her White was an amazing clever boy who knew exactly what to say, and she had felt very good helping them... Even if she really didn't do anything. But, she never wanted to be that - heartsick over a boy. And she didn't like girls - that was for sure.

Speaking of that, A'mor had gotten his hands on Nim. She had been in her Weyr, dressed in her normal style - a huge light tunic and a pair of breeches that were at least three sizes too big and had to be belted - when A'mor had swept in, grumpy as hell. She raised an eyebrow, and asked what was wrong, when he glowered at her, and told her she would be going as a girl. Well, naturally, Nim refused, and even laughed in his face - but Zucherroth had thought it was a wonderful idea, and the pale multi-colored dragonet had sprawled next to the bed and helped A'mor torture Nim. She had tried to argue - but both the White and the Gray clearly had Their's wrapped around their taloned paws. It didn't help that Noyth had put A'mor in a bad mood - he was sharing.

So, Nim was at the party, totally not dressed up as she was. Mind you, Nim was a pretty girl. Most people saw the strawberry blond girl with a cut on her cheek, or a black eye - but for once, Nim was perfectly presentable. She had the same page-boy hair cut, but she had on a slim, form fitting dress that showed off the curved figure, the modest breasts, and her slim muscle. She thought that she was ugly enough, but when she walked into the door, she was shocked to have people stare. Most knew the firebrand as something of a pudgy person - but she had no fat on her at all. Zuchie... Can you come in the dining hall with me? The white laughed in her mind, a tinkle of bells. Silly AnimatamoraMine! I cannot fit in there with all those people! She was indignant. You can too! You and Noyth are the smallest dragons in the Weyr - you could both come in here! The White only sent her a shower of love and settled down on the ledge with all the other dragons. No, Ridermine. You are very pretty - I can see their expressions through your eyes, and they are admiring you. She snorted through a button nose. I am not pretty, and they are shocked, not admired.

The White only sent her more love, and went back to his animated conversation. Which left her alone. Very self conscious. She had already eaten, and now was at a loss to do - so she hung back, watching politely, cradling a glass of wine in her hand and wishing absentmindedly that something would happen, or someone would come and talk to her. But at the same time, she swore she would send anybody away that she knew - she would have a hard time living this down. And she was pretty - prettier than a lot of the girls there. She just hid it constantly, or scared people away with the passionate fire in her eyes, and the way that she stood even now - feet slightly apart, one hip cocked, ready to whirl you around until you got off the ride, with a challenge in the blue orbs focused on the world.

[hatori3070]

Jasra noticed Amara's apprehension and for a moment thought it was due to Izkeeyerdath's presence before she realized that it was the amount of people that had her on edge. She was a very withdrawn person, uncomfortable in even small groups. This was probably the last place she wanted to be right now. Jasra smirked. "Did Vee drag you here?" She stood with her arms lazily crossed and her hips cocked to the side. Black Veejarth was definitely more outgoing than Amara, if his antics on the sands earlier that day were any indication. Izkeeyerdath sat on her haunches with easy, languid grace, and danger inherent in every movement. Her eyes were cast out over the crowd, still an irritated orange hue as she took them all in. Some were drinking, some were eating, some were standing around talking like Hers and Veejarth's. None of them were doing anything of any real importance. She noticed the Weyrwoman making her exit. She of course had more important matters to attend to. Perhaps her Black brother could explain the humans. Why do they do this? What is the significance of eating too much and drinking far more alcohol than is healthy? Certainly there are better things to do. Humans were baffling. Hers was finding amusement in the discomfort of Veejarth's bonded, but why? She needed to be taught a lesson, or she would remain useless and a handicap to her weyr. How could Veejarth defend them if he was forever worrying over his? Her eyes whirled faster as her thoughts continued in this upsetting train. Humans seemed to be more trouble than they were worth sometimes, halting the important functioning of the weyr, the preparation for Thread, for something as silly as a feast. JasraMine, this is pointless. Eat so that we can leave. Sleep is more productive than this foolishness. Jasra was becoming irritated herself, but not for the same reason. All Iz was doing was finding fault with everyone and everything around her. Only the Weyrwoman had escaped a scathing thought. You are being gloomy and unproductive yourself. Why don't you try and have a good time? I doubt that is possible. Jasra refocused her attention back on Amara. Izkeeyerdath was being unreasonable, so Jasra chose to ignore that last comment. Izkeeyerdath wasn't tired yet, so they would stay and socialize whether she liked it or not.

[fidelli]

A'mor straightened - cursing to himself as he realized he knee was bruised at least - and looked up at the girl. She looked pissed off, and he prepared himself for the attack, eyes narrowing... Except she softened, and he blinked, looking at her with a slightly confused face. 'Yes, it's okay, she's fine.' At least she still sounded annoyed - he felt better about that, or he would have thought she was bipolar. But, dragonet's were weird, and the little he had studied over Cyan's, they tended to be dreamers who cared about people. Well, that other one that hatching might not be, but the other ones, they were. 'It's okay, really. She gets distracted easily by things around her, she probably didn't even notice. I'm Engrye, by the way.'

A'mor only nodded - he had knelt, and, after offering his hands to the dragonet and Noyth said quietly, He will check you, ran his hands over her bone structure, making sure he hadn't damaged anything. "Engrye - congratulations on Impressing. I fear it is partially my fault, but thank you for your words." He had been the one to heal - or try to heal - Dekistee on the sands, and she was right - he really didn't want to be reminded of that. He was slightly irritated by the girl, even know - but the dragonet under his fingers made him feel a little better. He did love the hatchlings, in his own quiet, grumpy way.

Oh, no, please don't do that! I'm perfectly okay! Is Yours? I'm sorry Mine didn't ask. Noyth only let the little dragon ramble, and when she was done, laughed quietly, matronly. Mine is fine. He will live. We are more worried about you - but Mine thinks that you are alright. Congratulations on Impressing, little one. He rose, dusting off his hands, and bowed his head to Engrye. "Weyrling Engrye, I am sorry again." He wanted to leave, but Noyth, the ever silent obnoxious voice in his head, had him pinned. Be polite. He rolled his eyes at her in his head, but smiled genially down at the girl, and asked, "You don't seem to know many of the weyrlings - are you from a hold nearby?"

[Nia]

Avalle took L'am's hand delicately, though she shook it firmly. She would have offered her hand for him to shake first, but Callistath had informed her that it was unladylike to off her hand first, so she hadn't. But it would also be rude to decline one, so she shook his hand firmly. She had a good handshake... for being as weak as she was. He seemed... amiable enough, she supposed. He wasn't trying to brush her off to talk to Fajra, at least. Not that Avalle could even see the Weyrwoman around anymore... she must have gone to check on Osro or something. Not a big deal. She's already given her speech, there wasn't really a reason for her to hang around anymore.

Anyway, she had to stifle a snicker at L'am's mistake in his own name. You find the strangest things funny, Mine. But do not laugh at him,

[/i] while Callistath sounded intrigued that Hers was amused by such a simple thing, it would be incredibly rude to laugh in his face like she was about to do. But she held back her snicker and instead forced a pleasant smile. "I'm sure you won't," while she'd meant it to sound more like a casual conversation response, it sounded quite sarcastic. Not that she'd meant to make it sound that way, of course. She felt Callistath's disapproval, though.

"Lebeth? He's quite interestingly colored. It's not often you see spotted Bronzes," she finally allowed herself to laugh, though she hoped it was more refined than her usual bouts of snickers, "That's... okay. Most of the dragons are probably tired," she commented with a small shrug, dismissing the dragon's stares. She didn't mind that he was staring... though it was a bit unnerving, he probably couldn't help it. She was just so-... well, nevermind about that, Callistath didn't appreciate that Bronze's short attention span. He hadn't even sought her out to greet her! Rude. Incredibly rude.

It is impolite to stare like that, Lebeth,[/i] she said stirnly to him, having grown rather annoyed with Her's behavior during this Feast. Not that the Bronze was doing any better with his staring. He seemed extremely oblivious, and while that wasn't the worst type of personality Callistath could imagine, it was still annoying. You did not even seek to greet me,[/i] she continued scolding him. Rudeness was not going to pass with Callistath... especially not from the Bronzes. At least Valleth, while a ridiculous flirt, knew how to be polite and respectful.

--------

Desearth was proud of the way Hers had dealt with A'mor tripping over her, she hadn't yelled or anything! She still sounded annoyed and not nearly as respectful as she should be of the Master Healer, but it was good enough for now. Soon Hers would see just how great the people around her were! Engrye, however, thought the complete opposite. If it hadn't been for Desearth's cheer she probably would have snapped at A'mor and walked away, but the dragon wanted her to stay and continue the conversation. Whatever. This Healer didn't seem as annoyingly stupid as most of her classmates... though that could be debated, he did trip over her dragon, afterall.

The Cyan sat perfectly still as A'mor checked her over, not wanting to disturb his work or make him mess up in any way. Not because she was worried about herself, but because she didn't want to bother him. Engrye merely shrugged off his next words. "It's both your fault, really. No harm done," she said dismissively. She'd never really been good at taking apologies, she honestly would have prefered if he'd just rolled his eyes and walked away. People were so difficult to deal with sometimes. Mine, he is working very hard to keep the Weyr healthy! The least you could do would be to offer a conversation![/i] Desearth protested. Whatever. If he wanted to talk to her, at least it would kill some time.

"It's fine. You don't have to apologize anymore," she said, though shrugged at his next question, "No, I've been here for a little while. I know some people here, I just don't like them. People are annoying," she replied airily, feeling Desearth's protests lingering at the back of her mind. The Cyan had no idea how Hers could even come close to thinking like that when everyone around her was so wonderful and interesting. But she was talking, so Desearth would be polite and not interupt. Not now, at least.

Of course I'm alright! I'm tough,[/i] she said cheerily to Noyth, Thank you, Noyth! I'm so happy to Impress to Mine. We're going to be so great! But not nearly as great as you and Yours,[/i] she wasn't sucking up, she was completely sincere in her respect and admiration for the Gray and her rider. Master Healers! If only she and Hers could become that great, one day.[/blockquote][/size]

[Admin]

You come from an island,
You're cutting diamonds,
With a rubbery knife,
Your autograph is worthless.

Paget didn't falter in her playing as she was assaulted by an eager purplerider dragging a female brownrider. She peered at them while her bow continued to draw out elegant notes and her fingers moved like delicately placed little hammers. She spoke not a word, deciding her job was far more interesting than commenting on the annoying little fellow who went racing away to leave her with the much more interesting girl. A brownrider who was girl. That was intriguing, to even her. Durian of brown Mesreath. In the end, all she did was offer a nod as she lowered her fiddle for a moment when she concluded the song. Then, replacing her proper hold again, she launched in a much livelier tune, looking expectantly at Durian to pick up the beat. She let the music speak for her, finding it easier to be caught up in it instead of thinking of things to say.

P'nay grinned at the sight of R'ish sashaying towards him and he stopped dead in the middle of a small break in the crowds that filled up the room. When he was greeted as being handsome, he tried to strike a ridiculous, mocking pose, but then he was pulled into a quick kiss. He subsided into simply grinning into the wonderful, affectionate greeting. When the pinkrider settled right up next to him, he snuggled into the other man's side, the wiggling that he did a little bit suggestive. His thoughts of finding Paralee and her new blue or Rhysia and her new green were set aside in his mind. "How are you, darling;" he drawled into his lover's ear. Someone passed by offering wine. He filched a glass and took a sip before offering it to R'ish. Public displays of how awesome they were together, as a real couple, seemed perfectly fine by him.

When the Weyrwoman reappeared, she gain all attention, and it wasn't in the subtle, firm fashion that was to be expected of her. A door hit the wall as it was pushed open and she stormed into the hall, head sunk low in fury. Her body moved out of time with the rest of the world, each of her movements uncomfortably stiff as she wrestled for control over a situation where she had no control. Her feet hit the ground with loud thuds. Paget had stopped playing to watch the agitated redhead make her march, and silence hit the crowded room like a kick to the gut. Something was wrong. Fajra's expression wasn't controlled, cool, or even calm. It broiled with an empty shock filled up with a fierce fire that wasn't at all inspiring or comforting. Her swift, strained strides brought her back up to the high table as she brushed past others without a thought or care.

For a moment, she seemed to manage to hold herself, looking out across the hall with blazing blue eyes. Then words came flooding out in one sentence. The only sentence she needed to say. "Where, in Faranth's name, is my son!" The question might have made no sense, so out of the blue, but the meaning was clear enough. Osro was missing. She could have asked who had him, but she already knew. Crumpled up in one of her hands was a little piece of hide. I have something you want. You have a few things I want. We won't be meeting. You'll just have to make it quite clear that you're ready to concede a few points. D'ror of brown Abeneth. She flung it onto the table in front of her without a thought. Where was her son! How had he been taken! She wasn't conceding anything! But she wanted her son. She wanted him back.

A knocked out body, the feckless crecheworker. A note. That was all that she had found. Fear squeezed her chest. A blinding emotion overtook her that she hadn't felt in a long time. Desperation. She wasn't a little lost child anymore, a little confused girl. She wasn't ever lost beyond where Kalith could reassure her in her infinite confidence. Yet, right then, she was entirely lost and the copper had nothing with which to reassure her. Settling up on the heights, her meal forgotten, the Queen tipped her head back and roared. Once. Twice. The cry never ended. Over and over, the guttural sound rent the night. She flared her wings and they beat empty air as her claws dug into stone, keeping herself in place. Traitors of Pern! Traitors in her Weyr! Danger to her children, danger to her Weyr, danger to her rider! She screamed up into the dusk sky.

The cries only grew quieter when Fajra ordered her with blind emotions to stop being so irritating. She reached out for O'sho, nearby, and her fingers curled around one of his arms in a death grip. She didn't shake in fear or anger. She was tense, rigid, but not in her usual fashion. The stress of the situation she was under brought out one thing in her. Anger. The need to protect. Nothing else could worm its way in over that. The desperation she felt only let those things come into being within her mind. Fear was placed far away. Fear only fueled on the need to find him and fix the situation. She was a Weyrwoman. She was ready. She was strong. She couldn't have fear. It wouldn't fix anything. She took a breathe, though she didn't feel it got her any air. Kalith continued her cries, which had mostly subsided to loud, bitter, nasty slashes and hisses.

Something had to be done. Her eyes scanned the crowd. She never released O'sho's arm, though she didn't think about it, that gripping the Weyrleader's arm gave her some comfort and some anchor to hold onto. Thoughts began to come to her. Other things came to her. She was a Weyrwoman. She was ready. She was strong. She had other responsibilities. "F'del, W'al, S'rial, Savrent, all weyrlings and candidates are to be in the barrack;" she ordered. The younger of the two referenced purpleriders, W'al, was already searching for familiar heads amongst the crowd. He hadn't seen any of them, but he had to be sure. He pushed all else aside and focused on finding them, as Kerath landed outside with a less than graceful thud. Fajra continued to examine the crowd at a fervent pace. Then her eyes fell on one person, and things clicked.

"Anima! Where is Zucherroth;" she called, waving to the whiterider with one hand. A blind white who could see despite all else. A blind white who had known she was pregnant when he had been born. They had to find Osro, and she didn't even begin to think of actually backing into the sharding renegade's wishes. He thought he was so smart, but she was smarter. She would get her son back, and the brownrider would suffer for what he had thought was such a smart move. He thought they wouldn't be able to find them unless he let them. Perhaps they couldn't, but perhaps they could. She stared fixedly at Anima. She held no hope in search teams and sweepriders. Small kindness they had seen didn't change the killers they were dealing with from being killerss. She wanted quick results. It was time for things to be over and done.

Read me your tombstone,
Tell me you're sorry,
Fax me your will,
You owe me something still.

[purnip]

He didn't think of that. He glanced back at Lebeth, who was at the time staring at the food in the distance with his eyes swirling cool colors of satisfaction. His bonded knew he'd have to cut this conversation at some point to give the Bronze some more meat to consume, but by the look of it, Lebeth appeared to be feasting mentally. But he gazed upon the spots and chuckled to himself. "It's pretty ironic really. I have spots too." He lifted his chin, pointing out the various white patches on his tanned neck. "It's a condition in part of my family. It's not deadly or contagious, thankfully." It would have been terrible otherwise if it had been. That would diminish his social life completely.

But so far so good. Avalle was easier to talk to than he thought it might have been. But of course, it's never been hard for me to talk to people.

What's that? The Bronze didn't quite catch on to the thought. Still, before His could answer, a Blue approaching distracted him. There was so much movement here and it was very tiresome. Lebeth had plenty of energy to spare, yet he was already getting a bit weary after being fed for the first time, however inadequate the feeding was.

L'am was aware of Lebeth's fleeting attention. He didn't bother to think the same thought over again. It had nothing to do with him anyways. The distraction had helped him to notice L'sd's approach before his name reached his ears. Seems he wouldn't be the only one to forget the change in name. L'am would have a bit of trouble with this though; he wasn't sure if L'sd's name was even shortened. Lasd worked, but L'sd? Could a name without vowels work itself out?

Though the boy was interrupting his rare chance to simply meet the Jr. Weyrwoman, that did not prevent the Weyrling from smiling warmly at him and greeting in response. "I wish I knew what to call you, my friend! Was your name shortened to L'sd?" He shook the Bluerider's hand as he was given congratulations for having Impressed the Bronze. "Thank you, and the same right back at you. A fine dragon you have! Certainly a prime example of a young Blue," he added, giving a wink. He said the next bit in a lower voice, unsure as to how L'sd would feel about this being said in front of the Jr. Weyrwoman. "Feels silly that we were worrying about being left Standing just a couple of nights ago, doesn't it? I know I do."

He returned his attention to Avalle. "This is a good friend of mine. I believe if his name was subject to the same fate as all males', his name is now L'sd. Helped me through the pre-Hatching anxiety." He gave L'sd a pat on the back. A strange thing, to admit his weakness to the Goldrider when he was reluctant to let it show to anyone else, but he felt it was necessary for the leadership or 'future' leadership to know all of his qualities. Most good, well enough to out-weigh the bad. No one was perfect, and he'd be foolish to hide every weakness and pretend to be. Besides, he could afford to live a little more dangerously. Lebeth wasn't the brightest glow, but he held status. He also perhaps, held potential. Funny how the two thought they could change the other.

Lebeth stopped staring at the food when Callistath's voice cut though his mind. His cheerfulness wanned a bit until he looked for her aimlessly. His mind found hers before his eyes found the Gold herself and his positive disposition returned, as reflected in the sunny sounding reply he gave to Callistath. My sincerest apologies, Callistath! He bowed his head, swiftly with a tried elegance that did not work for him or the little space he had to work with. He nearly bowled L'am over. L'am did not scold Lebeth for this, but he couldn't help feeling embarrassed about the young Bronze. It would take serious patience to work with this dragon. He only hoped Lebeth was extremely impressionable so he wouldn't be this clueless when it was time for him to Chase. He could see it now. Izkeeyerdath taking to the skies, Lebeth oblivious, Izkeeyerdath returning to tear him up a little for his ignorance. Though Lebeth was only proving to be a little bit of a hassle, L'am found himself already unable to stand thinking of a world without him. If the Bronze was ever hurt or killed, he wasn't sure how to go about it. He probably couldn't...not for long.

I did not mean to be rude. From there, Lebeth was at a loss for words. How could he further a greeting at this point? Callistath already knew his name, and he knew hers. He didn't want to bother her with his hunger, and he was slightly intimidated. He didn't feel like she could appreciate the festive atmosphere like he could. He didn't want to offend her either. He liked his night the way it was and if he offended her then she'd make the rest of this night miserable for him. Too much! He liked the way it was. He was apologetic enough. Maybe she'd leave it at that. Or maybe, she can still enjoy the night like he did! Callistath? Are you having fun here? The atmosphere is exciting. We can enjoy it together, I think. Now, one shouldn't mistake this for flirting. Lebeth wouldn't know it if you told him. He was trying to be friendly. He was trying to share the mood. It was a great gift, he thought, in apologies for his ignorance. He felt great, so why shouldn't she? It would be much better than antagonism. Any day.

Then something unexpected happened.

Chaos unfolded. Organized yet certainly not part of the plan, Fajra re-entered the hall looking just about ready to tear someone's head clean off. Yet there was a fury no one in the hall could have quite grasped on to. Her words rang though the air just as powerfully as Kalith's calls in the distance.

Osro's missing.

Even Lebeth could not ignore this. He'd have to be unconscious not to hear a dragon roaring, a human yelling, and silence in a crowd that was once vibrant and loud. His bright night had gone to a stormy gray. Only anger-screams and bellows. The Bronze's usual cheer was snuffed out like candlelight. An angry Queen, his mother, was furious. His atmosphere was no longer safe. L'am was here, though. He glanced to the boy, forgetting Callistath. She would have her own to worry about. Kalith is furious. What could have unsettled her so?

"Osro. Fajra's son," L'am began, half explaining to Lebeth and half connecting the dots for himself. The little boy who sang on the Sands before Hatching started was the boy in question. "He's missing. It's very serious."

A child gone missing? That was what the fuss was about? The young Bronze was still unsettled. He did not like the sounds of the Queen's roaring, but he could not tune it out.

------------

Rhysia and Raeterith were caught up in this as well. Both lost all traces of enjoyment that they possessed at the news. The Weyrwoman's son was missing. At first, the Greenrider wondered if Fajra was overreacting. Kids go missing all the time and then turn up again, normally right back where you left them.

No. That is not the case. Raeterith's eyes flashed and whirred in red-orange color as she listened to Kalith's roaring in the distance. We have been betrayed. The child is taken.

Rhysia could feel the breath in her seize. Taken? Someone betrayed the weyr and took the little boy that was singing on the Sands? She felt herself go cold. It wasn't helping to see that red in her bonded's eyes, or hear that roaring in the distance. She was frightened. Someone they trusted. It couldn't be the riders she befriended; NO! She refused to believe it! P'nay and F'let were not the traitors! But someone was. Someone somebody else trusted. It pained her inside.

The Green's eyes softened again to a pale blue and she nudged at Rhysia's arm gently. I apologize. My anger does not help much. I am still small and there is little I can do. Time will temper us. We must be strong in the face of this disaster; that is our best option.

Remain strong. Rhysia wasn't sure about that. She could handle it if someone she didn't know attacked her, but this was someone who was loyal to them. She stroked Raeterith affectionately, but she still worried. Rae was right. Being scared and shy was not at all what was required. What would The Bandit do? Remain strong. "I can do that, Rae. I can do that as long as you're around."

The Green leaned her head against Rhysia. I am not going anywhere without you.

---------

All the Weyrlings were being rounded up and escorted to their respective barracks. L'am left, giving a polite farewell with a touch of fever though he did not feel the magnitude of this crime just yet. It was sinking in. As for Rhysia, she wanted to stick close to Paralee as well, including R'miel, though she barely knew him. She wanted to be surrounded by as many people she could remotely trust. Of course, Rae was closest among them. There would be must unrest tonight.

[fidelli]

'It's both your fault, really. No harm done.' For the first time, his lips twitched in a real smile. The girl had spunk, he would give her that. 'It's fine. You don't have to apologize anymore. No, I've been here for a little while. I know some people here, I just don't like them. People are annoying.' It was right about there that he realized, he liked this girl! That was fantastic! He smiled, an amused smile that conveyed his amusement and his agreement. "I'm shocked to find another of my thinking in the Weyr. Yes. People are annoying - it's why I'm a dragon Healer." That was fantastic - he suddenly was having so much more fun talking to the Cyanrider.

Of course I'm alright! I'm tough. Thank you, Noyth! I'm so happy to Impress to Mine. We're going to be so great! But not nearly as great as you and Yours. Noyth was just as amused with the Cyan as Her's was with the Rider. It was rare to find such a sweet girl - she thought briefly that if Zucherroth had been born female, he might have been a Cyan instead. But that was quickly out her mind, as she answered back. Yes, you are. But you may even be as great as we are, Desearth. You are quite a dragon already - and I don't meet many I say that too.

The conversation might have gone farther - except for one fatal move. The door slammed open, and in three corners three different heads rose, looking, like everyone else, to the redheaded Weyrwoman. She was... Furious. Animatamine, she is MAD. She had never heard her White be more serious, and Nim shifted, putting the wine glass down and wishing that she was not in such silly clothing. No! Not the little one! Nim looked up frantically to her White, asking what seemed like the air, "What? What is it?!"

Her question was answered for her. 'Where, in Faranth's name, is my son!' It suddenly made sense, and Nim sagged back against the wall, eyes round. Not the little one - not little Osho. The renegades. They had taken him! A'mor had excused himself - fast - and was crossing over the room already, down to the Infirmary. Something told him that they would need it. F'del, forever calm in situations of panic, had been having fun with Pratyba up until now, and had risen even before she had spoken, looking for Weyrlings. 'F'del, W'al, S'rial, Savrent, all weyrlings and candidates are to be in the barrack.'

He nodded, and pushed Altith, who was worried for the young human baby, but hurriedly voiced, Weyrlings, you will report to the barracks NOW. I am sorry if you are not yet tired, or if you are hungry, it is NOW. F'del had squeezed Pratyba, smiled down at her, and murmured, "I'll talk to you again, sweetheart," and then was off, moving through the crowds with a liquid grace to stop and touch the weyrling's on the shoulder, shifting them out, one after another. Of course, the man froze when suddenly the next words yelled were, 'Anima! Where is Zucherroth.' No. That would NOT be happening. He had had to stop being a brother, a father, and a friend to Nim for nearly a turn and a half, because he was her Weyrlingmaster. Now, he could take his role back up alongside A'mor as the figure in her life to go to.

And Nim was more to him than just that little girl he had been forced to help raise. He had bonded with her - the first time her heart had been broken, she had went to him. The first time she had her woman thing, instead of A'mor, she had gone to him. There were times when he would be the one to talk to, instead of her real brother, and he would not let her go off to chase Renegades!

But she had gone - she had moved, already facing the Weyrwoman with a determined look on her face... And he realized she had grown up. She was a big girl now, and... He turned away, touching another Weyrling, and let her be.

The call had startled Nim, and she looked at the Weyrwoman closer before Zuchie had slipped in her mind again. She called us. The girl began to swear, cursing in the White's mind. Zuchie, I'm dressed in a DRESS. I'm going to KILL A'mor. The white only soothed her, winging down carefully to land outside the building. He could see the fear, the worry, the confusion, and he wanted to sooth it all - but he started with His. BrotherNoyth's has stopped in our weyr and sent down clothing with Noyth. She suddenly felt so much better, and moved to stand infront of the Weyrwoman, looking at her with steady eyes. "He's outside. You think he can find them." It was a statement - she wouldn't want the blind White for anything less. "What can we do?" She was confused - they hadn't tested out Zuchie's mind THIS much, and she wanted to have faith - but the White soothed that again. Hush, MineOwn. We will be fine - they would not hurt a little child, and we are still alright.

She took this to faith, holding out for everything else as the Feast emptied out behind them.

[kyrillion]

Grinning at Paralee and Tomarth, R'miel rocked back on his heels and returned his hands to his pockets. He was enjoying the relaxed, social scene, and Oomieth was only faintly sleepy; there was plenty of time to eat, and to take another look at the group that had Impressed. They'd all be going through Weyrlinghood together, after all, although with a class of their size he suspected they might not emerge as tightly-knit at graduation as the Freedomfighters were bound to, or even as the Wavewalkers recently had.

The other girl seemed a bit unsure of him, at first, but when she introduced herself her tone was much more bold. Perhaps he wasn't the only one whose behavior had already been influenced, if only subtly, by their dragon. He offered her another of his (hopefully) winning smiles, and it only grew at her next comment. A friend of Paralee's was a friend of hers? "Well, I suppose I could say the same - nice to meet ya, Rhysia. And you as well, Raeterith." He nodded to the green - an interestingly colored one, if he did say so - with another smile, this one a bit gentler. He didn't expect much in the way of a response; most dragons didn't tend to socialize with humans beside their own. But acknowledgment rarely went unnoticed.

Oomieth's eyes took on a kind green when he noticed Tomarth's yawn. It has been a long day,[/color] he commented mildly, tail flicking idly, almost as if he were using the motion to accompany his words. Perhaps Ours will grow tired as well, soon.[/color] He was still holding up all right, himself, but he could see that many of his siblings and cousins were fading fast. Just then, however, he was distracted by a familiar voice; his brother had heard him! And what a strange response he had.

Mine is doing very well, brother,[/color] he responded, happiness and cheer evident in his mindvoice. He is very happy that I have found him. He thinks much more highly of me than is warranted, I think, so soon.[/color] He still picked up thoughts from R'miel, now and then, about how silly he'd been, holding out for an iron or a bronze when his purple was infinitely better than any of them. Oomieth was touched and a bit embarrassed at such sentiments; he had no delusions of grandeur, himself. He was what he was and, unlike His, he understood himself and was comfortable in his own skin. He would have to work on getting His own to feel the same.
I do not need any help; I was going to ask you the same thing, brothermine. Is Yours good? You were arguing after we Impressed, I think. But you won, of course, yes?[/color]

R'miel, listening in on the conversation from time to time, merely rolled his eyes. He still didn't understand the dynamic of that relationship, but clearly the two purples had some connection that, sooner or later, he would have to acknowledge. He was about to excuse himself from conversation with Paralee and Rhysia in order to at least introduce himself to Feeroneth's rider, in fact, when the mellow buzz of conversation ceased entirely and the weyrwoman seized the attention of the crowd.

Where, in Faranth's name, is my son? Oh. Oh, dear. R'miel might have passed it off as a simple case of 'children will be children, and boys will be boys', but Osro was just barely old enough to be making mischief and getting himself lost in the lower caverns of the weyr. Not to mention that the look on Fajra's face, visible even from here, screamed that something was terribly wrong. He felt suddenly almost sick to his stomach; the boy would be all right, wouldn't he? What was going on? Oomieth, at his side, was sporting orange-colored eyes, his deep purple tail twined tightly about himself in consternation. And Kalith's cries, if anything, were even worse.

S'rial, who had been scanning the crowd in order to find and congratulate his own brother, felt the same cold fear and shock at the Weyrwoman's revelation. Osro was in danger; he didn't know how or why, but he was more than ready to carry out the Weyrwoman's orders when at last she gave them. "Candidates to the barracks!" He repeated, turning to look for any familiar faces within the crowd. Any he found, Weyrlings and Candidates alike, were given a gentle nudge towards the door. Helping the other teachers to herd the group out towards the bowl, he knew without asking that Duareth was already a step ahead of him; the brown had sailed immediately down to the doors, landing lightly and ready to escort the group to the barracks. One child was already in danger; he was make sure nothing else as devious was attempted, here. He would see the weyrlings and the Candidates to their rooms safely, himself, and stand guard over them thereafter, unless ordered otherwise by Kalith. This way, young ones.[/color] He urged as the first of them began filing out and across the bowl. Quickly, now.[/color]

As the new weyrlings and leftover Candidates filed from the dining hall, they passed by a certain bluerider. Kyrillion, face a cold, furious mask, stood near the back of the hall awaiting any order from Fajra. The Weyrwoman had held a piece of paper in her hand; the observant metalsmith certainly hadn't missed it. Ransom demands? Perhaps. It could have been anything, really, but this whole situation reeked of betrayal and intrigue. Perhaps the renegades were involved, perhaps someone else entirely. Whatever the case was, she was ready in an instant to defend the Weyr or help in the search for Osro; the very thought that someone had taken him from Dalibor froze her veins with indignation and fury. She could feel Rip, strong and with her as always, tense and pensive on their ledge. He watched Kalith's display of distress, eyes whirling with sympathy, but he made no move to leave the ledge, though he sat perched right on its edge. If he was needed by his weyr, he would be called, and would answer immediately and with all due haste. But for now he would wait. Time would tell exactly what was going on with Osro's disappearance, and staying out of the way was the most helpful thing to do until then.[/size]

[Kila]

Though he was one of the privileged few for which the place was set, O’sho was not to be found at the high table when the feast began. Rather, the kindly old Weyrleader was out amongst the guests, seeking out the new Weyrlings to congratulate and speaking warmly to Riders new and old. He preferred to be out among his people, not above them. Any status he had was because of them. It was his job to guide the Weyr, which was built wholly upon the shoulders of all the people he was among, and he strove to inspire the weyrfolk with as much confidence in him as he had in them.

O’sho was tired. He had not spent nearly as much time with the hardening eggs as had Fajra and the clutchmother, but he had cheerfully set himself there many more a time then Fajra would have preferred to keep her company. He couldn’t have stayed, though. With Fajra waiting patiently with Kalith on the Sands, the Weyr had been left without its strongest leader. Sure, O’sho had responsibilities, but Fajra took it upon herself to do the majority of the work in the Weyr. He had brought her food and drink, and work when she requested it, but he had been busy. Even still, he was not so tired as the Weyrwoman. Waiting for a clutch to hatch was not relaxing business. His eyes turned to her as she tapped her glass with expertise. She was becoming an expert at that. The brevity of the speech made him smile to himself: that was as much an indication of their weariness as anything could be. But the triumphant new Weyrlings, the Starseekers, did not need many words, for their spirits were already bolstered. He clapped enthusiastically for them and for their newly-appointed Weyrlingmaster. F’del was a fine man, and a fine teacher. They would do well under him, so long as he could keep himself in check. Altith, however, would be there to help him as he always was, and O’sho had no reservations about the choice.

Fajra was on and off of the platform in a very short amount of time. O’sho cast his eyes about for her when he found her vanished and located her near the exit. She was looking at him as well. Their eyes met and they exchanged brief, wordless conversation. O’sho nodded with understanding and she slipped out like a shade. Faranath that woman need some rest. She was wise to go check on Osro, though. His little stunt earlier had no doubt taxed her. Had he gotten loose only a little while later when the dragonets were roaming the sands…. O’sho didn’t want to think about it. He was a clever little boy, and could be escaped and roaming the crowd right then. O’sho found himself glad that none of the weary, temperamental dragonets were in the hall.

O’sho continued his rounds, floating from group to group and speaking to each person. He gave more congratulations to more Weyrlings, kind, respectful words the Lord Holders and other important guests, elaborate politeness to one particular Lord Holder with a dragon of his own in a weyr, and playful exchanges with the Wavewalkers. The mood and the air were gay and exciting, full of that happy dizziness that comes with impression and a turning point in one’s life. The cheer, however, was not to last. The door through which Fajra had exit heralded her reentrance with a resounding slam. As if that was not enough to get his attention, Fajra’s appearance put him immediately on guard. Something was wrong. Even before she had reached the high table he began to push his way through the crowd, toward her. Some unnamable instinct in him knew that he needed to be near her. Needed to know what was wrong without delay.

Her head was down, her body tense as she made her way to the front. When her heavy, furious steps had brought her to the platform she turned the entire ferocity and fire of her ice blue eyes upon every soul in the room. Her words made O’sho’s feet and heart freeze. “Where, in Faranth’s name, is my son!” For what seemed like an endless span of moments, O’sho’s limbs were petrified and he stood on the steps to the high table where her speech had stopped him. Osro was missing? Osro was missing. But how? And why? A sense of panic rose up in him and fear for his own, dearest little boy began to work its devilish fingers into his heart. But he couldn’t let them see that. Not Fajra, not the others. Only Daidoroth would know. O’sho forced himself to climb the remaining steps, every nerve of his body sparking, and stood next to Fajra. He picked up the crumpled piece of paper that she had thrown viciously onto the table and read with deadly steady hands. The panic and fear inside him faded as his eyes scanned the words, and the panic and fear were slowly replaced with anger. D’ror of Brown Abeneth. He dropped his hands to his sides, and beneath the table his fist curled around the paper, crushing it into a feeble ball in his grip. Renegade cowards, his mind blazed. Osro. Taking children trampled the rules of war. Taking children began wars. Outside on the cliffs, Daidoroth threw back his head and unleashed a furious, godly roar that rocked the sky. But that was all. It was enough. Between him and Kalith the Renegades had surely heard Dalibor’s fury. This would not be stood for.

O’sho’s mind had been with Daidoroth, but the feel of Fajra’s hand holding tightly to his arm brought him back. He stood unwaveringly by her side, silent and not looking at all warm and kind for once. Together they were always a strong force, one to be reckoned with, but now they stood united by something common and very precious. Something of themselves. The Weyr was only metaphorically their flesh and blood- Osro was not. While he was her anchor, his head was firmly on the ground. They could fend off the panic in themselves. Her orders to disperse made some of the newer weyrfolk scatter, and the others slink quickly away. They could not let them panic either. But Fajra already had a plan. She always did. As everyone else streamed out of the hall, she called Anima and Zucherroth to them. Her reasons became clear at once- O’sho was not a stupid man. Anima was a good girl, she came right away. Still O’sho did not speak, though. He nodded to her, but let Fajra be the one to confront the WhiteRider. Organization and having a plan would help to calm Fajra down, and he would not rob her of that little security.

[mangonumnum]

In the crowd, L’sd hadn’t seen the Junior Weyrwoman with L’am. He felt bad, giving them a chagrin look. Before he got out a response to L’am, though, or an introduction to Avalle, the Weyyrwoman burst in. Her frenzied look seemed to quiet the room instantly and a silence grew in the room. Her son, the little toddler who had just spoke his first words hours before, was gone.

Mine? Everyone is upset! What is wrong? Tabeyiith spoke up, gently butting against L’sd’s leg. He was picking up on everyone’s confusion and didn’t quite like it… it made him more confused. L’sd put his hand down and comforted Tabeyiith. As long as he was there, the blue would be ok. The two shared the bond that L’sd always had wanted-always craved. And now that he had it, L’sd wasn’t about to let it go.

“It was good to meet you,” L’sd said, nodding his head to the Gold rider. He looked to Tabeyiith and started leaving with the rest of the Weyrlings. He wondered what the Weyrwoman would do. He was sure she was scared. She’d be heartless if she wasn’t. But she was Weyrwoman for a certain reason. She would figure something out. L’sd only wished he could do something to help. He was sure that just by listening to the Weyrling Leader and anyone else of authority he would be doing his part. Anything they asked him, he would do.

[hatori3070]

Her conversation with Amara was once again interrupted when someone banged open doors on their way in to the hall. At first, Jasra was annoyed, but the instant quiet in the hall made her pay more attention. The Weyrwoman, Fajra, had been the one to burst into the hall, and she looked sharding angry. Izkeeyerdath's attention was instantly caught. Why was she so mad? The woman had appeared calm and collected in the glimpses she'd caught of her. What could upset her so? Her questions wouldn't remain unanswered for long, as Fajra made her way to the head table and shouted at the assembly about her son. At first, neither of them made a move.

Shock was prevalent through out the crowd, but Izkeeyerdath was awakened by the angry cries of her mother echoing over the weyr. A child! He knew from her Mine's mind what he had done on the sands not long before her own hatching. He was innocent! He couldn't have done anything to warrant his being taken like this! In the dark of the night, when everyone was occupied. She knew this ridiculous feast had been a bad idea! It had been pointless from the beginning! An angry roar began to build in her throat, but she had received orders. Jasra registered in the back of her mind, calling her back, informing her that they had been ordered to the Weyrling Barrack. Her eyes whirled an angry red tinged with orange, showing her frustration at her own uselessness.

Jasra laid her hand on Iz's head, trying to draw some form of comfort from her. Iz, we have to go. Come on. There's nothing we can do, and you won't help the situation by hanging around as upset as you are. Izkeeyerdath gave way before her Mine's logic, but she remained angry. Her claws dug into the ground on their way to the barrack, leaving long furrows in her wake. Jasra was still trying to process everything. Who could have done this? How could someone get into the weyr? Unless...an awful thought struck her. The only way this could've happened would be if someone inside the weyr had helped. Iz caught onto that thought and finally did let out an angry roar. Luckily, they had reached the barrack and Jasra quickly ushered her into their room where it would be less likely for someone to anger her further.