\\//Gather.::.Hooray\\//|

[Lyrikitty]

Daisyth nodded, more to herself than in acknowledgment of Dharth. Of course the Black wasn't going to steal away the girl. Riki belonged to the north, and to Crystal Cavern first if to any Weyr. She knew not it was the amber who she had to watch more carefully, who would in the end take away the girl, but Daisyth was, for the moment, content with the assurance of the Black. Of course, she could just as easily been offended, for by showing not an ounce of interest in the prospect of the girl, he insulted Daisyth's taste. This thought never occurred to the Gold, who'd dropped her head by Riki to have her eye ridges scratched. I would like that, yes. Her eyes shifted up to Dharth, until the Snow from New Cove arrived, possessively showing her claim on the Amber. Bemused, Daisyth snorted and lifted her skull again to eye the second queen carefully. Silvyth was larger, much so, though in Daisyth's eyes not near as attractive. Sure, she was exotic, and she was big, and she was one of the rare few of her color to clutch, but so what? Daisyth was a Gold, a c color that had been bred since the dawn of their creation as the ones to ensure the survival of dragons, to reproduce. Haughtily, she dipped her head to the Snow and gave a sardonic grin. Greetings Snow, I see that I've more manners in some instances than you. Your mate is safe from me, why would I want an Amber? With a sly rumble, she shook her head and deviously spoke to Riki alone. I think the Amber likes you more than he lets on. He may try and take you from me, but we won't let that happen, now will we? Her eyes wheeling with amusement at her own secret thoughts, at plans to irritate the Snow, to keep the Amber far from Riki, Daisyth rose to her paws, stretching her wings and arching her back with a grunt. Light played on her metallic hide, rolling over the brindling of her wings and the sheen of her entire bodice. Another thing that Snow didn't have. Sure, she was glossy, where she was white, but she was not a metallic creature, she didn't shimmer and shine with every movement, didn't bring to mind a fine piece of jewelry, a work of art perfected by only the greatest of masters. Exceedingly pleased with that fact, Daisyth tilted her head to the sky, watching more dragons appear and land to allow their riders to dismount, and then taking to the heights as well. There went a Blue, one from Talune if she wasn't mistaken, and another, though she was sure he was of some other Weyr. A pang reached her heart though, as she watched several Bronzes come in, reminding ehr of her own mate. He would not be chasing her this comming Flight, he might not even be alive then. For now... Now all the king did was lay on the ledge of the weyr, staring with golden eyes at the Weyr below, blind to any action, to the food that was offered, to the endless hours J'kal spent loyally at he dragon's side. With a delicate sigh, she tried to push Nuath out of her mind, away from her thoughts. He was not yet a threat to the Weyr, he had not yet reached that final stage of Rouge that turned even the kindest of dragons into raging beasts.

He would though, eventually. Sooner or later he would rise off his ledge and fling himself at the nearest thing that moved, he would rage about the Weyr, trying to kill all he saw. Several times the Gold had been tempted to end her Bronze mate before that time came, several times she had lay beside him, looking at the dark-hues beast, her own pools saddened by thoughts of the future, of what she would have to do. Several times, she had moved, placed her jaws around his throat, ready to clamp down on his spine, sever it, slice open the jugular, and prevent the great beast from a shameful end. But alas, she never could. MineOwnLlaina... She spoke softly to her rider, needing the comfort, the knowledge, that things would work out for the best. This was a happy day, a Gather, she should not be so troubled.

Llaina gave a small nod, trying to pull up an image of K'dran's Black from her mind, and succeeding. He was a big beast, and if he was talking to Zhek, he was near Daisyth as well. Not that it made much difference. The Gold would do as she would, no matter who was present. "Ah, that's good. I hear you got bumped to a wingleader? Impressive, though with that Black of your's it's not much of a suprise. How long till he decides to chase after one of Eden's queens, do you think, or are you against moving up in title even more?" Curious, the Weyrwoman was trying to make small-talk, perhaps not her best subject, but one she would manage as best she could. As Daisyth spoke to her though, the tone the Gold used said all, Llaina frowned, her eyes clouding as she reached her mind out to comfort her Gold, her love. Daisyth had not been her first dragon, had not even been her first queen, for Llaina had Impressed to a Magma before, losing the queen durring her first Flight, the dragon being struck by lightening and the Betweening from the fear of it. A miserable day it had been, and an even more miserable one it had been when ehr father decided that Llaina was destined to ride a dragon, and stay on one. How brutal he had been when he'd thrown her onto the sands, how cruel when he threatened her life. Even more cruel when he didn't kill her, when she Impressed. Oh she loved Daisyth, the Gold was all she could ask for, and having Ohayo was even more. But still, the hurt of her first loss stung even now. My love, do not fret. What worries you so on such a fine day? Rukbat is high and warm, the sky is clear, and there are hundreds of dragons, none of whom compare to you. For a moment, she got no answer, even though they both knew the subject of the Gold's troubled mind. Oh Mine... It is Nuath. I miss him, I miss my mate. He should be here, as he used to be, not on our ledge alone and empty. Gently, Llaina sighed, fighting back tears at the pain in the Gold's voice. My love, my dearest Gold, don't worry. Don't think of it now. Zhek lays by you now, and Dharth is there to talk with you as well. Enjoy their company, perhaps in the future Zhek can take the place of Nuath, he is a fine beast. Azrioth is here as well, another king worthy of you. Please, dearheart, stop letting our lost ones bother you. Biting her lips, she let her gaze fall tot he ground, thinking of Nuath made her think of J'kal. True, he was not the most passionate of lovers, was never very close to her, but he was a good man, and she'd watched him deteriorate at the side of his Bronze. He had been kind to her in the Turns Nuath caught Daisyth, had never taken for granted what he had.

Riki chuckled softly as Daisyth spoke to her again, making it seem a consiracy, though she had to admit, the Snow was beautiful. She hid the thought from the Gold though, knowing well that Daisyth prized herself on many things, and judging by the manner which Daisyth adressed the Snow, and her attitude, the Gold was not fond of her. Shyly, she looked at the Snow, for a moment unsure if she would be adressed by this beautiful creature as well or not. However, it seemed that the Snow didn't even know Riki existed, and with almost sad acceptance, she looked back at Dharth, and Zhek. Why had she even thought to expect the snow to speak to her? Was she so greedy that being adressed by three dragons was not enough? She wasn't even worthy of one speaking to her, much less three. A rush of anxiety gripped her heart, making her want to run, to hide, to find somewhere, anywhere, that she could be alone, and that she could forget about her own lack of worth. As Daisyth rose, Riki feeling the misery that washed over the Gold's mind, the girl moved as well, getting to her feel, reaching out a tenetive hand to rest in on the leg of the Gold.

However, it was not her business, what bothered her golden friend. For the moment, Riki was again insignifigant, a nobody. She sucked air into her lungs, knowing she didn't belong ehre, and spun away from the dragons, charging off to the stables again, where she could hopefully vanish into a stall, surrounded by the sweet smell of hay, the pungent, but pleasent, smell of runner. She was running back to Thor, the red runner who was one of her favorites, who shed visited earlier. AS she reached the stalls, she dashed into his, throwing ehr arms around the sturdy neck and burying her face in the soft fur. The best gave a low whicker, turning his head to nudge Riki gently, almost as if to ask what was wrong, and she reached out a hand to lovingly stroke the white blaze on his face. Thor wouldn't judge her, he wouldn't turn away from her just because she wasn't as good as everyone else. He wouldn't blame her for the loss of someone dear. No... He would stand calmly and let her release whatever she needed, he would wait until she was done, would listen to her pour her heart out no matter how foolish she was. Of course he'd never understand any of it, but still, it felt good to know she could always find solice in his stall. [/i]

Silvyth grumbled to herself at the rude greeting from Daisyth, though she knew she was being just as rude by not offering some scrap of friendly speech to the Gold. Much as she would rather not, Silvyth lifted her head, watching Daisyth for a moment, and nodding. Apologies Daisyth. You seemed much more interested in your human- Opps, looks like she has better things to do than keep you company. Hmm... What a shame that it. Silvyth's tail twitched in amusement, and she shifted her gaze back to Dharth for a moment. Yes, if Chayth should come, pelase let me know. Mine will be happy to see His, and I'd like a word with Chayth about New Cove females. Her tone was acerbic on the last note, and it was evident the queen was unhappy with the Roan's tendency to chase anything that flew, no matter where it flew. She wouldn't ban him, oh no, but she would politely request he try to keep himself under control, for while she tolerated the Roan, many of the New Cove males did not enjoy havin the Roan appear in Flights. Most considered him a poacher, and though Silvyth would not harm him, for Kisa would be upset if she did, there was nothing stopping the males in New Cove from attacking the Roan next time he flew. Wygith had left several marks on the Roan last time, when the Green Taiaxth's Flight was disturbed, and Chayth had been lucky at that.

With a dip of her head, Silvyth rose, nuzzling Xyurith's shoulder as she did in a fond farewell as she padded off, snaking ehr way through the hulking forms of lounging dragons until she came to a Spring, who looked more than a little intimidated by the numbers of dragons. A Spring meant she was most likely a resident of Crystal Cavern, and while Silyth was having difficulty showing any generosity to Daisyth, the Snow had no trouble being nice to another dragon from the same Weyr. With a friendly grin, the Snow gave a soft croon. You look a little lost. I am Silvyth, I believe Mine is talking to Yours right now, unless I am mistaken?

Kisa smiled and nodded, for a moment scanning the crowd unsuccessfully for N'nika, and then giving up. She'd find ehr weyrmate sooner or later, and she had a feeling that if Xyurith dressed N'nika, it would be hard not to spot her. Nothing against the Amber, but he was a bit too fond of colors, and had no sense of taste in what colors went with eachother, and which ones should never be put together on the same person at the same time. "Really? Well, I'm happy to meet you then. Been a long time since I've talked to anyone from Crystal Cavern. You are from Crystal Cavern, right? I know New Cove has a Spring, but-" Kisa caught herself starting to babble and shut her mouth promptly, silently counting to ten before speaking again. "Sorry. You wouldn't happen to know where the wine tent is, would you? I'm parched, and conversation flows best when accompanied by a glass of wine. How is everyone at the Weyr?" With more control this time than she'd shown before, Kisa tilted her head, dark hair falling to one side, her blue eyes intensely curious. Though she had to look up at Nocia, Kisa didn't mind, She was used to looking up at everyone.

Without even thinking about it, Kisa moved foward and looped her arm through Nocia's, companionably, and started looking about for some sign of the wine tent. Something about the Springrider made Kisa like her, and the Junior Weyrwoman was determined she was going to get to know this woman. Maybe N'nika would be at the wine tent! It would be great to see her weyrmate there, and get to talk to Nocia some.


Word Count: 2488
Character: Llaina of Daisyth; Riki; Kisa of Silvyth
Notes: I cut Rileson out of this one, since Spork hasn't posted yet. >w< Porbably a good thing though... This ran more than a little long. ^^


[/size][/color][/font]

[Desert]

K'dran winced. "The only queen we have in Eden at the moment is a magma, and I think you'll understand when I say Dharth would rather not chase a magma." He shook his head. "And yes, on top of that, Weyrleadership isn't something I'd ever banked on." He had a sneaking suspicion that Dharth had other ideas, but there was no point in voicing that idea aloud. Dharth rumbled in amusement from his perch when he caught that mental add-on to K'dran's speech.

At the mention of his Wingsecond, Dharth tossed his head in exasperation. Ah yes. I do apologize for my Second's poaching. That raunchy fellow is not happy unless he is chasing something. If you do not get a chance to take him up on the matter today, I will have a word with him myself.[/b][/color] It irked Dharth that Chayth would tresspass into other Weyrs to chase females. There were plenty enough proddy jades in Eden to satisfy even the lustiest male, but he still had to take his fun all over Pern. It was irritating.

I understand that the last time he tried that he got his comuppance from a New Cove bone,[/b][/color] Dharth observed, a bit of wry humor leaking into his smoky mental voice. Who was it? I would like to convey my regards to him.[/b][/color] The big black chuckled, a bit of sulphrous hot gas leaking from his muzzle as the deep sound rumbled up from his chest. That should probably happen more often, perhaps that would teach Chayth to keep his business in Eden where it belongs.[/b][/color]

In fact, the one responsible for those marks on Chayth's back burst into the air in that moment. Wygith circled in a tight spiral down to the landing courtyard and pulled up gracefully, belying his size with the delicacy of his landing.

A'res slid off the creamy gray neck and slapped Wygith's foreleg fondly, sending the bone off to the heights. He saw the Lord Holder conversing with someone who looked like a crafter, so he took himself off toward the wine tent.

he spotted Kisa in the meantime and waved to the Jr Weyrwoman, aiming a smile at the other rider to whom she was speaking. He would've approached, but the pair seemed absorbed in conversation so he decided not to.

Wygith, once he touched down on the heights, strolled for a bit to find enough space to lay down and bask. He chose a spot not too far from the group containing Dharth, Daisyth and Xyurith. Silvyth passed him on her way to bespeak the spring, and he whistled politely at the queen as she went.

Zhek lifted his head, sensing Daisyth's distress. Daisyth? You are unhappy. Why is that?[/b][/color] He crooned in convern, following her with his eyes as she stood and stretched. What's the matter? Today is such a fine day, you were just now relaxed. You shouldn't be unhappy on a Gather day.[/b][/color][/size][/color][/font]

[Dragonmage]

Mosyth looked up at the Snow. This dragon seemed kind and not as intimidating as the other ranking dragons. When Silvyth spoke to her, the Spring bobbed her head in acknowledgement of the Queen Snow. She quickly brushed her mind against her Nocia's to test the Snow's idea that their riders were talking to each other.

You are right, Silvyth. I am Mosyth of Crystal Caverns Weyr and My Nocia is the Weyrlingmaster. Mine and yours are at the Gather together. Would you like to sit in the sun with me? I can move over; It's no trouble. I would like it if we could sit together.

Nocia listened with a playful smile to the slightly babbling Kisa before speaking herself. She had to think for a few moments to respond logically to everything Kisa had said. The other rider had been talking rather fast.

"Yes, I am from Crystal Caverns Weyr. I'm sorry, but I don't know where the wine tent is. Perhaps we could go and look for it together, Junior Weyrwoman Kisa. I can not drink too much, though. Mosyth wants me to make and decorate a new set of riding straps. She thinks that they should look pretty and be useful. If I drink too much, Mosyth won't like the colors I pick out and she'll get really mad at me."

She let Kisa take her arm as they started to look for the wine tent. Mosyth's little idiosyncrasies could wait for a while as long as she did remember to get the materials for the straps. Besides, it was a Gather for Faranth's sake. Gathers should be enjoyable, not something to worry about and stress over. Daisyth would rise in her own time and worrying about her rank as Weyrlingmaster and the resulting clutch would not change anything. Only time would tell how the flight and clutch would be, but Mosyth was starting to get impatient waiting for a new group of Weyrlings. Taking care of them was her dragon's most enjoyed activity.

[elainsie]

M'lon wended his way through the throng of people, shortly arriving in front of the bubbly pie stall. Unfortunately his idea had not been a unique one, and there was a long line of people waiting for one of the deliciously sweet pastries. The blue rider was not against waiting usually, but he had missed his last meal due to the dilemma of what to wear and his stomach was growling so loud he was surprised no one around him noticed. Nor did he recognise anyway in the line that he could give a mark to and ask for a couple of bubbly pies. With a resigned sigh he decided he would have to get a pie later, and settle for something else at the moment.

Across the sward of grass, he spied the sweet rolls tent, and blessedly only a couple of people milled about, deciding what they would eat. Waiting for the pair two finish their purchase, M'lon reached into the bag at his waist and procured a mark.

"How can I help you?" the stall holder asked, her rounded form obvious testament to the food she sold, a friendly smile splayed across her rosy face.

"Three sweet rolls please, and yes they are all for me." He added with a grin, eagerly handing over the mark. Receving the rolls he took a bite of one them, "Mmmm." He murmurmed through pastry and filling. "These are wonderful, thank you very much. I warn you, I may be back," M'lon said once he had swallowed the mouthful. Piling the rolls in the crook of his arm as he recieved his change, he placed the half mark back into the bag and in doing so brushed against hide.

**Of course, Weyrleader D'ron's note. Why did you not remind me Okasrith?**

From the warm heights the blue replied, }:You took so long getting ready you really expected me to remeber?:{ The dragon shifted slightly, his form thrown into shadow by the addition of yet another bigger dragon. So far he had counted at least three Queens, and the same number again in Kings. Where were all the other dragons, he snorted in contempt.

**Of course, sorry. And I should not blame you, D'ron trusted me to give the Lord Holder the note, I should have remembered.** M'lon felt ashamed that he had forgotten his promise to the Weyrleader so quickly. It had been with pride that he had accepted D'ron's letter assuring the man he would deliver it as soon as he arrived at the Weyr. Why D'ron himself would not do so, or what its actual contents were, M'lon had not asked. It had been enough that he had been reqeuested to do this, particularly when there had been any number of other riders attending the Gather from Talune.

Dusting his fingers as he polished off the first pastry, M'lon began the second one, the ravenous hunger of earlier starting to ebb. He looked around trying to remember the layout of the Hold from above and where the Lord Holder would most likely be.

Deciding the Lord Holder would probably be back near the landing square so he could wlecome his guests, M'lon retraced his steps, and sure enough noticed the throng of people he had intially missed. He wondered over, another addition to a line that was thankfully shorter than that at the bubbly pies, glancing at the current man in conversation with the Lord Holder.

M'lon had seen him before on the one or two occasions he had been sent to Nusa Hold, and although his memory was short he doubted whether he had actually been introduced to the man. Why the fellow would want to work for a Lord Holder like Vesuvian was beyond him. Although M'lon had never had to deal with the Lord Holder himself the stories were enough for him to be thankful he was spared that ordeal.

[Epic Squid of Legend]

N'nika did a short little bow to the Weyrwoman, "I apologize for that miss-step, Weyrwoman," before turning back to the Lord Holder. She did a curt bow to him as well before rushing past into the Gather so as to not cause anymore confrontations. No way did she want to get on the wrong side of another Weyr! She had a hard enough time keeping New Cove in line, thanks to the good-for-nothing Weyrleader off on holiday somewhere. She thought to herself as she pushed into the growing crowd, headed straight for the wine-tent. Supposedly someone had brought a new kind of bubbly wine, and she meant to get a taste of it before it was gone.

On her way Xyurith touched her with his mind, she felt the contact and looked up, wondering why. She found him easily- a big amber blob on the Heights. When she reached back, she found him troubled, //What's wrong, Xyurith?// she asked, hesitating in her search for the wine vendor.

Xyurith was watching Silvyth go off towards a Spring, wanting to go off after her. But the Gold's problem stopped him, so he swung his head back around, wondering at the Queen. He said nothing, unlike the Bronze near her, but instead settled back on his haunches to watch the Gold. ~She is upset, the Gold Queen Daisyth. I wonder what could be wrong on such a fine day?~ he asked rhetorically, not really caring what his Rider had to say- for she knew nothing about Daisyth's Weyr. He looked over to Silvyth again before looking up to the sky as a large Brown burst from /between/. It was Karuopith, a Brown clutched by Syamynth before she caught sick. He watched as the Brown came down to land in the courtyard, slightly amused at the roan that shortly followed it. But this one had a passenger!

Karuopith wheeled down into the landing yard, settling lightly before a small Roan burst from /between/ and just about crashed into him. ~Myzinoth, be careful where you're going! You and Yours almost hit me!~ the Brown complained to the roan and his own Rider. M'za smiled apologetically at her brother H'say, patting Karuopith and telling him to calm down. He did so, but only slightly, bending and glaring at the Roan while he let his Rider off. M'za slid off, skipping a bit over to Myzinoth to help the twins down.

Rollasin, the passenger on the Roan, waved her off, "You think that after all this time of having the pair of you as siblings, that I wouldn't be able to get off a dragon?" he scoffed, then smiled at her. He slid down when the rather hyper roan bent at the knee. Once down he patted Myzinoth before heading over to Karuopith, whispering to him ,"You can bring me next time, okay? No need to be mad!" before laughing at the look the Brown gave him. Karuopith, jealous? No!

H'say extracted himself from Myzinoth's back, sliding down his flank to join his sister and his twin. He smiled at M'za, grabbing at his twin so the pair could head off into the gather together. They were headed directly for the food, of course, and would sample the wine and sweets at a later time. H'say leaned in close to his twin, whispering things about the women they passed while his twin would whisper things about the men. What a glorious family.

Word Count: 594

Characters: N'nika and Amber Xyurith, M'za and Brown Karuopith, H'say and Roan Myzinoth, MasterSinger Rollasin

Notes: VERY short for so many people, but I'm in a rush. >_<

[Lyrikitty]

Silvyth tossed a wolfish grin over her shoulder, nodding to the Bone who had just appeared so that Dharth may speak with him if the Black wished. Had Dharth been as most Blacks were, perhaps the Snow would have had second thoughts of permitting Wygith to be approached, no matter what the supposed intentions, and no matter that the Bone could defend himself well enough. A'res had suffered much in life, and the pain of another dragon being harmed, or worse killed, would be unbearable to the Weyr itself. So far the pair had made great progress, at times it was almost easy to forget that A'res had once been bonded to a Green, that he had once been a part of a different Weyr. As it was, Dharth was not the typical Black, and was well known for his better attitude, and Silvyth did have some inkling of liking for the king, and respect. He lived in a Weyr with many more agressive dragons, one of their queens a Magma, a vile creature who was known to delight in the squirmings of others.

Shrugging it off, and leaving the Black to his devices and to hopefully enjoy a chat with the Bone who'd put a few holes in Chayth's hide for his intrusions, the Snow shifted her attention right back to Mosyth, the little Spring who courteously offered to move over, drawing a ripple of laughter that rumbled from her chest and shook her shoulders. The tiny little creature offered to move for one of the larger dragons on Pern, to make room for her? Ah, that was priceless, she would have to tell Xyurith about it later. Shaking her head, she sank to the ground and hushed her rumbling of amusement, though her eyes still held faint shadows of laughter and mirth in them. Ah, I don't think it really all that neccicary for you to move, though I thank you for the offer. I can find plenty of room, and others are more than willing to get out of the way of a queen. With her belly resting on the soft grass again, and her wings unfurling to gently touch the ground and soak up the rays Rukbat cast down in their folds.

Kisa nodded, half-listening to what Nocia said. So, the woman was a seamstress of sorts, for her own purposes at least? Interesting little tid-bit that was, which was quickly stored away for future use. The bit about colors made her laugh though, a pealing sound that was almost chim-like. "Sorry, but the way you speak about Mosyth not liking the colors reminds me of my weyrmate's Amber. He has no sense of color at all, but he so loves to pick out cloths for others." With a devious grin, thinking of the last outfit she'd seen that was chosen by the big dragon, she shook her head and continued laughing softly. "I'd like to find the tent together, you seem very interesting, and even if you don't drink much I should be able to grab something nice for us, hopefully." Bweing a queenrider had it's perks, things like Gathers were interesting, as most of those working went out of their way to appease the Weyrfolk of high ranks, tripping over their boots to make everyone happy for fear the Hold would be frowned at if they didn't.

There were those who'd judge, but the only Hold Kisa would hold any judgment over was Tondrick, her former home, and a place she loathed. Never since her Searching had she set foot near the Hold, Solse being the closest she ventured, for fear she'd loose her temper and act unaccordingly to her current rank, so much more than she'd ever dreamed those turns ago. She fought the instinctive urge to rub a hand over her arms, or shoulder, knowing that under her long sleeves hid scars with a wretched, sickening past. N'nika never seemed to mind, had never once said a word about them. Even now, Kisa could pull forth the memory of the first time she'd revealed the reason to her long garb, to her hiding in sleeves and long leggings. N'nika said nothing, just traced a finger over one and looked back at her evenly for a long time.

But the hardest part of her life was past her now, she was in a bette world, one where no one dared to even think of striking her, of harming her. Fondly she reached out for Silvyth, mentally hugging the Snow close. The first Sow ever to hatch, what a prize, what a beauty. Se felt her bonded's response the warm embrace of the dragon's mind and heart and the flow of love and compassion.

Oh, and Dharth, I've no problem with him visiting, it delights MyKisa to see His, and even Xyurith's N'nika generally likes the rider. It is simply his habot of appearing for every Flight possible. How does he know? As she let Hers be washed in a sea of warmth as the two riders went in search of the tent, and the Snow was settled beside the Spring, contnet not to keep a constant chatter, but simply enjoy company, she'd thought of the question. How did that Roan seem to always know when a Flight was to occur, and when it was one that would be considered open? Naturally the Snow saw no cause that a Green Flight, or it's equal, would be closed to New Cove alone, but that the Roan had so far shown his face in every one he could manage without fail, she was interested. Was there some radar in his skull, or some flaw in his genetics, that told him? She knew not, but it was starting to bother her, that question, and perhaps Dharth, who lived witht he Roan as a wingsecond, would know.

AS the female pondered this, she looked about, spotting several dragons she knew, nodding to them, or greeting them, and as Wygith padded past and whistled softly, she rumbled and nudged her brother Bone playfully. I beleive that Dharth wishes to praise you for how you treated that Roan chayth in the last flight. I am here if you need me. She meant that bit to, if things did turn nasty, and for some unknown reason Dharth lost his manners and behaved like a typical Black, she would protect the Bone who lived in her Weyr -Hers only because no other queen ruled at the moment- and she was sure that if she found insult, and stepped up, Xyurith would as well. Maybe.

Daisyth shook her head, trying, as she was asked to, to shove away the thoughts and settle down again. She could hear the concern in Llaina's responses, could see the tellow taint that Zhek's own orbs took on as he watched her. She was being silly, she told herself firmly, trying to settle down. Making a fool of herself over nothing. Even that Amber brute who'd been a bother by taking up too much space when she tried to land had noticed, just look how he watched his mate go before looking intently at the Gold!

She drew air nto her lungs almost needily, and forced herself to lay back down, noticably closer to Zhek than before. Many reasons hid in the action, and she knew most of them. She disliked the Amber Xyurith, wanted to be far from him. She needed comfort, and being near so large a Bronze that she knew was a part of her Weyr helped in that. She'd not yet seen any of the other kings of Crystal Cavern, had not yet seen anyone else who she could turn to. No... She'd seen the Topaz Azrioth early on, but since then he seemed to have vanished. As the Gold started to feel more in control, she lifted her head slightly, holding it proud, and sighed. I didn't mean to bother anyone, I am fine. For all she wanted to keen at the comming loss, to pour out her heart, she managed a fair act of normality, and resting her head on her paws she stared longingly out at the open sky, as if there she would possibly find her freedom.

Llaina had to close her eyes for another moment, waiting until she was sure Daisyth wouldn't make a spectacle, or worse, and that the Gold was in control and settled. She understood what her dearest was suffering through, in a sense, but could offer no real comfort. Instead, she looked back at K'dran when she was sure it was safe t open her eyes and pay attention to someone beside the dragon, and nodded. "You would think I'd remember that you have a Magma around. If I'm not mistaken she came from the same clutch as my Daisyth." She frowned toughtfully, trying to remember how old the Eden Magma was. Daisyth was at ten turns now, and Llaina knew that despite her state at the time she'd taken a glimmer of notice at a Magma hatchling, how could she not have? If not for the rank and the attitudes of the little queens, because her Murlaneth had been one.Then again, Murlaneth had never been so violent. Yes, she was pretty sure that Daisyth and Honuth -that was her name!- were clutchsisters. "Has she managed to mangle anyone else lately? I know she was transfered out because she was too much for us to handle." She gave a little cringe at that, yes now that she was remembering correctly she could pull up a mental image of the dragon in question. "Hopefully your Dharth doesn't chase her, I heard that her first Flight was bad..." Was it one or two kings killed in that one? She couldn't remembered. Hmm... Ah, well she'd better try to shift the subject, unless of course K'dran would rather talk about the Magma? No, he didn't seem to be thrilled with her at all. Better to find something else to talk about.

Quickly shuffling through her mind for anything to bring up, she crossed her arms and looke at the ground thoughtfully, one toe tapping absently against the ground. Surely she could think of something interesting, something that would make conversation worthwhile? Perhaps, but she was having trouble doing so.


As if summoned by mention of her name, or her existence, whichever, another figure appeared above, with a triumphant warble that spilled form her lips, unlikely heard by anyone. A fine day it was, and there were many dragons about. Her wings, more of them than body for the dragon, worked almost lazily as her crimson orbs searched the ground for a prime place to land, one that would show off ehr skills to the best. Of course, settling in to the dancing square or the heights like all the rest did was out of the question, and she'd not be seen doing things so simply. She wanted a challenge, and she she eyed the aisles between tents, she found it. Not a soul travelled one of them, well, maybe a couple, but as soon as they saw the dragon comming down they'd move or be caught beneath her, either way didn't matter. Wheeling at a sharp angle, enough that had Xai not been strapped she'd have been thrown, on a wingtip, she lost speed quickly, dropping down in a spiral so tight many thought she was simply spinning about. With the ground just close enough, she righted herself, flipped her wings to her back, and dropped, landing smack between the wine tent and a booth selling sweetrolls, knocking neither down. As her neck arched up coyly, she crooned, the spines rattling together as they reached skyward. See that Xai? I doubt there is a Green here who could have made such a fine landing. now get off, I wish to go look about. Hurry up! Impatient now, the Magma gave her shoulders a shake, urging Xai to undo the straps faster ans dismount.

Sighing, Xai quickly undid the straps with the ease that comes only from practice -she refused to ride the dragon without them, since Honuth was so agile, and rarely gave a warning to her maneuvers- while muttering to herself. Why did Honuth have to be such a show-off? Sure, it was nice to remind people what she cold do now and again, and of course it credited Eden that they had such a skillful dragon for the sky, but still... free of her straps, Xai swung a leg ofer the neck carefully and shoved herself off the dragon, and away. She was loathe to slide down the soulder as most did, for Magmas, like many of Crystal Cavern's dragons, were scaled. Not visably so, really, but to run your hand the wrong way over them would end with the skin shredded. Tiny little scales covered the entire body of the Magma, just another way of making them a pain to be near. Did any creature really need such defenses?

Those who suffer my displeasure might think they'd like some defenses. I know a couple who ratehr envy my spines. They are pretty though. Now shoo, Ill not sqash you and have to Between while taking off. To emphasize this, the magma snapped her teeth sharply at Xai, who nimly stepped aside and moved away, her first chore to load up on wine.

As soon as Xai was out of the way, Honuth eyed th area she had landed herself in. Not much room on either side, enough that if she took one step in either direction she'd be brushing the walls. However, the buildings weren't all that tal, all the needed to do was get herself over them and she would be able to manage the rest. She crouched, her muscles coiling tightly as she prepared to launche herself up, her wings stretching skyward, standing striaght as she waited. With a surge of power she jumped, as soon as she'd started to clear the buildings her wings came down, and she was aloft. The tent and booth shivered below her, but they stood, and smugly, she glided to the heights, looking about to see if there was somewhwere she found suitable, or comapny she might enjoy.

Xai hurried into the wine tent, ignoring the aftermath of honuth' take-off, and found herself a skin, paying for it without even caring what it was. Uncorking it, she tilted the spout to her lips, not bothering with a glass, and almost spit it out, so acidic it was. She managed to suffer it down, and after that she looked for a glass. She wasn't so picky that she'd refuse the wine, but she wanted something to help her drink it slower. With a glass in hand, she settled to an empty table and filled it, looking at the ruby liquid with a scowl. The expression was not at the wine itself, but one she wore often, made more noticable by the line of stitches running across one cheek.


Rileson, finding little interest in the man he'd been talking to, spotted yet another person who seemed to be weaiting on him. This one wore the shoulder knots of a rider, and a Blue at that. With a parting nod and a clap on the shoulder for the man he'd been talking to, Rileson turned away and started off for the Bluerider, pausing to watch as a Magma came in for a landing that madfe him wince. Hopefully the beast wouldn't ruin anything... Many hours had been spent to make the Gather perfect, and if that creature ruined it, he'd not be inviting Eden back for any reason. As he watched the same dragon take back to the air, he grudgingly admited that he heard no sign of destruction, so she must be reasonably capable in the air.

Oh well, back to the subject at hand, the Bluerider. With a nod to himself, he started back up at a brisk walk, until he reached the man and extended his own hand, waiting for a shake. "Hello there Bluerider! Don't recognize you, which Weyr are you from?" He was starting to have belated second thoughts about allowing anyone on Pern to come that wanted to, as so many faces would be unrecognizable to him, but it was more than a little late for that.

He was getting too old for this! Of course, considering his age he was in remarkable health, but he was all to aware he'd not be around for too many more turns, and he was likely to leave his Hinuk as heir. He couldn't very well give the Hold to Riki, not because she was a gir, but because he hated her. He loathed his daughter to the point of exasperation, and he wished that she would simply follow after her mother to the grave -though he'd dearly loved the girl's mother and was heartbroken that she was no longer with him- to male life easier for everyone. As if. No, that cunning little wretch was probably off plotting right now, trying to think up some way to get back at him, or worse overthrow him. Well... That simply couldn't happen! No, if he made himself well enough liked by all of Pern, as he was hoping to do with such a large Gather, how could anyone steal away his rank?

"You know only those of high rank have to come greet me. Most of the rest simply go off to enjoy, though I'm happy to see you with manners lad! I'm Rileson, though by the look of you you guessed it already, how can I help you?" Yes, he'd have all of Pern singing his prasies, and then Riki wouldn't stand a chance. Pleased with himself, he smiled, one that by all appearances was amiable and generous, but it stemmed from his own assurance at his plans. He noticed as several other dragons, a Brown with a female, and a Roan with a male rider and a passenger, landed and let off their mounts, and waved at the one he recognized as a Harper. What was the man's name? He could never remember, though he was sue it was something similar to his own. As for the riders he hadn't a clue who they were, and shrugged it off. unless they all came over at once, he'd have no worries.


Word Count: 3240
Characters: Kisa of Silvyth
Notes: Wow. That is all I can say on the length of this. Wow. Seriously... *dies* this is why I left Rileson out of the last one. *nods vigorously*

[Desert]

Zhek crooned at Daisyth and extended his head, lightly touching his muzzle to her shoulder. Whatever made you sad, I am sorry,[/b][/color] the big bronze said compassionately. He wasn't sure what had made the gold so upset, and he had an idea Daisyth might not prefer to explain, but he still felt the need to apologize -- to do something to help. He withdrew his head after the brief touch, not wanting to seem too pushy.

Wygith looked up when Silvyth spoke. He gape-grinned briefly at his clutchsister, then turned toward the mountainous black watching him with an appraising gleam in one seagreen-wheeling eye.

Dharth dipped his head politely at the big bone. So, you were the one to mark up my Second in the green Flight?[/b][/color] he asked.

I did. He should not poach in other Weyrs. That roan had it coming. He was lucky I did not hurt him worse,[/b][/color] Wygith replied mattor-of-factly, drawing himself up into a regal stance.

A rumbling chuckle dripped from Dharth's muzzle. Oh ay. That was well done, friend. Had I been in your place I would have done the same. I think I will have a word with Chayth and warn him to keep his chasing in the East, lest that should happen again. Methinks he will have no sympathy if he keeps coming back gashed up. If he decides to poach in your Weyr again, you need not fear retribution from any of the rest of us should you choose to repeat that lesson you taught him.[/b][/color]

Wygith tossed his head slightly and snorted. Good, because if he comes back I may have to shred his wings.[/b][/color]

Stop being so bloodthirsty, Wyg. You're no amber, A'res warned his dragon. There was mostly amused tolerance in his tone, but the message was sincere.

The big bone huffed a bit, but acquiesced to his rider's wishes. For now. Wygith usually was relatively nonviolent, but he did have principles and he stood by them.

K'dran shrugged slightly. "Oh, the usual antics. Not too bad, considering. I think having dragons like my Dharth and our cyan Seth around keep her amused. At least they can hold their own against her." Dharth certainly got a kick sometimes out of the magma's shenanigans. If he hadn't been bound by his sense of duty to act responsible to his wingmates, he would've been much more of a danger to the Weyr, so it seemed he was enjoying it vicariously, through Honuth.

At Llaina's mention of Dharth possibly chasing Honuth, the blackrider had to suppress a groan. It would be just like Dharth to do that. It would be more for the thrill of the challenge, to pit himself against the magma and have a good excuse to. It was a good thing that at least Xai and Honuth weren't the senior pair -- it would make Dharth's day and ruin K'dran's year if that pesky black took it into his head to make K'dran the Weyrleader. "It would be a bit of a pain, but I think not as much for him as for some others. He's twice her size and as good of a fighter, so he'd probably be able to keep his hide intact." K'dran's wellbeing was a whole other story.

ooc; eck. Melpomene's AWOL or that'd be a longer post. -sigh-[/size][/color][/font]

[elainsie]

M'lon's attention wavered as he stood in the line for Lord Rileson, the exchange between the two men holding no interest for him. He had been glancing over at the landing site, keeping an out for any familiar dragons and their riders when the Magma erupted from the sky. A shiver run down his spine at the sight, her immaculate landing wasted upon the blue rider. Little disturbed M'lon more than the sight of a Magma, although he was not alone in this thinking. The majority of Pern was fearful of what was easily the most deadliest dragon in their skies, although M'lon was lucky in the fact that his Weyr, Talune, housed no such creatures. So caught up in his thoughts, he did not notice the Lord Holder's presence until the man stood in front of him.

He bowed his head in acknowledgment of the Lord, while answering his question. "I doubt you would recognise me, I am M'lon of Blue Okasrith and we hail from Talune in the South." He rose his head up, cheerful smile intact. If the Lord's comment over rank had been a slight, the insult passed over M'lon as easily as water over a duck's feathers. Instead he plucked the note out from the small bag at his waist, handing it over to the Lord Holder with a flourish. "I have tidings from our Weyrleader D'ron, and apologies for his non-attendance at what is surely one of the most colorful Gathers I have been to yet. No doubt he is missing out," M'lon commented as he watched the man scan the contents of the note, chafing at the delay of his own enjoyment. M'lon peered at the note quickly as the Lord Holder held it out, but it was much too hard to read upside down, and he doubted any of it was meant for him, so he gave up instead resuming his watch for a familiar face. With a smile he recognised a green rider and gave the woman a wave, wondering if perhaps he would be gone soon and be able to meet up with her.

Had he persued with his attempt to read the note he would have found the contents contained this:

Esteemed Lord Hold Rileson,

Talune Weyr expresses its deepest apologies for the fates to fall as they have, as so it is with sorrowful regret that the Weyrleaders of Talune will have to respectfully decline your invitation to attend the Gather. This is no reflection of your Hold, as Talune has no quarrel with Solse. This is merely a preventative method bent on keeping the peace so that no blood is split at what should be a joyous occasion. It is to my further displeasure to announce the cause of such: New Cove and its Junior Queen have sliced a slowly healing wound into Talune's pride and disgraced our Weyr without but a passing thought on the matter. As such, our presence at your Gather would only create further torment to a damaged pride, and that cannot be allowed. Perhaps this will prove to the young rider and her dragon the sheer ignorance of her actions, for they will not soon be ignored.

Abyss driven,

Weyrleader D'ron of Onyx Varanth[/color][/i]

Notes:Letter is directly from Onyx and hence D'ron ^^[/size]

[Dragonmage]

Mosyth felt very hurt by the Snow's laughter at her. She had just been trying to be nice to the bigger dragon. The best way to describe what the Spring did next was curling up into a ball and shaking in the way that would have been hard sobbing if she were human. All unknown to the distraught dragon, her emotions were hurtling down the link with her rider like a flash flood.

Nocia had been nattering on a bit about Mosyth's propensity for customized straps, "Well, I guess I should consider myself lucky that Mosyth can at least discern what colors go together decently and which ones shouldn't be allowed within three dragonlengths of each other. I fear to imagine what my riding straps would look like if she had the same taste in colors as you say your Weyrmate's dragon does."

Mosyth's distress hit Nocia like the proverbial ton of bricks. Biting back her first response to her dragon's feelings, which was something along the lines of 'What in the name of Faranth's socks did your Snow do to my dragon,' Nocia took several deep breaths to force herself to calm down.

"What just happened up on the fireheights? Mosyth was fine and then suddenly she was doing the dragon version of sobbing her hearts out."