For Turns, she had waited for this moment, only for it to be absolutely nothing like she could ever imagine. Skerath's small head was cradled in both her palms, her eyes closed with utter contentment even as she allowed herself to utterly relax in the presence of the one person she loved with all of her hearts. Iathe's thumbs gently stroked those unbelievably soft eyelids. For so long, she'd thought the only way to help the Weyr to the best of her ability would be to Impress a golden hide...
What a fool she'd been.
Who better to help defend Pern than her and her beloved, feisty Skerath? A mere green? No. She'd never known a dragon to be so intelligent, so daring, so unafraid to reach for the stars! Iathe was not a woman prone to tears, but for a moment, her eyes burned with pride. I would rip them from the heavens, if it would please you. Skerath's eyes had opened barely, blue whorls shimmering for her rider. We could change the world, if you wished.
"You already changed my world." She said, bending to press a kiss between her beloved's eyes before she straightened. Though Iathe preferred to dress sensibly, this was a special occasion. She had chosen the dress due to the colors reflecting Skerath's eggshell, and her normally braided hair was free and allowed to spill in front of her shoulder. "Now they will celebrate our union."
--
Later, once they'd arrived, Zheria's speech was enough to straighten both of their backs. Iathe had no doubt she would work harder than she ever had before in her life.... and yet, it felt so much less daunting with Skerath at her side. She bowed to the Weyrwoman once she was finished, a hand resting lightly upon her lifemate's neck as they both strode forward so Iathe could gather some food. Don't worry about staying close to me. She thought, only for her dragon to snort. As though any of them could provide entertaining company. But I will be nearby.
Determinedly, the petite green wove through the masses, her eyes whirling red and occasionally baring her fangs at anyone who didn't get out of her way quickly enough. She was on a mission. She needed to find her mama.Mother? Skerath called, her neck stretching as she searched for a familiar, enormous golden figure.
Iathe watched her go, shaking her head with affection before she moved to fill her plate. Nothing too heavy--nothing that would leave her too sleepy, but enough to be full. For Turns, she had attended Hatching Feasts, enviously watching others with their newly bonded dragons. Now? Now it was her turn.
With a faint smile, Iathe took a seat. No, this was nothing like she had imagined. It was far greater.
Mr Cheri
Looking for mama...
Posted: Sun Nov 18, 2018 5:40 pm
Aryale
The obvious suspects were out: Nothing had toppled awkwardly to one side, all sharp objects were accounted for, no mysterious disasters behind the scenes. No, a first check over of the Feast, once Zheria had finished talking and had mostly drowned out the sounds of her weeping parents had dug up no results for the young woman.
The honks of a distressed bronze, however, did. "Having a tough time of something, dear?" Aryale asked as she approached the scene, pointedly aiming her question at Nevidenth as she stopped to look over whatever it was the boy had fallen into this time. She simply stood, looking down at Yurastar (what had he elided it to?) with her hands on her hips, a slight smile on her lips.
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Posted: Sun Nov 18, 2018 5:42 pm
Nadry and Menankith Oh, well, this was. Maybe not as good of an idea as it had seemed when she'd planned it. The Hatching had taken a poor turn here and there, from the death of a candidate to the outburst of an ill-mannered bronze, to the death of the poor little green who should have been the candidate's. All things considered, such a...such a loud dress seemed like it might be a touch inappropriate. At least, it did to Nadry, but then again, she would have been overthinking and second-guessing it regardless. What was on the very borderline of too much for her likely registered as perfectly ordinary to some. Certainly, there were others with more sparkle. And more skin.
What she also hadn't taken into account in planning this dress was that her brother might be here (Rykin, not M'yk - even if the latter were here, which she sincerely doubted, considering Dobrokhoth's opinion of foreigners even on the best of days, she didn't care one shaff what M'yk might think). And if Rykin was here, somewhere, instead of staying back at Western, then he might finally meet C'lusi and R'shahar, and-
Oh, dear. Maybe she really should have worn something more modest, but it was far too late for that now. Her nerves and racing thoughts did find a bit of a distraction in the form of the sharding pirate captain who appeared. That was- Well then. The Weyrwoman of Western certainly...made an entrance. A very impressive one. Faranth. Nadry was just...going to go....look at the bubblypies. And the cakes. How lovely that there was one for every color! She would have to have some of the brown one, of course, at some point. And speaking of brown, how wonderful that so many of the new browns had chosen young women!
Yes, think about desserts and dragons, and do not stare at the pirate queen. Nope.
In the Bowl, Menankith was brimming with excitement. So many hatchlings! So many browns with excellent taste! Oh, how he would love to meet them. How dearly he would love to just...have one. But one clutch had a brown father, and the other a blue, and so he doubted they would have any need of him. But oh, it would be so very nice... He settled down to watch them with a wistful sigh, his eyes whirling blue-purple. Maybe, just maybe, he would have a hatchling one day. Never a whole clutch, of course, but... Maybe when Elzebuth had some, he would spare him one.
Posted: Sun Nov 18, 2018 5:54 pm
If she thought she could get away with not being at the party, she would have stayed in her bed all night, holding Alegriath close and focusing on that sunlight love the white radiated. It eased her anxiety like nothing else had--not even Haveli's security, she hated to admit, could dig through to her core like Ale did. And Haveli...Faranth, Arlie was terrified of finding her sister at the feast. And yet she was almost as equally compelled to find her, as habit and instinct told her to.
The party will be fun, Alegriath promised her, half in her lap and half on the bed, tail wiggling. She booped Arlie gently with her snout; that seemed to work in the past. We won't have to stay long if you don't want to. But we should see everyone and have at least a little fun! It was important to Ale that Hers make more friends. Haveli was the perfect Big Sister, but they had been ever so lonely for so long, Arlie absolutely had to meet new people! She deserved to have friends.
"Okay..."
- - -
The sisters had come to the weyr with nothing but the clothes on their backs. Arlie was grateful and ashamed to have borrowed clothes for the event, even moreso the latter when her small frame barely fit into the dress. But it was warm and practical and not too flashy, so it was good enough for her.
Weyrling and dragon gave their respects to Fianth, though Alegriath was quite distracted soon after. Was that..........SNOW????!!!! Cheeping loudly, the white immediately leaped into the small pile off to the side that had been swept away to keep the walkway safe for the weyr's guests. In spite of her social anxiety, Arlie couldn't help but laugh a little, even though she worried her dragon would get too cold and wet and dirty.
IT'S EVERY BIT AS GOOD AS THEY TOLD ME! Alegriath crowed as she rolled about the stuff, not minding how cold she was getting. It was going to be warm and dry inside anyway! There's gonna be more later, right?! AHHHHHHH I WISH THERE WAS MORE NOWWWWW~
"Y-Yeah," Arlie replied, smiling a little. "It won't be as dirty either. It can get soft and pure white if it's fresh, too."
If the white's eyes whirled delighted colors any faster, Arlie feared they would both get dizzy. I can't wait!! Okay, let's go!
"Wait, shouldn't we--"
But Alegriath was already bouncing through the entrance to the hall, leaving tiny pawprints in her wake. Arlie was helpless but to follow, careful not to accidentally slip and praying no-one else did either. "Ale, wait for me!" Her moment of happiness quickly morphed into fear of losing her in the crowd, as if the bond might have connection issues without line of sight.
Alegriath obliged and stopped. Well, she tried to stop. It was more of a small slip and slide on what snow had clung to her, until she bumped into a green on the move with a hwonk. Oops! Sorry, sis, she told Skerath, still in good humor. Are you looking for Mama? Oh, are she and Papa hiding? Can I play, too?
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Posted: Sun Nov 18, 2018 5:58 pm
Teiha
A momentary hush gathered over the crowd, or perhaps that silence was in the mind of a certain young bronzerider. Real or imagined, a delicate young woman stepped into it. She seemed apprehensive, and yet she was dressed as befit a princess. She might have been a lady of the Hold, perhaps, or some wealthy merchant's daughter. Certainly not a common shop girl. With wide, curious and yet worried eyes, the young lady moved through the crowd until she stood by a buffet table. Perhaps... perhaps just a moment to gather herself. A moment in which to absorb the splendor of the place she now found herself in. The beautiful people were far above Yunara, yet in this moment she seemed to fit in, to blend into the background.
Posted: Sun Nov 18, 2018 6:10 pm
S'lys and Brown Leoniath
There.. were a lot of people. Somehow this was more unnerving than the hatching and no one was going to die here, probably. He didn't really feel too attached to the Western riders who left, or to the fact that he wouldn't see any of them. But, like a good boy, he listened as they bid him luck and farewell. He didn't really feel ties to Western or High Reaches or anywhere else. But Leoniath had ties here and he was as tied to his dragon as one could get.
He smoothed out the modest brown dress clothes he wore. It wasn't anything fancy but it was nice. Ish. He had bought it before the hatching and hidden it, ashamed to own anything more than needed for himself. It wasn't as warm as the new rider would have hoped. Why was it so cold here? He hadn't noticed during the hatching, the heat of the sands doing plenty to keep him warm.
Leoniath didn't seem to mind the cold much or notice that his rider seemed fashionably underdressed. "Oh S'lysMine! Look at all the pretty colors! There's more than in my clutch!" If Leoniath could collect them all, he would. The jewel toned dresses, the handsome suits, they were all amazing and he was excited. He rubbed his head against S'lys, eyes swirling with excitement. "And look at you! So handsome. So stoic. No need for all these flashy embellishments when yourself is the flashiest embellishment of all!" Yes. To Leoniath, S'lys was a picture of pure perfection. He almost pranced in place, eager to show S'lys off to any who would look long enough.
The young brown rider rubbed his face, shying away from his dragon. "You.. don't gotta say that kinda stuff.." But when his eyes met Leoniath, he felt himself straighten up. The dragonet thought he was worthy so might as well try to be? He took a moment to look around and immediately felt small again. How.. How did they all look so nice? High Reaches went big... He felt his cheeks heat up and pressed himself away from the crowd.. He'd eat.. later.
Quote:
Leoniath will be happy to interact with any of his cousins/siblings! S'lys might be less happy but is open to interaction too!
It was hard to not cry the entire time she was High Reaches, and it was even harder now that her normally extra supportive rock of a husband was also holding back his sniffles. How was she supposed to know that Repeat was going to come here and Impress? The boy could barely survive on his own back home, always owing to the kindness of strangers or the gentleness of his sister to ensure he wasn't up some tree. Without Bump, without his parents and even as a bronze rider, what was he going to do???
For about the hundredth time since that morning, Euryale found herself bawling into her open hands. "He's just a bay-bab-baby!!!" The redhead leaned onto her husband, her emotional support, the love of her life, her super handsome man, all while not caring if she brought attention to herself. Her baby was growing up and shardit, she was gonna mourn.
-
Yu'star and Nevidenth
As for the aforementioned baby son, he released Nevidenth's tail as a familiar voice filled his ears. It was one he didn't think he'd get to hear again for a long while thanks to the edict between Western and High Reaches. "Aryaaallllleeeeee." It seemed as though Yu'star had gotten his ability to whine on his words from his parents as well, and the teen grinned broadly as he looked up at his beloved older sister. "I knew you'd find me. You always do."
I helped. Nevidenth sounded entirely incredulous that his honking had not been taken as the saving grace, and he moved to where he was somewhat in front of Aryale, between the hole and her. Visions and thoughts and feelings of just who this was to His were filling his hearts and mind, but the niggling bit of jealousy that clung to him like a damp wing wouldn't allow him to move. His eyes were whirling various shades of blue and green despite his defensive position, and once more he snaked his tail down for Yu'star to hold.
The tail was given a soft tug which in turn pulled the dragonet into a seated position. He looked flabbergasted, turning to hiss down at his lifemate. "Behave. She's here to help."
.....so was I.
demon_pachabel
for a'star and aryale!
Posted: Sun Nov 18, 2018 7:04 pm
A'star
A'star held his wife close, half-crying into the top of her hair as his lower lip quivered. They were both so...so big now and it would be like blinking and soon the twins would also be big and leaving mom and dad and...and..
"Ou-ou-ou-ourrrr baaaabbbiiieessssssss..." he half-wailed. It was....a bit much. ----- Aryale
"You sure you're gonna survive?" she asked incredulously, one brow lifting slightly. But there was an easy note of tease to her voice that was fond, despite the judging. Aryale twisted a short lock of hair between her fingers, turning her attention back to Nevidenth as she crouched to take a better look at him. "And who is this fine dragon here?" she asked, offering a hand out - for pets, for sniffing, for really anything he wanted to make of it. "Looks like my protege. A fine student of all of my knowledge," Aryale was nearly grinning at this point as she rested her palm flat on the baby bronze's head.
"So my first advice is that you're going to hurt yourself letting him pull on your tail," she advised - then gave Yu'star a sharp look. A reminder that his baby dragon still had a spine that could be broken with tugging. Then, she simply dropped down into the hole next to him instead. "I swear, I have seen more holes in my life because of you than I have on my own."
And with that, she offered her baby brother the biggest hug in the world.
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Posted: Sun Nov 18, 2018 7:39 pm
A'ye
He'd decided that today would be the day, tonight would be the night. There would be no more shy goodbyes, no more glancing back over his shoulder to see if - just by chance - that S'del was still standing there or had maybe looked back as well. He didn't want to wake up alone anymore, and the time they had spent together in the afternoon had all but cemented A'ye's thoughts and feelings.
He loved S'del, and he was going to let him know.
Perhaps revealing such a thing at the Feast considered tactless since it was meant to be the important event for so many new Weyrling pairs, but when else would it be perfect? The whole point of the feast was to celebrate new pairs, and if he and S'del were going to be together then it would fit. They could be another one of those new pairs and....
...and he was getting so quickly ahead of himself that he felt his cheeks roar to life with a red punch. Oyath was rumbling from her perch in their weyr, clearly annoyed that her lifemate was even dreading this much. His departure was timed well with hers, the green off to find a place to sit and watch and he....to get a drink or two to settle his nerves.
The klah table was indeed where he could be found, swallowing down liquid courage that would keep him up all night.
Uta
Posted: Sun Nov 18, 2018 8:46 pm
K’rou and Bronze Cadereth
As he’d expected, no one seemed to be in a hurry to approach him and his dragon. That was fine with K’rou. Life had begun to change rapidly starting mere hours ago. It was difficult enough adjusting without adding hobnobbing with complete strangers to the agenda. In Telgar it was as easy as breathing, having grown up with certain families and circles and knowing them well. In this place, it was impossible to know what to expect of anyone without a ranking knot. There was talk of brothel-workers, urchins, thieves, and even a man who seemed more beast than human among this crowd—perhaps even among the newest wave of riders that he was now a part of. And, of course, it would be dreadfully uncouth to inquire who was who.
No need, Cadereth rumbled. And he was right, though it still rankled a part of the man. The rules were different here. He’d have to learn to set aside some things that had been ingrained in him from birth if they were to make the most of this new chapter of life.
He leaned back against an unoccupied section of a table with Cadereth poised attentively nearby, both of them listening to Zheria’s speech and afterward idly looking about for familiar faces and minds. There was one face in particular that K’rou skimmed right over, but at a strange tickle in his memory he turned and looked again.
Well… Yunara certainly looked different.
Her elaborate metamorphosis merited a long look from the man. He tilted his head slightly, an odd glimmer entering the dark amber of his eyes. One corner of his lips rose infinitesimally—it would have been imperceptible to anyone not standing very close to him.
To the dragonet sharing his mind, he may as well have been lit on fire. For a moment, K’rou almost thought he was. Cadereth’s jealousy flared up hot, causing his startled rider to half-slip off of the table. He caught himself and stood upright, staring at the bronze with a mixture of exasperation and amusement. One hand was clutched over his heart, which was thundering from the surprise. So much for grace.
”Mr Cheri”
Not pants feels, just straight up Caddy jealousy. Eyes on him only, thank you. You have reached your public look quota for today.
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Posted: Sun Nov 18, 2018 8:59 pm
Faranie of Blue Samedith
It was here, finally. After turns and Turns of waiting and watching, and happily congratulating others on their Impressions, as first she was left standing time and time again, and then later as she was no longer a candidate, and no longer likely to Impress and join the ranks of Riders, where she belonged ... now it was her chance to shine. To be on the other side. The one being congratulated and envied... and why not, she deserved it after all, and so did Her Samedith. Her most perfect, precious blue. How they deserved to be seen and admired... soon they would be known. Soon they would have everything they desired. And it all started tonight.
Once the overall Wonder and Amazement of being Chosen had started to wear off, and Samedith was oiled to perfection, came the drama and sadness of the green's death. She didn't actually, see it. Neither did Samedith, but they still felt the sadness and loss keenly. It was something that shouldn't have happened. Or at least not the way it happened. The poor thing. So young, so much potential... so much waste. Even Samedith agreed.
After the Hatchlings had all been fed and taken care of, it was time to go back to barracks to get ready for the Feast... but not Faranie. No, the icy beauty had to return to her weyr deep in the caverns behind the kitchen. She needed to gather her belongings and make her way to the weyrling barracks. Byebye own weyr, bye-bye privacy... for at least half a year. Oh, well. It would all be worth it. Samedith was more than worth it.
She quickly packed the few belongings she had that she would want to take with her into training... into her new life. Too much of the bits and bobs she collected would be useless, and there was no way she could bring even half her clothes with her. Those... she would probably donate to some of the kitchen ladies or healers.. anyone who would want them really... It wouldn't do in her new life. She would need to start all over. And she would, content to do so with Hers at her side.
Her Feast outfit, chosen as soon as there was even talk of the clutching – double clutch – had been chosen with the utmost care. All to complement her sharp, cold beauty. All dark blue, silver and white. Fortunately, it would also match her beloved heart's hide as well.
And her hair, meticulousy curled, and braided, and piled on her head, just so. She was a stunner, and she knew it. Her appearance had been carefully calculated to impress. Before the Hatching, her last relationship had begun to sour, and she had been seeking a new lover, one in a place of influence. She planned to use this feast to try and entice someone, anyone.
But now, now she had found the missing piece of her heart and soul. She didn't need to find a new lover – though that wouldn't stop her from looking, as she quite enjoyed the chase, the physicality, and the overall, emotional connection. Not that she could indulge in the physical side... not until Samedith was a bit older.
FaranieMine, brilliant star, now that you are ready to shine and steal the light at the Feast, mightn't it be time for you to attend to me? I will glow, and together, none shall be able to take their eyes from us. After all, this Feast, it is for us yes? Let us go and show everyone what power and beauty should look like.
Really, Mine, we have time. We don't need to be there for the boring speeches and the drivel. The politics. Let us show a little late, once everyone has had a chance to start to relax. We want to be seen, and we want to be sure people are ready to start talking... Information, my dear heart, is power after all. And this, this is a good place to start. She leaned down to place a kiss on his lovely head, and scratching an itch on his jaw.
Head held high, and gleaming blue dragonet standing proudly at her side, Faranie paused at the entrance. So many Turns she had dreamt of this. Imagined this moment. When she would join the ranks of the dragonriders, her beloved dragon at her side. Where others would have to see her, to acknowledge her... And now, it was coming true. Not in the way she had always believed it would, but this was still better than anything she could have imagined.
The Feast seemed to be at least starting.. good, she had timed it well then.
Where Talis and Holleth might have consciously stifled any deliberate flair, T'rin and Ingonth brought enough of their own to make up for their fellow weyrlings a hundred times over. They approached Fianth and her blues with a perfect saunter so nonchalant that it must have been practiced, and they bowed in unison, T'rin to Olliah and Ingonth to his glorious golden mother.
"Good evening, Weyrwoman Second, Talis, Amaretti, Fela." Much like he had memorized the endless family trees of neighboring Holds, T'rin had spent a portion of his Candidacy committing a decent number of recently-hatched dragons and their riders to memory as well, including Uridith's and Takarath's latest brood. For once he didn't expect the nicety to be returned, but he would certainly remember if it was.
Hi, Mom! Ingonth's initial greeting was for Fianth's mind alone but when he spoke again, he addressed his brothers and Sophrosunth as well. I hope everyone has a wonderful time tonight. Mine and I intend to, so if you find yourself talking with someone... less than exciting... let me know and we'll try to stop by and save you from all of that. No promises, though.
Despite all of the death and disrespect the hatching had been plagued with, they were alive, this was their feast, and they were not going to spend the whole evening moping. With a single, measured look at Talis and a parting nod for everyone else, T'rin was off, Ingonth trotting after the knee-length tails of his rider's fancy coat.
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rykin coming tomorrow! <3
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Posted: Sun Nov 18, 2018 10:30 pm
R'mor & bronze Junenth The bronze dragon had settled with Zinath, but his eyes turned bright blue-green at the sight of a familiar figure heading there way. Though her limp concerned him, the fact that she was coming right on over pleased the bronze greatly. He crooned, and stretched out his neck so he might better meet the girl whom they now had to give up.
It has been a difficult day, but I am grateful to get to be here. I am sorry to have made her worry. The bronze spoke to Samodith, before returning to snuffle and chuff at the dark haired girl. He was so very delighted that the Little Egg now had a Little herself, and such a lovely green at that!
Mine! Ours is here, with Hers. You must come see. Though R'mor knew that he would have a duty to play good guest, and keep Western in line, he had remained back just so he might get a chance see Akaris before duty called. "There's the lucky lady!" He called out, absolutely pleased to see the little green and Akaris.
Though both Junenth and R'mor were saddened that they lost the next five Turns--if not more--from Akaris... Well, there were ways they could remain in contact and be together. Even if she was now a High Reaches rider. Her...friend was here, and had also Impressed, and while he was happy that the two of them had found Theirs, he did fear that after tonight, it really might be goodbye.
But they would see...
The bronze dragon sent a greeting back to Raith, when the blue made a note. How good of you, Wingleader. Tensions are high enough so ensuring all on their best and most gracious behavior is advised. And if that included the glowering bluerider himself, well... Everyone needed to be on their best behavior after the Hatching.
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Zheria The High Reaches Weyrwoman did not object when Hestina pulled her into her arms. Nor, did she, object when the woman pulled her into a kiss. Any who had been at the Weyr long enough would not be surprised at all by the display; if it wasn't Hestina in her arms, there was no doubt it might have been Ink, or one of her entourage. If anything, it was a sign that no trust had been broken between the two Weyrs--had Zheria been truly offended, she would have spurned the woman within her arms.
"How kind of you to be concerned," she purred, slipping her arms around the dark skinned woman, and not at all shy about where her hands drifted or touched. This wasn't the first time she'd danced with the woman, and certainly wouldn't be her last. "I'm always being watched," she confessed, though there was a seriousness within her gaze. "Such is the price we pay."
Ah, but the Weyrwoman was not overly concerned. Tunnelsnakes might have begun an attempt at infestation, but she was not alarmed. Thus far, any eyes that may have looked upon her in distaste were either biding their time, or too cowardly to truly make a move. They'd be fools to do so this day... But perhaps... Perhaps she would need speak to her people. To see if they might not find a weak link in need of replacing.
Did one of her trust entourage sour against her? Or was something else afoot? Zheria was not afraid of making enemies. "Let them come," she murmured, leaning close to the other woman and brushing her lips against her ear. "I am unafraid." She would conquer. She would win. She would interrogate. And she would destroy.
For now, though, she would dance.
Zyamel & brown Venandith Zyamel was absolutely besotted. To say that Venandith was everything and more than she could have hoped for,was both cliche and an understatement. While she had always yearned for a fighting dragon, her heart had always been certain she was destined for a green. But now... Now, the most gorgeous, most handsome, most wickedly cunning, and terribly charming brown stood next to her. The two had been admiring themselves, and one another, in front of the mirror for some time now. They both wanted to ensure all eyes were on them--though both also understood that even at their worst they were a hundred times more attractive than the rest.
Never has so good looking a dragon been shelled. I deserved the best, and only the best, so the choice was simple. Venandith stated freely, even as he leaned in to look at himself closer. This was much better than the reflection of himself on an eggshell. Mirrors were... divine. His favorite thing on Pern so far, outside of Zyamel.
Though she knew her brown was terribly arrogant, the dark haired, dark skinned girl could only laugh. She adored his confidence, and loved that he truly was a beast. Just as she was known to be vicious and cutthroat, so she could understand why the brown thought himself perfection incarnate. Because he truly was. The striking pale markings along his neck, the golden hues upon his wings, and the way his coat faded into a paler color was eye-catching. He was big, and she wondered exactly how large of a brown he'd grow to be. I am a pure paragon of dragonkind, you know.
"Of course you are, handsome," Zyamel laughed again, and leaned down to offer the brown a kiss upon the tip of his snout. The dragon's eyes whirled a brighter green, pleased that His understood and agreed. "Now come on. Mirrors are nice, but they can't compliment and fawn over you like adoring crowds." While there had been drama and upset and pain at the Hatching, Zyamel wasn't going to think about it. In fact, she hardly could even if she wanted to given how much attention her brown demanded. It was attention she was only too happy to give, and the beginning of a very strong mutual attachment.
She loved Venandith with more feeling than she ever knew herself to have. She loved him more than her mother, than the Weyr, even, in a way, than herself. There wasn't anything she wouldn't do to make him happy; wasn't anything she wouldn't give to ensure he had it all. She trusted him entirely, and knew he would never let her down. The brown, she knew, felt the same way. He loved her beyond compare. He didn't want her attention just to stroke his ego; he wanted her attention and affection because he was Hers, and he wanted her love well and truly.
By the time they made it down to the party, Fianth and Olliah were waiting near the entrance. There were two blues also nearby, and two pretty girls; one with striking blue hair, and the other in an outfit that fit her well. If she hadn't Impressed, she would have whistled, but for now she'd behave. Instead, she turned to a familiar face and smiled proudly. "Weyrwoman Second Olliah, Fianth... Might I introduce you to Venandith?" The brown dragon made a show of it, spreading his wings as if he only now needed to stretch. A small curve of his neck, the lift of one leg to show off his already impressive physique (for a hatcling).
Congratulations, Mother. You've certainly clutched the most brilliant and most handsome hero on Pern. He was entirely sincere in his words, and certainly expected the queen to agree.
Fianth, for her part, leaned down to give the brown a nuzzle. Such a handsome one, indeed. Surely, you must take after Krahsujunth. Not so much in color, but she had no doubt he'd be a fierce handful.
Olliah, for her part, gave small laugh and little bow. "Congratulations, Zyamel. I'm glad you found your match."
While Zyamel would have stayed, she knew her brown wanted to be indoors where he might make more of a presence. "Congratulations, ladies," she half-purred in her usual form to Amaretti and Talis. "If you get too cold out here, come find us inside. Your two boys are lovely!" As if she'd ever turn down company. Venandith, for his part, also gave a croon at both Sucurith and Holleth. And I've two wings with which to warm you. He added cheekily, confidence oozing out of his every word.
See? He was big enough both could fit.
Ah, but though Zyamel would have lingered, she knew her brown wanted to be somewhere where more eyes might rest upon him. It was time for the Weyr to turn their attention to someone more important than anyone else who had arrived. At least, that's what he believed. Such a crowd gathered... and we're still above and far the most handsome pair here.
Zyamel gave a laugh, resting her head proudly on the brown's head, before looking to see who was there. V'mel was out and about--but was likely too busy and focused to want to be bothered quite at this moment. Her own mother was there, but already in the arms of--was that Western's Weyrwoman? No bad. Her eyes lingered appreciatively over some of the ladies and women...
She didn't know who Yunara was, but she deserved a second look. And there was Iathe! My, my... Now there was someone deserving of some congratulations. Rune was looking tough as ever! And was that Martirae in the purple? Oh, ho! She'd need to congratulate her too and welcome her to her new home. Who better to do that then the Werywoman's own daughter, eh?
It was only second nature for the girl to give an appreciative look at the fine ladies within High Reaches Weyr, though for once, she had absolutely no desire to actually do anything more than compliment them. Flirty though she was, she would never risk Venandith, and honestly, at this point, she had no interest in actually charming anyone anywhere. If she had once worried about being celibate for six months, those fears were forgotten.
At this point, she just wanted to show off her beloved brown. So, the girl decided to head first to Martirae. The dark-haired girl was likely to be flooded by admirers, and so she figured she might as well get in before the K'ienn's of the world came to pant and get in with the newest gold-riding ladies. Then she'd find Iathe, and then maybe some of the other ladies with whom to celebrate this night.
"Well hello there, gorgeous," she greeted in her usual fearless fashion. Still, her eyes were bright, and there was nothing but genuine pleasure in her words. "I hope you enjoyed our hospitality this past sevenday because it looks like you'll be in for an extended stay." As if Zyamel herself had worked to ensure the Candidates from Western had been clothed, fed, and given sleeping quarters.
Venandith strode up next to His, giving Martirae a glance, and waiting to be properly ooh'd and ahh'd over. Still, his eyes did land on someone next to the woman in purple. Why hello there... Immediately, he considered whether or not he could fit the two blues from earlier under one wing, and the larger gold under the other. Still not as beautiful as he but... So far, all the dragonets he'd stumbled upon were nothing to snub. Oh, they all paled next to him, but... They at least had put on a dashing good try.
Oh my. Who is that gorgeous creature?... Oh, it's just me. But you're looking very nice yourself, Anakumath. The brown gave a happy croon, and Zyamel had to roll her eyes. He was truly genuine, for the gold was rather lovely, just as those two blues had been. And yet... He was still very much in love with himself.
demon_pachabel
Meepfur
Mr Cheri
[I have to shower and sleep but will post Fianth replies to all bbs after work AND shove Ce'rian and C'lusi and S'del out as well. <3 ]
The furore of emotion had begun to wind down as the hatching came to an end. There were still things to do- oh, Nyara was certain there would never be a dull moment for the rest of her life. Mictecath’s oil gleamed- in this, the young woman would be most diligent- her hunger was sated, and her eyelids drooped. As much as she wanted to protest, Nyara chivvied the young dragonet into her wallow, fighting waves of sleep herself. It was only when the dragon fell into a deep, rhythmic slumber that she allowed her own exhaustion to win. Head and hands pillowed against Mic’s soft, warm hide, Nyara slept.
Candlemarks had passed, though the exact hour was hard to pinpoint. Nya woke with a start, surprised to find her hunger once more raging. Mic turned whirling eyes on her, tinged red with that same hunger. Did I wake you? Shall we eat some more? She gave a little snort of laughter, flicking her tail in her rider’s face. Nyara gave an exaggerated splutter, grinning at her dragon as she got to her feet. “Food, bath, and then more sleep?” But Mic was already prowling out of the barracks, and with a backwards glance said, not even if you carried me, ridermine! There is a party soon, and I hope to dance the night away to good music.
Oh, of course! The Feast! How had it slipped her mind? Nyaranau followed, a skip in her step as though the music were already playing.
---
It took a while to prepare, Nyara was ashamed to admit to herself. Her mother had been an excessive, turbulent force of excitement and weaving skills, much to Mic’s greatest pleasure. She’d said it’d been a gown set aside for a Lady who had changed her mind at the very last minute… but Nyara rather felt this was a gown that was going to be missed, no matter who the recipient might have been. It clung to her figure in ways she did not normally indulge, pooling at her feet in ripples of soft red silk. A gold corset and fine black lace were small details to complement the whole: a striking ensemble of red, and a figure brushed by some of femininity more slight and tender strokes.
“I’m so proud of you. And I’m so glad to meet you, Mictecath.” Rakara would say, before sticking pins and poking jewellery. It was the sort of flattery on which regular Nyara would thrive, but somehow… it felt unncessary. So long as Mic was there, she knew she would never have to fight for attention again.
Your mama has done amazing work. I think you shine almost as much as I do, NyaraMine.
A slight blush crept across her cheeks as she patted Mic’s head, then smiled at the weaver. “She likes your work too. Is it not.. Too much?”
“No, I think it’s fitting. And well-fitting, at that.” Rakara grinned- and in that expression Nyara recognised her mother’s pride and happiness. Yes, she was glad that she was a rider. Becoming… or being, really… a goldrider, a weyrwoman…
Wow. She was a weyrwoman. Now that was a thought.
“Thanks.” She pressed her cheek to her mother’s as she hugged her, then glanced back at Mic. “Shall we?”
---
It was easy to see Fianth, and Weyrwoman Olliah beside her, outside of the dining cavern. Mic picked up her pace, her stride regal despite her impatience to nuzzle her mother. Nyara drifted a little behind, a fond smile on her face as she watched daughter and mother reunite.
Mama! I hope you haven’t been at all unhappy in our absence. We’ll love you to the end of our days, please never doubt that. Oh, if they didn’t, Mictecath would have such words with her guilty siblings, see if she didn’t! Finally she was close enough to leap upon Fianth’s paw, huddling close and rubbing her face against the golden hide. Are you absolutely certain you can’t spend tonight with us, in the barracks? I’m sure if we pushed all of the cots together, there’d be enough room… Her voice had become a gentle yet earnest murmur, as though desire alone could make her wish a reality.
Finally, Nyara drew level with the small group, and bowed deeply. “Lady Olliah, Fianth, you both look so lovely tonight. Mictecath has been excited to see you both, and so have I.” She grinned her usual cheerful grin, then smoothed the sides of her dress in a subtly self-conscious way. She was not half as dignified as Olliah, and she felt it… but she tried, at least. Maybe. Maybe her clothes were too revealing? Shells… too late now, she supposed. “Have you eaten? Would you like us to bring you and Fianth some food later? I’ve heard tell the there are some really good-looking bubbly pies in there.” At least one could never go wrong with food.
It was difficult to convince Mictecath that Fianth would not fit into the dining cavern. Most of the guests were already assembled, and Nyara found herself having to assert a little of her own will over the gold dragonet. It’s terrible she cannot squeeze into the dining hall and eat with us there… there is so much food, after all. She groused and grumbled, only relenting after Nyara promised to return to Fianth and Olliah once people had spoken.
As it was, Mictecath was restless- were it not for her rider’s hand and continued mental waves of reassurance, she might have returned to Fianth’s side immediately. Nya listened, trying not to let her own self-consciousness show. Zheria's speech was good; succinct and diplomatic, it held the promise of something more in its every word, layers of subtle politics that she yearned to watch unfold. More importantly, every day counted. Today had been a big day. Tonight would be a grand night. But Nyara didn’t want to forget that: tomorrow might never come. It had to be today.
“Food- come on. Let’s go pick something for Fianth as well… and maybe we’ll get to meet Galxath, too?” Nyara began, as people began to move and interact. She helped herself to a plate, glancing at Mic as she nosed the platters stacked high.
Galxath?
“He’s my… Hum. He’s my… dad’s dragon. He’s a blue. You’d like him very much.”Dad. Weird how much easier that was to say now, thanks to Mictecath. Mictecath gave a slight, musical croon, and turned around as though expecting the magical Galxath to appear. Of course, no such luck, and she nudged her rider. Let’s bring mama some bubbly pie. You speak of it so fondly.
With a laugh- and an undeniable sweet tooth- Nyara stacked her plate with a few slices of bubbly pie and returned to Olliah and Fianth outside, all the while keeping an eye out for E’dan and Galxath.
Uta
I wasn't sure where Olliah and Fianth would be post-speech, but Mic always wants to chill with mama so she's looking! heart
ShinosBee
I know I still owe you that summary of Nyara/E'dan but I will deliver very shortly! heart
Iathe and Green Skerath
Nadry and Menankith
