Hatching Feast (Happy Holidays Clutch)

[Zen]

The hatching had concluded, one candidate running onto the sands late, that final Blue racing toward him the instant he entered the Hatching Cave, and the hatching had not ended in tragedy after all, but happily as it should have. Even the excitement of the hatching had worn off for the spectators after a while, what with the early morning waking, and most had returned to their quarters for a few more hours of sleep before the celebration would begin at the midday meal. That time had come and the Dining Cavern was filled with riders and holders and crafters alike who had come to celebrate Western’s most recent clutch. The very early start to the hatching gave the kitchen workers plenty of time to prepare a grand meal for the Hatching Feast; wines and ales and dish after dish of some of the best the Weyr had to offer would be available until late that night and of course all drilling had been put off for the day. Most were finishing up their meals and a small group of Harpers was setting up to provide music for dancing and entertainment.

Talaria sat at the long table at the head of the cavern, M’kal to one side of her and various ranking guests around her. The Dining Cavern was most certainly too small for dragons, as large as it was to provide space for celebrations, but she sent an affectionate thought to Orlaith as if to reassure her she hadn’t been forgotten in the excitement, feeling a wave of a love in return. The Gold was likely sunning herself on her ledge, enjoying what warmth the sun chose to give on the chilly early winter day.

Two smaller tables had been brought forward as well for the new Weyrlings to sit before everyone. Their dragonets were welcome to accompany them and indeed it was encouraged, for if a newly hatched dragonet fell asleep and woke without their bonded with them they might panic and Between. However they were advised not to stay too long; their dragonets would need rest and such a thing would be hard to come by at a noisy celebration. Not to mention some of the hatchlings were still not much more coordinated than they had been out of the shell, or very well behaved, and prolonged stay at the feast might end in mishaps.

One of Lord Vander’s sons sat at the head table in his stead, the old man to feeble to leave his Hold. Why such an elderly man had been put in charge of Western’s Hold in the first place Talaria couldn’t fathom, then she wondered if it was perhaps some silly attempt to counter her own youth in leading the Weyr. Lord Vander sent a number of his children out in his stead these days as if to further keep up the confusion about which he would name as his heir. The few times she had met the man she had actually been pleasantly surprised to find he was rather amusing with his dry sense of humor and sure authority, despite his illness and age. She would much rather Vander be here himself than this particular one of his progeny, he was proving rather dull. Although she enjoyed being complimented, this fool was overdoing it, as if she had the power to name him heir of Western Hold or some foolish notion. He’d run through compliment after compliment and seemed to be starting over again and she was growing quite exasperated with him.

“M’kal… I think I shall go and take Orlaith between for a while so that I might get some peace from this dimglow…,” she growled softly in the Weyrsecond’s direction.

M’kal could only chuckle at her, “Come now, Talaria, he’s only complimenting you… right down to Orlaith’s tailfork.” He laughed outright as she grimaced, “Besides, what would we do without our Weyrwoman here to fawn over?”

“A great lot of help you are, Blackrider,” she sniffed indignantly.

He chuckled once more as the Harpers started up their music and stood, leaning past her to speak briefly with Lord Vander’s son, “Do excuse me for stealing the Weyrwoman from you, but I’m dying for a dance with her now the music’s started.” The man stuttered that it was quite alright even as M’kal had gently pulled Talaria from her seat and led her away.

“Oh, thank Faranth that’s over!” She groaned and glanced up at M’kal, “You know I don’t normally dance-“

“Yes, but I figured you’d do just about anything to get away from your friend back there,” he grinned and turned to face her, a few other couples gathering around them, “And now you’re stuck with me instead.”

“You, I can handle,” she assured him.

“Oh, you think so?” he spun her around unexpectedly, causing her to gasp, and him to laugh. M’kal rather enjoyed dancing and he was quite determined to ensure Talaria had at least a half way decent time at this celebration. It was suppose to be fun, after all.

Nyxani and A’zael stood off to one side of the dancing, chatting about the new weyrlings. A’zael was informing her on what he knew about the new riders from their days as candidates and trying in vain to flirt with the woman who was wholly uninterested in what he had to offer. He knew very well she only went for women but he couldn’t help keep himself from trying anyway, and she took it in good humor at least.

“Just once, Nyxi?” He pleaded, “You might like it, you know….”

She snorted derisively, “Absolutely not. If you think I’ve never been with a man, Candidate Master, you’re quite mistaken, and it was a wholly unpleasant experience.”

“Only one? Well he just must not have been very good at it then-“

She laughed, “Enough, A’zael. You’re getting distracted from the original topic again….”

*Once again, feel free to play NPC family members and what not. The hatchlings probably would have had a nice long sleep so they’ll be quite awake for a while.

[lyonza]

Garrett watched quite amused as the Lord Holder’s son tried with all his limited skills to complement Talaria, like she had any way of influencing his way to the Lord Holdership. He kept his mouth shut and tried not to laugh aloud. Sitting next to M’kal in his position as junior weyrwoman – that designation amused him to no end – he had a good view of the assembled guests and the guests of honor, the weyrlings and their dragons. They were quite an impressive bunch and he delighted in their presence. There would be a lot of time getting to know them all.

He nudged M’kal with an elbow. “You know Iroth will rise again soon if I remember her cycle correctly,” he said with a guileless smile. He really shouldn’t, but he did like reminding M’kal that their dragons really liked each other. Garrett wasn’t going to say aloud, but he really liked it too.

He nearly doubled over with laughter when M’kal beat a hasty retreat under the guise of rescuing Talaria from the insufferable bore next to her. He waited for them to leave and the smiled winningly at the Lord Holder’s son. “Oh, if only someone would ask me to dance,” he said wistfully, really not expecting the poor man to do it. “I think I will go and bother one of the riders to take me for a whirl around the dancefloor.” The Holder had another guest on the other side of him to talk to and he didn’t really feel all the guilty when he took off and headed over to where Nyx and A’zael were talking.

“Oh, just the pair I was looking for,” he said brightly. “Nyx, darling Nyx. I want to dance and that beast M’kal just didn’t get the hint. Say you want to dance, please? I’ll even let you lead.” After batting his eyes furiously at her, Garrett turned his attention to the Candidate Master. “You’ll get your turn too Azzy, if you want.”

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

K’nar was still a bit overwhelmed by it all. He wasn’t used to being the centre of attention and now, with all the others that had Impressed, they were the toast of the feast. But we are important, Rudoth said, clearly very happy at being admired and made a fuss over. Weyrfolk were not shy in talking to dragons and the little blue basked in the attention.

“Yes we are,” he said and dropped his hand to rub Rudoth’s eye ridges. He looked at the others sitting at the table, trying to remember their names. It was really difficult for him to get used to being somewhere other than Telgar. To one side was the girl who Impressed the grey – Bretella he thought her name was – and on the other side of him was Pala. He reached for his cup of wine and sipped. “So, Brete. Did you expect to Impress Tinseth?” he asked, not sure how else to start a conversation.

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

Z’mer was enjoying the feast, chatting to some of the riders he had come to know, scanning the crowd. He managed to beg off a few dances, claiming his injury and waving the cane as proof. He didn’t really need it but it was a good way to keep off his feet. He waited for the weyrlings to settle and eat before he made his way over to the tables.

“Pala. Brete. Imagine my surprise when I saw you down on the Sands. Congratulations, your dragons are beautiful.” He bestowed each with an enthusiastic hug and a sound kiss in the cheek before he turned his attention to the other young rider sitting with them. “I don’t believe I’ve had the pleasure of meeting you…” he trailed off, not quite sure what the young man’s name was.

“K’nar,” the bluerider said.

“K’nar. I’m Z’mer, Amoneth’s rider.”

Amoneth is a bronze, Rudoth supplied. “Nice to meet you too, Z’mer.” K’nar was polite after all.

“You arrived today, didn’t you?” Z’mer said as he made himself at home at the table and leaned his cane against the table.

K’nar nodded. “Telgar.” He was a little confused when Z’mer suddenly had a comprehending look on his face.

“Of course! That’s why I recognized you. I’ve seen you Stand there. I transferred from Telgar myself just a few sevendays ago.”

K’nar nodded warily. Where is this going? he wondered.

“I just had to find out,” Z’mer said. “I thought I recognized your face from the stands but I wasn’t sure until now. Welcome to Western and congratulations on your Impression.” He smiled and turned his attention to Rudoth. “And welcome to Western to you too, young Rudoth. I just know you will be an excellent pair.”

“Thank you,” K’nar said and got to his feet. “Uhm, I need to get some air, it’s a bit stuffy in here.” I’m coming with you, Rudoth said and got to his feet and followed his rider out of the cavern.

Z’mer frowned. “Was it something I said?” he asked the two girls.

You are an idiot.

[kyra]

Zyika felt uncomfortable. It was weird having a whole feast dedicated to them. What is wrong? Are you feeling okay? I think I'm going to talk to some of the dragons. Why hello how are you? Imanith started rambling on to some dragon next to her. Zyika looked around looking for her brother, but saw him heading over to talk to someone. Imanith couldn't seem to stay still, she was all over the place.

A'der walked calmly to Pala to talk to her, until Menorath stumbled down. A'der looked back at the big bronze and rushed over to him. "Are you okay?" I believe I am. The dragon responded as he stood back up. Testing each leg to assure his rider he was okay. With a sigh A'der shook his head, what was he going to do with his big guy. "Be a bit more careful okay. I don't want you getting hurt." He said rubbing his dragon's head. Menorath flicked his tail. I will, Mine. You be careful as well.

A'der nodded then continued on towards Pala. "I told you so." He teased lightly. while running a hand through his hair. "Congrats, whats yours named?" He asked while the bronze went right next to A'der very slowly. The dragon was watching his steps as if trying not to fall.

Zyika looked around the room again, unsure of who to talk to, but instead she went and followed her dragon. 'I get stuck with a talkative and hyper dragon' She thought Imanith who must have heard her riders thought sent a wave of sadness to her rider. 'My dear Imanith I love you no matter what.' She sent to her dragon. I know you do! Mine are you going to eat soon? When will this be done? Could we perhaps play a game? Or maybe....or maybe well I don't know. The dragon came bounding back to her. Maybe we could play tag? Oh yes that sounds like fun! My Zyika can we please play tag!? Zyika laughed out loud. She wasn't sure what to respond. "We can play later, right now this is formal. So no games right now."

[missing]

Pala looked up at K'mer with a smile, "Thank you..." She looked over her shoulder at Kumath who was sleeping away from all the bustle of the party. She had offered to take him to the weyrling barracks where there was an area for him to sleep, but he had declined saying that he wanted to be near her. Personally she thought that he just didn't want to walk all the way back there again.

She looked down herself, much more presentable now that she had changed, bathed, and re-bandaged her hand. She stood and pushed her braid back behind her shoulder to go find Midnael and congratulate him, and found herself facing A'der, "Yes I believe you did, but I got the color right on yours so I still win," she smirked playfully, "It's Kumath... I don't see how he can sleep so much, he almost slept through his own hatching!"

I heard that. Kumath's tail flicked ever so slightly, but other than that he seemed the picture of deep sleep.

She looked over A'der's shoulder at the Burgundy, "I am simply stating the truth."

A girl with dark brown hair and eyes, dressed in a simple gray dress pushed her way out of the crowds to run up to the two new dragonriders. Pala turned just in time to be tackled by the young girl who wrapped her arms around her in a hug, "Do you know how hard it was to catch up to you? By the time I got down from the stands and through all those morons who can't move out of the way you were gone!"

"Laura..?" Pala smiled and returned the embrace, "I didn't even know you were here... Wait did you come here alone?" She peeled the girl off her to eye her suspiciously, "You didn't..."

"Mom said we couldn't afford it but I had been saving up to visit you at Fort anyway so I just used that money to pay for a ticket here, and board for Ebon."

"You took dad's runner?" Pala's eyes widened and she placed a hand to her temple, "Oh they are not going to be happy about this..."

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

While Pala was busy trying to not throttle her little sister, Midnael sat over against the wall with Norpoth in his lap, trying not to be noticed.

They act like they've never seen a White before...

"Well... most of them haven't I think," Midnael reached down to scratch at an eye ridge, "Oh what now?"

A girl with brown hair that fell in thick curls just past her shoulders walked over towards him, no, she was simply walking towards the wall... She glanced over at him for a moment, her deep red dress swirling around her knees as she turned back to the wall and kicked off her low boots. Something in her hair glowed blue, like two eyes gazing at him. Midnael blinked in surprise.

"What the- Sorry miss I just... what is that in your hair?"

She turned back to him, hands on her hips, "And here I thought you wanted to be alone." A small, white, furry creature scrambled out from it's sanctuary in her hair to the top of her head. It turned whirling eyes on Midnael, looking him over with curiosity. The girl reached up a hand to scoop up the critter and held it out to Midnael who had stood up, still holding Norpoth, "This is Lumina... she's a moon glider."

The creature was covered in white fur, her ears and tail tipped with a cream color, and white opalescent hide stretched between her limbs and also showed in a patch on her forehead. Her eyes seemed to settle on glowing green before her pupils opened wide and the glow disappeared showing only black.

"I've never seen one before... she is beautiful though..." Midnael's eyes were wide with amazement, his usual stoic nature forgotten.

Norpoth looked at the creature to see what all the fuss is about See? She has white hide too! It's not so special. I think she's scared of all these people though... She's even smaller than me.

Midnael smiled at his dragon before setting him down. Norpoth went back to the wall and lay back down, tired from all the digging earlier. Fin settled on top of her, watching everything around them. Midnael looked at the girl, "I haven't seen you around here, what was your name?"

She smiled, "You wouldn't have, I'm from Crescent Cove Weyr, my sister Rina is temporarily Weyrwoman there. My name is Nadhari, and you would be Midnael correct? Sorry, I overheard some of the people in the stands mentioning you. What with you impressing the White and all." She nodded towards Norpoth then looked Midnael over, "Do you dance?"

"Um... a bit I guess, at gathers and... wait-"

Nadhari was grinning now, "Good, I wanted to dance but I don't know anyone here so now you will dance with me!"

Lumina glided off of her hand to the floor, and went to curl up next to Norpoth who's delight echoed in Midnael's brain as Nadhari grabbed for his hand and hauled him off to the dancing area.

[wyren]

I demand to be seen by all,

[/i] Preseth stated as they walked toward the Kitchens and Dinning Cavern. "I promise you it isn't going anywhere. We can walk at a normal pace," Filonna giggled, actually walking at a very brisk pace to catch up with her dragonet. It was wonderful to see Preseth up and walking, somewhat stably, but she was worried about her young dragonet. It was just this morning she hatched . . . Shouldn't they be having this Hatching Feast at least tomorrow eve to give the dragonets time to adjust?

I don't want to adjust, I want to be seen, Preseth hissed, almost like a child, which caused Filonna to shake her head. As they almost reached the cavern, a shadow passed in the dying light, causing both females to look up. A Black landed not far from the pair and it turned out to be Wy'ren and his Black Shcwarzth.

"Ladies," Wy'ren bowed as he slid off the dragon. It was getting easier and easier for Schwarzth to be able to carry him further and further. Now the glide from his private weyr to the caverns was nothing for the growing Black. "She is a beautiful Green, Filonna," he stated, patting Schwarzth as the dragon flared out his wings to take off. He was at that point where the dinning caverns was to small for him.

"Thank you, Wy'ren. Schwarzth is looking very handsome," she stated, no longer blushing at the young man. She had something much more important in her life at the moment, as she glanced down at the questioning look on her Green's face. He is a friend, Wy'ren of Black Schwarzth. His dragon hatched in the clutch before yours, she explained, watching as her dragonet turned questioning orbs on the Black Weyrling. "We're heading inside, are you coming to the Hatching Feast?"

Instead of answering, Wy'ren waved his hand in front of him and beckoned the ladies to enter first. At which point he bowed his head to the proud little Green, watching as she basically strutted into the cavern. He couldn't help but shake his head and grin as he heard Schwarzth purring. Down boy, he chuckled, following Filonna and Preseth into the cavern and joining the Hatching Feast.[/size][/blockquote][/blockquote]

[Alyx]

How has this happened again? One moment Lefden had been in the crowd, watching as the little green had impressed him little sister. Then, in a flash, he was here - with Myrth's voice laughing in his head like it was all some great game. This was not what he had expected from the day!

'But you are still happy to have me, right L'den?' Hands smoothed the shirt into place as he looked over his shoulder at the bright blue hatchling sprawled out behind him. As much as he wanted to be angry, he couldn't help the smile that took its place on his lips. "Yes, Myrth, I'm happy to have you. Just a little warning would have been nice. I didn't even bring anything from home, afterall."

[/color] The dragon's voice echoed in his temples as Myrth pushed to his feet, fluttering the massive wings down against his sides. 'Are we going to the Feast? Can I go to? I can right? Right?'

Lefden - no, he had to get used to the other name - L'den turned and caught the head of the dragonling as he advanced on his rider. Planting a kiss on the end of Myrth's nose, the boy laughed. "Of course you are. Its Hatchling Feast, after all. It about YOU and your Clutch-mates. Come on, lets go find my Sister - she isn't gonna believe this." Myrth's laughter filled L'den's head, the blue hatchling bouncing a little behind L'den as he started toward the Dining Hall.

Even with Myrth trotting along beside him, L'den felt insecure. He hadn't had a clue of what to do when the little hatchling had called him out of the stands; it had only been because of the nice lady with the Burgundy that he had even known where to go and what to do. Most of the newly Impressed Weyrlings had fed there Hatchlings and moved off, leaving him mostly alone with the last chosen to muddle threw. Even now, he wasn't totally sure of how it had all happened.

Still, seeing the familiar features of his sister among the Weyrlings in the Feast made it a bit better. The smile was instantly there as he saw her, his steps quickening. "Cleise!" Black hair bouncing around her shoulder as Cleissa pivoted, eyes widening. "Lefden?" Beaming, the younger sister all but charged her brother. Lefden caught her without trouble, the laughter of the siblings echoing around them. "I didn't see you in the Stands, I didn't think you made it in time! I'm so happy you did, I want you to meet-"

Cleissa's voice died as Myrth's head appeared around her brother's hip, looking up at Cleissa with focused interest. 'Is this her, L'den?' "Um.. yea, it is Myrth. Clessia, meet Myrth - my dragon. And I think its L'den now?" He wasn't sure how his little sister would take the news, his voice a question. "He... he pulled right out of the Stands." Cleissa crouched down, looking at the little blue for a moment, then popped back up to fling her arms around her brother's shoulders, shocking him.

"You Impressed! That's great, that means you get to stay! He's beautiful!" Angeth took that moment to appear and meet her Bonded's brother and hatchling. The pretty green peered at the blue for a moment, the hatchlings ending up nose to nose. 'Who are you?' 'I am Myrth. You?' 'Angeth - Cleise is mine.' 'L'den is mine.' 'Oh. Okay - that explains the hugging.' The siblings laughed as the dragons continuing to stand nose to nose and chattering away, tails waggling almost like little canines.

V'ktor watched the reunion from his seat, Shamath's head having claimed its place in his lap. Fingers flexed, rubbing the ridges over the dragon's swirling, half closed eyes as he smiled, thinking it had to be nice to have a sibling in the same Weyrling Group. 'You have me, is that not enough?' Shamath was there in a moment, bringing a slight smile to V'ktor's lips. 'Of course you are, dear one. More then enough.' 'Good... I'm glad you see it like that.' V'ktor managed not to laugh at the hatchling as he looked over the others arriving.[/blockquote][/blockquote][/size]

[kyra]

Akri had just barely arrived. Her eyes looked around and smiled seeing all the new hatchlings. Sure she had missed the official hatching but there was no way she was going to miss the feast. Her eyes flickered around smiling as she saw each and every new Weyrling. 'You're right, many were hatched.' She told what was hers. Isakith only sent a wave of affection back to her rider. Akri noticed Nyxani and A’zael off in the other corner no doubt talking about the new Weyrlings. She walked over to them and smiled slightly, "So which hatching was the most eventful?" She asked the two as she approached them.

Tess walked into the feast looking at all the new Weyrlings that had just joined her ranks. Sure she wasn't going to be a Weyrling much longer, but it was always still fun to see who was all here. She didn't know any of the new Weyrling which wasn't much of a shocker. Tess mostly kept to herself since her poor dragon couldn't handle being around too many people. Picking an area to sit, Tess watched the festivities with an amused look on her face.

A'der smiled at Pala happy she had impressed he found her relationship with her dragon very interesting and amusing, but when a younger girl tackled Pala he tilted his head coming out of his thoughts. "Why will your parents not be happy?" He asked curiously seeing as Pala seemed upset about something which A'der didn't like. Do you like this girl, mine? The bronze at his side asked. 'Hush, dear one.' He told his dragon. Alyzin was on top of the bronze's head looking very happy with himself.

Zyika was having a hard time keeping track of everything along with her green dragon. Imanith seemed to be all over the place as once. Who are all these people? And this is for us? Do you think they would mind if I ate? I'm kind of hungry again. Where is your brother. I would love to meet him. Zyika sighed, she ended up sitting at a unoccupied table while Imanith continued to explore the room. As soon as the little green noticed hers had sat down she went running to join her. Are you tired, mine? Why aren't you talking to anyone? Are they nice people? Who is that over there? The green seemed to ask question after question and poor Zyika couldn't keep up with them all.

[missing]

Pala sighed, "This one took father's runnerbeast... We only have a few since they're expensive, and father's is the best of the bunch. Laura why did you take his?"

The girl shrugged, obviously not nearly as worried about her actions as she probably should be, "He was faster, and the others aren't as used to me. Don't worry he's fine, I didn't leave him with some shady person, I went to actual stables."

"Well that's something I suppose, I'll write them a letter after the party to let them know that you're here," She hugged her younger sister with a smile, "I am glad to see you though. Oh! Sorry, I should introduce you!" She turned the young girl to face A'der, "A'der this is my sister Laura, as I'm sure you've figured out by now. Laura this is A'der, he's been very nice to me since I got here and has managed to Impress the Bronze of the clutch just like I said he could."

Laura extended her hand to A'der, her eyes inspecting him carefully, as if measuring him for... something, "Its a pleasure to meet you, congratulations on Impressing."

---

Midnael, over on the dance floor, was quickly discovering just how much better his dancing partner was. She wasn't outdoing him, but turns of watching people had taught him when someone was holding back and she most definitely was. Still, he was having fun...

[Zen]

Talaria pulled herself away from M’kal’s grasp as the song ended. One dance was quite enough for her. She got the feeling M’kal was disappointed but he knew very well she didn’t like dancing and the only reason she’d allowed him the one at all was to get away from being bored and complimented to death. “Thank you for the rescue, M’kal, but that’s it for me. I’m sure there are plenty of other women willing to dance with a handsome Blackrider, and the Weyrsecond at that.”

M’kal shook his head, “I don’t want to dance with women who only want to be around me for my rank. You, my dear Talaria, are brutally honest, and I know my rank is not why you enjoy… or perhaps simply tolerate my presence.” He grinned at her and she laughed.

“I tolerate bores like that,” she waved her hand in the general direction of the head table, “Whatever his name was, Lord Vander’s son. Your presence is generally… at least half way enjoyable.”

“Then give me another dance?” He pressed, not quite disguising the hopeful pleading note.

If Talaria noticed, she didn’t give any sign, shaking her head instead, “No, M’kal… I don’t dance unless I have to.” And with that she made her way from the cleared space that was acting as their dance floor, leaving M’kal behind and trying to get herself lost among the crowd so she couldn’t be found by undesirable company.

M’kal sighed; it was worth a shot anyway. The worst that could happen was for her to say now, and the worst happened. At least it had gotten him away from Garrett’s reminder that Iroth would rise soon. He ran his fingers through his hair at the thought. Sabath caught her too regularly for him not to know the Grey should be rising soon. It was already more awkward than he’d like to be around Garrett without his teasing. He’d learned after some four or five turns now of their ‘relationship’ that it was all in good fun, but it didn’t make it any less awkward for him. He tried to just be friendly around the Greyrider but there was always that underlying thought and it made it difficult to be around Garrett for extended periods of time. He looked around, debating if he should follow Talaria or just try and find someone else he knew to chat with for a while.

A’zael broke off in the middle of a little new Weyrling gossip as Garrett made his presence known. The Candidate Master grinned, “Greetings, Junior Weyrwoman.” He found it incredibly amusing he had actually taken up the traditional title of a Greyrider rather than thinking up something else. The looks on many Holdbred’s faces upon finding out his title was simply priceless. Nyxani tended to agree. “Of course M’kal wouldn’t get the hint… he’s all eyes for the Weyrwoman, after all.” There were plenty of rumors about the Blackrider felt for Talaria, though M’kal really wasn’t all that obvious most of the time so some simply put it off as gossip and left it there.

Akri showed up then as well and Nyx nodded to her before a small laugh escaped her lips at both men, “Of course I’ll dance with you. A’zael and I can trade off and maybe between I can find some pretty thing to dance with.” She jutted her lip out in a pout briefly, then laughed again, taking Garrett’s hand, “Let’s go then, shall we? You can have next dance, A’zael!” she called back as she tugged Garrett away.

“With you or him!?” A’zael returned without an answer, watching the two with a dance with a grin. He turned to Akri then, “I actually missed most of the hatching, trying to make sure all the Candidates made it in time, so I don’t know for sure, but I think the bright Blue Impressing to a boy in the Stands was the most exciting one that I saw. Not something you see every hatching. Perhaps when Nyx is done with her dancing she’ll give you her opinion since she got to see it all. In the mean time, though… care to dance?” He smiled at her and offered his hand, “If you don’t agree I fear I’ll be crushed….”

L’en had spent the better part of the beginning of the feast trying to coax Elvith from cowering beneath the table. So many people so close, so much noise and activity, seemed a bit much for the little Green. “Elvy, really, come on out of there now. People want to see you, they want to admire how pretty you are. No one is going to hurt you. I wouldn’t let them anyway.” L’en was more likely to let people walk all over him than to stand up for himself, but when it came to his timid little Green he was feeling rather protective and, though it was a strange thought, could see himself taking a swing at anyone who tried to do anything to her or insulted her in some way. His feelings of protectiveness washed over her and she finally crawled out from beneath the table, sitting very close to him. He sighed and rested one hand on her head, “Its all okay, I promise.”

[kyra]

A’der shook his head. It almost sounded like something daring he would do, too bad he no longer had his father. “If you would like, you may borrow Alyzin to send the message.” The Burgundy fire lizard perked up from on top of Menoraths head. The Bronze let out a sigh. A’der shook Laura’s hand, “It’s a pleasure to meet you as well. That is Alyzin and Menorath.” He said pointing to his bronze and fire lizard.

A’der looked around for his sister then pointed her out. “And that’s my sister, Zyika, following her Green around.” He looked at Pala and smiled. She had yet to meet his sister and he knew the two would get along just fine.

~~~~~~

Akri smiled lightly at Nyx as they walked off to dance. Her attention turned to A’zeal quickly as he talked about the part of the Hatching he had seen. “Well you saw more then me.” She laughed. Her eyes showed amusement at his last comment, “Well now we can’t have that happen can we.” She said as she took his hand. She loved dancing, but rarely did just because of her lovely history of tripping on her own two feet. Now be careful mine, can’t have you break a leg. Isakith kindly reminded Akri.

“Just catch me if I fall.” She added jokingly. If you get nice and cozy with him, I would love to meet his blue. She heard the purr in Isakiths voice which made her smile slightly. Her dragon and blues, she couldn’t understand it but it was fine with her.

~~~~~~

Imanith saw another little green that was just a little bit bigger then her, but not by much. She bounded over without thinking twice. Why hello, I’m Imanith. How is you and yours? Are you okay? The Green began to talk the ear off of the poor scared Green. Zyika shook her head and sighed, walking over slowly. “S-s-s-sorry.” She finally got out. She was embarrassed that her dragon seemed to be all over. She looked at L’en and then looked down.

[missing]

Pala nodded at A'der's offer, "That would be a big help thank you." Laura tended to do things without thinking at all about their repercussions, especially where their father was concerned. While Pala was her mother's daughter, Laura was certainly their father's and there was little that the younger sister could do to actually disappoint him. Of course that usually meant that much of the blame for Laura's actions fell on Pala, another reason why their mother had suggested that she go stay with their aunt.

"Oh! His hide is beautiful, look at the markings," Laura leaned over to inspect the Bronze more carefully then looked up at Alyzin, "They seem to get along well already." When A'der pointed out his sister Laura turned to look, "Oh, she's very pretty... What's her dragon's name?"

Pala patted her sister on the shoulder, the girl for some reason just did not get along with other girls besides her own family, "I didn't get to see her Impress, I think that was about the time time I was stumbling down the hall."

---

The dance came to a close and Midnael was starting to realize exactly why he usually was more comfortable with guys than girls. Nadhari seemed to be a very good dancer, but she was a bit overpowering, as were most girls he knew. Still, he'd had fun.

Nadhari smiled at him, "Thank you from the dance, but I must find your Weyrwoman. I brought something- Well you know, you'll find out eventually." She waved, running off after the woman she had seen next to the Queen during the Hatching.

The small furry thing ran off. Norpoth's voice echoed sadly in his head.

I'll be right there, her bonded went off to find Talaria so that's probably why.

[lyonza]

After his gaffe with K’nar, Z’mer drifted off to look for people a bit closer to him in age. He watched the Weyrwoman and Weyrsecond dancing and had to admit, they made a great impression.

He took a seat at one of the tables and nodded to Talaria as she walked off after her and M’kal’s dance ended. “Hey, M’kal,” he greeted the blackrider who stood there, looking like he was debating following Talaria or not. “Take a load off and grab something to drink and come chat with me… I can’t dance with my injury and I get bored watching others enjoy themselves.”

Subtle.

Hush, you.

Don’t come crying to me if he punches you on the nose.

-

Garrett laughed at A’zael’s rejoinder. “You can have one too, Azzy!” he called over his shoulder as he and Nyx whirled off into the crowd on the dancefloor. “Are you looking forward to the new batch of weyrlings?” he asked as they moved to the music. “Teach them to be awesome riders and all that?” He liked Nyx’s company as much as Syrani’s, for different reasons.

“Which reminds me, Crescent Cove has a new weyrlingmaster, but from what I hear his dragon only hatched two years ago. I think the poor boy will need as much help as he can get. Do you think we should extend some sort of offering of help, teaching materials and such? With the approval of our Wyerleaders of course.”

-

K’nar sat outside for a while with Rudoth, just leaning against his friend. “What did that bronzer want with me? We both happen to be from Telgar but that doesn’t mean a thing, does it? He might know my mother, or not.”

I don’t know, Rudoth said. He really didn’t know and had no thoughts to offer regarding the puzzle. Can we go back inside? I like it there.

K’nar smiled at his friend. “Of course we can, I want to get to know the others of our group. I don’t know anybody here but you. And you’re the most important one of them all.” He hugged Rudoth’s neck, who chirped in happiness, and rubbed his eyeridges before they walked inside again to rejoin the festivities.

[missing]

Nadhari scanned the crowds for the Weyrwoman. Where in the name of the first egg did she disappear to? She could have sworn she had seen the woman dancing not a few moments ago...

Lumina dodged numerous feet with suprising agility and lept for the hem of Nadhari's dress before climbing up to her former position on the woman's shoulder. Nadhari smiled, reaching up to lightly scratch Lumina's ear with one finger absentmindedly.

Then she saw her, or at least what looked like her black hair through the throng of dancers. Nadhari made her way around the outskirts of the dance floor a bit before confirming that it was, in fact, the same woman she had seen next to the Gold during the Hatching. If her past Hatchings had told her anything it was that the person standing in that place of honor was the Queen's rider. In addition, until today Western had only had one Queenrider so that made her Weyrwoman.

Nadhari half ran the rest of the way, until she reached Talaria, "Um, hi. I know you don't know me, I'm from Crescent Cove Weyr, my name is Nadhari," she stuck out her hand, "I know you've probably got much better things to do but I only need a minute... maybe more of your time."

Nadhari didn't know this woman, she had never met her, but something about her made her feel insignificant. But then she was used to that feeling from her own sister so it really didn't do to beat around the bush now did it? Lumina peered out at the woman from behind Nadhari's dark brown curls, eyes glowing a green through the darkness.

[Zen]

Talaria had fetched herself a glass of Benden red to cool herself off after the rather lively dance M’kal had led her in. She accepted the courteous greetings and congratulations on Orlaith’s newly hatched clutch from those who approached her. She sighed, wondering where on Pern A’dion was for all of this. Talaria was not a particularly social person and she’d rather the Weyrleader be around to take some of the focus off of her. He really should be here anyway. She huffed to herself and took another drink from her wine. At least some of the attention in the room would be drawn to the new Weyrlings instead.

She was just rubbing her temple, as if to rub away her growing annoyance, when she was approached once more by a young woman she’d never seen before. Her gaze narrowed slightly at the hand that was offered, and she took it briefly, switching her wine glass to her other hand. Wary, she inclined her head curiously at the other woman. News of the new Crescent Cove Weyr, even newer than her own young Western, had reached her previously, but she knew very little about the new Weyr. She raised an eyebrow, “Well then, Nadhari, what can I do for you?” She blinked in surprise when glowing green eyes stared out at her suddenly, “What on Pern is that?”

~

M’kal had almost started following after Talaria when someone else called out to him. He turned to see Z’mer sitting on the sidelines, so to speak, and felt sorry for the wounded Bronzer, unable to fully enjoy himself at the celebration. He nodded, “I think I’ll do that.” He made his way through groups of people to find himself a glass of wine before returning to Z’mer and sitting beside the other man, “So, how do you like it here? Glad you transferred? If you’d gotten here a bit earlier you might be Weyrleader now. Faranth knows the Weyr was ready to accept anyone who wasn’t G’brel this last Flight.” He chuckled, wondering if the Bronzerider had such aspirations.

He knew Sabath would be all too overjoyed to be looked to as the Weyr’s lead male and that rather boyish dream of leading Western beside Talaria had never truly died for him, but he also knew Orlaith would never allow Sabath to catch her, never. He had wondered on occasion, if A’dion and his Zevranth had never come to Western, or hadn’t come in time, if maybe the Weyr would have wanted him and Sabath to win enough that even Orlaith herself would not be able to prevent it. The Gold had her doting Bronze Zevranth now, however, and there was even less chance for him and Sabath.

Then again, Sabath was always quite happy to claim Iroth instead. The Black was probably with her at that very moment. He had begun to get rather protective of ‘his’ Grey, his mate, in preparation for her approaching mating flight. Sabath liked to make a show of being seen with her, a sign to warn off other males even before the Flight.

~

A’zael grinned and led her after Nyx and Garrett, “So many seem to fall around me I’ve gotten very good at catching them.” He of course meant nothing about actually tripping and falling. He gave a laugh at his own lame line and led her in their dance, “Don’t worry, if you trip I’ll keep you steady.” His smile was sincere rather than sarcastic.

~

Nyx nodded at Garrett’s question, “Oh, yes, it’s such a diverse group. Every dragon color is present in this one… our first Gold and our first White included. It will be interesting to watch them progress. Not that it will be any less interesting to watch the others, but it’ll be my first time instructing a Goldrider and a Whiterider. Honestly I’m not entirely sure what to tell the White’s rider… I might need to get some advice from some of the Whiteriders of other Weyrs. Other than rumors I’m really not sure how Whites differ in their development and in adulthood from the other colors.”

She paused as they spun about, saving her breath for a more complicated portion of the dance, before speaking again, “With the Goldrider at least there will be Talaria here to help instruct her but we have no Whiteriders and there are tales of Whites being radically different from the others. I’m not sure where to begin. It would be even better if another Weyr would spare a Whiterider for the duration of our White’s weyrlinghood. I mean, it’s not as if Whites could really last long in Threadfall anyway so I don’t think it’s too much to ask, even with Threadfall returning, do you? And all the Weyrs agreed on founding Western so they should be willing to help us, right?”

She raised an eyebrow at his comment about the Crescent Cove Weyrlingmaster, then laughed, thinking back to when Talaria asked her to take up the position, “Well, Talaria chose me and A’zael both for our positions when we were relatively new to the whole experience of being a dragonrider. Half the time I think it was to spite G’brel by choosing younger riders more likely to take her side than his on issues, but of course there’s really no proof of that, and neither she nor G’brel have ever really had anything to complain about with us… save a few certain… escapades better left unmentioned.” She laughed at that, shaking her head, “But yes… it wasn’t easy starting out with little experience, that’s for sure. We could certainly extend an offer to help; there can’t really be any harm in it.”

~

Elvith pressed against L’en’s legs as the other Green suddenly appeared, bombarding her with questions. I-I-I am Elvith. M-mine is L’en and he is… we are…. L’enmine? Are we all right?

L’en looked down at Elvith briefly and smiled, “Of course we are. We’re meant to be having fun, actually, if you’d believe me that no one’s going to hurt you.” He stroked his hand over one of her headnobs lovingly before turning to see Zyika, hearing her apology. He tilted his head, “Sorry for what?”

My L’en says we are both fine, Elvith informed her sister.

L’en gave the girl a smile. It seemed to him he’d seen her with Salar before but he couldn’t recall if he’d ever known her name, “I’m L’en, and this here is Elvith,” he tipped his head toward his Green, “Who might you be?”

[lyonza]

Z’mer watched the other man as he got something to drink before coming over to sit next to him. “Hey,” he said in greeting. “Thanks for taking pity on me,” he said with a wide smile. “Well, I like being at the top of the heap here. Telgar had more than enough bronzes competing for just about everything. Western is a much nicer pace of living for me.” He sipped his wine and sighed. “Yep, much nicer, so yes. Very glad I transferred, just my timing sucked. But, if I understand the rumor mill correctly, if I tried transferring earlier it might have been shot down and I wouldn’t have made it at any rate.” He raised an eyebrow in query, almost daring the younger man to contradict him.

“But if I were the lucky rider to get in below the radar, I would probably have been the Weyrleader now. Thinking about it, I’m not sure I would ever want to be the Weyrleader. Way too much responsibility for my taste.” He wasn’t lazy or anything like that, he just didn’t want the responsibility. He was quite happy to offer his knowledge and skill to keeping the Weyr running at peak efficiency, he just didn’t want the headache of leadership.

Z’mer cocked his head. “Was he really that bad?” he asked.

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

“Oh, I’m with you on that score. I can’t wait to see how things progress with them all. I’ll have to get to know our new weyrwomen too since we’d be working together in future. Get them young and train them right, huh?” Garrett grinned at his friend.

“I’ll be happy to go to the other Weyrs with you to find out if a Whiterider would come help out for a while. I don’t think Talaria would have a big issue with that, but we’d have to have her put the official request to the other Weyrs.” He raised an eyebrow. “The fact that they agreed doesn’t mean they are all that willing to help out, you know. It might be more difficult that we anticipate.”

Garret led her through a complicated turn that involved lots of changing hands and fancy footwork. “Well, what I remember of our esteemed former Weyrleader, I am not surprised she did it to irritate him. I think I scandalized the man beyond reason when Iroth chose me.” He arched a brow. “Escapades? Not the ones I was involved with?”

He nodded in agreement. “Nothing wrong with offering and helping out at all.” Garrett grinned. “I hear he’s quite good-looking…” he mused.

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

K’nar spotted the bronzer he wanted to avoid talking with another man and he gave them a wide berth as he headed over to where the others were still talking. “Mind if I join you again?” he asked the girl and boy sitting there. “I’m sorry if I stormed off earlier, I just wasn’t feeling very comfortable being asked so many questions.” He reached for something to drink and was glad he had a cup full of fruit juice instead of wine. “I’m K’nar and this is Rudoth,” he said as he put a hand on his dragon’s neck. Rudoth nuzzled his knee and went to lie down with the burgundy and bronze dragons.