Wings in the Air

{{Keep going,}} Sebienth said stubbornly. L'rue lamented that the bronze could occasionally be so obstinate. {{You are almost there. Just rap on the door plate.}}

<> L'rue responded wryly, straightening his tunic. He'd put on his best suit of leathers in preparation for the Gather, and hoped that he looked somewhat impressive. He ran his hands through his hair again, a nervous gesture but also one that he had to admit made his hair look amazing.

And then he raised his hand and rapped three times against the doorplate of Weyrwoman Karene's office. "Weyrwoman?" he called, glad his voice was even. "A moment of your time please?"

Because one did want to be proper when asking to escort the Weyrwoman to a Gather.

“Well?” The Weyrwoman said aloud to her dragon as she stood in front of her. The cream colored gown’s sweetheart neckline and ruched bust made certain to accentuate Karene’s small breasts. The gown was simple save for the brooch style beadwork at the waistline where only a couple inches lower the side slit in the dress began, showing almost her entire leg when she walked.

Perhaps a bit risqué for Hold folk but then there was no mistaking who Karene was and that she was not someone who followed the rules. Personally she loved the gown most of the flowing silky skirt which should make it easy to move and dance in.

It is exquisite in its simplicity. You will outshine the other Queenriders. Galadrieth was quite pleased with her rider most of the time. This moment was no exception. The Queenrider was sexy and composed and if men didn’t look on her with desire, the dragon had no idea what was wrong with them.

“If only men were more like you darling.” Karene said sweetly, scratching her dragon’s eyeridges. The sentimental moment was interrupted by a knock on the door. Who would that be? She wondered, asking her Gold as well but the Queen refused to ruin the surprise.

Taking a moment she stepped towards her looking glass and adjusted her hair, which she had half up and half down. When her hair was partly down or completely down, it seemed Turns came off of her. She remembered being twenty Turns younger. With a sigh she stepped back away from the mirror and called “Come in, Wingleader.” She could tell from the voice whom it was who wanted a moment.

As he showed himself in she walked toward the door. “I hope this isn’t about Weyr business…” She trailed. Karene did not want to think about anything having to do with work at least once a month. Of course she wouldn’t even get that once Thread returned.

L'rue smiled, shaking his head. "No, not Weyr business," he assured her. "I was just thinking of your advice the other day... and I thought perhaps you would like to be accompanied to the Gather." It came out smoothly, to his amazement. "I've been at Fort for two Turns now and all I know about you is your name, where you come from, and that you have amazing taste in clothing." He was rather proud of himself for sneaking that compliment in there.

{{Be careful,}} Sebienth said. If he'd been a human he'd have been clutching his sides laughing at his rider's clumsy attempts to charm the Weyrwoman. He knew enough from speaking to the other bronzes that such tactics would not work on Galadrieth's rider.

Laughing nervously, L'rue glanced at the ground and rubbed the back of his neck. "All... horrible attempts at flirting aside, I would like to get to know you better Weyrwoman," he said earnestly, his smile almost shy. "You were right when you said Milla would have wanted me to live for myself, not through Jasilla. I thought you might be able to help me pick out some toys for her." He grinned again. "Small steps, right?"

Belisse's heart skipped a beat as she came out of *between* above the Hold proper, knowing that eyes were turning up towards the golden hide. That Jeneveth took her sweet time in descending, curving her long body into graceful shapes as she made a slow circle down. She felt like everyone's eyes were on them by the time the young gold had settled and she was able to dismount.

"I'll be fine," she assured Jeneveth for the hundredth time. "Just relax. Please?"

{{You should have brought and escort,}} Jeneveth stated stubbornly. {{If I cannot be there then I want someone else with you.}}

>>I'm quite capable of taking care of myself,<< she replied, switching to mindspeech as she turned on heel and began to walk towards the Gather stalls. Her dress was made of layers upon layers of thin, silky fabric, all in shades of red and burgundy. It truly brought the auburn in her hair out, making it almost flare in the sunlight. >>Now go rest yourself and find new admirers.<<

She smiled, glancing backwards long enough to see Jeneveth leap into the air and head to a ledge to settle between two bronzes from Telgar. She would be rising sooner than later, Belisse thought with a thrill. Though it didn't matter: Cymrioth would beat every bronze on Pern if he had to, she was certain.

With her queen happily settled and a chipper feeling in her heart, Belisse made her way into the middle of the Gather.

((Open for anyone to tag in!))

She was slightly taken aback. Yes she would do well to have an escort especially after her last meeting with the Holders of Pern. They were none too happy about her plans with Igen Weyr and the new tithes, increase in Candidates Searched etc etc.

Karene did not care for whining from people who had more than enough wealth to go around. The Weyr should be living off of their good years and suffer with them in the bad. If they wanted protection from Threadfall they would do what she asked. It would help her image to arrive with a Bronzerider and that was what mattered really.

Laughing, “Oh please, it’s not the dress, it’s how you wear it.” Teasing him back, she was in a good mood. “Not to worry, L’rue, no one will know of your flirtations.” Karene was unaffected for the most part other than finding them amusing. She knew exactly how she looked in her gown and she looked that way on purpose. “I don’t suppose you’d be willing to take separate dragons? You see, Galadrieth is fond of Gathers. She likes to show off…” If you get to, I get to!

Thinking over what he was saying and how he was saying it. She felt more comfortable with the situation as he spoke. He was looking for someone to help him out of his depression. Not a lover from the sounds of things, which immediately made her less concerned about going with him. L’rue was an attractive man it would not be hard for him to find women when he was ready.

For now, he just needed to appear normal. Luckily for him, she needed to appear normal too. Her secret relationship had to remain secret for the sake of the Weyr. Karene’s youngest did have a father it was just that no one could figure our whom it was and Karene was not telling. So it was obvious the woman kept her own secrets and planned on keeping them forever or at least as long as she could get away with them.

“I will help you if you’ll help me.” She added, “I need to appear… charming and nice around the Holders. Apparently I can come across as a cold hearted, power thirsty, crazed Weyrwoman. I just don’t see where it comes from.” Karene laughed again. Holders were so damned hide bound! Oh she was going to have fun, just shocking them. She could certainly out-dance most of them.

“Since we’ll be finding toys for you your niece, I think it will be a good idea for you start thinking about relationships with people outside of her and me.” And she meant romantic relationships. It did him no good, having a cold hearted bitch and a sweet, loving child as his only companions outside of his introverted dragon.


Jeneveth just landed her rider. The dragon informed him as he landed him in nearly the same spot. The Bronze’s powerful wings extended for landing so that he looked much bigger than he was. Not only was it needed for a good landing but the Bronze liked doing it for the effect. If his wings were extened for a couple seconds longer than need be no one would have noticed except for Sh’nar.

The rider made a small side comment about being a show-off but seeing as he was holding back a laugh, he dismounted amused but not at all cross with the Bronze. I will be on the heights. Perhaps Jeneveth will want some company. The dragon was quite the womanizer where Sh’nar was not particularly focused on any women at all.

The rider knew the Bronze was only mental touch away and so he began to straighten up his outfit before thinking of where he should start. While he meandered the Gather, his Bronze was happily settling in next to the youngest Queen of Fort Weyr. Good day, lovely Jeneveth. Are you enjoying the sun?

Queens should be doted upon, something his rider could learn to do as well. This spot was not taken was it?the dragon queried the Gold, because he would feel oh so bad if he had taken someone else’s place. Cymrioth was exactly where he should be and was not moving no matter the answer.

Sh’nar had no intention of spending the Gather alone. Now to find someone he knew from Fort Weyr, that was a problem in the myriads of people who walked around. He just caught a glimpse of Belisse when he was about to give up on finding anyone out in the open.

He jogged a little to catch up to her and tapped lightly on her shoulder, “Weyrwoman Belisse.” He cleared his throat. What was he supposed to say, hmmm? What would sound the best? Something she wouldn’t refuse. He had no clue that she had any feelings whatsoever for him which made this more difficult. Then he was rather naïve when it came to wooing women. His dragon did most the wooing for him.

“May I have the great honor of being your escort for the Gather?” He expected her to say no but at least he had attempted. She did not seem to have a lover with her or even someone who was a friend. Cymrioth had mentioned her as if she had come alone. His dragon was already attempting to be first in the young Queens affections. He should do likewise.

"I think Sebienth would be offended if he didn't get the chance to escort Galadrieth to the Gather as well," L'rue chuckled, getting a mental 'shove' from his bronze for the little dig. "He's looking forward to seeing old friends, I think. I wouldn't mind it either, honestly... " He'd left a lot of friends behind at Telgar when he moved to Fort, friends that he had made little to no attempt to stay in contact with.

At her self description, according to the Holders, L'rue had to laugh. "You, cold?" he said jokingly. "I've only been here two Turns and we're already fast friends. I think you're doing fine." All that was delivered with easy affection... a natural reaction for a bronzerider around a goldrider, true, but he found himself liking Karene as a person. He tended to judge people based on their interactions with children, and the Weyrwoman had proven herself to be a loving mother in his eyes. That could make up for many short comings.

Sebienth glided from his ledge to Galadrieth's, backwinging neatly to land near her. {{I hope you will allow me to escort you, Galadrieth,}} he said, his voice lighter than usual. His rider seemed to have tossed off the cloak of sadness that had been over him for so long, at least partially, and it was effecting the bronze's mood as well. {{It would be my privilege.}} He puffed his chest out slightly and extended his neck to her's affectionately.

L'rue rolled his eyes and offered his arm to Karene, eyes dancing. "Today I want to dance, spoil my niece with things she doesn't need, eat and drink... I don't think my goals are too lofty for the day. Relaxation in the sun, with pleasant company."


Jeneveth was very pleased when Cymrioth settled next to her, even moving a little closer to him and away from the Telgar bronze who had been holding her attention before. Her rider's personal thoughts and emotions had affected the young queen, and she found the bronze just as fascinating as her rider found his.

{{No, no one was there,}} she said, offering him her neck for a nuzzle. The sun made her hide almost glow like she was on fire, and she knew she was breathtaking. {{I was hoping you would find me.}} She still had time before her first Flight, but there was no harm in flirtation after all.

Her dragon's sudden rush of emotion was at least of some warning to Belisse before she heard His voice. Her breath caught when she turned, raising her eyes to his. He had found her, she thought with a faint thrill. They had spoken perhaps three times in the past... as candidates, for her to congratulate him on his Impression, and when he had congratulated her two Turns later for the same. She'd hoped for this for so long, and suddenly it was happening. She was glad again that she had chosen the red gown, and that she had spent the extra time making sure her curls were smooth and laid nicely down her back.

"I'd love for you to be my escort, Wingrider Sh'nar," she said in a tiny voice, barely able to get the words out. Her smile was sweet and hesitant, and bright enough that it would have lit the entire Gather had it been the middle of the night.

>>Oh my, Jeneveth, it's Sh'nar,<< she said to her queen, the thought barely more than a whisper. She had dreamed of his moment for so long and now it was here. He had noticed her, after all these Turns.

Jeneveth gave a rumble of amusement and sent a pulse of love and pride to her rider. Between the attention of Cymrioth and Belisse's blissful happiness, the gold practically pulsated with the emotion.

Karene was not remiss in talking to him before then. He needed to get out and have fun. “I’ll warn you now, I make it a personal goal at Gathers to out-dance as many Holders as possible.” It was no secret that since her family had pretty much forbade her from leaving on the day of her wedding to become a rider that there was some tension between them. Her loathing for other Holders though was for other reasons.

It was for these reasons that at Gathers she tried to show them up at pretty much everything. She was Fort’s Senior Weyrwoman, highest ranked woman on Pern and they could go on and whisper and remark but no matter what they said it was obvious she could do everything they could and more.

Galadrieth greeted the Bronze by gently extending her own serpentine neck and rubbing him. It will be nice to have company while the humans enjoy some time out of the Weyr. Karene is too concerned about her plans to make Pern better prepared for the inevitable to take much time for fun. The Queen liked all of her Bronzes for different reasons.

Sebienth was one who usually stayed back and watched others, he was quiet however the Queen never discounted the quiet ones. Adoring her from afar was almost as nice as being adored up close. And it wasn’t like Karene was always sunshine and sweetness especially not toward the Bronzeriders of the Weyr.

“Alright then, if you are ready I am.” She went to put the straps on her Gold. “See you at the Gather.” We’ll get there first! The Queen said excitedly to her rider. This should be a race in the dragon’s competitive mind. Indeed if it were, she ought to win.

The Bronze dragon was beyond pleased by the reaction he received from Jeneveth. Well as long as he was welcome, he would be sure to entertain the Queen. When she offered her neck he nuzzled it affectionately. The dragon decided he must have good timing. He would not have expected such a warm greeting otherwise. After all, he had never shown her any special attention as a Weyrling. There may have been others who were vying for her attention then.

Now though it was clear to him Jeneveth was glad to have him near her rather than the other Bronzes. How could anyone not find you here, the way your radiant hide is glowing in the sun. I only hope I can be good company for you today.

Catching that the Bronze had in fact found his way to Jeneveth and was making it his business to dote on the young Gold, Sh’nar nearly shook his head. He was amused because the Bronze had no reason to be more favored than anyone else. He was simply so damned confident that all the female dragons were pleased by his company.

He was a bit young though to win any of the Gold flights thus far. Quite sadly, Karene had made it clear that she did not like either of them because of their attitudes. She couldn’t be Senior forever and after what happened to Therasaith’s rider, she likely wouldn’t be. Sh’nar was certain the Goldrider had been behind it, she was the only one who gained anything by it.

When her face lit up, he smiled in return. Although he wasn’t exactly sure why was so happy to see him particularly but perhaps it wasn’t him perhaps it was that she was already happy to be at the Gather and an escort was just icing on the cake. Sh’nar offered her his arm, “Where would you like to go first?” He asked.

"Well, I'll have you know I'm a fantastic dancer," L'rue said grinning. "If you'll let me monopolize you for a few dances, of course."

{{My rider thinks far too often of work as well,}} Sebienth commiserated. {{This will be good for him. He sulks far too often.}}

"Stop telling all my secrets," L'rue joked as he approached the bronze, giving him a slap on the side. Sebienth relayed Galadarieth's challenge and the rider grinned even bigger. "Challenge accepted!" he told the queen with a salute, scrambling up his dragon's side like it was nothing. He had been doing so his entire life, after all, one advantage he knew he had over the goldrider. He flicked off another jaunty salute before snapping his harness just before Sebienth dropped from the ledge, and, with a huge downward stroke of his wings, went to gain the altitude needed for *between*.


{{I am sure my day will be most pleasant indeed,}} Jeneveth responded, curling her still growing body up but leaving more than enough room for the bronze to get closer. {{We graduate soon,}} she told him proudly. {{Then we will fly like you.}} The young gold was perfectly happy with her rider's flamethrower... the smell of firestone was truly atrocious.

She could tell why her rider favored Cymrioth now, as she saw the bronze glint in the sun and the man himself through the adoring eyes of her rider. Not to mention the surge of happiness from Belisse when Sh'nar simply spoke to her.

Belisse placed her hand delicately on his arm, a smile of bliss on her face. "Thank you so much," she murmured, eyes cast downward though she kept peeking up at him from the corner of her eye. "I don't think I could ask for better company... I always regretted that we didn't get to know each other better before you Impressed."

“I make no promises.” She said with a wink as she mounted her Gold. It was no mean feat having to climb to the dragons back. Although the dragon tried everything she could to make it easier. Karene made it look much easier than it was. Luckily for her she was not all that short and Galadrieth was not an exceptionally large Queen. Karene laughed as she had Galadrieth Between to the Gather.

Arriving above the Gather Grounds at Igen Hold, Galadrieth looked to find Sebienth nearby. Land first please. Then your rider can help Karene down, in her gown. It would be unbecoming of her to show much more than she already is, in dismounting. The Gold was not attempting to be bossy but she did have a point. Karene, as much as she liked to shock the Holders now and then, did not think showing more than nearly her entire leg and her arms, part of her chest… well it wouldn’t be good if that slit went up past her leg in sliding off of Galadrieth.

(sorry its short!)


Cymrioth was quite pleased with himself, so much so that his rider had to tell him not to get too cocky. She was a Gold after all and had many suitors. Still the Bronze was rather full of himself when it came to female dragons so he took her movement as an invitation to come close. He was close to touching the Gold but he knew better than to presume. Once she was his mate, he could curl around her anytime. Now she was most certainly flirting with him, the Bronze concluded, this would be fun. Graduation is a fun time, especially for the riders. There will be a Feast and perhaps another chance for our riders to dance? The Bronze was hoping that meant she would want his company again.

Her talk of flying made him think of her first mating flight because Cymrioth was rather chase driven and the Gold was right there discussing flying so he couldn’t help himself. Karene and Galadrieth will be glad to have you in the Queen’s Wing. That might have been a lie however Karene didn’t really strike him as the type to hate her Juniors. Galadrieth was always pleasant. So he figured they would be welcome. Do you speak much with Galadrieth? She would be a good dragon to learn from. She leads the Queen’s Wing when the Weyrs come together you know. He was used to having to get to know the lead dragons of the Weyr because his rider was so focused on achieving great rank.

Meanwhile, Sh’nar watched Belisse’s reaction with interest. She was very pleased at seeing him, more than he had at first realized. The trained Harper was thinking perhaps she was not going to be hard at all to woo and win over to his side. If he could win her over, he would become Weyrsecond at some point and then when she became Senior he could potentially become Weyrleader. Hmmm, yes, he really should consider this relationship carefully. First though he needed to be attentive and caring. So far she was showing an attraction to him but he would have to show there was a reason for that to be the case. She would be approached by other men here because of who she was.

“Nonsense, you deserve an escort, and as a Bronzerider it is my duty to see you well-tended to and protected at events such as this one.” She was a Goldrider but she was thankfully nothing like Karene. Laughing, amiably, “I was not a Candidate long enough to really get to know anyone as a Candidate. However I do remember that you were very kind to everyone.” He said although he might only have remembered that about her, she would hopefully think that was good? He was not sure what she thought about.

“Would you like to stop by some of the vendors? I myself am in need of new boots.” He was looking for more expensive and hopefully longer lasing ones.

Sebienth came out of *between* moments behind his queen, something that made his rider smirk. He had a feeling the bronze had let the gold win.

{{Of course,}} Sebienth answered, carefully landing nearby Galadarieth so that no dust was sprayed up on her lovely golden hide or her rider's beautiful dress. {{Then we shall adjourn to the fireheights?}} The last was phrase as a question. No one demanded anything of the senior queen, after all.

L'rue hopped off Sebienth in moments, hurrying over to Galadarieth before Karene got any ideas. "Galadrieth, if you don't mind?" he asked, giving a bow to the gold. When she courteously extended her leg he lightly stepped up it, holding his arm out to the Weyrwoman. "My lady Weyrwoman, welcome to Igen," he said with a grin.


{{Oh definitely!}} Jeneveth answered enthusiastically, eyes sparkling a pleased blue in the sunlight. {{She is very happy to see your rider... she hoped he would find her today. I am certain she will dance with your rider whenever he asked.}} She was innocently giving away her rider's crush with no clue she was doing so, but at least Belisse was far too distracted to notice.

{{And my dame will be pleased to have me,}} she answered, once again totally convinced of this. Why wouldn't Galadrieth be happy to have her in her wing? And she would not steal her bronzes... her rider had made it clear through her thoughts, if not her words, who she wanted for her mate.

Belisse blushed, pleased to be remembered for something so nice. "You were so handsome and strong," she murmured, a shy smile on her face. "It was really no wonder you Impressed Cymrioth. And then as soon as you graduated, I Impressed Jeneveth. Maybe now that I'm graduating, we'll finally get to know each other?" The last was said with hope in her voice, and she raised her eyes and tentatively smiled up at him. "I need to buy some new boots as well... I want to be decked out when I graduate." She giggled, nervously, and instantly cursed herself for such a girlish action. "I hope Weyrwoman Karene and I will work well together."

The Gold landed smoothly, back winging a little as she showcased her expansive wings. It was so smooth it was as if she landed on a cloud. Karene never allowed anything but perfection when it came to their flying. The Queen’s Wing was led by the best of the best and such a position demanded nothing if not perfection.

I’m going to the heights with Sebienth, I believe young Jeneveth is there already. The Queen informed her rider. It was likely a hint that the Weyrwoman should check in on her all too sweet Junior. Galadrieth helped the Wingleader retrieve her rider with her leg lift.

“Why thank you, Wingleader.” She said, as she slid down a little where her hand could reach his. They were successful in keeping the Weyrwoman from indecent exposure. “Well they certainly have out done themselves this time. Perhaps they are celebrating their daughter’s recent betrothal.”

She could see how important such an alliance would be although some might not understand why she bothered to look at what each Lord did with his personal life. What should it matter to her that the Igen Lord would give up property in order to marry his daughter to the heir of Telgar Hold? It mattered a great deal in her mind. Lord Holders were masters of deception and manipulation. She should know, she was raised by one of the best.

“I think it would be best if I pay my respects to the Lord and Lady of Igen before finding some entertainment. Meanwhile the dragons are allowed to avoid politics and have fun.” Karene would be lying if she said she didn’t like politics. She loved every aspect of it because seeing the devious plans of Lord Holders only reaffirmed her belief that she was well rid of that life. Besides she liked having more control over her life, something she had at the Weyr.

The Bronze moved his great wedge shaped head towards her so he might catch the color of her eyes and thus her emotions. He was pleased too, eyes whirling in a copycat color blue. She would be foolish not to and if she is, well you know that I am glad to have you at Fort. The Bronze meant it more than perhaps his rider might have realized. It was natural for Cymrioth to desire the young Gold’s affections especially knowing Galadrieth did not like him at all.

“Was I now?” He laughed, not thinking he had changed all that much since then though perhaps he was stronger. “Yes it seems life has kept us apart until today.” Sh’nar added. This could all go his way if he played the part right. “I think we should certainly get to know one another. We’ll be working more closely together now that you are graduating.” And Sh’nar knew she was going to look forward to that because of how she was hanging on every word he was saying. He’d never had anyone so beautiful fawn all over him before. Oh yes, this could certainly work well for his future.

Her giggling went overlooked as he said, “You should be the best dressed there. It will be your special day after all.” He said, thinking about the place he had intended to go for his own boots. Near there would be some weavers and jewelers, he might be able to buy her a gift there too. “I think I know just the vendor, if you’ll allow me to lead you there…” He said as he began to walk toward the area he knew the craftsman usually was. There had been a few riders who had recommended the man. When she mentioned Karene his face darkened momentarily.

He didn’t much care for the Senior Weyrwoman, “If you don’t the fault will not be yours, fair Belisse. Lady Karene is a difficult woman to work with, let alone get along with.” She hated Bronzeriders but especially ones like him. When he was a Candidate she hadn’t liked him and the dislike had grown to near hatred of one another. She knew what he was and he knew what she was, neither of which normal people would aspire to be like.

Once Karene's feet were settled on the ground, L'rue took a step back to let her adjust her gown. A lovely woman, he thought with admiration, and they would be quite the striking couple. But he'd heard whispers that her heart was quite taken from the moment he'd arrived at the Weyr. And he was no poacher. He might have been one of the few bronzeriders that honestly admired her as a leader, a rider, and a mother only, in fact.

Being weyrbred he didn't fully understand the intrinsic plots and plans of Holders and Crafters, though he was aware of them to some extent. All Wingleaders were briefed on the state of the Holds at Fort Weyr. "I hear the two will make quite the handsome match," he commented, offering her his arm and leading her from their dragons as the two sprung into the air and headed for the heights. "Let's go pay our respects and be all proper so we can go dance for the rest of the evening," he said with a grin.


Jeneveth gave a pleased trill and stretched her neck out until she was resting it against Cymrioth's forelegs. It was rather a forward move for such a young gold, especially one who hadn't flown and picked a mate yet. But as far as Belisse was concerned Cymrioth would be Jeneveth's mate, and the queen picked up on that.

"I guess it was meant to be, then, that you would find me," Belisse answered with a smile. She had purposefully come before any of her classmates. At least one had spoken out to her about her infatuation with the bronzerider, and she had hoped to find time to spend with him that day.

"This is my first time in Igen," she admitted, following him with a smile. "I'm glad of any help... I have a few ideas for my outfit but I'd love your opinion."

"If you are as good a dancer as you say, it may be I am the one monopolizing your free dances. There are plenty of Holder ladies whose Lords do not dance with them..." Not to mention their lovely young daughters. Oh her brother would be livid if she allowed a Bronzerider to dance with his daughter. The girl was only eighteen but that was plenty old enough to be brought to the Weyr! She thought to herself with a smirk clear on her face. Yes that would be too bad, wouldn't it?

"As if looks had anything to do with it." She laughed, and took his arm. "Although I would like to say at the Weyr looks are very important. It is why I would have made a horrible Search Rider. If you aren't good looking you aren't coming to my Weyr. I think that rule could really catch on..." And it really was no secret that sometimes Search riders did Search young men and women based on their attractiveness alone and not necessarily on their ability to Impress a dragon.

"Business before pleasure. Sometimes I wish I had impressed a green." She said with a sigh. Green and blue riders had all the glory of being riders while having very little of the pressure. And as much as she might say she wanted that life, everyone knew she wanted control and she wouldn't have that on any color but Gold.
Cymrioth was practically giddy. She was resting her head on his forelegs. Oh, he was so amazing. Just look he'd spent almost no time with Jeneveth before now and she was already wanting to be with him. While the dragon's smug arrogance reached his rider, Sh'nar tried not to let the dragon's emotions interefere with his own emotions. They had not won the pair in flight so Cymrioth would be better off settling down. Still it was curious how quickly the Queen had come to be close with his Bronze.

Cymrioth wanted to point out the obvious but it was so much more fun watching his rider figure things out on his own. It was also amusing to know something someone else did not know. So Cymrioth was practically in dragon heaven right now while everyone else was still figuring out life, err well mainly Sh'nar.

Wtih a charming smile, he said, "I'm not sure that I'm an expert on women's attire, however I would be glad to be of assistance to you. No matter what you wear you will look a thousand times better than anyone else there." He might have meant that, if he weren't wrapped up in his own schemes. He might notice that he was manipulating someone who already thought the world of him if he had simply paid more attention.

"I was told this was the best person to get boots from and I believe he is located this way". Of course I've only been here a couple of times myself." He said, taking her hand to lead her more easily. She had much smaller hands than he did but them he was tall and his fingers were long from playing instruments.

L'rue bent down a bit and peered at her face, a wicked grin crossing it. "Oh, you've got some evil planned don't you?" he asked, delight in his voice. "Just point me to whoever you want me to pull the handsome bronzerider play on... ," he finished with a wink. He was feeling playful, and the joyful environment of the Gather, not to mention Karene's good mood, was encouraging him.

Her next comment had him laughing out loud, shaking his head. "Sebienth's only good for gold candidates," he admitted, "but I have noticed that the ones he takes interest in are... well, of a certain level of attractiveness."

{{Well of course,}} Sebienth answered, passing along the message to Karene only after he received to go ahead from Galadrieth. {{No queen of Fort Weyr would deign to Impress upon a pock marked fisher's daughter.}}

That sent him into even more laughter. "Someone is full of himself tonight," he told Karene, a playful gleam in his eyes. "And you on a green sounds preposterous. I may never have met you before but you're head to toe a Weyrwoman." The gave her a gallant nod with the smile. "And I see our targets, due west. We've been spotted so we might as well get this over with. Shall I introduce you and be proper or would you rather I stay quiet?" Even that he said with a grin: he may have been a Wingleader, but he'd never interacted with the Lords himself.




Jeneveth sensed the smugness, but she didn't care much. She was quite a prize, after all. Daughter of the senior queen of Fort, approaching her maiden flight. And Cymrioth was a very handsome bronze, well liked by other female dragons of the Weyr. And, most importantly, he was not one of Galdarieth's bronzes. If she could lay claim to him before any silly green could try then all the better.

"Well, you have amazing fashion sense," Belisse said, looking up at him with an adoring smile when his hand slipped down to grasp her's. She was holding hands with him, after so many Turns of waiting for this exact moment. There was quite a height gap between the two, but she felt safe at his side. The same as his much larger hand seemed to fold around her's completely. "I'm certain that whatever suggestions you have will be wonderful."

While the pair strolled, she tried to keep from sneaking glances up at him and smiling foolishly. To anyone looking from outside it was obvious how much the young woman doted on the man holding her hand, even if he hadn't realized it yet himself. "How is practice with your wing going?" she asked after she felt the silence had gone on long enough. Though she could so easily imagine walking with him, hand in hand, and not having to speak for hours.

Her wicked thoughts must have shown on her face. Karene tried not to be too excited over the idea. “As long as you don’t mind…” she laughed, “And I promise to save you if the girl becomes clingy.” L’rue was willing to play along and it seemed to her he was a bit happier than usual. Good, she thought to herself. They might as well have some fun at the expense of the Holders.

She didn’t know her niece all that well. No one in the family spent any time with Karene and she never really visited. However she did check in on things at home once in a while, she never was permitted to speak to the family. She would never give up on reconciling with her father but it seemed he was just as stubborn as she was. Her niece she knew on sight from various Gathers and such. Besides the young woman would see her and know who she was and that would be telling enough on its own.

“Oh really?” She said, and then heard the Bronze speak to her. Laughing she said, “Well put. Galadrieth would agree but she only cares about what the dragons look like. I’ve told her that’s rather selfish but she seems to think I deserve what I get.” And didn’t she? It was true, she was being uncharacteristically good natured right now but at Gather’s the Goldrider tended to let the worries of the world go and focused on having fun and teasing Lord Holder’s and their sensibilities. So her dragon was likely right, she deserved whatever she got. The Weyrleader was proof of that. Man was completely inadequate in some areas.

“I’ll admit, there would never have been any point in my leaving home if I could not achieve rank outside of it.” She was certain there were plenty of people who put things less delicately when speaking of her rise to power. “I don’t mind introducing us, since I know the Holders better. But you don’t have to be silent unless you want to.” By way of explaining she added, “I’m used to attending these things by myself.” Following his instruction though, she headed west to where the Lord and Lady of Igen stood.

“Lord Qisbon, Lady Luaya, warm greetings to you on this Gather Day. You have truly made your Hold shine.” Karene made an effort to curtsy elegantly in her dress, and it seemed she was actually able to pull it off.

“Weyrwoman Karene, it is our great honor to have you with us today.” The Lord answered, eyes noting the Bronzerider next to her then. “And you sir.” He said with a bow.

Karene supplied the name to the Lord Holder, “This is Wingleader L’rue of Bronze Sebienth.”

“You are most welcome Wingleader.” Lord Qisbon said and let his attention fall on his small wife.

“Indeed, most welcome. Please, join us later for the banquet and dancing.” Her voice was light and airy.

To Karene that was dismissal enough and she began to walk away.

(After your post I’ll move them to the new thread)

Cymrioth’s body was relaxed next to Jeneveth but he was alert. He wanted to be sure no one disturbed her. Protectiveness had taken over, whether Cymrioth realized it consciously or not. He was really not going to allow any Bronzes or Browns nearby if he could keep them away. Cymrioth was not a jealous dragon but he liked being on top of the competition. He did not want anyone ruining his bonding time with Jeneveth.

Sh’nar smiled, “I suppose I do.” The Bronzerider was never able to be humble. He was the exact opposite of humble. Every compliment she paid him was only going to go to his head more. He knew he was amazing, and anyone who failed to see that was dumb. He had said she would look beautiful whatever she chose to wear but it would help if he chose the outfit. He knew how hard it was to outshine Karene and he wanted Belisse to do just that. Once Belisse trusted him then things would be quite easy.

His face darkened, “The wing is excellent. They don’t give me enough responsibility. I’m ready for more but they keep holding me back.” And it troubled him. He was better than most of them. He was a better rider and he could easily lead if given the opportunity. Cymrioth would agree that they did well. “I apologize.” He said, gently squeezing her hand, “I’m sure your Weyrling training has been much better. Anyone in your class give you any trouble?”

They were nearing the Gather stall he was interested in but he wanted to make sure he wasn’t moving too quickly for the smaller woman. “Almost there. I’m not walking too quickly for you am I?” He wasn’t used to having a woman with him since he rarely maintained relationships with the women he slept with. (Most of them the results of Flights)

L'rue practically snorted in amusement at Karene's assessment of certain bronzeriders. Weyrs were rife with rumor mills, and there had been quite a few things said about their current Weyrleader. "Oh, don't feel bad," he told her cheerfully, "not all of us are total idiots." He gave her a purposefully foolish grin, before letting her steer them towards the Lord and Lady.

Ready to get this party started, L'rue bowed deeply to Lady Luaya and made quite a show of kissing her hand lightly. "My Lord, my Lady," he said, flashing his most winning smile. "A beautiful Gather, truly."

When they were walking away he chuckled under his breath. "This is going to be so much fun."


Jeneveth couldn't have cared less what was going on with the other dragons, because she was already drowsing in the sun. Cymrioth was quite the comfortable cushion, and she could just imagine how jealous the greens were. Perhaps even Galadrieth herself!

Belisse made a noise of displeasure and shook her head. "Then your Wingleader obviously doesn't know what he has," she said immediately. "I've watched you and Cymrioth in the air, you're fantastic!" She blushed and lowered her eyes, embarrassed at the passion in her voice. "I know you two will get your chance," she said finally, voice a little more controlled.

But the little hand squeeze made her glance back up at him, adoration clear in her eyes. He truly was the best of the bronzeriders, she thought dreamily. So considerate. "I'm glad it's almost over," she admitted, "we're all ready to be in full Wings." Her eyes clouded briefly when he asked if anyone was giving her trouble... the only one who had ever done so had been smashed against a cliff face a few months ago. "No," she said firmly, putting aside the weyrgirl who had never forgiven her for Impressing Jeneveth despite her own green. "We're all so close at this point. I'm worried it's going to be hard afterwards... we've spent every moment together for two Turns and I just hope we stay as close as we are." She hoped that didn't sound as whiny as she was afraid it did.

Yet another considerate gesture, she thought when he worried about his pace. She laughed low and shook her head. "I'm used to long strides, I don't remember when I wasn't the shortest one of a group." She saw the stalls and gave a little gasp, dropping his hand and dancing forward to a tailor selling dresses. "It's so beautiful," she told the crafter in a hushed voice, eyes focused on a light pink number. Then she remembered Sh'nar and spun around, a little afraid he would be gone. When she saw he was still there her face split into the biggest grin. "Sorry, if I see something shiny I get distracted."

Was she always so… nice? He wondered, responding, “You are right, eventually they won’t be able to ignore our talent. Sometimes I want things quickly and have to remember patience.” Maybe Cymrioth was onto something here. He’d already agreed with the Bronze the relationship between themselves and the Gold pair needed to be cultivated. However, he was starting to think Belisse would not be difficult to woo.

Sh’nar knew better than to be transparent to others when it came to wooing though. Despite her obvious attraction for him, he would have to live up to whatever expectations she had of him and what other people expected too. Tonight he could use to his advantage, there would be feasting and dancing. And he was not about to share his dance partner with anyone else…unless she really wanted to. Then he would have to oblige.

He smiled warmly, “All Weyrlings are ready for training to be over.” Her second concern was something he wasn’t sure how to answer in a positive light. She was a Goldrider and they were beneath her as far as hierarchy went. Sh’nar knew better than to insult her friends, no matter how he actually felt about them; he would outwardly be kind towards them. “I think in any transition it is easy to lose sight of ones friendships. Your life is about to change dramatically. With such change, you cannot expect your life and your relationships with people will remain the same. Your friendships will change, and grow as you do.”

Belisse suddenly gasped, and his hand was let go of. He watched as she made her way to the gather stall. Sh’nar followed, as he was intending to stay with her for the entire Gather if he could. He laughed, “You know once you graduate, you’ll be able to buy yourself whatever you like.” Weyrwoman were well paid and deservedly for the most part. They did more work than the average rider.

Encouragingly he said, “So perhaps it is not such a horrible thing to love beautiful items.” Honestly he had no idea what she liked, so he would have to pay her very close attention.

“Do you want to see it better?” He asked.

"My father used to spoil me horribly," she admitted to him with a smile, thinking back to her days as a child. As the cossetted only daughter of a wealthy minor holder she'd been brought up to expect great things out of life. Jeneveth hadn't been the plan, true, but the outcome had been the same. Perhaps that constant comfort level was the reason she looked so innocently upon everyone, even a 'badboy' bronzerider her friends had told her was no good.

Sillies, she thought, once again glad she had slipped out before their appointed meeting time. Hopefully they'd forgive her later for missing their planned day but it was Sh'nar! They would have to understand. And he was being such a gentleman at that.

"I suppose I'm allowed to spoil myself now, though, aren't I?" she asked him with a mischievous grin. "And I've never actually owned anything in this shade... I was always afraid it would clash with my hair. Oh, shardit, who cares!" She drew her belt pouch out and smiled brightly at the merchant. "The pink gown, how much for it? And to have it altered to my measurements?"

The canny merchant had been listening to the conversation with great interest. "For you, 40 marks my lady," he said, outrageously overpricing the item.

Belisse eagerly opened her belt pouch: it'd be most of what she brought, but the dress was well worth it in her mind.

“You are very lucky to have such a doting father.” His father was less than kind to him. Beatings and verbal forms of abuse were rampant in their relationship, if one could even call it that. He no longer had any contact with the man and probably never would again. He didn’t want her to worry about his past though. She was enjoying the Gather and a topic like that would only make things much more depressing. Besides he did not want people to know much about his family life. They would think he was weak and that was something unforgivable to him.

“I cannot think of a single color that would look badly on you.” The pink with her dark hair would be just fine. Now if she were fair with very light hair that light of a pink would wash her out. No, she would look lovely in it. Her cheeks would look more pink and that would be very attractive. He wouldn’t allow himself to think too long about that. As much as he wanted to think of her as a beautiful young woman, he had to consider she was also a Goldrider and he had to keep his mind from being clouded by emotions. He needed to keep his distance emotionally which meant not thinking about his attraction for her.

“40!?” Sh’nar said questioning the man. He reached out to keep her from pulling out any coins and put her hand under his as a way to block it. “Lady Belisse it’s not worth near that.” The Harper born Bronzerider looked harshly on the man selling the garment now. How dare he? Did he not know whom he was dealing with? The Bronzerider, tried to hide the anger in his voice but there was still an edge there that suggested the man better be accommodating. “The lady should not be treated differently than anyone else because you think you can make extra marks off of her. Now what is the real price?”

Kazage had been seeing that the stalls of goods he'd arranged for the gather were doing well and they hadn't run across any problems throughout the day, so he was nearby. Overhearing Sh'nar's outburst over the price of the gown Belisse had been eyeing, he decided to help his hired hand out. Before the other man had a chance to raise his voice to the dragonrider, Kazage stepped up to the trio from the far side of the stall.

White-robed with his black overcoat and a strange black band about his neck that knotted at his throat, Kazage didn't necessarily appear to be a shady character. His voice even, was quiet and honest; and yet there was soemthing less becoming of him that would put anyone a bit on edge around him who had any sense about human aura. Certainly some cunning, perhaps even devious nature could have been seen clearly through his eyes because he did nothing to hide it. Yet, when he addressed Sh'nar, his words were so matter of fact, that there was little room left for argument on the details of the dress he presented to them; and in fact, he was being very straight with them. After all, that was his way. "Your Lady has truly fine tastes. There's no need to question her judgement on such good quality."

The faint smile that worked its way into his expression, bordered by long-trimmed brown hair and a curtain of bangs, was genuine, if not barely-there. "The fabric is like nothing you've ever put on before. All the way from Southern Boll's Weaver Hall, the gown is made from something they're calling Silk. From what I've been told, it is a fabric that requires more effort to produce than any other, which is why it has taken until now to perfect the technique. These are amoungst the first gowns on Pern produced from it. Very breathable, it is more suited for spring and summer use."

Taking pause to offer the example of another dress in the same type of fabric, he demonstrated it against a more previously popular type where the difference in soft, fine texture and drape could be seen and felt. "There is no other fabric with such eloquent drape."

And then he turned narrow, shallow set eyes on Belisse."Waterfalls of pink suit her...Would you like to try it on first?"

This was how she usually bartered: with her father, or one of his stewards, doing the dickering while she simply indicated interest, so the trader turning his attention to Sh'nar didn't bother her. She listened to what he said quietly, her eyes going over the gown and taking it all in.

"Silk," she murmured, reaching out and touching it once again. So soft she almost felt like her hand was going to go through it. She could see herself standing in front of Jeneveth in it, the pink hues of the gown drawing out the light red in her queen's hide. "I'd love to try it on," she spoke up immediately, then she shot Sh'nar an apologetic look. Regardless of the price she would be leaving with this gown: it was simply too beautiful.