2/18/2003

01:48 AM

Logfile from Briny.

 

Main Beach - Monaco Weyr(#1298RFJMa$)

   This long black sand beach extends as far as the eye can see in the west, but is broken to the east by the mouth of Monaco River. The sand sprawls in different formations; flat here near the Weyr buildings, with a slight fordune and then a broken basalt flat leading back up to the buildings. Wavy, rolling dunes rise across the river farther east. Occasional gusts of wind laden with sharp salt and mustier river scents riffle lighter sand over the flat beach, and from the quay at the western bank of the rivermouth comes the faint ring of clapper against bell.

Contents:

Tristan

V'mar

Bella(#2726PJOXce$)

K'tell

El'ric

Heridyn

K'dir

Lya(#2842PJce)

Ashelyn

Aristan

T'nar(#3145PJXcesw)

L'in(#1457PJXc$)

G'briel

Osasune

S'vilen

Yvexa

C'val

Talian

T'ren(#2922PAJXce$)

Arlyn

J'van

Eliwys

Lyriana(#3409PJc)

Food Table

Obvious exits:

OCean  Quay  River  Western Landing Field  Terrace 

 

J'van then continues, this time speaking directly to the Weyrlings. "Each one of you has fulfilled our expectations of you and, in doing so, have earned the right to pass from this phase of your lives into the next. We welcome each of you and your lifemates as you join the ranks of Monaco Weyr as full-fledged riders, who give their lives in service to the people of Pern." He pauses again, letting his words sink in.

 

K'tell nods as he listens to the speach, he does glance over his shoulder 'very' quick-like before looking ahead again.

 

J'van finishes up the speech without ado, a smile for the weyrlings, although there is still that hint of solemnity in his expression. "Know that with the loss of your weyrling knot and the reception of your new one, you show yourself willing to accept the responsibility that the past few Turns have prepared you for. It is an honor to achieve the rank of rider, and we expect that each of you will prove yourself worthy of your new position and your new wings." He smiles. "And now, let's begin the ceremony. First, El'ric has some items for you." He steps back, indicating with a hand for the weyrlingmaster to come forth.

 

T'nar listens and watches the ceremony closely, nodding at the grim implications to J'van's words. Now is a time for respect. /Later/ is the time for fun.

 

T'ren listens in silence along with the children. There are a few quiet whispers to T'ren from Tristevan and a couple whispered answers back.

 

Arlyn realizing the singing part is over, returns to his normal self. Again not wanting to be here...but indeed he is so he must make the best of it, with a slight scowl on his face.

 

K'dir says softly to Heridyn, "They always give gifts! It's better than a Turnday!"

 

Aristan listens to J'van speak to the weyrlings, his soft brown eyes travelling over each one of them thoughtfully. He looks to Ashelyn, and yes, even Lya, before returning his attention to the weyrlings, curious as to El'ric's gifts.

 

K'dir quickly slaps G'briel's chest with the back of his hand.

 

El'ric nods an acknowledgement to J'van and turns to face the Weyrlings, clearing his throat he calls out in a strong voice. "To help you on your way from weyrlinghood, your weyrlingmaster staff have prepared some gifts for you." He moves to one side of the platform and picks up a basket, checking the name on it he calls out. "Weyrling K'tell rider of green Avath, please step forward."

 

V'mar licks his dry lips nervously and shuffles his feet back and forth. His silent attention flickers from J'van to El'ric and remains there.

 

G'briel just grins, trying to catch K'dir's hand as it hits him, a smug look on his face as he continues to pay most of his attention to the ceremony.

 

K'tell gulps lightly and steps forward as he his called.

 

Heridyn looks at K'dir with a grin. "Really? Heh, lucky.." he trials off as K'tell moves forward.

 

Lyriana smiles at K'tell as he approaches and watches him almost..proudly.

 

Bella listens to the speech and shifts a bit nervously. She gives K'tell and encouraging wink as his name his called and chuckles at his nervousness, hoping her own's is not that apparant.

 

T'nar grins as K'tell steps forward, and quickly peers over at G'briel.

 

Osasune listens and watches attentively. Almost. That bug's still zipping about. She doesn't swat it, only clasping her hands tighter. It lands on the back of the man in front of her's head and her eyes narrow.

 

Briny was truly here this entire time. Honest, she was. But, the girl stands and fidgets, fingers tugging at her shirt before coming up to coil one finger about a bit of hair. She smiles after J'van, and then perks at the mention of presents. She turns her head to watch after K'tell.

 

Eliwys grins as K'tell becomes the first to get called up by El'ric. She watches his approach with some curiousity.

 

Aristan lifts from his seat just a bit as K'tell walks to the Weyrlingmaster, to accept his gift. A grin soon plays on the teen's lips as he watches the graduating weyrling with pride and elation.

 

J'van stands next to Eliwys, awaiting the delivery of the weyrling baskets - or are those rider baskets? Curiosity is in his expression as he watches, standing close to the weyrwoman. He'd put his arm around her, but she'd likely slap him.

 

Heridyn eyes the two men sitting next to him for a moment, then looks back forward to grin at K'tell.

 

El'ric holds out the basket to K'tell, "Here you go K'tell I hope the gifts fair you well." he says quietly handing the basket over, "return to your position please." before turning and picking up the next basket. He calls out a few more names and hands out baskets before getting to and calling out, "Weyrling Bella, rider of green Lyranth."

 

K'tell nods as he gingerly takes the basket, beaming at El'ric..then moves back to his position.

 

K'dir says "There!" pointing to Bella as he talks to Heridyn. "She's Tristevan and Orella's mother. She's very nice."

 

V'mar leans over to see if he can see what's in the basket for K'tel but he's soon grinning at Bella, sneaking a moment to rub his shoulder, itching there gingerly.

 

T'nar grins at the departing greenrider, his eyes moving now to Bella, as his grin continues. There are advantages to being tall, in a crowd.

 

Heridyn blinks, and glances at K'dir "Is she? I hope to be able to meet her then!"

 

Aristan drops back down to his seat only to lift up again as the Monacoan Weyrlingmaster calls out Bella's name. And yet again, a grin blooms and Aristan watches the graduating weyrling accept her own basket.

 

Bella watches as K'tell comes back and she stretches her neck to try and see what's in his basket. She hears her name and then takes a deep breath before stepping forward. She stands tall in front of the weyrleaders and takes a calming breath.

 

T'ren stands up and doesn't hold back. He appluads loudly for Bella as does Orella and Tristevan. T'ren has a very proud smile on his face for Bella. "Yah Mama!" Tristevan shouts out and T'ren doesn't even think to shush him.

 

K'dir chuckles as he watches T'ren and Bella's children, applauding himself.

 

K'tell flashes T'nar a quick grin from his spot, then watches as Bella steps forward.

 

El'ric hands the basket over to Bella with a smile, "Here you go Bella, you'll enjoy it's contents." He motions for her to rejoin the group as he reaches for the next basket, calling out clearly, "Weyrling Briny, rider of blue Belynth."

 

T'ren sits back down and gets Tristevan and Orella to sit back down to watch the rest of the ceremony.

 

Eliwys lowers her voice, though some may still hear, "What's in those baskets? Do you know?" she asks of J'van.

 

Heridyn nods while listening to K'dir speek and watches with a grin on his face. "She must be a very nice person then, I'm glad I came to see K'tell so I could have a chance to hear about and maybe meet her. K'tell is my brother..have I told you that yet?"

 

K'tell grins as he watches Briny get called up next.

 

Osasune finally gives in and waves her hand at the bug on the man's neck. It flies off, but the man turns about in his seat to give Osa a funny look. She smiles a big, big smile until he turns around again. Then she slumps back in her seat and tries to direct her attention to what's going on up front.

 

Briny nearly startles as her name is spoken. With something of a blush, the girl pushes back her hair to come forward and meet El'ric. A broad smile is offered up to him as first she looks up to meet his eyes, and then at these baskets.

 

K'dir 's eyes go wide. "No, I didn't know you had a brother who was a rider. So mine isn't the only family with multiple riders!" he smiles at Heridyn. "Congratulations to you and your family, then."

 

T'nar nods approvingly at Briny, watching as she accepts her basket.

 

Bella takes her basket and nods as she moves out of the way. She can't resist peeking intot he basket before she even resumes her place back in the weyrling line. A grins spreads across her face and she peeks back to El'ric with a chuckle. She hears cheering and glances over to T'ren and the littles with a grin.

 

Heridyn laughs at K'dir's words "My family only has 'one' rider so far, but thanks! You have more than one rider in your family?" he glances at G'briel for a moment, then back at K'dir.

 

K'dir says softly, "Gad...half my cousins are riders."

 

V'mar grins from one ear to the other as Briny comes back with her basket And he rocks back and forth on his feet a little.

 

L'in wobbles to the side, trying to see over the heads in front of him. Finally, he gives up, excusing himself from his seat to stand near the back. "Much better." he whispers to himself as he applauds as each weyrling receives a basket.

 

El'ric, still smiling passes the basket over to Briny "Briny, something to help give a bit of colour to that cottage of yours." He quickly moves to pick up the next basket and after several more weyrlings are called for and presented with their baskets, he gets onto "Weyrling V'mar, rider of brown Idranth."

 

Briny flashes El'ric another broad grin as the basket is given and the girl is hurrying back to join the others so she can peek into it.

 

This basket is rather large and woven in shades of black, silvery grey and blue. Inside it is lined with a white and blue checked cloth, and has been filled with several rather plain looking sticks, a piece of hide with instructions on how to plant the sticks, a small potted aloe plant, a small, well-stitched pillow that smells sweetly of herbs and a fully packed box of dried herbal teas.

 

T'nar hopes to manage to catch V'mar's eye as the man steps up to accept his own basket - See! The brownie's wearing those great thread your father made for him!

 

Heridyn gives K'dir a wide-eyed look before turnning to watch the gift-giving.

 

V'mar pushes forward with light steps and strides forward to stand before El'ric. But not before giving Briny a wink as he turns his head just so.

 

El'ric passes over the basket to the brownrider, "There's something in there to help with that shoulder of yours V'mar." He smiles again before turning to grab yet more baskets. He goes through more weyrlings until finally the last one heads back to join the assembled wing of weyrlings.

 

Bella smiles at the other weyrlings as they are called up to get their baskets. She still remains quiet and settles the basket on the sand by her feet.

 

V'mar flashes a quick grin at El'ric, 'More numbweed?" He asks in a soft voice and then turns and strides back to his place, holding his basket possesively until he can see what it holds.

 

L'in passes a few riders chatting in the back, excusing himself once again as he works his way to the field. Seems his lifemate needs tending to, judging from the look in his eyes and the way his lips are silently moving.

 

L'in walks off southwards to the green expanse of the western landing field, passing through the basalt flats.

 

Stepping forward to stand in front of the weyrlings, El'ric coughs a little, calling for silence before he speaks again in a loud voice. "Well weyrlings, you've come a long way since I first helped escort some of you off of the hatching sands, for some it will have been easier than others but in the end you've all made it this far, it's been a pleasure seeing you through weyrlinghood, but for now it is time for this bit to come to an end." He pauses to let the words sink in before continuing, "It is time for me to pass you over to the care of the Weyr as full riders." With that he salutes to the weyrlings. "Weyrlings of Sunrise wing you are dismissed." He turns sharply to the platform and salutes to Eliwys and J'van, "They're all yours."

 

C'val waits patiently. "Gifts," He muses quietly, "That's a new one on me. Maybe next cycle they'll have the Weyrlings sing a song to the harpers." With that he chuckles to himself at the thought of a dozen tone deaf weyrlings singing to the pain of harpers being forced to listen.

 

Osasune cheerfully applauds as the Weyrlings are... unweyrlinged. Her grin's a wide one, likely in part due to a short jaunt down memory lane.

 

Eliwys steps forward, and smiles, "Well, my speech is a little less rehearsed, I'm not very good at them, so let's just say that I'm very proud of all of you. You pass this day from Weyrling to rider, and with all that it entails. Remember yourself, and what you've been taught, and don't get cocky, because that *will* get you killed." Nose wrinkles, a pause like she's about to say something else then she grins, shaking that mood, "I have gifts from the Weyr for you. If you'd like to step up when I call out your name. Bella? You first."

 

Osasune's grin fades. She quickly stops clapping, face turning red. Oops.

 

K'dir's face shines with prode...partly from memories of his own graduation.

 

T'ren smiles at the speach from El'ric and as he hears Bella's name called again he is right up on his feet clapping for her. Tristevan hops up along with Orella. "Yah Mama! Yah!" The littles cheer.

 

Briny looks down at her basket, smiling rather happily of the contents before she is looking back up to watch the others. She shoots a glance askance to V'mar, then back to the others to watch Eliwys.

 

Bella listens to El'ric and glances around to the other weyrlings. Shifting her feet a bit, her attention goes to Eliwys and she can't help but run her fingers over her arm at the cocky comment. When her name is called, she steps forward a bit shyly and clears her throat as she nods to Eliwys.

 

Eliwys delves into a velvet pouch, bringing out a ring, and holding it out for Bella, and perhaps some near the front to see.

 

V'mar's mouth drops open at the idea of another gift. He stands a little straighter and tries again to peek into the basket and figure out just what he got.

 

K'tell blinks and his eyes widen. More gifts? He watches Bella move forward again, another grin on his face.

 

T'nar smiles at the gift of rings, absently carressing his own as his eyes unfocus for a few moments.

 

Bella arches her brow as Eliwys holds out a ring. Looking up towards the leaders curiously, she takes the offered ring "Thank you Weyrwoman Eliwys, Weyrleader J'van."

 

T'ren continues to clap loudly for Bella as do the children.

 

Osasune is still blushing rather a lot, not daring to applaud. She chews her bottom lip, smiling a touch at the gift of the gift despite her apparent discomfort.

 

Sasha ambles in from the western landing field, through the basalt flats.

 

Eliwys smiles to Bella, "You're welcome. Briny, would you step up here?"

 

Sasha comes in a little bit late, and finds a chair near the back.

Briny is being called forward again. Oh my. She sets down the basket, smooths a hand over her shirt once more before walking up to stand before Eliwys. If she can make it there without tripping, all will be good.

 

Bella steps back out of the way, still looking at the pretty ring. She grins and shifts to the side of the platform til she is dismissed.

 

Rhymith wings in from the open sky above the western half of the weyr.

 

J'van steps forward to hand Bella a shiny new knot in Monaco's blue, white, and black "Here you go, Rider Bella - you don't want to leave without this, I don't think ...unless you wish to stay a weyrling?" he teases.

 

Belle slides off of her lifemate's neck, landing lightly on the ground.

 

T'ren sits down as Bella goes back to the side of the platform. Tristevan sits on his father's lap as does Orella.

 

V'mar leans to one side and then the other to see what the other candidates are getting. His mouth forms a little pursed knot as he blows out a breath and then shifts again, looking edgy.

 

Bella smiles up to J'van and chuckles "Well of coarse not Vanman." she gives a wink at the nickname and takes the knot. "Thank you sir."

 

Eliwys again dips her fingers into that velvet pouch, squinting a little and the movements suggesting one is dropped in favor of another, before she hands it over, "For you, Briny. Congratulations."

 

The ring: Silver has been worked into a delicate filigree of turbulent waves, undulating and melding into each other to form the complex band of this ring. Leaping from the water, half in, half out, are two shipfish, one curls around the top of the indigo blue stone, another beneath, cradling the iolite in place. The blue iolite has been cut in an oval shape, the faceting on it giving the impression of a sparkling pool for the shipfish to swim around.

 

Eliwys narrows her eyes slightly at the use of the nickname, but for now says nothing, waiting for Briny's reaction to her gift.

 

Briny blinks for a moment at Eilwys, holding her hands out to accept what is given. He blinks at the ring, smiles softly, and then bobs her head to Eliwys in thanks before returning to join the others.

Bella nods and moves down off the platform to take her spot next to the rest of her class and claps for each as they are called up.

E

l'ric stands to the side of the platform watching his weyrlings become riders with more than a hint of pride.

 

J'van smirks a little bit - he knows Eliwys hates that nickname Verali gave him. He waggles a knot at Briny as she turns to head back to the other weyrlings "Ah, ah....don't you think V'mar would appreciate it if you remembered this, Rider Briny?" he says, still teasingly - seems he's in a good mood, full of pride and approval for the new riders.

 

Eliwys looks out over the crowd of Weyrlings, calling a few more, and then comes across another in the bag, "K'tell? Mind stepping up here please?" she asks.

 

Belle pours herself a glass of red wine as the werylings settle into the graduation party. She surveys the area expectantly.

 

V'mar clears his throat rather loudly and tries to point Briny back up to get her knot. It's all he can muster to keep from laughing aloud.

 

K'tell places his basket by his feet, and then moves forward again, this time with a slightly less nervous smile, he shifts from one foot to the other the smile widening into a grin.

 

Eliwys grins, "Here you are, K'tell" she says, offering him one of the rings.

 

Briny squeaks in mid-step, blushes rather brightly and then moves back over to take her knot. "Oh dear." Yes, speaking in a stage whisper. "I totally forgot." She'll just light up the area with her red face now, don't mind her. "Sorry."

 

K'tell takes the ring gingerly from Eliwys and beems at her. "Thank you." he says quietly still grinning.

 

J'van just chuckles, handing the knot over to the new rider "I'm sure V'mar won't" he winks, letting her head back to her classmates as he waits for K'tell to gain his gift, a knot in hand for the greenrider, which he hands over once he's gotten his ring. "And for you, Rider K'tell - did you ever think you'd make it?" is asked with a smile.

Eliwys quickly hands out a few more rings, then comes to the last, holding it up between thumb and forefinger, "V'mar, I believe this one is yours. Would you step up here please?"

 

Belle wanders over to where many of her wingmates are seated and with a pleasant nod to them, finds an empty chair and seats herself. She settles her harpbag at her feet where the instrument won't be jostled before taking a sip of her wine.

 

Briny purses her lips as she hurrily rejoins the others to sort of meld in with them. But, of course, the girl is peeping at her knot, examining the wing with bright eyes. At V'mar's name, she is looking up to follow his progress.

 

K'tell moves to accept his knot from the Weyrleader, he grins at the mans words as he does so. "I wondered about that from time to time! Thank you very, very, much Vanman."

 

V'mar winks at Briny, color in his cheeks as well. He heads for Eliwys with all the dignaty he can muster and stands up very straight and tall as he comes to a stop before the Weyrwoman.

 

Lyriana shifts the large drum from the place she's tucked it and slides it nearly silently forwards.

 

Viranali is here, really. Sliding over towards her fellow Candidates, she grins - slipping into the mix. "Don't worry," she says, winking - obviously in one of her better moods, "I left the spinners back home. They would have frozen in between." Shivering, she giggles and looks around. "Exciting, isn't it?"

 

J'van hands out knots as fast as Eliwys does rings after a grin for K'tell's response - until he has just one knot left to turn over. He watches V'mar move forward, then waits.

 

Eliwys profers the ring to V'mar, "Sorry you had to be the last" she notes, "But you know how it goes."

 

Osasune sits quietly, blush finally beginning to fade. The bug - well, a bug, since it's hard to tell one bug from another - buzzes by. Her expression turns forlorn. Not again.

 

Yvexa walks off southeastwards to the wide expanse of the weyrhall terrace.

 

T'nar slowly moves to his feet, anticipating the surge of folks and the cheering and applause to come. He practically tiptoes away from the main throng of people, not wanting to be caught up in the crowd.

 

Sisala ambles in from the western landing field, through the basalt flats.

 

V'mar shakes his head, "I don't mind being last. Someone has to do it." He seems in good spirits as he takes his ring, "Thank you so much. This is more than I expected." He turns towards J'van with a grin, almost smirking at the man who teased Briny for him. "Sir."

 

K'dir taps Heridyn's arm with the back of his hand. "See? There's my cousin Sisala now."

 

Viranali sends a look over to Osasune, bug catching her eye. Motioning with a the 'one-minute' hand signal, she hops on over to the Fortian bluerider. "Want me to get rid of the bug?" she queries, watching it buzz.

 

J'van grins back at the brownrider, waggling that knot. "I can just bet you won't be forgetting this..." He says with amusement, handing it over "One has to wonder why we gave you two individual weyrs, too - Rider V'mar. Congratulations." He waves the new rider away, then motions for silence, his gaze running over the weyrlings and the crowds.

 

El'ric claps as the last of the weyrlings is given their rings and rider knots. He remains standing at the side of the platform waiting for the ceremony to end.

 

Heridyn leans forward to catch a glimps of K'dir's cousin. "Oh, her? Over there? I see." he grins "You really do have gads of cousin riders!"

 

Lyriana is behind the Weyrleader and his lady, the drum nearly to her waist as she waits. Silent.

 

K'dir nods in reply. "No kidding!"

 

Osasune's gaze shifts sidelong at Viranali. "Are you going to keep it?" she whispers fearfully.

 

Sisala slips into the crowd, easily moving through the people so she can get a better view of the presentations, and the riders at the platform.

 

Aristan fades into the background as the festivities start after the ceremony for the newly graduated Riders.

 

Briny is just going to keep blushing now, this time at J'van's words to V'mar once again. "Oh for the love of little green apples..." She drags fingers through her hair as she watches V'mar finally get his knot, bouncing to her toes in excitement.

 

J'van smiles over those gathered "And now, Harper Lyriana has a tribute to the graduating weyrlings, if you will again bear with us. I then just have a short announcement to make, and then it will be time for us to celebrate our new riders with food and drink, music and dancing." he steps aside, indicating Lyriana can begin when she is ready.

 

Viranali watches it fly around. "If you don't want me to, I can catch it and set it free elsewhere before we leave." It's not a spinner, so it's somewhat less important to her.

 

A drum beat is started, like a pulse. A heartbeat. The words are not

The beat picks up and becomes the thundering of rushing dragon wings,

the feel of the heart of the dragon beneath the rider, the

pulse-quickening, foot stomping sound as Lyri's hands keep pounding the drum and her voice rises over it.

~We raise our eyes, to the sky

Journey

on with hope held high

Carry on, carry on

Brave riders you'll fly

against Thread

So Ride on, ride on

Ride on with hope held high

Dragons

and Riders, of Monaco Weyr

Your day has come, fly on, fly on!

The last

ends in a shout as the drum suddenly stops, as silent as the breath of

Between.

 

V'mar takes the knot politely, eyes twinkling. "Oh, I won't be forgetting this. And I think you gave Briny that weyr because you just knew that I'd be painting it for her." But he says this mostly under his breath and then draws back, heading for his spot in line with a skip to his step.

 

K'tell fingers his knot, still grinning (Yup he's been doing alot of that lately!)

 

The beat picks up and becomes the thundering of rushing dragon wings,

the feel of the heart of the dragon beneath the rider, the pulse-quickening, foot stomping sound as Lyri's hands keep pounding the

drum and her voice rises over it.

~We raise our eyes, to the sky

Journey

on with hope held high

Carry on, carry on

Brave riders you'll fly

against Thread

So Ride on, ride on

Ride on with hope held high

Dragons

and Riders, of Monaco Weyr

Your day has come, fly on, fly on!

The last ends in a shout as the drum suddenly stops, as silent as the breath of Between.

 

Aristan walks off southeastwards to the wide expanse of the weyrhall terrace.

 

J'van listens, standing next to Eliwys - as the song comes to an end, he claps in approval, sending Lyriana a smile of appreciation and a quietly mouthed thank you. He then waits for the applause to die down again to make his announcement.

 

Bella turns her attention back to the platform then to Lyriana as she stikes up another song.

 

Eliwys follows J'van's suite, clapping loudly at the song's finish, and nodding with a bright smile for Lyriana. That done, she goes quiet, and waits for the last of the evening's announcements.

Osasune nods to Viranali. "Please," she murmurs. "It's been around me all evening. It's been horrible, the buzzing, and... umn. Thank you."

 

T'ren stands up and applauses loudly although most of it is for Bella. The children clap along with T'ren after the song is done and shout out a couple more, "Yah Mama."

 

Lyriana grins at the two Weyrleaders and drags the drum back quietly, out of the way. NOW she can go relax!

 

C'val applauds the song and the new riders, after a moment quieting down so J'van can say his piece and the true festivities can get underway.

 

T'nar applauds loudly, raucously, for the new riders of Monaco Weyr.

 

V'mar lets out a soft breath as the song ends and applauds along with the rest, looking pleased.

 

Sisala smiles as she watches the singing,a nd she applauds happily for the new riders, her eyes flickering over the newest class, to see how they are doing.

 

K'dir stands and applauds for Bella, and all of the Monaco Weyrlings-now-Riders!

 

"Oh, you're welcome," Viranali answers happily, hopping around the bluerider - attempting to catch this dreaded bug. "Fast little fella," she comments through gritted teeth.

 

Arlyn bahs out loud. Why the hell should he care? But the song...the beautiful song... he thinks. Completely prone to the melody, Arlyn has no choice but to clap, and clap he does, as hard as he could.

 

J'van smiles "Alright - I'll make this short. First off, we have a gift for our Weyrlingmasters, for all the time and effort they have put into making the weyrlings into the riders they have become." A helper begins to distribute baskets to each weyrlingmaster, the last one taken by J'van to hand to El'ric "As well, we have a changing of the guard, so to speak - Elfarran, after Turns of turning out riders to be proud of, is retiring. We'd like to have you join us in congratulating El'ric, who will be taking her place starting with our very next set of weyrlings. To El'ric, our new Weyrlingmaster!" He smiles at the bluerider, handing over not only one of the gift baskets but a new knot as well.

 

What is handed to each weyrlingmaster....

An intricately woven basket of dried reeds has been dyed the colors of Monaco Weyr, vibrant blue, black and white that coalesce into a distinct pattern - on one side, the Monaco Weyr emblem and the other that of Sunrise, the Weyrling Wing. Within the slightly oblong container rests two bottles of wine on a bed of soft aquamarine sisal, one red and one white. Each carries the label of a Southern vintage pressing, on which someone has carefully inscribed: "In sincere thanks for work done well and in honor of 'surviving' the Weyrling Class of the 18th Turn of the 10th Pass. - Monaco's Weyrleaders.

 

Belle nods in approval as the song ends and continues to sip her wine. Briefly, one of the other blueriders from her wing leans over to speak to her. She laughs at the comment and nods in agreement.

 

T'nar cocks a slightly surprised brow at this announcement, and then applauds not just the WLM staff, but El'ric most especially!

 

V'mar cheers for El'ric, lifting his hands over his head to clap for the weyrlingmaster.

 

K'tell claps loudly at the announcement and, yup you guessed it, grins!

 

Osasune carefully applauds for El'ric, glancing about as she does so.

 

Sisala claps at J'van's announcement, and her attention immediately moves towards El'ric, to see his reaction to the new knot. She moves a little closer, to see him a little better.

 

Bella grins around towards the rest of the new riders and listens to J'van at his last announcement. She claps loudly for the new weyrlingmaster and grins broadly. She let's her gaze pass around those on the beach and wiggles her fingers towards a small trio.

 

El'ric stops clapping and listens, only to hear his name being called. With a slight chuckle he steps up to accept the basket from J'van, "Well thank you very much," He grins cheekily. "I'll make sure the next lot turn out as goos as this bunch."

 

Viranali claps along with the group, finally managing to get the bug.. and well, squishing it mid-clap. "Oops," she says, face contorting to worry. "It's not BAD that I killed it, right?" she asks Osasune, biting her lip.

 

T'ren claps loudly for the new weyrlingmaster and smiles at he can see the finger wiggle from Bella. Tristevan grins and looks up at T'ren, "Can we go up and see her papa?" Orella chimes in, "Please papa." T'ren smiles and nods, "In a moment. I promise."

 

J'van grins at El'ric "Don't forget the knot, weyrlingmaster." he tells him with a nod "Congratulations" He turns back to the crowds "Let's hear it for our weyrling class, folks, one last time!" And then it's paaaarty time!

 

K'dir stands up and cheers, applauding wildly!

 

Lyriana beats on the drum in her applause, adding the thundering sound to the handclapping.

 

C'val stands and applauds loudly as he can giving a few hoots and hollers as well.

 

T'nar keeps up his brazen whooping and clapping - clearly pleased with tonight's events.

 

Sisala applauds again, still grinning as she remembers the exhilaration of graduating and becoming a 'real' rider.

 

J'van claps too, moving back towards Eliwys to take her hand, his smile full of his good mood "Come on, love - I plan to dance with you at least once tonight, as soon as we have something to eat. I'm starving!" Which seems to be indication that the time to party has begun.

 

Osasune blinks at Viranali, then smiles. "Of course not. He was very irritating. Abnormally so, I think. You've done Pern a good turn."

 

V'mar hoots loudly and throws his arms into the air. Then he strides through the group, heading for a particular weyrling.

 

Eliwys wrinkles her nose, "Dance, I hate dancing, but I suppose I can manage one" she says, taking the hand offered in return. "But yes, something to eat would be wonderful."

 

          Softer music floats on the breeze as the visiting journeywoman Jerinna plays a duet with Karelie, her harp accompanying the weyrharper's flute. The harp's arpeggios and the liquid tones of the flute combine to suggest running water, perhaps a cool stream that flows between dark rocks, catching the light that filters through tall trees.

 

El'ric smiles as he takes the knot as well with a slightly teasing, "I guess I'd better take it then, otherwise this lot might lynch me." with that he salutes crisply and turns away with a smile as he moves to get off the platform.

 

T'ren claps and then puts the tips of his first two fingers in his mouth. He lets out a loud whistle and then claps again. Tristevan and Orella are applauding too and as soon they can they rush towards Bella. "Hey wait up you two." T'ren quickly follows after them.

 

Lya applauds loudly, standing with the other to peer through the crowd, wondering what happens next.

 

Viranali nods slowly, staring at the bug parts on her hands. "Oh dear.." Osasune is given a nervous smile as she quickly rushes to wash her hands off in the first available place.

 

Arlynis completely under the spell of the song again....staring into blank space with a blanked out look on his face. Clapping aimlessly for the song, and loudly he does.

 

Briny is finally released? She bounces on the balls of her feet, and then is instantly coming out of nowhere to fairly pounce V'mar with... yes, a squeak. She bounces towards him to fairly tackle the brownrider with arms wrapping about his neck. Oh yeah, and the smooch.

 

S'vilen stands a little stiffly as he joins the applause, perhaps using it as an excuse to stretch his legs, or maybe he think the ceremony deserves the standing ovation.

 

Ashelyn stands and applauds with everyone else, then quickly moves out to mingle, enjoying the warmth and the escape from Fort.

 

Ashelyn walks off southwards to the green expanse of the western landing field, passing through the basalt flats.

 

J'van laughs at El'ric's parting comment as he begins to lead Eliwys down the stairs, sliding her hand through his arm as he does so "You owe me a Turnday present anyway, Eli mine" He teases the goldrider. "I turned 30, and no one even noticed. One dance shouldn't be too strenuous, surely?"

 

Bella claps until the music starts up and she reaches down to take up her basket. She mingles through the crowd and grins when she spots two little figures weaving towardss her. Crouching down she scoops them up in a hug and plants a smooch on each cheek.

 

K'tell wanders off into the mass of people seeking out one or two of the farmilar faces.

 

V'mar umphs at the impact and lifts Briny up off her feet and whirls around with her. His hands go around her, lifting her up off the ground as he gives her the lip-lock to end all lip-locks. Well, it's been turns now, who can blame him. Several people nearby either avert t heir eyes or let out a round of cheers at /that/ kiss.

 

          The musicians are still playing: snatches of the tune of a popular ballad can be heard in breaks in the conversation, and the sound of the flute is light and cheerful. The ginger-haired child with the shaker is accenting the off-beats, so that the music seems to bounce along.

"Perhaps not" Eliwys notes to J'van, "But some people may have noticed the passing of the turns."

 

Lyriana slips up next to T'nar, finally. "Hey there.." she offers, voice dropping low.

 

T'ren smiles at Bella as he comes up behind the littles. The children hug and return Bella's kisses. They have missed Bella alot as has T'ren. He kneels down hug Bella as well with the children in between them. T'ren has shaved off the beard that Belle detested.

 

El'ric moves off the platform with his basket and scans the crowd for familiar faces, other than the weyrlings who are probably sick of the sight of him by now.

 

Arlyn takes some more sips of his wine, obviously trying to stall so he dosen't have to go around and mingle with the rest of the crowd. After all, all he needs are the wonderful songs playing, and his delicious wines to make him happy at the moment.

 

T'nar nods down at Lyriana, smiling softly. "That was a wonderful performance. Very moving. And now for that dance?"

 

J'van watches some of the weyrlings express their observation of passing time, and nods "It would seem so - why /did/ we give those two their own weyrs, anyway? I doubt one will do anything but get terribly dusty." He watches Briny and V'mar complacently as he and Eliwys move towards the food tables, also spotting Bella in her reuinon with her family. "Seems we've made some people fairly happy" He indicates the couple and the family, and then looks over the rest of the weyrlings and crowd "A good day, in all."

 

Osasune smiles at Viranali as the girls goes; she stands up, surrepticiously plucking the fabric of her dress from her butt, convinced as she is that sweat has made it stick to her in an unbecoming fashion. That done, she opts to get herself something cold to drink, heading for the refreshments.

 

Briny whimpers slightly as she hugs her arms tight around V'mar, keeping him very close. Eventually though, she does pull back to smooth her hands over his cheeks, smile soft, and then she asks. "Are you hungry? 'Cause I am." She is gonna need her energy. Ayep.

 

Lyriana rests her hand on T'nar's arm and murmurs softly to him, smiling brightly.

 

Lya rubs her eyebrow and peers around, heading over to lean against one of the serving tables. Ashelyn and Aristan are lost somewhere in the crowd and T'nar...well, the brownrider seems to be having no trouble finding himself company, already making his way over to dance with that blonde Harper. Harpess. Whatever. Pouring a mug of klah, Lya sips quietly, watching the party in near silence.

 

G'briel stands up and stretches as the ceremony comes to an end. He smiles at all the cheering, adding his own at the last. Then he looks around for someone to play with.

 

Sisala moves through the crowd, until she gets to El'ric. Her hand catches his, and she murmurs, "Congratulations, love. More work for you.." She lifts her chin, sos he can look into his eyes, and she offers lightly, "At least some of your work is done, eh?"

C

'val decides it must be time for a good drink and thus heads towards the nearest table holding wine on it.

 

          Karelie and Jerinna pause for a rapid change of instruments; now the WeyrHarper's flute and Jerinna's fiddle seem to engage in a conversation as they play a romantic air, alternating phrases like question and answer, plea and promise. Softly plucked gitars provide support.

 

Bella grins and winks up to T'ren "I see someone helped get that thing off your face." She chuckles a bit and plants a kiss on T'ren before Tri and Ore get her attention again "My, you two have prouted like saplings."

 

V'mar blink-blinks with wild eyes for a moment as he sets Briny back down on her feet. He needed that kiss but now he's head's a little fuzzy. "oh...food....sure..."

 

K'dir looks up at G'briel and says, "I need to go congradulate Bella!"

 

T'ren kisses Bella back gently. "I shaved it off all by myself just for you this morning just for you." He smiles as Tristevan puffs out his chest, "I am learning from the Harper." Orella smiles, "Mama Trillian is teaching me how to make cookies." The little tell Bella all the missed in half a breath.

 

Viranali comes back from getting the bug off her face and goes to mingle with her Candidates, disappearing into the crowd.

 

T'nar leads Lyriana over to the dance, espying G'briel and K'dir in the merry throng. A huge wave for the two greenriders.

 

G'briel looks down at K'dir with a smile "Sure...go on ahead. I think I'll check out the...food." He murmurs, leaning down to murmur something to the greenrider.

K'dir winks up at G'briel. "Ri-i-i-ight. You do that. You know where to find me, if need be."

 

          The sounds of a stately march fill the air, a slow pace accented by deep drumbeats, with a melody that suggests ponderous motion. Suddenly, there's a change to a faster tempo and the music bounds joyfully as if taking to the air, freed at last from the constraints of the ground.

 

G'briel grins, nodding to K'dir "Surely, I can always find you, pretty one." He murmurs wickedly.

 

Osasune collects a glass of chilled wine for herself. Stepping away from the table, she scans the revelers as if searching for someone.

 

J'van moves with Eliwys to the food tables and fills plates for them both - they sit off to the side out of the way to eat and regain strength - it's a lot of work being a Weyrleader at an occasion such as this!

 

Lyriana smiles at T'nar, feet tapping, her new dress just perfect to be dancing in. "Oh, it's a fast one, T'nar!" She spins and laughs brightly, reaching for his hand. "Can you keep up, old man?"

 

El'ric catches Sisala up in his arms, "Heya darling, you caught that announcement then." He smiles broadly as he gives her a quick kiss. "I'll have a bit of spare time now, till this next batch of Leyriths hatch out."

 

Arlyn know's he can't keep it up for longer, but he decides to pour himself another glass of wine. He can always just listen to the beats...alone.

 

K'dir makes his way over to Bella and her family. "Congratulations, Rider Bella!"

 

Sisala laughs at that, and kisses him back, her arm wrapping around him. "Then you'll be even busier, eh?" She leans against El'ric and asks, "So.. how do you feel?" She smiles, proudly. "BEing weyrlingmaster will be a lot of work, though."

 

T'nar laughs, and whirls Lyriana round into the fast-paced dance. "Never challenge a Hunter lightly!"

 

Briny twines an arm through V'mar's as she leads him over to where the others are with their wine and such, flashing a rather happy wave to this person and that one. Beam. Beam. Beam.

 

Bella grins at T'ren and then listens to Tristevan, "Oh. A harper huh? I bet you will be a great harper pne day." To Orella she grins "I bet your cookies are very tasty." She looks up at her name and gives a warm smile for K'dir "Thank you K'dir." Her eyes flicker to T'ren briefly before she clears her throat and looks back to K'dir "How have you been doing lately? Hope you've not been in the infirmary since I left Fort."

 

K'dir grins and shakes his head. "No, no!" he chuckles. "I've been doing very well, thank you. You look...wonderful, Bella! It's good to see you again!"

 

Arlyn sighing, gets up and decides to get some food for himself and bring it back to the table. Walking over to the table, he gathers up a plate and a cup, and begins to pour himself more wine, and assorted foods that could appease his hunger.

 

Lyriana leans close in the fast dance, eyes bright, smile glowing as she spins with him, murmuring something in his ear.

 

          The musicians strike up a tune that involves the entire group. Two gitars underpin the whole with a regular pattern on the bass strings, while a third plays a melody made up of warm, sweeping phrases that suggest the lazy waves of a calm sea. Tenor pipes provide smooth harmony while a higher pipe plays a pattern of extended broken chords, so that the piece is a mixture of many elements that blend in a seamless whole. Over this serene sound-picture, one of the two young boys plays short trills on a lilting slide-whistle. It sounds like the happy call of a fire-lizard circling above the water.

 

V'mar smiles at everyone he passes, puasing now and then when Briny does, smelling her hair in a manner that would have gotten him chores for a sevenday only moments before. "SO, you want to dance after we get food and drink love?" He murmurs at the bluerider, lifting a hand to wave to a group of Fort riders.

 

Osasune glances over at Arlyn, watching him curiously for a few moments. She begins to look indecisive.

 

G'briel saunters towards the food tables, selecting a tidbit or two and chewing them as he peruses the crowds. Spotting T'nar with the pretty harper on the dance floor, he moves closer to observe them before his eyes spot C'val. Hmmm. He moves in that rider's direction, perhaps to strike up a conversation "Evening..." He says when he reaches him "Nice do, hmm?"

 

T'ren gives a smile to K'dir, "Hello K'dir." He looks over at Bella and gives her another hug that squishes the two little causing them to squeal in delight and hug both T'ren and Bella. T'ren is still kneeling on the beach and Tristevan smiles at Bella, "Can we meet your green mama? Please?" Orella nods, "Please mama."

 

T'nar smirks slightly at his dancing partner, and murmurs something back to her as they gallavant across the set up floor.

 

El'ric nods to Sisala as he holds her, "No more work than i've been doing already, a little more in the scheduling side of things but thats about it," He hugs her tight still smiling, "Anyways enough of work, lets grab something to drink then I want a dance."

 

C'val mingles for a bit with some of the older riders before G'briel comes up on him, "Good evening, nice little ceremony wouldn't you say?"

 

Arlyn is spooning various food onto his plate, practically drooling over the tasy treats, then innocently moves his head over to look at Osasune. He blinks for a second, and smiles slightly.

 

          The visiting harpers drop out now, leaving the Monaco contingent to play one of their local songs on gitars and pipes. What sort of song it is couldn't be guessed from the slow, three-beat rhythm and the long, lyrical phrases, but someone in the crowd is heard to murmur, "Isn't that the lullaby that Auril sings to her kid? It's got words about this beach!"

 

J'van watches the dancers and rejoicers alike as he murmurs something to Eliwys, who nods back as he stands, leaving her to finish her meal. He heads towards S'vilen, obviously intent on having a few words with the Fortian Weyrleader.

 

Osasune smiles back at Arlyn, hesitantly, then heads over toward him. "Not really, um, fond of gatherings like this? Not the graduation, though that was pretty b--beautiful. I mean the dancing and chatting part. Now."

 

Sisala grins at that, "I'd love to dance, Ric." Her eyes twinkle, and she murmurs, "I'm glad I was able to make it.. I worried that with my sweep schedule I'd miss most of it, but I figured that if I got here before it was over, that'd be good enough." She lets El'ric guide her towards the drinks, "I'm just glad to see you again."

 

Bright laughter from the Harper as Lyri is spun around and around, the music's shift having her pat T'nar's arm. "I need a drink, T'nar...all that singing."

 

Briny is reaching over to pop some little fruit or another into her mouth, chewing away... that is until V'mar mentions dancing. "Oh" Another little fruit is offered to him before she is dragging him back out to dance near where the instruments are being played.

 

G'briel chuckles "It was indeed - not even long enough to bore one, either...nice scenery as well." His gaze flicks over C'val briefly before he smiles. "I don't think we've met before, have we? I'm G'briel - used to live here, now I'm based at Fort, though I still stay here quite a bit. Llawenth's rider. You can call me Gabe if you like.." Did he mention his green is on the verge of proddiness?

 

          There seems to be a ripple of excitement amongst the musicians as another piece of music is put on music stands. It seems that they're all to join in, including the youngsters, though they've abandoned their drums and shakers for pipes. Karelie gives the beat, setting a quick pace, and it's the red-haired lad who starts off the cheerful, tune on his high pitched pipe, with lots of short runs and staccato notes to give the opening bars some bounce.

 

Arlyn says rather reluctantly, "Yes...I'm not very good...at meeting new people. I've always been a loner, ever since I was born. I guess i'm not one for formals...but the graduation...that was something else" he says, smirking.

 

S'vilen seems to have aquired a plate with some finger-foods on it, though from where might be a bit of a mystery. He even seems a little startled by it. Nonetheless, he picks up one of the items of food just as he notices J'van coming towards him. He straightens and... waits.

 

Osasune nods, smiling a little more. "Neither am I. I get a drink and I sip it and watch people and then when I get incredibly bored I go home!" She glances toward the area in front of the seats, then back th Arlyn. "It was different from mine. We had funny hats."

 

Bella chuckles and nods to K'dir "Thank you again K'dir. You are looking well too." She looks down to the littles and gives her head a little shake "She is sleeping right now deary. But when she wakes up you can. " she looks to T'ren "Let's get us all something to eat. I was only able to get a snack earlier." Not to mention this wey..er rider is looking forward to a glass of wine.

 

T'nar nods to the Harper, and sweeps them off the dance floor - towards the serving tables. He pours Lyriana some cooling juice, and hands the glass to her.

 

C'val smiles "I'm sure we've run across each other before, you do look familiar. C'val, Zhirith's rider. And yes very nice ceremony, not painfully long at all." Picking up on the tone of the riders voice he keeps the conversation friendly.

 

V'mar gets to nibble fruit from Briny's fingers as she lures him forward. Then, when he's close enough, he wraps his arms around the smaller rider and pulls her in close and dances with her. "So, do you think many people will expect.....us?" he asks, clearly knowing the answer to that. "I thought we'd been behaving VERY well. And still people assume."

 

          As the pipe continues to play, Vesa enters on her gitar, starting the melody again from the beginning. After the same interval, the fiddle comes in, then the erstwhile drummer on a treble pipe. Next, it's G'rat on his gitar, and then Karelie's flute. Bentellan follows on the harp, and an elderly man with a tenor pipe brings up the rear. The music consists of lively phrases interspersed with bars of longer notes, so that the piece seems full of movement as one part after another reaches the high points.

 

J'van smiles at S'vilen as he comes up to the bronzerider "No need to tense up, Siv" he says with a smile. "I just bring Monaco's duties to Fort and her queens...I didn't get a chance earlier, you might have noticed." He pauses, his gaze going over the crowds "I hope things are going well for you? And that Jalis is well?"

 

Arlyn for the first time in hours, gives off what seems like a chuckle. "The same goes along with me. But this is my first..graduation I have ever been to before. It was quite....nice for a change."

Lyriana sips the juice and murmurs low to T'nar before scanning the crowd. "Think the music went over alright? I was focusing so."

 

T'ren smiles as he stands up and nods, "Well you take the little to the table and I will get food for everyone." He winks at Bella, "And some wine for us." Tristevan aws and nods as he and Orella cling to Bella as they don't want to let her go, "Okay mama." Orella nods and kisses Bella's cheek, "I missed you mama." "Me too!" Tristevan chimes in.

 

Osasune's head bobs. "Really? I guess you're not from the Weyr originally, then?"

 

K'dir asks Bella and T"ren. "Mind if I come along with? Or is this not a good time?"

 

T'nar nods, and takes a sip from Lyri's glass, instead of what he really wanted to do. "It's not nice for us to tease the Candidates, you know. ANd yes, it was very good. I don't give out complements lightly."

 

Belle finishes her conversation with the riders and then rises up with one of them. Together, she and the blue rider head off toward the main weyr together.

 

Lya nods slowly as sh watches most of the crowd pair off, whether to dance or talk. Sipping at her klah, she shoots T'nar a tiny wave and a tinier smile if he happens to notice, and fades back into the crowd, presumably to watch the festivities from a bench somewhere.

 

G'briel nods to C'val "Well, if you were ever down Ista way, we might have - I was a rider there until just recently - transferred to Monaco, then to Fort." He indicates, studying the brownrider "I can't tell if you look familiar or not." is added with a smile "I think it's the beard....are you hiding behind that hair?" he teases.

 

Arlyn shakes his head."No....I'm from...another hold. I have recently moved here as an Entertainer with a troope I...joined."

 

Belle walks off southeastwards to the wide expanse of the weyrhall terrace.

 

El'ric is still smiling a lot as he tucks an arm around Sisala and heads towards the serving area to claim a few glasses of wine for them. "Well your here now, you saved me from having to keep my promotion a secret until I could tell you and yeah." He locates wine and quickly dientangles his arm to procure the glasses handing one over, "And your here." He grins again.

 

Osasune sips her chilled wine, pausing a moment before swallowing. "Oh, this is tasty. A troupe of entertainers. What entertaining things do you d... that sounded bad."

 

Lyriana grins slowly at T'nar. "Teasing? Is /that/ what we're doing?" She catches the wave and looks up at T'nar with a question.

 

Bella gives a shake of her head to K'dir "Not at all. You can tell me all about how things are at Fort." She smiles and leads the littles off to a table "Have you two been behaving yourself?" This the littles.

 

C'val chuckles as he tugs on his beard, "Ahh this, well it was good while I was in the ice, but I suppose since I'm back here now I really should shave it off."

 

          The musicians bring their canon to a close, ending on a thrilling chord in eight-part harmony. Concentration over, they all relax visibly, with even the elderly piper grinning broadly. Karelie spreads her arms, flute still held in one hand, and murmurs "Well done, everyone! I know that was a lot of work to learn, but you all got it in the end!" She directs a special grin at for the two children. "And now I think we deserve a break before the dancing. Everyone get something to eat and drink and be back here as soon as you can." Setting her instrument safely on a chair, she heads off to suit action to words.

 

Arlyn gives off another chuckle, this time louder than the last one. "Oh no, it's quite alright. I'm good at kniveplay. The troope specifically selected me because they said I was so skilled..."

 

Briny blinks over to V'mar for a long moment, looking for all the world lost at what he has to say. Okay, so she can't pull off that vacant look for very long. Instead, she grins, tightening her arms around him. "Us.. what? Us hooking up afterwards now? Come now. That's /obvious/." Or does he mean the other thing. *wink*

 

Osasune grins. "Oh, that must be nice! To be specially chosen! Because of knives!" She blinks twice. "What do you do with the knives?"

 

"Well, K'dir replies to Bella, "We miss you here. But I'm sure you've had a lovely summer here while we were having one of the longest, coldest winters I ever remember!"

 

Sisala laughs at that, taking the glass and sipping the wine, "What.. J'van would have minded if you told me?" Her eyes twinkle mischeviously, "ALthough, honestly, I wouldn't have asked you about it, so.." She smiles and stays close to the bluerider.

 

"Fort's duties to Monaco," S'vilen responds to J'van. "Jalis is well, Ceristh is getting bigger. Jalis predicts about another month before she lays," he says. "I understand Leyrith already did? 30 eggs?"

 

G'briel's eyes gleam as he nods "I think that's a good plan - it's hard to see you with all that." He agrees. "I'll look forward to it. You haven't been back at Monaco long, then?"

 

V'mar utters a rough snort to Briny--though he's nice enough not to do so at her--he turns his head away slightly. "I thought people didn't know. I mean, I've been avoiding you for months." oups, perhaps not the best thing to admit. He sneaks a grin at Briny, "I had to--Id was asking too many questions."

 

Arlyn shrugs. "Nothing much....juggling, tricks, the works..." I don't hurt people with them...", he quickly adds.

 

C'val grins, "Over two turns, the beard just became a habit I suppose. I haven't been over to Ista even to visit in ages, I've been here mostly."

 

Osasune confirms, "No pitching them at people. Okay! Lovely! So your troupe's staying here? For how long?"

 

J'van looks fairly proud "Yes, 30 - a nice round number. No gold egg, it seems, but.." He shrugs "we are hoping for quite a few bronzes. I think we have a fair chance of it. I'm glad to hear you are doing well. I've heard rumors that you and Andariel are no more, however?" He looks curious.

 

T'ren gets a tray of food of all different kinds with three glasses of wine and two mugs of juice. He hands the mugs to the children and they both nods to Bella, "Yes mama. We have been very good for Mama Trillian." T'ren hears K'dir's comment and nods, "Yes it was cold. Very very cold." He smiles as he hands a glass to Bella and then holds one out to K'dir as he sips his, "Well the children won't have to worry about the cold any more."

 

T'nar /did/ notice that small wave from Lya, and sends a wave back to her, and a small smile. A tiny sigh. "That's Lya, Candidate, and my girlfriend, until recently."

 

          The musicians seem to have gathered again: there are tentative notes as tuning is checked, and someone is having a final practice of a lively dance-beat, fingers tapping so lightly against the drum-skin that the sound is hardly heard.

 

Lyriana grins at T'nar and shrugs, leaning up to whisper to him, then takes her juice and saunters away.

 

Briny blinks at V'mar for a long moment before smiling softly. "I wouldn't worry about it now, V'mar." She rolls her eyes before wrapping him up in a hug in the midst of their dancing. "Well, if you avoid me any more, I might just have to pout."

 

K'dir chuckles at the kids. "Mama Trillian!" He echoes. "That's cute!"

 

K'dir takes a glass from T"ren. "Thank you!" He sips at it.

 

Arlyn thinks..."Hmm...they said it really depends on the buisness we get here. If it's good, were likely to stay here for a while. If it isn't..we'll most likely leave quickly. But so far it's been doing well, thankfully....I'd never want to go back..." He trails off.

 

Lyriana walks off southeastwards to the wide expanse of the weyrhall terrace.

 

G'briel chuckles "Two turns is a long time, admittedly - but I imagine once you shave it off, you'll wonder why you ever grew it."

 

V'mar swings Briny into a step of their dance and kisses her lips softly as she warns him, "Aawww, and if you pout I'll just have to fix you but good." He counters and smiles down at her. "So, what color do you want that weyr of ours?" No use hiding it.

 

Bella smiles and takes the offered glass of wine. After taking a long sip from it, she sighs happily "Well I admit tht I have goten a bit spoiled with the weather here. If you ignore the ground shaking under ya and the ocean coming up ontot he shore to try and force you to take a swim whenever it feels like it." Bella chuckles a bit and pulls Orella up into her lap as she takes anotehr sip and looks between T'ren and K'dir thoughtfully.

 

T'nar bobs his head, and sweeps a bow to the departing Harper. He spins about, pouring himself his own drink, and does his 'duty' of mingling with the crowd.

 

Osasune blinks curiously at Arlyn. "Go back? To the road, travelling, or, um, your Hold? I'm being very nosy. I should stop! I'll drink more wine."

 

          The musicians strike up the first dance, playing the first few bars through as introduction as a signal for dancers to take the floor before beginning in earnest. It's a well-known tune and goes at a brisk pace, with points where the dancers have to stamp and clap. Stamping isn't too effective on sand, but those who try seem to be enjoying it.

 

C'val grins and winks at G'briel, "I'm sure you're right. I suppose I should do that just so more people remember me, I don't think I have that bad of a reputation after all."

 

Arlyn smirks and gives off a little laugh. "It's...alright...I've met people who are nosier than you...I'm used to it..." "It's my Hold, I would never return there..." he says, slightly above a mumble.

 

El'ric grins, "Well these things have a habit of slipping out." He almost tips the glass back in one go. "I should probably slow down a bit here." He murmurs, "It may be a long night of celebration."

 

Osasune makes a face. "I can sympathize. I'd go back to my Hold, but not the, um, not the Hold itself. The beaches, really. I'm from Boll."

 

K'dir looks at Bella, his eyes wide. "Groundshakes?! No one ever mentioned groundshakes to me. Isn't that, well...dangerous?"

 

Nicole ambles in from the mouth of the Monaco river, through the tidal flats.

 

G'briel grins back "You really should, just because /I/ think you'd look even more handsome that way." it's almost purred, the words as he looks C'val over again before watching a pretty little resident waltz by. "So...are you taken, then?" is asked boldly, eyes gleaming.

 

Arlyn nods. "Nothing can make me go back to my Hold...ever." "But I thank you....for understanding."

 

T'ren goes to sit by Bella and Tristevan gets into T'ren's lap. Tristevan looks at T'ren, "Why won't we have to worry about the cold any more?" T'ren ums, "Well Tristevan. You're mother and I have talked about it and we have decided that you and Orella are going to come live at Monaco with her." Tristevan blinks, "Really?" T'ren nods, "All right!" Tristevan smiles at Orella, "Hear that Orella we are going to come here to live at mama." Orella yahs and hugs Bella. T'ren blinks, "Groundshakes? When did that happen?" Tristevan looks at Bella, "Was it scary mama?" Orella looks up at Bella, "What's a groundshake?"

 

T'nar slinks over towards C'val and G'briel, toasting the two riders with his glass of red wine. "Greetings Gabe, an d hello to you, good sir."

 

S'vilen glances across the milling people for a moment, and then back to J'van. "No. Not really since Llianth rose. On again, off again," he says with a shrug.

 

Sisala smiles at that, and she tilts her head, "I've not got drill until midday tomorrow..." She lets her voice trail off, "So I can stay as long as you want to celebrate." SHe winks at the bluerider, and sets her own wineglass down. "Now, you said something about dancing, love?"

 

Nicole wanders the fringes of the celebration, making a stop by the food to see if there might be something fruity and sweet to pilfer. what ist hte good of coming to Monaco, after all, if one can not pilfer something good to eat?

 

Briny chuckles softly, "Anything but all of that red. I see that color in my dreams now. Granted, I like red... but /not/ that much. Maybe we could keep the table that color, or even the trim, but not the completely cottage."

 

Osasune shifts her feet a bit, smiling a little again. "Umn. Well, I try. I'm Osasune, by the way. Blue Caledoth's rider, from Fort Weyr." She makes a vague gesture.

 

C'val manages to merely blink a few times and grin, "Well if 'you' think I'd look more handsome perhaps I should." He turns and nods a greeting to T'nar as he arrives, "Hello sir." He seems to catch someone out of the corner of his eye and turns waving a hand and calling out, "Nicole! Nicole over here!"

 

          The music that's playing is moderately paced, warm and encouraging in tone. This is a dance that's easy to join in. Though there is no vocalist, the melody is song-like, moving through phrases that seem to tell a story - but what it's about is left to the imagination.

 

M'ial ambles in from the western landing field, through the basalt flats.

 

V'mar smiles at Briny as he dacnes with her slowly. "I like the red I have to admit." He murmurs, "passion, fire, stength. All those things." He winks and kisses her, "but i'd be happy with any color. Just have to get the paint and we can start it."

 

Arlyn usually feels uncomfortable giving away info about his past, but for some reason, he dosen't mind. "...The name's Arlyn. Just Arlyn." "It is...uhm...nice to meet you, Osasune."

 

J'van smiles faintly, nodding to the Fortian Weyrleader. "I've been there, believe me" is noted dryly. "I won't keep you, Siv. I just wanted you to know...no hard feelings? I don't think we got a chance to talk since everything happened as it did. I'm happy here, and - well, congratulations. You were truly the man for the job." He holds out his hand to the other bronzerider, indicative of his goodwill.

 

Nicole slects a pastry, possibly at random and turns at hearing her name called. She winks at the wbrownrider and icks her way through the crowd to join him.

 

Osasune says, "It's nice meeting you, too, Arlyn. I don't often find someone to talk to during these things. Umn. Well... someone who's not busy with other stuff." She glances away for a moment, scanning the crowd, then looks at him again. "Schmoozing."

 

Briny grins softly as the song comes to a close. She finishes it with another smooch to his lips, takes his hand firmly in hers and then drags him back to where the others are as well for some food and drink. "Yeah, but too much hurts the eyes."

 

G'briel continues to smile "Oh, I know all about these things." He tells the brownrider, before nodding at T'nar's arrival "Well hello there, handsome - I saw your new...friend. She looks delectable."

 

M'ial enters the throng of people on the beach, joining others as he nods at those he knows and smiles at those that he doesn't, seeming to enjoy his time.

 

Bella chuckles "Well actually it was during one of our first classes on the beach. Using the flane throwers. I'm lucky I didn't singe my braids off when I landed on my back." The new rider teases, sorta. "Well the ground shakes have sorta stopped now. But it was a bit shakey for a little while when I first came to Monoco." She gives a little shrugs and digs into her food, laughing at the littles reaction at moving. She peeks up to K'dir. "I'll have to thank you mother when I can go visit Fort." Her gaze slips over to T'ren "How is Kindroth doing?"

 

"Wonderful, so you can stay the night then?" El'ric finishes his glass and places it onto the table before wrapping an arm round Sisala again and leading her towards the dancing area, "I certainly did wish a dance, I've not had an opportunity to ask since the last herper dance." He winks cheekily, "And you left me standing there that time."

 

Arlyn nods at the other people in the crowd, also scanning them intently. "Yes...Thank you for talking to me. I normally can't stand these...formal affairs." He continues looking at the other crowd, with faint disgust. "I don't normally like talking so openly" he murmurs.

 

Sisala sticks out her tongue at you, "That wasn't my fault.." She grins as she's lead to the dancefloor. "As long as I don't sleep all day, I'll be fine." She winks, "We've got a midday drill, and I just finished my sweeps tonight before I came.. so I'm all yours tonight." She gives El'ric a quick hug.

 

          The dance music continues, one tune blending smoothly into the next, though this one has a slightly faster tempo. The melody passes from gitar to treble pipe, then back to the gitar. The pipe plays a descant over the melody, while the young drummer underpins all with a simple beat.

 

K'dir says "Wow....I'm glad you're all all right."

 

V'mar teases briny as he's drawn away from the dancing, "close your eyes." Like you can do that and work? He looks to see where Briny is takeing him, "how about blue? blue is easy on the eyes."

 

S'vilen shrugs a bit, though he does take the hand and shake it. "Thanks, J'van. I think," he pauses and smiles, "things worked out well."

 

T'nar half-smiles to the other brownrider. "T'nar, brown Baedanth's, of Fort." The half-smile changes into a full one at Gabe's words. "Thank you, and I consider it a complement you noticed... she /is/ delectable. And talented." The Fortian brownie sounds as langorous of tone as the greenrider does.

 

Osasune giggles faintly. "I don't blame you. Um. Some people aren't... fun. With the talking openly. When you can see their eyes glaze over. I hate that feeling."

 

C'val wraps his arm around Nicole's waste possesively as soon as she is close enough and plants a kiss on her cheek, "Hello sweets."

 

T'ren smiles, "Kindroth is doing good." He picks up a meatroll and breaks it in half to share the other half with Tristevan. The boy ohs and nods, "I am glad you are okay too mama." T'ren smiles as he gazes into her eyes, "Me too." Orella grabs for some sliced up fruit to eat. T'ren swallows a bite of the meatroll, "How is Lyranth doing? Ready to be doing sweeps and drills full time?"

 

Nicole turns slightly to look at C'val and holds her pastry aloft. A tinge of possessive dances in her eyes as replies, "Sweets? Oh no, sir. Get your own pastry. This one's mine."

 

M'ial notices T'nar amist the crowds, moving to join the other brownrider, "Hey, T'nar. Good to see you here. How're ya doin?" he queries ad he bites into a redfruit, half-grinning, nodding to the others with T'nar.

 

Arlyn nods, sympathizing with you. "I understand that feeling....many times. Most people are very uncontented to talk with me, also....It get's lonely, with no one to talk to....sometimes" he continues above a whisper.

 

K'dir sips at his wine, looks around to see what others are doing....maybe notices whom they're with, then looks back at Orella and Tristevan, smiling.

 

Osasune frowns, expression turning glum. "Yeah. Do you have any friends here, or in the troupe?"

 

          The sound of music drifts over the beach as more couples join in the dancing. As the cheerful tune repeats, the gitars emphasise the rhythm, and when they reach the part where the dancers have to spin, the bright phrases are played in rapid succession, first by one pipe, then by the other, like children playing chase.

 

C'val grins, "I'm not going to steal your pastry silly. I've missed you is all." He turns to the other riders, "Nicole this is G'briel, and.. well I haven't gotten the other names yet."

 

El'ric grins, "I know that was our meddling siblings but we got over it." He lets his foot tap out a few beats in time to the music before taking Sisala's hands and leading her into the fast beat.

 

Bella smiles at the inquiry of her lifemate "Lyranth is doing great. She insist that i won't be hurt next time. She is eager to join in the wings. Though we probably will still be on supply duty for a little while yet." After taking another sip she glances to K'dir "So how is that sweet green of yours doing?" She peeks around at all the dancers enjoying themselves and takes another bite.

 

Arlyn shifts his position umcomfortably. "None...whatsoever...I am still a loner. To tell you the truth" he continues uncomfortably and his voice just a mere murmur"...I have never had...friends." he says sadly, almost regrettingly.

 

Sisala dances, staying light on her toes as she follows El'ric's lead. Her eyes twinkle and she murmurs, "Thank Faranth for meddling siblings.. or who knows when we'd have met." She grins impishly, and suggests, "Although I think they've been rather decent about not meddling with us as much as we meddle with them..."

 

G'briel looks amused at the interaction between the goldrider and C'val, though he nods to T'nar first "Yes, talented as well," He agrees, before smiling at the Monacan brownrider "Will you introduce me to this lovely lady of yours?" he requests, giving his attention to Nicole "I was just telling C'val that he would look better without his beard...what do you think?"

 

Osasune has a slow sip of wine, venturing, "Well, things can change. I'd know. You just sort of have to... be yourself, and stick with the people who like you when you're being yourself?"

 

J'van grins, shaking S'vilen's hand firmly and then letting it go "It did, indeed - I have my Eliwys and I'm warm, and you have the frozen north. I think I got the better deal" He teases lightly, waving to M'ial as he spots the brownrider amongst the crowd.

 

T'ren smiles at Bella as he notices that Bella is looking at the dancer. He sets Tristevan on the seat as he stands up and he moves over to bow to Bella, "Excuse me m'Lady. Will you do this humble brownrider the dance of your wonderful company on the dance floor?" He smiles at Bella and bats his lashes at her.

 

Briny sighs. "If I close my eyes, you'll have to lead me to the tables," she notes to V'mar. But, her eyes close and she is muttering. "Blue is good. I like blue. So does Belly. Its an all around good color. To go with the red."

 

K'dir says "I can watch the kids."

 

S'vilen grins, glancing over to where the Monacoan Weyrwoman sits and nods. "Mm, perhaps you're right," he says, though tiwth a distinctive jesting note to his comment.

 

V'mar draws Briny right behind him, his body close to hers as they make for a table. He grins around at the other riders nearby and smiles at them in turn. "now here we are Briny. What do you fancy to eat? I'm sharding starving."

 

T'nar grins as Mati makes his entrance, and he pounds his fellow brownie once on the back in greetings. "Matiaal, I see you've come to your senses." His free hand tweaks lightly at M'ial's shiny knew Monacoan knot. A nod to Gabe and C'val, and then he sweeps a bow to the goldrider. "Hello, weyrwoman Nicole. Getting away from a too cold summer, like I am?"

 

Arlyn nods, agreeing. "I guess your right...but that time has, and possibly never will come...." Out of an odd nervousness, he begins fiddling with his plate. "Unless...Oh, nevermind." he says quickly.

 

Nicole returns C'val's grin with a wary glance. She just /knows/ that despite his disclaimer to the country, he's really out to steal her pastry. Nevertheless, certain forms must be observed. A tilt of her head greets the greenrider. "Well met, G'briel..." At his inquiry, she reaches up to C'val's chin and runs her hand over said beard. "Well, I will no doubt concede that it is prone to be somewhat scratchy."

 

Osasune sticks her tongue out at Arlyn. "It will. Just keep an open mind about it?" She smiles, hopefully in a reassuring manner.

 

C'val smiles and releases Nicole for at least the moment, "May I have the privilige of introducing you to Nicole, rider of Golden Rhiannoth, of Fort Weyr."

 

El'ric chuckles lightly as the couple continue to spin in time to the music, "Well I only meddled the once and that was an attempt to make them announce it, I got a bruised shin from Andi for that one." He keeps the fast pace up they dance on. Theres a wry smile as he adds, "Although it seems that it's over between them now."

 

M'ial notices J'van's waving as his eyes scan the crowd briefly, returning it with a grin, blinking at T'nar's pounding, "Guess I'm not interrupting anything, am I?" with a laugh, returning the pounding with his free hand, "Mm, well, i hate having cold feet in the morning. It's quite nice having nice, warm feet that doesn't tingle once you get out of bed." he comments.

 

Arlyn can't help it but smile wide. "You are right, Osasune. Thank you for the reassurence." he says, content.

 

G'briel smiles at Nicole "Well met, Rhiannoth's rider - Nicole." He says smoothly "I can't believe I've been at Fort for so many sevendays without seeing your beauty before this." he adds smoothly, before sending a sly glance C'val's way "But I do agree - another very good reason to remove it - to scratch that lovely skin of yours, goldrider, would be a shame." M'ial, as he comes up to them, gets an inspecting glance and a smile too.

 

Bella looks up in surprise at T'ren and chuckles "You know that you are most likely going to have to go to the infirmary for broken toes if I dance. But if you insist." She smirks a bit and slides Orella ontot he seat after giving each another hug "Thank you K'dir. Perhaps you'll dance next?"

 

K'dir grins and nods his head eagerly!

 

Sisala nods in agreement, twisting and turning as El'ric guides her across the floor. "I meddled more than once." She gives him a wry smile, "But SIv puts up with me beacuse he loves me." She gasps, "Shards, its a lot warmer here than I'm used to.."

 

Osasune nods firmly, adopting a mock-solemn look. "Of course. I stuck my tongue out for it, I must be right."

 

T'ren nods to K'dir, "Thank you K'dir." He smiles at Bella, "We have danced before Bella. I know how well you dance." He escorts Bella out to the dance floor and holds her close as they start to dance.

 

C'val gives Nicole a slightly wounded look, "You said you like the beard." At this and feeling suddenly very petulent he does snag a piece off the pastry and pop it into his mouth.

 

Arlyn chuckles and lightens up a bit. "Yes, yes. You are right." "I hope..." he adds, trying to sound like your wrong.

 

Nicole's foot comes dangerously close to the toe of C'val's boot as she redistributes her weight when her leaning post moves. All the same, she's flashing a grin to T'nar's greeting. "If nothing else, Monaco does have pleasant weather going for it," she concedes. Well, perhaps one other thing, but she's not going to admit that to him. At least, not right now. "And how fairs Baedanth in this climate?"

 

K'dir looks at Tristevan and Orella. "You two want to dance, too? I can show you how."

 

          As a few jaunty bars on the gitars introduce another dance, Harper Bendellan steps forward to sing. The lyrics are merry and unsophisticated, a love song of sorts. Dancing with my sweetheart in the evening light; Dancing with my lover when the stars are bright; Then I know that everything will be all right; The whole wide world is ours tonight...

 

J'van looks Eliwys' way and smiles "Oh, I know I'm right - the woman I love, all this lovely sunshine and warmth...what more could a man want? Rasnauth seems well content with Leyrith, too, strangely enough." Amazingly enough, actually "They used to loathe each other, or so I thought. So...I hear you already have eggs on Fort's sands, Siv - and a good batch of candidates? I know you stole at least one from us. We want him back if he doesn't impress." He's joking...isn't he?

 

Briny chuckles softly, giving V'mar something of a nudge as they arrive at the table. She grins after Bella and T'ren as now they move out to dance, before looking to the food. "Anything edible. I could eat anything."

 

T'nar bobs his head at Mati, though his eyes say he knows other reasons. The older rider manages to save most of the wine in his glass from Mati's pounding. "Hsst!" he hisses at the new Monocoan rider, "You'll make me spill more if you pound any harder." A small smirk. "I didn't know you had a weyrmate, Nicole - and one who is a pastry thief, too." A grin, and then he sips at the red. An appraising look at G'briel.

 

V'mar's eyes follow Briny and T'ren, "do you think they'll end up having T'ren transfer?" He asks quietly, "not fair I'd think." He heals against the table with a frown, watching the dance floor for a long while, forgetting food.

 

Tristevan nods and gets up. He goes over Orella and copies his papa, "Orella will you give this humble boy the honor of your wonderful company." Orella giggles and nods, "Okay." She hops down so her and Tristevan can dance.

 

S'vilen spreads his hands. "We've got a couple. But it'll be up to them where they go if they don't Impress," he replies amiably.

 

M'ial dips his head at G'briel, "Allow me to introduce myself, I'm M'ial, rider of brown Xinth. Call me Mati, if you will." to those around him, merely biting into the redfruit again at T'nar, smirking lightly, "Mustn't waste a droplet of that wine, T'nar."

 

K'dir laughs at the two kids and watches them to see if they know what to do.

 

          The rhythm of Bendellan's song is infectious, and it has plenty of verses to dance to. Dancing with my sweetheart 'til the morning sun; Dancing with my lover 'til the music's done; From tonight she's going to be the only one; A life of love has just begun!

 

Nicole beams at the greenrider's compliment. "Why thank you, G'briel. How kind of you to say so." It's possible the sincerity of her response is marred by her efforts to kick a certain pastry-theiving brownrider in the shin while she's speaking. "I suppose beards have some advantages in the colder weather, but it really is too bad they're so rough." She's patently refusing to give him this one. That's what you get for swiping pastries that don't belong to you.

 

Tristevan and Orella look to K'dir, they don't know how to dance so they want for him to show them how. "Come on Uncle Keedir. Teach us." Orella asks K'dir and Tristevan nods. "Please."

 

G'briel watches Nicole and C'val play and laughs, before a brow raises at that glance from T'nar. He smiles at M'ial introduces himself, nodding "Well met, M'ial- How do you like it at Monaco so far? Myself, I envy you being permanently in such warmth. I find Fort way too cold for my blood." he shivers just thinking about it.

 

Osasune eyes him sternly. "Don't make me stick my tongue out again, young man."

 

El'ric smiles at Sisala as he slows the pace down as the next song starts up, "I meddled and got kicked a lot and when you did it nothing happened, hmmm." he grins a little more though. "We can take a break if you want?" he murmurs, "Grab another drink while you cool off a bit."

 

Briny's lips purse into a fine line at V'mar's words, shrugging her shoulders. "One or the other. I can't imagine having a relationship like that -even if one does have a dragon to make it that much shorter." She sets some food onto a plate, grabs a glass that might be filled with wine as well.

 

C'val grins like a fool as he quickly moves his shin out of harms way in what is quite obviously an often practiced manuaver. "Forgive me for a moment gentleman," And he turns to Nicole, all sweetness now, "My dear could I entreat you to a dance?"

 

Sisala smiles, as the music slows down, "This is a little easier.. but after the song is over, let's get a drink, alright?" She smiles, "Siv doesn't usually kick me. Sounds like I've got the more... civil of the siblings, eh?" She gives you an impish look.

 

Arlyn bahs. "Alright alright...no more provocation for the tongue sticking out thing....For some reason that did not come together correctly...."

 

V'mar gets himself a glass of wine and is certainly not shy with the with meats and cheeses or crackers he puts onto the plate. "I have to agree with you, but I'm not in those boots right now." He scoots his chair clsoer to Briny and kisses her cheek. "I'm happy with the way things are."

 

Osasune smiles cheerfully. "There we go. Did you want to sit down with that plate and, um, eat?"

 

T'nar cocks an eyebrow at Gabe, lips curling into a small smile - as if in subtle taunt. "How is Llawenth, Gabe - and how's Xinth, Mati?"

 

J'van chuckles, giving S'vilen's shoulder a light slap "It is, indeed." He agrees - he obviously was joking. "Well, I wish you luck. Eliwys and will be there as soon as those eggs start cracking, of course...enjoy yourself at the party, Weyrleader, and thank you for coming. Give my regards to Jalis." He makes to move off, not wishign to take up anymore of the Fortian's time.

 

K'dir reaches down and takes the kids hands. "All right...It's easy! Just do what I do...All right...first take you left foot...this foot..." He picks up his left foot and wiggles it around, "and you set it out to the side like thise...got it? Good! Then you takne your other foot, and move it so it's a little behind you,,,like this..."

 

Arlyn nods nods. "Sure do! Would you care to..uh..sit down with me? Perhaps we can chat some more? If you'd like, that is..."

 

          A pair of shakers ornament the simple beat of drum and gitars as the harper's song goes on... and on... The tune's a real foot-tapper. Shame about the lyrics. Swinging with my sweetheart as we cross the floor, Swinging with my lover, who could ask for more? She's the girl for me, you'd better know the score: Yes, she's the one my heart beats for.

 

Nicole finds herself forced to consume the remainder of the pastry in a haste that borders upon unladylike. But then, she's gone and worn riding leathers to a party, which would amount to the epitomy of unladylike in a hold. A far cry from the Holder's daughter who stood on the sands those many years ago. "A dance," she ponders aloud once she finishes off the treat. "I suppose that might have certain possiblities." The audience should perhaps ask themselves... for /what/?

 

G'briel inclines his head to Nicole as she thanks him for the compliment, which was meant sincerely. He watches C'val and the goldrider head to the dance floor, turning his attention on the two brownriders left with him. He smiles at T'nar "Llawenth is almost...glowing." He says obliquely, before turning his attention on M'ial, awaiting his reply.

 

Osasune smiles, nodding to Arlyn. "Of course! I've stood long enough that I've forgotten sitting on my rear for so long and sitting has become appealing once more." She heads over to a nearby table, asking, "This one okay?"

 

Tristevan and Orella watch K'dir and begin to copy his move. They pick up their left foot and waggle it around before they set it off to the side then they move their other foot behind them.

 

M'ial chuckles, "I've been enjoying Monaco immensely, it's just terrific here. If I stay in the sun any longer, I'll be as brown as Xinth is. I enjoyed the cold of Fort for awhile, but I like to have feeling in my itty bitty toes, y'know?" A grin, "Xinth's doing just great, T'nar. Always curled up and basking. And how's Bae?"

 

K'dir goes on to explain to the kids, "And then yo take your first foot and move it back next to your right foot...Like that...You got it, Tris!...Watch my feet again, Orella, that's a girl!"

 

C'val is polite enough to not completely drag Nicole into the dance but he does set off with a jaunty pace.

 

Arlyn grins and nods. "Of course...any table is fine with me." He takes up the closest seat and begins digging into his food, having not eaten for many hours.

 

          The visiting harper finally brings his song to a close after singing the whole thing through twice, then pauses to take a quick drink before picking up his pipe for the next dance. Behind him, Karelie and Jerinna lock eyes, and Jerinna gives a resigned shake of the head.

 

T'nar rolls his eyes as he overhears the current song's lyrics. "Awful," he grimaces. A nod to Gabe, and a small show of interest at his words. "Really? I wonder why Bae isn't sidling up to her right now?" Probably because the hard-working brown is being lazy, for once.

 

Orella smiles as she holds Tristevan and K'dir's hands for suppose. Tristevan looks down at his feet. "This is easy." He says with a smile.

 

Osasune settles into a seat across from Arlyn, putting her wine glass on the table. "Oof. Great. These sandals were starting to hurt my feet. Don't really wear sandals at Fort."

 

K'dir says "Very good...now you start with your right foot and do the same steps...like this..." The Greenrider demonstrates. "Right to the side, left foot back, then feet together."

 

T'nar adds to Mati, "Bae is well. He's stayed out of the last month of various greenflights, so i'm pretty happy with him. I needed a break."

 

G'briel smiles "More to the point - why isn't Llawenth out there flirting with everything male?" he notes "It's mainly because there are too many greens about. She feels she can't compete, even on the verge of glowing." He shrugs, leaning closer to say quietly "She has a complex about her dark color, you see." Gabe has no such complex - he'll flirt with anyone that he finds attractive, regardless of who is around. Competition? what's that?

 

S'vilen waves after J'van. "Will do!" he calls after the other Weyrleader. Then, turning, he notices C'val and Nicole together. He watches them for a few moments, then ambles over towards Osasune and drops into a seat next to her, putting down his plate. Nodding towards the pair he'd just been watching, he tells her, "Those two ride Perymith's parents."

Briny scooches right up next to V'mar, not at all shy herself... considering proximity and such to him. This new knot definitely has its uses. Nearly cooing in happiness, almost cloying though, she pops this and that into her mouth, shifting glances now and again to that brownrider.

El'ric continues to smile as he dances with Sisala, "Andi just got used to having to fight back at an early age, I was a tremendous bully apparently." Staying at the more sedate pace he continues to lead the way.

Nicole trails along behind C'val's rapid steps, before she allows irritation to overcome her training. One hand reaches up to the middle of his back and clasps firmly on his shirt. "Slow down, C'val," she says, empasizing her request by tugging on the back of the shirt.

Sisala laughs at that, and she murmurs, "Carrying on that tradition with the weyrlings, are you?" Her eyes twinkle, "I think that's part of the job of being weyrlingmaster."

The littles nod as they follow K'dir's step even the foot wiggle in between putting the right to the side and the left foot back. Orella giggles, "Do we have to do the foot wiggle?"

Arlyn says with a mouth full of food, "I never really wear sandles...moreso I just wear my good ole' boots. Protect me from anything the ground may throw my way." Continueing to chow down on his little buffet.

[Monitor] Sariya has disconnected.

K'dir giggles at the smalls. "Noooo, you don't have to wiggle your feet! That's just so you know which foot I'm talking about. You both know right from left?"

 

          The musicians are playing a slow, romantic ballad, the sort of

          dance where couples linger in each other's arms. The fiddle takes

          the lead, pouring out its richest tones as measure follows measure,

          phrase follows phrase.

M'ial grins at T'nar, "Yeah, greenflights can be tiring. I know that all too well." Then he raises a brow at G'briel, finishing off his redfruit, "Makes sense. Complex?"

Tristevan nods, "Yes Mama Trillian taught us left from right." Orella nods, "Yep." They continue to dance in the steps that K'dir taught them, "Is that all?" Tristevan asks.

V'mar eats quickly, having learned over the turn to eat between lessons he wastse not time with it. "You know it's going to take some retraiing for things to get back to normal." He sighs and glances at Briny and then blushes hotly.

C'val smiles and does slow down sing the tune has changed, but most likely only since the tune has changed, "Don't give me that you were keeping up just fine sweets."

Osasune freezes for a moment as S'vilen sits, then turns her head to peer in C'val and Nicole's direction. "Oh, really? I'd point out Caledoth's parents, but I think you already know them." That last is said in a stage whisper before she smiles. "S'vilen, this is Arlyn. He's part of an entertainment troupe staying here at Monaco. He's good with knives! Arlyn, this is S'vilen, bronze Perymith's rider and, um... Fort's Weyrleader." Cough.

T'nar shakes his head at the thought of a proddy green who won't bask in the limelight. "That's too bad, G'briel. Baedanth has no predilictions about shading. Actually, he has very few at all when it comes to females." A snort, and then more wine.

Arlyn ,still stuffing his face, mumbles a hello. "Nice to meet you, S'vilen. I am Arlyn..."

K'dir nods. "That's basically it. Just three steps. First you do it with your left foot first, then again with your right foot first. But then you can move around the dance floor, and add spins, and make it really fancy! So you need to proactice. But it you learn this dance, Tristevan, you can dance any girl off the dance floor! And Orella, this is the dance that all the fine Lady Holders can do. And I think you are very much a fine lady."

Nicole catches slips of other conversations as they float past her, while she's slid across the floor by her dance partner. "Greenflights are tiring, try goldflights..." she calls to M'ial. She makes a face at C'val for teasing her, but lets the opportunity for a sharp comment pass in favor of enjoying a slower dance.

El'ric laughs softly "Well they need to learn to be tough, but i'm not being cruel to them." He winks, "Although they may say different of course." He pulls Sisala to him as the music slows right down into the ballad as he murmurs, "I don't think I'll let you escape just yet."

G'briel chuckles "Ah, but T'nar - it isn't the males she worries about. It's the females." He explains, nodding to M'ial "Yes. You see, Llawenth is rather dark for a green - her hide. Somewhat sooty, really. And she's very self-conscious about it." And you thought dragons weren't vain, right?

Briny is lifting a meatroll to her mouth, and then V'mar says /that/. She blinks for a moment, mouth still agape, before staring over to him. She laughs though, sets the meatroll down, and squeezes his hand. "I doubt that, but..." She glances up to the others around, before looking to him. "That is... unless you want to sneak out now."

 

          The music is definitely following a romantic vein at the moment. Someone's singing - one of the women this time. "Let me be your friend for ever, Let me understand your heart" The pace is slow, the rhythm a gentle lilt.

 

J'van moves back towards Eliwys and brings her some fresh fruit - cherries, of course. He settles down next to her and watches the celebrations.

 

Bella smiles and glances over her shoulder at K'dir and the littles dancing as she steps on t'ren's toes more than once during the dance. She nods towards Briny and V'mar when she spots them nearby at the food tables then glances down towards her feet trying not to stomp all over T'ren's feet too badly.

 

Sisala smiles at El'ric's words, and she slips her arms around him, as the rest of the world seems to disappear. She smiles at the ballad's words, and she rests her head against El'ric's shoulder, and murmurs softly, "I'm not going anywhere."

 

Orella smiles and blushes a little as she is in a frilly blue dress that makes her look very cute. "Really?" The shy girl asks. Tristevan grins, "Any woman? Even like a Weyrwoman?"

 

M'ial shrugs at T'nar, "Xin'll just be happy to give his attention to a female that'll welcome it. Says all of them are pretty in one way or another." He leans back onto one leg, grinning at Nicole's comment, "Ah, I'll agree to that, but they're not as frequent." he points out, nodding at G'briel, "Ah, now I understand."

 

K'dir nods. "Yes. To both of you! Lets try it again." He leads them through the steps again, slowly, so that they can each follow.

 

C'val grunts, "More tiring and leading to turns of anguish afterwards if you win." Though it is said with a grin. As one song comes to an end he stops, "Let's see about getting you another pastry and me a glass of wine sweets."

 

T'ren smiles at Bella and gives no hint that she is stepping on his toes. He is more to used to it. T'ren is quick to move his feet to avoid Bella and he smiles at her, "Just take a breath and relax." He gently rubs her back.

 

V'mar's eyes sparkle and he smiles at Briny, "I think I can wait a little longer. I won't want people to talk." As though they can stop that from happening. "How is your meal?" His by this time is gone.

Tristevan grins and goes through the steps more slowly with Orella. They both have it, but there is a lot of practice that is needed.

 

Arlyn ,after finally finishing his plate, wipes his face clean of any food remnants and deposists the plate back. "Wow, that sure was good...I haven't had a meal like that since god knows when." "The cooks should definently be commended on their efforts."

 

S'vilen blinks at Arlyn, perhaps taken a bit aback. "Well met," he says a little vaguely. "Arlyn, was it?" he asks.

 

T'nar nods back, draining his glass, and then moving to the table for another. As he returns to Gabe and Mati's company, "I think Bae's only annoyance with females is if one is exceedingly lazy. Otherwise..." and he shrugs his shoulders, sipping from his glass. "I think Llawenth is a rather captivating shade. But i'm not female, OR a dragon."

 

Osasune shifts her legs a little, then leans over and tugs on her sandals, pulling one off. "The, um, sandals go with the dress. I'm clueless, but I get that the boots don't work with the breezy hot weather dress." As she leans forward, her ring swings forward as well, and keeps swinging back and forth a little with every movement she makes. Even the little frustrated ones as wiggles her other foot free. "Cooks good? Haven't eaten yet - ha! Free at last!" The second sandal is off.

 

Jalis ambles in from the western landing field, through the basalt flats.

 

El'ric wraps arms tightly around Sisala, holding her to him. "Thats what I like to hear." He leads them in a gentle swaying dance as he murmurs, "After this shall we slip off, it's the weyrlings night really."

 

Briny is getting looked at, and by people other than V'mar. So, she smiles broadly, flashes him that grin, and then finally does take a bite of that meatroll. "Good, because it's already been about two turns as it is. Best things come to those who wait." *wink*

 

          Snatches of song can still be heard, music that seems to sway as the dancers are doing. I'll be there to share your sorrows24r I'll be there to share your dreams The two boys, not needed in this number, exchange disdainful expressions at the sentimentality, but the dancers seem happy enough.

 

Jalis approaches the gathering silently, smiling as she does. She looks around curiously, glancing into all the faces of those she knows, and those she doesn't. She makes her way toward S'vilen.

 

Sisala nods agreeably, "Lets let them have their night.." She murmurs happily, "And we can get out of their way.." She smiles as she dances with El'ric to the slow, sentimental song.

 

Bella grins and nods to T'ren at the dancing advice so she does just that. she smiles and works on the relaxing thing. The music continues and she slips peeks over to see Tri and Ore's progress with their dancing instructor.

 

Arlyn nods. "Yes...My name is Arlyn. Just Arlyn." he replies. Chuckling at Osasune, he replies happily. "You must happy, eh? Having those sandals on all day...." It's amazing what food can do to Arlyn. Makes him a heck of a lot open to conversation and what not.

 

Nicole's tongue teases against her lips, which press tightly shut as if she's holding back another retort. She settles for a swift *huff* and then glances towards the food. "I suppose another pastry would serve, since I only got about half the last one..." She slides one arm into the crook of C'val's arm, and heads towards the location of the prooffered pastries. On her way, she notices the WeyrWoman and lifts her other hand in greeting. "Jalis!"

 

V'mar mutters to Briny, "... not... when..."

V'mar whispers "you'd best not laugh when I just burst when I see you naked."

 

C'val grins as he heads towards the food with Nicole. A sharp salute is given to Jalis as they come near, "Greetings Jalis, Monaco's duty to Fort and her Queens."

 

G'briel smiles at M'ial "Exactly so - it's early days yet at any rate. Llawenth likes to draw these things out. She thinks when she is glowing is the only time she is truly beautiful - I tell her otherwise.." He shrugs "But she doesn't believe me." He laughs at T'nar's comment "I can't call Llawenth lazy - she's more energy than I do..." Well, maybe. He eyes the brownrider thoughtfully "You should perhaps tell her that, T'nar - I've always liked her looks - she's unique. But again.."

 

Jalis slips up beside S'vilen and smiles at him, "Hello Weyrleader S'vilen." She addresses him with teasing formality. "I hope I didn't miss too much. Where is Weyrwoman Eliwys and her new weyrleader? I want to give them my greeting." She hears C'val and turns her head, nodding in his direction and giving him a smile. "Greetings C'val!"

 

T'ren smiles at Bella and he looks over as they dance to K'dir and the children, "Looks like Tristevan and Orella are going to be pretty good dancers." He smiles at Bella and reaches up to brush her cheek.

 

Osasune smiles at Arlyn. "Not all day. I changed into the dress and sandals once I, um, got here." She wriggles her toes, looking over at Jalis as the rider sits at the table she's sharing with S'vilen and Arlyn. "Hullo, Weyrwoman."

 

M'ial grins at T'nar, "Not a lot of lazy females, I think, so I guess that's a good thing." Then he moves over to the other table to prepare himself a glass of wine, soon returning to the company with a sip, "Well, I'm sure Xinth'd be willing to inform your Llawenth of that fact. A lady should be happy as much as she can be."

 

          There's a change of mood in the music now, with a dance that's almost a jig. This one requires quick footwork, and Karelie's flute pours out a shower of rapid figures, setting a challenging pace, while the drums emphasise the rhythmic foot-taps that occur at intervals.

 

T'nar hears Nicole's greeting, and turns around to make certain... Yes, it /is/ Jalis at Monaco. A crisp salute. "Hello, Weyrwoman." And then he turns back to G'briel, murmuring, "I think I shall, later on. No lady should feel insufficient - especially a dragon." More wine is quaffed, and he nods at Mati's concurrent words.

 

S'vilen looks around at Nicole's call, and finds Jalis just starting to speak to him. He grins and stands politely. "Evening, my dear Weyrwoman," he replies. His head turns as he scans for J'van and Eliwys, finding the latter first. "Eliwys is over there, and J'van... there. I was to pass on their greetings, but as you're here..." he says, inclining his head.

 

Bella chuckles and nods "Looks like everyone is starting to enjoy themselves a bit. We should go tuck the littles in somewhere so they don't see something they should not." Bella chuckles and glances around to a few party goers dipping into the wine "And I'm in the mood to be a bit more festuive myself."

 

Briny's eyes fly open. Wide. Very wide. Yes, it is the owl looks and she is bringing it off rather successfully. She turns to look at V'mar and actually bites her bottom lip hard to keep from grinning. Oh my. But, it is her eyes that show her amusement, reaching over to give him a squeeze, "Behave."

 

V'mar gives a kittenish smile to Briny and wraps his arm around her, pulling her closer. "I am! I really am!" He pokes out his lower lip and then turns to watch the dancing so he can restrain himself.

 

K'dir and his little friends are giggling, and laughing, and having a

good time.

 

Jalis grins across at Osasune warmly, "Hello Rider Osasune." She says respectfully, "You look very pretty this eve." She compliments her before noting Arlyn, "Who is your young male friend here?" She gestures toward Arlyn. Then she turns toward S'vilen a moment and nods. "Then I'll be right over to convey my own, and my congratulations on their new riders."

 

El'ric smiles as he gently guides Sisala towards the edge of the dancefloor, staying silent as he does so, just holding her to him as they dance waiting for the song to end. Once the ballad is over he holds her there for a long moment afterwards before releasing his grip. "I'll need to pick up my basket and my new knot then we can disapear."

 

Arlyn noticing this stranger known as Jalis, merely nods at her. "Uhm...Hello, Jalis. I am Arlyn. It is uhm...nice to meet you."

 

Nicole takes her time selecting her pastry this time, gently nudging C'val to go select her a wine. "Red, remember?" she murmurs to him before turning her attention to the tray before her.

 

          The music is slow and dreamy, speaking of moonlit walks by a quiet sea, warmth in the air and soft sand underfoot. Breaking wavelets are captured in the harp's rippling chords, whispering breezes in the low tones of a flute.

 

J'van is sitting with Eliwys to one side, obviuosly content just to relax with the weyrwoman and watch teh goings on.

 

C'val notices S'vilen sitting at the table in front of where he and Nicole seems to find themselves. "S'vilen," with no formality at all, "Zhirith demands I ask if you're taking proper care of his brood."

Jalis arches an eyebrow at Arlyn and grins at him, "You know, it is customary to greet a weyrwoman as Weyrwoman Jalis." She chides him gently. Then she chuckles. "But don't worry, I don't stand too much on formality. Well, not too much."

 

Briny leans back into V'mar as she watches the dancers as well, more than happy to simply be like this with him for now, even if she does keep glancing towards the path out of here. But, they must keep up appearances and all. After all, Bella is still about.

 

T'ren nods to Bella, "You right.>" he leads Bella over to the table and smiles as the little dance, "I think it's bed time." The littles aw, "Do we have to?" They both say at once. T'ren nods, "I am afraid so. It's time for all little children to go to bed and dream of dragons." Tristevan and Orella hug K'dir, "Thanks for teaching us." Orella smiles, "Yeah." T'ren smiles at K'dir, "Thanks for watching the children and teaching them to dance."

 

G'briel smiles at both brownriders equally, with the same amount of flirtation expression "I am sure that compliments from either you or your lifemates will be most welcome.." whether to him or to Llawenth, he doesn't say. His gaze moves to the Fortian Weyrwoman as her name is brought up, and his eyes gleam. "So it is our illustrious leading lady...." He doesn't bother to call out, admiring from afar.

 

Arlyn bahs. "I say who needs formalities...I am not one for them anyway. Precisely why I just want people to call me simply "Arlyn". But if I must, I will..." he says, grinning.

 

Eliwys leans over and whispers something to J'van, and grins as she points to some of the former Weyrlings getting a little inebriated, "Some are going to have awful headaches tomorrow."

 

Osasune clears her throat. "Um... thank you, Weyrwoman. Dress from stores. You look, um, I like your dress. It looks good with the hair." She waves her hand by her head, then takes up her wine glass and has a long sip.

 

          A short introduction sends a ripple of anticipation through those who are watching the dancers, as they recognise the unmistakable sound of the toss dance. Funny, the floor seems to be emptying. Will anyone take up the challenge?

 

K'dir says "Awww...We wewre having fun! And they're learining how to dance!"

 

M'ial grins at G'briel, "No matter if she's a dragon or a woman." Jalis earns a glance with a smile sent to her if she notices him, turning his attention back to the others soon afterwards. "Well, then, Xinth will oblige her. It's interesting to watch how things turn out sometimes..." he comments as he leans back to watch the proceedings.

 

K'dir bends down and hugs each of his little friends.

 

Sisala lets El'ric lead her off the dancefloor, and she snags a pair of wineglasses full of red wine while she waits for El'ric to get his knot and basket. She gives him a smile, and murmurs, "Whenever you are ready, 'Ric." Its his weyr, his weyrlings.

 

Jalis grins and nods at Arlyn, "You best remember that, because there are some who insist on formalities all the time, Arlyn." She nods. "I know a few old lord holders that.." She lowers her voice, "Well, they're a little stuffy."

 

V'mar rubs the back of Briny's neck softly and down her back, "i can't believe you almost forgot your knot." He teases the bluerider.

 

Bella grins at the littles and winks to K'dir "Well when we return you can dance with me if you wish." She offers "Though your toes might wish you don't." Bella laughs and bends down to pick up Orella before starting off to get them settled in.

 

S'vilen extends a hand to try to catch Jalis' arm before she can leave. "After you pay your respects to Monaco's leaders, you owe me a dance," he informs her gravely.

 

T'ren picks up Tristevan and chuckles at Bella's apperasal of her dancing, "I have some steel toed boots you can wear out there K'dir." He grins as he starts off after Bella.

 

Arlyn nods slowly. "Very well....Weyrleader Jalis...For some reason that just dosen't seem right..." He murmurs. "Oh well...I must, if I must."

 

Jalis giggles at Arlyn and says "Weyrwoman, though I suppose Weyrleader is just as good." She teases, "But S'vilen might get jealous." She nudges S'vilen playfully.

 

El'ric slips over to the corner of the platform and retrieves his things, returning long enough to give Sisala a quick kiss, "Right lets get moving, this way." He smiles cheekily and leads the way back across the weyr.

 

          The music is fast and lively, building up to the point where the  male dancers should toss their partner into the air, to twirl and drop and be caught - they hope. Timing is everything, so gitarists and drummer work hard to keep the rhythm going while the flute and fiddle take it in turns to take the lead with the tune.

 

Nicole decides to strike preemptatively against the fliching brownrider. Her plate is loaded with not one, nor even two, but three different pasteries. She watches S'vilien flirt with Jalis and ignore C'val's inquiry. "Siv," she chides. "I hope you don't mean to make C'val and Zhirith think we don't take good care of our lifemates at Fort."

 

T'nar peers down into his glass, watching the wine with almost as much fascination as he did Gabe. "Does this little chat about nothing at all suddenly stike either of you as innane?" he pipes up, looking at M'ial and G'briel with interest.

 

Sisala follows El'ric, disappearing from the party without a backward glance, already picking her away across the beach and towards his cottage.

 

K'dir waves good night to Orella and Tristevan.

 

El'ric walks off southwards to the green expanse of the western landing field, passing through the basalt flats.

 

Arlyn gets a little flushed out of embarresment. "Oh...Uhm...Ok...I guess I could follow the /stupid/ formality rules..."

 

G'briel grins at T'nar "You expected depth from me?" is said with mock-surprise. "Did you perhaps wish to discuss drills or fall or what you saw on sweeps." He flicks a piece of lint from a sleeve "I can't say I would be much interested, myself." He flicks a glance K'dir-ward as he says this, then back to the brownriders. "But it is fairly innane...enjoyable, though."

 

S'vilen looks around at Nicole and blinks at her. "What? I'm sorry?" he says, looking from her to C'val. "I must not have heard. What was said?"

 

Osasune smiles faintly, having another long sip of chilled wine that grows ever less chilled.

 

Briny is left to blush once more at V'mar's comments, rolling her eyes as she leans against him. "I thought for sure I was going to trip and fall, forget to say something, or do some other horror, that I wanted to just get back to the rest of you. I'll never live that down."

 

Sisala walks off southwards to the green expanse of the western landing field, passing through the basalt flats.

 

Jalis, seeing the expression on Arlyn's face bursts into a laugh and grins at him. "No worries Arlyn. " She looks bemused, "So are you a Monacoan?" She gestures around the weyr. "Or a relative of one of the new riders, visiting for their graduation?"

 

          The musicians are concentrating hard as the toss dance move towards its spectacular climax: only the best dancers can hope to survive the final leaps and spins. The music seems to spin, too, as the patterned phrases repeat in a dizzying crescendo.

 

Eliwys smiles.

 

Bella smiles.

 

Arlyn shakes his head. "No...I have come here from a traveling troupe as a knifeplayer, and I have taken up residence here. Temporarily, unless we get some good buisness here..."

 

M'ial chuckles, "Yeah, pretty much. But then again, isn't that what pretty much one talks about at events like those?" A idle hand waves about to indicate the crowd, sipping at his wine, "I'm not big on formality."

 

C'val grins at the exchange between Jalis and Arlyn. Turning his head to Nicole he says, "I implied no such thing, Zhirith is simply very protective of his children."

 

T'nar shakes his head. "Work talk is just as innane - and no, I didn't expect you to be anything except yourself, Gabe. Which is why I like you, I believe." A sudden poke at Mati's shoulder. "And you, too. I know where I stand with you. No stupid mind games." Sip.

V'mar tickles at Briny's side, watching all the smiling, "I won't tease you....much."

 

G'briel laughs softly "Oh, I know what you want from me, T'nar." He comments lazily, eyes gleaming with amusement "Whether you get it or not.." He shrugs "I think we still have to deal with semantics. As for M'ial....where does he stand with you? I'm curious."

 

          As the toss dance comes to an end with loud, triumphant chords, the guitarists break into delighted laughter, full of the satisfaction of a difficult piece well played, while the two young percussionists look round eagerly for casualties. The brats!

 

K'dir sits down to enjoy the glass of wine. He watches other people who he knows, the people he doesn't know. He listens to the music, and thinks about things that only have mening to himself....listens to his dragon's thought on the subject...and quietly sips at his wine.

 

Jalis grins and says "Well, riders are easily entertained." She smirks at that comment and looks around pointedly at a few riders who are a bit dimwitted -- and them all unaware of her brief attention.

 

M'ial just smirks at T'nar's poke, "Stupid mind games. Ha." More sipping of his wine, "Am I brash, T'nar?"

 

Osasune leans an elbow on the table, resting her head on her hand, fingers toying with a lock of hair. She watches the finale of the toss dance, still smiling faintly.

 

Briny hitches at the tickling, before offering V'mar a wry grin. "Yeah... I'll remember that. Especially later on this evening."

 

Nicole gently pokes a finger against C'val's side. "I know fully well you didn't imply that, but I wouldn't want the thought to arise because Siv didn't tell you how his lifemate is faring..." Since C'val doesn't seem to be obliging by reasking his question, she slips it into her response so the Fort rider can actually reply this time.

 

T'nar's eyes narrow slightly as Gabe brings up that subject - not upset, but intent. A look over at his fellow brownie. "Oh, yes. Mati is certainly brash, and can be quite loud, at times. And he is definitely in love with a certain pretty /woman/ up at Fort, am I correct?" A grin for M'ial, which turns upon Gabe.

 

V'mar clears his throat and looks all innocent. "Now now, you can't talk about what might happen this evening. "oh right -might- he says.

Eliwys leans up against J'van's shoulder, "My headache is getting worse, people are visiting the galleries and she's not too happy. Mind if I abandon you?" she asks.

 

Arlyn looks a bit at Osasune, and smiles at her. "So your...uhm...watching the dance? It seems most of the dancers are quite talented.../but some are rather pathetic.../" he says, taking a few glances at the dancers.

 

Bella returns a bit later after seeing the littles tucked in. The party is still in full swing and the greenrider grins "Okay. I'm in the mood for another glass of wine." She pipes in as she retakes her seat.

 

J'van smiles down at Eliwys, his fingers tracing her cheek "I do mind, actually - how about I come with you?" He suggests "I can help with your headache." He begins to stand, a hand out to pull the goldrider up.

 

Jalis glances over at Arlyn curiously, "Oh I don't know. I don't think they're all that bad." Then she grins. "Speaking of dancing, I will be sure to dance with you before we leave tonight, S'vilen. " A pause, "If I don't forget."

 

Briny grins once more, leaning more fully against V'mar now. "Of course not, you might just burst."

 

S'vilen ahs at Nicole, turning his attention to C'val. "Perymith is doing very well," he informs the brownrider. "And the rest of clutch as well." Hearing Jalis, he looks over and grins. "I won't let you."

Eliwys puts her hand in J'van's and let's him do the work of pulling her up, "Well, let's see if we can soothe her first" she adds, leaning against the Weyrleader as they head towards the landing field.

 

Eliwys walks off southwards to the green expanse of the western landing field, passing through the basalt flats.

 

G'briel grins at T'nar's warning "Easy, man - I've no wish to pull M'ial away from his lady love." is said teasingly "I've enough on my plate that I don't need to steal." He looks at M'ial regretfully, however. "If you ever find yourself at outs with her, though...." is added suggestively.

 

Osasune smiles at Arlyn, nodding. "They all look pretty good to me. I don't think I could do it, learn the steps and remember them and not be clumsy. It's just one of those things Osa's not good at. I guess I'd be pathetic, then." She winks at the entertainer. "I suppose you're an expert dancer?"

 

J'van walks off southwards to the green expanse of the western landing field, passing through the basalt flats.

 

T'ren comes back with Bella, arm around her waist. He leads Bella back over to the table and smiles at K'dir, "Anything exciting happen while we were gone?"

 

V'mar looks around and then boldly pinches Briny's backside. His expression never even changing.

 

Arlyn blushes with a grimace attached. "Oh...uhm...Nope, I've never danced at all in my life before...but why do you wish to know?" He asks, ever curious.

 

K'dir looks up and smiles. He's just sitting on the bench, casually leaning back,sipping in his wine. Same glass. "Oh, just some exciting dancing."

 

C'val smiles and nods to S'vilen, "Glad to hear it, I of course had faith in you, but Zhirith can be such a worrier sometimes."

 

M'ial wrinkles his nose at T'nar, "I think that's an understatement, T'nar, but I'm quite proud of it." A grin, downing the rest of his wine, setting the empty glass on the table, "Indeed, I am. Though I'm not quite willing to settle down with one woman just yet. However, as for your offer, you can keep it. I'm stuck on women." to G'briel.

 

Nicole allows a smirk to flash across her face. "You know," she comments to S'vilien, "Some say that a dragon is frequently a balance to its rider's nature. It does make you wonder if Zhirith has need to be such a worrier..."

 

T'nar nods at Mati, as the brownie answers Gabe as he knew he would. "I thought you were more than interested in Weyrmating Ashe, Mati. Did something change on your end - or on hers?"

 

Osasune laughs lightly at Arlyn. "You just sounded like you could do it better, the way you spoke," she informs him.

 

G'briel laughs lightly at M'ial's words "I see - a shame, that, but understandable. Best keep Xinth away from Llawenth, however." He notes, flicking a glance at T'nar "It would seem your friend here doesn't share your predilections, however."

 

Arlyn mumbles, /I probably could if I tried...bah...I might as well try../ "Well, I could try if you wanted me to! And I probably could do it better than them!" He says confidently. (He's a goner)

 

C'val rolls his eyes at Nicole, "Please will you let the punching the Weyrleader thing die already?" This is said with a stiffled chuckle at the end however.

 

Bella chuckles and reaches out for her glass of wine and takes a few happy sips. "Well that means there are alot of people getting their toes stepped on then right?" She chuckles and glances around towards those dancing.

 

M'ial shakes his head at T'nar, "No. Just always been that way, though I do give Ashelyn more of my attention than the others." A shrug, "Xinth does what he wish. And T'nar does what he wish." he replies, "Just as I do what I wish."

 

          The clear notes of the harper's voice ring out through the cool night air, and several couples cease dancing to watch, and listen. Once he finishes, a round of spontaneous applause and cheers rings out, only to be quieted as a drummer takes up the solo.

 

T'ren ahs, "Did you get in any of it?" He asks as he picks up his and takes a sip of his wine and mms. "Yes there is. You want to go out there and smash some more toes?"

 

Briny squeaks, nearly bouncing off the bench they were sitting upon. Okay, that is it. He is /far/ too frisky. She reaches over to tug on his sleeve, "Sure you don't want to go yet, pumpkin?" Yeah, she called him pumpkin.

 

Osasune smiles at Arlyn. "I don't want you to try anything you wouldn't do normally. Not that my request really holds any power, mind you." She snickers at herself, finishing off her wine. A sidelong glance is spared in Siv's direction.

 

T'nar arches an eyebrow again at G'briel. Sip. "Let's just say I am /primarily/ attracted to the female of the species." A stout nod at Mati's words. "I see. Does she understand that, Mati? I'm not trying to pry, but I wouldn't want to see either of you hurt because of a misunderstanding."

 

Nicole pauses sharply and eyes C'val meaningfully. Her lips purse tightly a moment and she leans forward to whisper something in his ear. When she's done, she turns to look at the other rider and just rolls her eyes dramatically.

 

V'mar's lashes flutter and he gets to his feet. "Perhaps we should. YOu know, call it an early evening." He pretends a big yawn and sretches one arm over his head. "You know, being a rider is hard stuff."

 

Briny rolls her eyes at his stretching. So, she takes that lifting arm and precedes to try to pull him up with a couple of tugs. "And getting harder by the moment. All tuckered out, dear?"

 

Bella grins and holds out her empty glass to be refilled. "Perhaps after I have another glass of wine." She chuckles "I'ld almost forgot what it tsted like."

 

C'val looks as though he's in trouble but leans and whispers something back to Nicole.

 

          The music blends for a few measures of counterpoint, strings harmonizing with winds as it weaves its rhythms beneath both instruments. Finally, the guitars rejoin in their gentle rhythmic strumming as the rumba goes on.

 

Arlyn bahs out loud like he usually does. "I am willing to try it, so just ask me if you want me to. Really....I don't mind." he says, then converting his speech to a whisper. "I betcha I could do better than them...."

 

T'ren smiles as he finished his off and took Bella's glass, "Let me refill it with some of Benden's best." He moves over to refill their glasses and then moves back over to give Bella hers, "Here you go love."

 

K'dir says "Oh, that's right, Bella....no wine while yo were a Weyrling. Weyrlinghood must have been a /lot/ harder on you than it was on me, Bella."

 

G'briel just smiles at T'nar and M'ial as they begin to speak of things he doesn't know about. He turns to watch the dancers, eyes searching out a particular greenrider as he does so.

 

M'ial nods, "She does, I've made that clear from the beginning. I have a policy as well, never do anything with another woman in front of the one you're currently with. I find that saves me trouble. And someone /will/ end up being hurt, T'nar, it's just the way of life."

 

S'vilen grins at C'val, though he gives Nicole a curious look. As they begin to converse between them, he looks around to see who's left.

 

V'mar snorts at Briny and wraps both arms around her tightly. "lets go home." He answers.

 

Osasune smiles at Arlyn, amused. "I'm supposed to coax you to show them up, am I?"

 

Nicole simply drops a slight kiss on C'val's cheek and glances towards the bowl and away from the party. "I'm sure you can think of something..."

 

Bella smiles and spots V'mar and Briny slipping away. Her attention slips back top K'dir and she arches her brow "Oh. You had wine during your weyrlinghood?"

 

          The soft, sensual rhythms continue their spell weaving over the gathering, instruments intertwining, guitar providing stability, and drums providing rhythmical support as the dance goes on.

 

Jalis overhears M'ial and just widens her eyes, grinning. "Men have funny ideas." She says bemusedly

 

Arlyn puts his hand back behind his head, casually. "Bah! My services don't come cheap ya know." he grimaces.

 

Briny smiles. And Oh, what a smile it is. Bliss. Pure bliss. She glances to V'mar, and then to the others. A wave is given to Bella along with a wink, "Talk to you later!"

 

T'ren puts his arm around Bella and hugs her to him as he takes a drink and listens, "I know I wasn't allowed in mine and I didn't allow any for the weyrlings I talk, but every weyr is different."

 

Osasune makes a noise. "You won't get marks out of me, they all go toward buying myself a gitar."

 

T'nar nods at Mati. "Understood. I hope you're happier down here." A glance at Gabe as the greenrider gazes at another. "Shells, what does one have to do to keep your attention, greenrider? Strip to the waist and prance about in a drunken revel?" A smug little grin.

 

C'val suddenly is overcome with the look of child about to open turnday presents. He turns to S'vilen and whomever else happens to be close, "I'm very sorry something seems to have just come up that I need to attend to, please enjoy your stay here Weyrleader. Goodnight." With that he turns to lead Nicole out of the throng.

 

M'ial tilts his head at Jalis, "Don't we all?" he replies with a raised brow, "I am." he answers T'nar, though he blinks at the comment to G'briel, "I'd go blind if either one of you did that."

 

Arlyn shakes his head. "No, no, no...I mean you have to give me some motivation to make me do it. Like in my troupe, my motivation is, of course, the money."

 

K'dir shakes his head. "No, M'am. I never drank. I was too young, anyhow."

V'mar waves to the party goers as well and then follows along with Briny, his arm around her tightly.

 

Osasune gives C'val and Nicole an amused, look, then leans back in her seat and regards Arlyn. "Ah... I see." Another sidelong glance at Siv, then back to Arlyn.

 

Nicole is somewhat taken aback by the suddenness of their impending departure, but manages to wave cheerfully to the rest of the group as she follows him away from the party.

 

Arlyn shrugs. "Oh well...guess you don't want me to get up and dance, oh well...." he says in a without a care in the world like tone.

T'ren ahs, "How old were you when you impressed K'dir?"

 

C'val walks off southwards to the green expanse of the western landing field, passing through the basalt flats.

 

Bella laughs softly at Briny "Much, much later if my guess is correct." She gives a wink the couple slipping away and sips at her wine and looks back to those around her table.

 

Nicole walks off southwards to the green expanse of the western landing field, passing through the basalt flats.

 

K'dir says "Uhm....just 14 Turns."

 

Bella eyes K'dir curiously before peering around "What's all this ma'am business?"

 

You amble southwards to the green expanse of the western landing field, passing through the basalt flats.