Post by Anna on Aug 11, 2008 0:04:41 GMT -5
Surviving Storms: The New Weyrleaders
Pam Kiser Carbone (Kaylynn, M'kel, R'hese), April Masters Legate (J'ren, Jina), Anna Smith (D'ven)
StarRise Weyr
21.10.26
Kaylynn couldn't put it off any longer. Eyes burning from unshed tears and exhaustion, she watched with regret as the Council room emptied of the last of the people clamoring for her attention. It seemed as if the entire Weyr clawed out to her, smothering her in a desperate desire to normalize life again...as if only she could keep them steady and sane. She'd noticed many reached out to her, as if by touch alone they could ease their pain and loss. The death of Lynneth and Wenth and the loss of their Weyrwoman and their junior goldrider had thrown dragons and riders into a depressive spiral.
Now Kaylynn's job to help them cope and heal.
She'd welcomed it at first. The act of caring for others and taking charge of the everyday needs of the Weyr distracted her from her own pain and worry. The dead were gone, but the living still needed her. She'd put Ashleen and Danwa's loss out of her mind as much as possible, concentrating on her weyrmate's problems instead. M'kel injuries were showing signs of improvements, but the dragonhealers were shaking their heads over his bronze's severe wing injury. None were sure if Paragath would ever fly again. The unspoken inference was clear: She would be StarRise's Weyrwoman, but her weyrmate would never be Weyrleader. She would face yet another storm of change.
StarRise Weyrwoman. It all kept turning back to that inescapable fact. She rose from the table and hesitated, gazing at the exit that led straight into Ashleen's quarters.
Except Ashleen was gone forever and now that weyr was Kaylynn's.
Sighing, she turned blindly away from the door that beckoned her in silent reproach. She'd not been able to face the horrible emptiness of the Senior Weyrwoman's quarters. Just facing that fact meant acknowledging that her life would never be the same.
"Kaylynn?" she whirled around in startlement as J'ren's voice broke over her right shoulder. J'ren's concern for her was evident in his face. The lines of grief and deep circles under her eyes made her look far older than the twenty three turns she claimed.
"When was the last time you slept?" he asked her quietly.
She cut him off with a sweep of her hand. "About the same time you did." J'ren's wry grin acknowledged the hit and changed the subject.
"How's M'kel? Any news?" he inquired.
"His leg is improved. The healers say he won't have worse than a few scars. He's sleeping off the pain for the most part, they've got him doused with fellis. It is Paragath that worries...everyone. The healers are keeping M'kel drugged as much to block out Paragath's pain as..as much his own. " Her voice broke slightly, but she took a deep breath and steadied as J'ren's hand gripped her arm in an attempt at comfort. "The main wing joint is nearly ruined." She turned away and looked down, continuing in an agonized whisper, "How am I going to tell M'kel?"
"Don't." J'ren told her briskly. "Not yet anyway. Let's deal with one thing at a time. Let him get better, then we'll tell him." He smiled down in encouragement at her. A small attempt at a smile tugged at Kaylynn's lips as her eyes met J'ren's in gratitude at his offer. "First things first, we have to get StarRise put back together. This apathy has a grip on the entire Weyr. It has to go...and quickly. We still have Threadfall to deal with," he ended grimly.
"J'ren, I'm.....that is, I, uh, ....Thank you." Kaylynn reached out to hug him. At least his leadership was the one thing still unchanged. Kaylynn liked and respected this man. He'd been leader for most of her time here. If M'kel wasn't in the race, it would be probably be J'ren's Lanarth that mated with Lyrissath in the next Mating Flight. StarRise needed some continuity for a change.
"Well, that's done. Anything else you need me to do, J'ren?" Jina's voice interrupted them as she walked into the Conclave Chamber.
Kaylynn whirled away from J'ren to stare at Jina in confusion. "What's done?"
J'ren answered. "I had Jina and some of the weyrlings take Ashleen's belongings to Seaview."
"But...why?" she started to question. Then threw up both hands to halt their answer. "No. Don't answer that." She sighed and looked between the siblings. "Been that obvious, have I?"
J'ren spoke first, "Kaylynn, you haven't stepped foot into that weyr since the accident..." he paused as if searching for the right words.
Jina didn't have trouble finding them, "J'ren and I talked. If having a few drudges and weyrlings clean helps, then it is a small price to pay." she informed Kaylynn bluntly.
Kaylynn's eyes blurred with tears again. It was the unexpected thoughtfulness that broke her. Raising her hands to hide the rush of tears, she turned to leave. J'ren caught her and held her close as she began to cry for all they'd lost.
Kaylynn? You are upset?! Lyrissath's voice came insistently into her head. Kaylynn had hoped that her queen would be distracted by helping with Paragath, but the strong emotions of her rider caught her attention.
Gulping back sobs, "It...it's...it's all right...Lyrissath. I'm fine." Kaylynn dashed her tears aside and tried to regain control as she stepped out of J'ren's arms and met the rough sympathy of Jina's eyes.
"My thanks, Jina. You've saved me an unwelcome task." A tearful, tentative smile trembled on her tired face.
"If you want to thank me, get some sleep. You look like death warmed over." Jina ordered in her best 'Do-what-I-say-weyrling-or-else' voice.
"I've had some dinner sent to your quarters. M'kel is sleeping and there is no one else that will bother you tonight. I've been told by the healers that if you show up at the Infirmary, they will personally drug you senseless. Go - get - some – sleep!" J'ren commanded.
It was scary how much the siblings could be alike at the worst possible times.
"All right, all right. You've made your point. I'm going." Kaylynn threw up her hands in exasperation. "But really, I need to...."
"GO!" Jina and J'ren's voices yelled in unison.
Yes, listen to the man and woman. You need sleep. I hurt just listening to you. Lyrissath told her rider in an unusually imperious tone.
"Shells, even my dragon is ordering me around." Kaylynn muttered. She wiped both eyes on her shirt sleeve and pushed her hair back out of her face. It wouldn't do for the rest of the Weyr to see she'd been crying. She ignored the snickers behind her as she sought her weyr and her lonely bed.
~~~
Dawn, 21.10.27
J'ren was disgusted to find that Kaylynn was up before dawn and back down with the dragonhealer consulting about some of the injured dragons. From their thinly veiled complaints, she'd been hounding them out of their beds and checking the progress of her weyrmate's bronze every morning.
He walked up in time to hear one of say, "...true, Kaylynn, but it is still to early to tell if the wing will ever be useable. We've sent off to the other weyrs to ask their healers if they've had any success with alternative medicines and treatments. We've also sent off to the Healercraft Hall to have them check their records for references to other methods for dealing with joint injuries this severe."
J'ren interrupted before Kaylynn could respond. "Kaylynn, I see that you've now decided to flex the power of the Weyrwoman by dragging these poor healers out of their beds in the middle of the night...again?" he drawled. The flash in her eyes told him he'd hit the target and distracted her. The healers hid their smiles behind their hands as they excused themselves as she began to hotly protest.
"That's totally unfair! How dare you accuse me of..." She broke off as J'ren's smile alerted her. She took a deep breath and pushed a long tendril of wavy auburn hair out from her face. "You know, I really hate it when people do that to me." She cast a mock glare at him.
He ignored it. "Did you sleep at all?" He asked.
Sighing, she replied. "As much as I could." He looked at her closely. She was still pale and the stress was evident. But the pain and desperation so close to the surface last night was controlled now. Still, if she didn't start taking care of herself, he'd have the healers step in and take a hand.
"Rest some more. You look as if you need it." He warned her.
"Yeah, right. Like I see you lying around taking it easy," she shot back. J'ren grinned at her.
"I guess I don't need as much beauty sleep as you." He groaned as she hit him in the arm. 'Good,' he thought, 'she hasn't lost her playfulness.' Grimly, he thought she was going to need as much of her sense of humor as she could muster in the next few weeks. "I received messages from some of the other Weyrs this morning. Some of them will be flying in later to discuss how many riders they can send to us." he paused, knowing what her next reaction would be. "I've also asked if anyone had any golds that would be willing to transfer."
She winced and turned blindly towards where golden Lyrissath gleamed on the ledge of her weyr. "And?" she asked tensely.
"We'll find out in a few hours. The Weyrleaders are going to be hear just before midday." He followed her gaze to where her dragon lay sleeping, tail twitching as if in a dream. "How is she?"
"Lyrissath?" A troubled tone colored her voice. "She is fine, I think." The hesitation in her voice made him look at her sharply.
"What is it?" He pulled her around to look squarely into her face. She was biting her lip...a sure sign that something was bothering her.
"I'm guessing. But I've asked some of the other dragonhealers. With everything that has been happening these past few seasons, the plague, and now this...the stress....well, Lyrissath may not rise on schedule." The words rushed out as the color rose into her cheeks. "She hasn't turned color, or showed any of her usual signs. She was suppose to be due to rise any day now, but ..."
His laugh startled her. "Is that all?" He swung her around and hugged her. The relief and excitement were evident in his voice.
She gasped out, "Have you lost your mind?" She convulsively grabbed his arms to stop him, afraid she was going to be sick from dizziness. "~Stop~ it, J'ren!" When the world finally righted itself, she glared at him. "I wouldn't think that Lyrissath's problems would be something to laugh about."
"Don't you see? It gives us more time!"
"More time for what?" She demanded, hands on her hips.
"Time to make plans! Time to get some help...time for everything, Kaylynn!" He whooped in excitement. Several of the injured dragons nearby grumbled at the noise and the glares from the dragonhealers clued him into lowering his voice. He grabbed Kaylynn's hand and began to lead her towards the Infirmary.
At the entrance, they stopped. Kaylynn had a thoughtful look on her face as she put together the implications of his words. J'ren wanted to give the Weyr time to recover. With Lyrissath's mating flight potentially delayed, J'ren was still Weyrleader. And it gave him time to help his Weyr and bring in new blood.
She unconsciously squared her shoulders and took a deep breath. Looking into his eyes, she said simply, "Very well. How can I help?"
A near boyish grin split his face as he proceeded to tell her.
~~~
Kaylynn's head was still full of the information J'ren imparted when she walked into where M'kel was quartered in the Infirmary. But she put it in a small compartment to deal with later as she silently stepped over to her weyrmate's bedside.
M'kel was sleeping soundly. Kaylynn loathed to wake him. Sleep was one of the best healers and she knew he'd chafe unbearably at the forced inaction his injury caused. She'd consulted with the healers about his recovery after she'd left J'ren at the entrance. M'kel had had a good night, but they had just given him another dose of fellis and changed the dressings on his wounds. It would be hours before he would wake again. She walked over to sit down beside his bed in a comfortable chair the healer's had installed for her that first ugly day. Ruefully, she noted that the pillows were starting to take the shape of her well rounded backside!
Reaching down, she took his hand. A part of her was glad he was asleep; she was secretly grateful that the confrontation with M'kel would be delayed a bit longer. His constant questions and worry over his bronze wore at her. She hated to keep things from him. Almost as much as she missed his playful company. But M'kel couldn't do anything about Paragath until he himself healed. Kaylynn had Lyrissath hovering over Paragath as much as possible and asked her to keep Paragath from worrying about his rider. It was a dangerous juggle to keep dragon and rider from upsetting each other. But Kaylynn was determined to get both of them well...even if it meant no sleep for the next turn. If they couldn't help each other, then she and Lyrissath would help them both.
Her thoughts continued to race through her mind as she reached out with her other hand and smoothed the blonde hair from his forehead. M'kel stirred slightly and turned his face into the warmth of her hand. It seemed as if a slight smile appeared on his face as she lovingly stroked his face. As he slept on, Kaylynn's hungry gaze roamed over his beloved face. Strange how men seemed so boyish when they slept. All the personality lines disappeared somehow and their faces reflected a strange sort of innocence. Not that M'kel could even be remotely accused of innocence when he was awake!
Kaylynn couldn't help but stifle a snicker at that thought.
Kaylynn? The Weyrleader says you are needed back at the Conclave Chambers. Lyrissath broke into her thoughts.
"Thank you, Lyrissath." She rose and placed a tender kiss on M'kel's brow and turned to leave. How is Paragath doing? Have the healers finished with him yet? Kaylynn thought back at the gold as she moved quickly down the hallway and out into the main room of the Infirmary.
He slept a bit, but the healers are changing the dressings and have added some more herbs to the poultice they were using yesterday. Paragath says it stinks, Kaylynn was informed by her gold, but the men put lots of numbweed on his wounds before they started. Right now, he is grumbling about being moved, and not at all happy that he is separated from his rider. I have promised to get him a large wherry this morning.
"Lyrissath, you are a jewel beyond measure!"
I know. Lyrissath replied smugly. Paragath would feel better if he could be with his rider, she continued.
"Tell Paragath I will ask the healers if we can arrange something. I know he and M'kel would take comfort in each other, but you have to remind Paragath, it would hurt M'kel if he knew how badly his wing is injured. Please, Lyrissath, make sure that Paragath doesn't tell M'kel anything about his wing?" Kaylynn begged.
After a moment, Lyrissath responded, Paragath understands and asks how can he hurt his rider? He loves him. He would not say anything that would hurt his rider. Her draconic voice took on the unmistakable tone of the young bronze dragon's indignation at the suggestion of his causing harm to M'kel.
"Tell Paragath I understand and that he is the bravest, most loyal of all the bronzes. I will come by later after he has eaten to see him and scratch his favorite spots," she said as she projected gratitude and flattery towards the injured bronze through her link with Lyrissath.
I have told him. Lyrissath responded. But when do I get scratched and bathed? she complained peevishly.
"My love, I know I've neglected you shamefully. Poor baby. I promise you, after this meeting with the other Weyrleaders, I will come take care of you. I'll even ask Jina if I can borrow some of the younger weyrlings to help scrub all of you!"
Tell her to send a lot of the young ones. There is a lot of me to bath. Lyrissath told her loftily.
Kaylynn's laughter rang out over the Weyr Bowl like a knife cutting through the morbid gloom that had hung over it.
~~~
D'ven sat at E'treyu's side, listening as J'ren and Kaylynn laid out the problem at StarRise Weyr. There was little enough aid that Igen could offer, being in similar, and worse, straits. However, this was the first Weyrleader's Council since E'treyu had become Weyrleader of Igen, and thus a good enough reason to attend.
Weyrleader J'ren looked exhausted, and Weyrwoman Kaylynn far more so. D'ven recalled with a pang of regret the days when both he and J'ren had been Weyrleader-Seconds together. While they hadn't been friends, precisely, the potential had been there. D'ven did not doubt that a friendship would have developed between the two of them if they'd been at the same Weyr.
Weyrwoman Kishandra sat next to Weyrwoman Kaylynn, an occasional whispered comment passing between the two. Did Kishandra now regret her offer to come to Igen? StarRise was her home Weyr – now, in it's desperate situation, did she wish she'd never made her choice? In the way of golds, Igen was slightly better off. They had had another transfer in just two sevendays before, and had a weyrling in training. StarRise, after that tragic 'Fall, had but one.
"....And that is as it stands," J'ren finished, leaning back in his chair. "StarRise needs golds. We need riders, both new-graduates and those with experience. Even temporary transfers would be welcome."
D'ven opened his mouth to speak, but recalled in barely enough time that E'treyu spoke for Igen now. How quickly one became used to the responsibilities and authority of Weyrleadership, even when so briefly held. E'treyu sat silent beside him, his intent expression signaling his concentration on the meeting.
The meeting didn't last very long. Promises of temporary transfers, and assurances of requesting volunteers answered J'ren's request. Shortly, the various Weyrleaders were filing out. E'treyu and D'ven hung back, waiting for their Weyrwoman. Kishandra was in no hurry, her conversation with Kaylynn intent. D'ven wandered toward the door, well out of ear shot of the two women while E'treyu waited in patient solitude at the same seat he'd occupied during the meeting.
"How fare things at Igen?" J'ren asked, approaching D'ven with hand extended. "It's been a long time, D'ven."
The Igen bronzerider grinned. "Too long, J'ren. Things are well enough, considering. My sympathies about your goldriders. I know it's a blow that StarRise could ill afford."
J'ren sighed, his shoulders rising and falling in a brief shrug. "One would almost think that Thread had intelligence. Two queens in the same fall, and one the senior – it has been rough. But StarRise will recover."
"Of course it will. I wouldn't be at all surprised if Lanarth and Lyrissath produce a queen with the next clutching," D'ven agreed. "Igen can't provide you with much, J'ren. We're scrambling as it is. However, there are some riders who find the memories are too painful there now, and would welcome a transfer. E'treyu will put the word out to his wingleaders." D'ven chuckled wryly. "Who knows? Honora is so displeased with her current Wingleader she just may offer to come herself."
J'ren winced. He'd met D'ven's blade-tongued sister once. He had no doubts that she and Jina would get along perfectly well together. "She's of too much value at Igen. I wouldn't dream of depriving you of her," J'ren said hastily.
D'ven grinned ruefully. "You are too kind, Weyrleader. She claims that she'd never dream of telling me how to do my job, but I get the feeling she frequently does just that."
"I can sympathize," J'ren grumbled. He eyed D'ven for a moment. "So...Igen might be able to send a few riders?"
"A lot of us lost family to the plague. It's hard to walk into a room every day and have a thousand memories assail you. Honora and I lost both our sisters, our brother, and our parents. More often than not, a transfer sounds to be a very tempting thing," D'ven said quietly. "Others feel much the same. A new Weyr would help them heal more easily, and more quickly. I imagine that there are StarRise inhabitants that would agree."
"Hmm." J'ren gave him an intent look, then smiled as Kishandra and E'treyu joined them. "Clear skies, D'ven, E'treyu. Kishandra, can I walk you to Rhysendith?" J'ren nodded pleasantly to them and escorted his former Weyrwoman out the door. E'treyu and D'ven followed more slowly, granting the two some privacy.
~~~
Late afternoon, 21.10.27
Jina wanted some answers. She knew her brother well. There was some plot going on behind that beady mind of his, or she'd eat dragon midden. As soon as he returned from escorting Kishandra to her waiting gold, she waylaid him.
"J'ren, what are you planning?" she demanded.
The wary trapped look that closed down his face told her all she needed to know. "Not now, Jina." He made a move to go past her and down the steps. She effectively blocked his path and forced the confrontation.
"You know, " she drawled, "it's interesting that each Weyrleader had at least one bronze wingleader with them." She paused to see the effect of her words on his expression. "I noticed that you took note of each rider. Planning any replacements?"
Roughly, he grabbed her arm and pulled her into a empty room nearby. "Jina," he snarled at her, "Stay out of my business."
"The Weyr is my business, you fool." she hissed back.
With a muttered curse he turned to leave, but stopped at the entrance and spoke over his shoulder, "Jina, we've lost too many good people. First from the Threadfall and plague, then Kishandra and now Ashleen and Danwa. I'm tired." He hung his head and sighed for a moment. "I'm tired of sending them out to die." His fist pounded into the stone wall as his agonized voice whispered his pain.
Jina crossed over quickly to where her brother stood and placed a hand on his shoulder in rough sympathy. "Dragonmen fly when Thread is in the sky," she quoted.
"No, that line should be re-written: Dragonmen ~die~ when Thread is in the sky," he hissed and left. Jina was left to shake her head in frustrated pity and wonder at what the future would hold for StarRise.
~~~
21.10.28
The tropical heat of the island Weyr swiftly dispersed the chill of between. D'ven was well accustomed to heat, although Igen Weyr itself was not so very hot as most Pernese assumed. There was a humidity in StarRise's climate, however, that Igen's lacked. The air felt too close and D'ven wondered briefly it he'd smother in it.
Venjyth winged to a smooth landing in the Weyr Bowl. Dragons lounged in the late afternoon sunlight on their ledges either rumbling greetings or ignoring the bronzes arrival. D'ven removed his riding helmet and jacket swiftly, hanging them from hooks attached to the riding harness for that purpose, then slid down Venjyth's shoulder.
She is a beauty, his bronze said adoringly.
D'ven looked around, following Venjyth's gaze. Lyrissath lay like a graceful golden carving on her ledge, watching the Weyr with a maternal eye. D'ven sighed and shook his head. "Don't get any ideas, Venjyth. That's the senior gold."
I know, the dragon replied complacently. Lanarth's rider is waiting.
"I'm going, I'm going..." D'ven mounted the stairs to J'ren's office quickly, then knocked briefly on the door. "Weyrleader J'ren, it's bronzerider D'ven."
A muffled command to enter followed, and D'ven swept the curtain aside. J'ren glanced up from his paperwork and grinned. "D'ven! You're here. Good! Have a seat."
D'ven dropped into the offered chair and leaned back, elbows on the armrests and his fingertips touching at heart level. "Reporting as ordered," he said mildly.
J'ren glanced at him and grinned. "And glad we are to have you." He pushed something across the crowded desktop. "Very glad, indeed."
Arching a brow curiously, D'ven leaned forward and scooped up the item. It was a set of Wingleader cords. Eyes widening in surprise, D'ven stared at the StarRise Weyrleader. "I don't understand."
J'ren shrugged. "It's simple. DawnStar needs a Wingleader, you need a Wing. Experienced riders are hard to get these days, and I'd be a fool not to make use of those I do have. Welcome to StarRise, D'ven."
D'ven looked at the rank cords again, conflicting emotions at war in his mind. He'd gotten so very easily at StarRise what he'd wanted so much at Igen, but at the cost of his home. Honora would laugh. "Thank you, Weyrleader. I will try not to disappoint you."
J'ren waved his hand dismissingly. "Nonsense. Why don't you go find the Headwoman and settle in. We'll see you at dinner tonight."
D'ven nodded and rose, somewhat dazed. Settling in sounded like a very good idea right then.
~~~
21.11.02
Senior Weyrwoman's Quarters, late morning
Kaylynn looked around the room. It seemed unreal and unnatural to see her wall hangings and belongings housed in what she'd always considered first Kishandra's, then Ashleen's weyr. But like it or not, this was the Weyrwoman's quarters. Now it was her home. Lyrissath had settled in nicely and was quite happy at the larger weyr. There was a ground level weyr at near the foot of the stairs which led to the Weyrwoman's weyr. Kaylynn had directed that M'kel's belongings be moved there. While there was a partly formed weyr halfway up the stairs that ~could~ have housed a bronze, it would have been too difficult for Paragath to get to the ledge with his injuries.
'Yes,' she thought, 'this might work out nicely.' It afforded a bit of privacy and perhaps a haven when the burdens of being Weyrwoman became too much and that suited her just fine. She wanted M'kel close by for as long as he would stay. It would also help if he was housed close by when the healers finally released him from the infirmary. Then she could oversee his care personally.
More drudges appeared with armloads of her belongings. Sighing, Kaylynn began ordering them to unpack. It felt as if all the goldriders had been doing a vanishing act from these rooms. The unbidden thought came to her and was squashed just as quickly. "Perhaps it is these rooms that are cursed." She gave her head a little shake to clear it. Her mouth set in a grim line as a plea to that unwelcome thought popped into her head, "Please let the StarRise goldrider curse end with Ashleen and Danwa."
~~~
21.11.03
It had been a long Threadfall. Once they'd checked on injuries and gotten the wingleader's reports, J'ren and Kaylynn had each disappeared off on their own. Kaylynn had muttered something about rinsing the sickening stench off of both her and Lyrissath and J'ren had left without comment.
D'ven was one of the first riders to notice the new gold on the ledge. "So," he mused, "the new goldrider is here." None too soon, either, he noted with interest. She looked distinctly golden. Still, you didn't know about each beast. Gold's rose to mate when they were ready and you couldn't always tell each queen's readiness signs. He'd make a point to ask. A faint grin curved his lips. Nothing improved the mood like a good mating flight! This place had felt like a tomb since he'd first arrived – three days ago. Not that you could blame the riders and weyrfolk. After all, they'd just lost a lot of beasts and people. That kind of thing would depress even the happiest of souls. D'ven remembered that he'd heard some talk about new queenriders arriving soon.
I stink and you stink. I want a bath. Venjyth injected into his thoughts forcefully.
D'ven chuckled. "Phewgh! You're right. We both stink enough to wake the dead! Let me check on my wingriders and then we'll see if we can't find room on a beach to wash off.
Venjyth grumbled at the delay, but patiently waited as D'ven cornered a healer and demanded the status of each of his wingriders. The bronze grumbled more as D'ven spoke with each of his riders personally. Venjyth didn't stop griping until D'ven returned with washing brushes, soapsand and oil. Finally! Venjyth snorted impatiently. I want to look my best for our new queen.
D'ven rolled his eyes as he pulled himself up the riding straps. "You always look your best, boy. Don't you know those golds can't resist a hard-working, sweaty bronze, but toss off those pampered soft-looking dandy-wings?"
With this stench, any sensible gold would resist me with a green-length of flame. Venjyth asserted shortly. He lifted, flying low as he searched for a beach to his liking. D'ven let him choose, mentally reviewing the report he'd have to prepare for J'ren. He grunted at a wrenching direction change and frowned as he looked down. Of course, he through disgustedly. Venjyth had managed to find a beach with only one occupant -- the Weyrwoman and her Lyrissath. Venjyth's infatuation with the senior gold was still going strong, much to D'ven's dismay.
D'ven watched Kaylynn as his bronze landed. He'd barely met his new Weyrwoman, which was highly unusual under normal circumstances, but entirely understandable as things currently stood. It didn't stop his curiosity. He was waiting to see just what kind of Weyrwoman Kaylynn would be. He'd known two, to date. Politra, who was not the cream of Weyrwomen, and Kishandra, who seemed a capable and competent one. He'd met Kaylynn before, but they had never had the chance to speak. He had been Weyrleader Second and she Weyrwoman Second at two different Weyrs. He had brief knowledge of her, but nothing that really told him what kind of woman she was. Besides a workaholic, which he'd seen for himself over the past few days.
Venjyth joined Lyrissath splashing and making waves in the ocean until she reluctantly obeyed Kaylynn's request to depart. Then Kaylynn greeted D'ven as he walked across the sand to join her.
"I see you've found my favorite beach," she smiled as she vigorously dried her long hair. "I'm sorry I haven't been able to welcome you to StarRise as I ought, D'ven. I've been..."
"...busy," D'ven said, smiling faintly. As he had thought, friendly. He wouldn't be facing a Weyrwoman with Politra's habit of cool condescension for transfers. "Yes, I know. Your first goldrider transfer has arrived. I'm sure we're all hoping that this will lighten your workload a bit."
"As do I. I think the stress is just getting to me. A bath in warm waters always does me good," she grinned back. "I'm sorry, D'ven. I hope we can get a chance to talk some more, but Lyrissath tells me they want me back at StarRise. As you said, a new goldrider has come in and duty calls. A Weyrwoman's work is never done," she quipped as she stored her wet things in a bag and lightly ran to where Lyrissath stood grumbling about having to leave. "Oh, D'ven?" Kaylynn turned back just before she mounted Lyrissath. "You and Venjyth flew well today."
D'ven nodded his thanks and watched as Lyrissath winged away. The compliment was sincere, he guessed, but left him feeling like Kaylynn thought him a fresh-fledged weyrling. He was, he thought dryly, a man with many turns of flying under his leathers. Ah well. He put his fleeting moment of pique down to transfer unease and turned to the task of cleaning his bronze.
Thinking of which...he should probably write Honora. His sister did have a tendency to worry. Maybe this transfer would be a good thing, after all...
~~~
21.11.17
It was a dismal day, matching D'ven's mood just too perfectly. He leaned against the smoothed stone of his doorway, watching the rain drizzle down. He'd been at StarRise for over two weeks now, and J'ren's gift of a Wing of his own had been a tunnelsnake in firelizard's hide. The Wing was a mess, but for the first time since the plague had struck, D'ven had every confidence that it was a mess he could fix. DawnStar had suffered from pitiful leadership, from both it's Wingleader and it's Wingsecond. While he had yet to choose a Wingsecond, wanting to make an informed choice, the Wing was already showing signs of improvement.
Which should have put him in a good mood.
And it would have, normally. If it weren't for that blasted bronze. Venjyth's fixation on the senior gold, Lyrissath, hadn't faded a single spark since the bronze has first sighted her two weeks ago. He doted on the queen. As the days passed, the bronze just became worse, flirting outrageously. Really, D'ven was considering having the dragonhealers look at him. But the dragonhealers were under-strength and swamped. He didn't have any physical or valid reason to bother them looking over Venjyth. The overgrown firelizard was just acting like a love-struck miner apprentice who wouldn't know a love poem from a essay of firestone properties, and it was flat out embarrassing.
Venjyth rushed by, his lashing tail glancing off his rider's shoulder and sending D'ven sprawling out on to the ledge, and in to the rain. D'ven muttered a curse as his bronze took to flight. "Hey! Where are you going?"
She rises! She will be mine!
No doubt in that declaration, just an intent statement of what would happen. D'ven's next curse was considerably more potent. He'd intended to have enough warning to be elsewhere when Lyrissath rose, for several reasons. One, most important, he had no desire to have even the faintest risk of J'ren losing the Weyrleadership. Second, having a newly transferred bronzerider unexpectedly become your Weyrleader did not sit easy with most weyrfolk. While StarRise wasn't as insular as Igen was, every Weyr was resistant to accepting strangers as their leaders. Lastly, and his most personal reason, D'ven did not feel himself fully qualified and trained to lead a Weyr. Igen had proved that. L'ree had left him a mess, and hadn't trained him to be able to smoothly take over in case of emergency.
Venjyth, wait! We --
I will win her! The bronze was adamant, and even D'ven had no hope of dissuading him. Cursing, again, D'ven dashed through the rain as Venjyth proceeded to blood his kills. He could see other bronzeriders heading for Kaylynn's weyr. As his dragon's mating lust began to fill his thoughts, he noted the odd bronze actually leaving the Weyr. By then, he wasn't able to wonder who it could be.
Dragon passion swirled around him. Quickly enough Venjyth finished his blooding and settled on a high ledge as Lyrissath's challenge scream ripped through the sodden air. The gold caught her first herdbeast and, after a brief struggle with her rider's iron control, proceeded to blood it. D'ven shared his bronze's fascination and let himself be swept up into the intensifying emotions of lust and need that emanated from every dragon and rider within the select circle. He hadn't wanted to participate in this flight, but he'd sharding well not inhibit his bronze from it.
With a final flick of her tongue, cleaning the last drop of blood from her lips, Lyrissath through her head back with a scream and launched herself skyward. Bugles answered her challenge and a stream of bronze followed her lead into the sky....
Pam Kiser Carbone (Kaylynn, M'kel, R'hese), April Masters Legate (J'ren, Jina), Anna Smith (D'ven)
StarRise Weyr
21.10.26
Kaylynn couldn't put it off any longer. Eyes burning from unshed tears and exhaustion, she watched with regret as the Council room emptied of the last of the people clamoring for her attention. It seemed as if the entire Weyr clawed out to her, smothering her in a desperate desire to normalize life again...as if only she could keep them steady and sane. She'd noticed many reached out to her, as if by touch alone they could ease their pain and loss. The death of Lynneth and Wenth and the loss of their Weyrwoman and their junior goldrider had thrown dragons and riders into a depressive spiral.
Now Kaylynn's job to help them cope and heal.
She'd welcomed it at first. The act of caring for others and taking charge of the everyday needs of the Weyr distracted her from her own pain and worry. The dead were gone, but the living still needed her. She'd put Ashleen and Danwa's loss out of her mind as much as possible, concentrating on her weyrmate's problems instead. M'kel injuries were showing signs of improvements, but the dragonhealers were shaking their heads over his bronze's severe wing injury. None were sure if Paragath would ever fly again. The unspoken inference was clear: She would be StarRise's Weyrwoman, but her weyrmate would never be Weyrleader. She would face yet another storm of change.
StarRise Weyrwoman. It all kept turning back to that inescapable fact. She rose from the table and hesitated, gazing at the exit that led straight into Ashleen's quarters.
Except Ashleen was gone forever and now that weyr was Kaylynn's.
Sighing, she turned blindly away from the door that beckoned her in silent reproach. She'd not been able to face the horrible emptiness of the Senior Weyrwoman's quarters. Just facing that fact meant acknowledging that her life would never be the same.
"Kaylynn?" she whirled around in startlement as J'ren's voice broke over her right shoulder. J'ren's concern for her was evident in his face. The lines of grief and deep circles under her eyes made her look far older than the twenty three turns she claimed.
"When was the last time you slept?" he asked her quietly.
She cut him off with a sweep of her hand. "About the same time you did." J'ren's wry grin acknowledged the hit and changed the subject.
"How's M'kel? Any news?" he inquired.
"His leg is improved. The healers say he won't have worse than a few scars. He's sleeping off the pain for the most part, they've got him doused with fellis. It is Paragath that worries...everyone. The healers are keeping M'kel drugged as much to block out Paragath's pain as..as much his own. " Her voice broke slightly, but she took a deep breath and steadied as J'ren's hand gripped her arm in an attempt at comfort. "The main wing joint is nearly ruined." She turned away and looked down, continuing in an agonized whisper, "How am I going to tell M'kel?"
"Don't." J'ren told her briskly. "Not yet anyway. Let's deal with one thing at a time. Let him get better, then we'll tell him." He smiled down in encouragement at her. A small attempt at a smile tugged at Kaylynn's lips as her eyes met J'ren's in gratitude at his offer. "First things first, we have to get StarRise put back together. This apathy has a grip on the entire Weyr. It has to go...and quickly. We still have Threadfall to deal with," he ended grimly.
"J'ren, I'm.....that is, I, uh, ....Thank you." Kaylynn reached out to hug him. At least his leadership was the one thing still unchanged. Kaylynn liked and respected this man. He'd been leader for most of her time here. If M'kel wasn't in the race, it would be probably be J'ren's Lanarth that mated with Lyrissath in the next Mating Flight. StarRise needed some continuity for a change.
"Well, that's done. Anything else you need me to do, J'ren?" Jina's voice interrupted them as she walked into the Conclave Chamber.
Kaylynn whirled away from J'ren to stare at Jina in confusion. "What's done?"
J'ren answered. "I had Jina and some of the weyrlings take Ashleen's belongings to Seaview."
"But...why?" she started to question. Then threw up both hands to halt their answer. "No. Don't answer that." She sighed and looked between the siblings. "Been that obvious, have I?"
J'ren spoke first, "Kaylynn, you haven't stepped foot into that weyr since the accident..." he paused as if searching for the right words.
Jina didn't have trouble finding them, "J'ren and I talked. If having a few drudges and weyrlings clean helps, then it is a small price to pay." she informed Kaylynn bluntly.
Kaylynn's eyes blurred with tears again. It was the unexpected thoughtfulness that broke her. Raising her hands to hide the rush of tears, she turned to leave. J'ren caught her and held her close as she began to cry for all they'd lost.
Kaylynn? You are upset?! Lyrissath's voice came insistently into her head. Kaylynn had hoped that her queen would be distracted by helping with Paragath, but the strong emotions of her rider caught her attention.
Gulping back sobs, "It...it's...it's all right...Lyrissath. I'm fine." Kaylynn dashed her tears aside and tried to regain control as she stepped out of J'ren's arms and met the rough sympathy of Jina's eyes.
"My thanks, Jina. You've saved me an unwelcome task." A tearful, tentative smile trembled on her tired face.
"If you want to thank me, get some sleep. You look like death warmed over." Jina ordered in her best 'Do-what-I-say-weyrling-or-else' voice.
"I've had some dinner sent to your quarters. M'kel is sleeping and there is no one else that will bother you tonight. I've been told by the healers that if you show up at the Infirmary, they will personally drug you senseless. Go - get - some – sleep!" J'ren commanded.
It was scary how much the siblings could be alike at the worst possible times.
"All right, all right. You've made your point. I'm going." Kaylynn threw up her hands in exasperation. "But really, I need to...."
"GO!" Jina and J'ren's voices yelled in unison.
Yes, listen to the man and woman. You need sleep. I hurt just listening to you. Lyrissath told her rider in an unusually imperious tone.
"Shells, even my dragon is ordering me around." Kaylynn muttered. She wiped both eyes on her shirt sleeve and pushed her hair back out of her face. It wouldn't do for the rest of the Weyr to see she'd been crying. She ignored the snickers behind her as she sought her weyr and her lonely bed.
~~~
Dawn, 21.10.27
J'ren was disgusted to find that Kaylynn was up before dawn and back down with the dragonhealer consulting about some of the injured dragons. From their thinly veiled complaints, she'd been hounding them out of their beds and checking the progress of her weyrmate's bronze every morning.
He walked up in time to hear one of say, "...true, Kaylynn, but it is still to early to tell if the wing will ever be useable. We've sent off to the other weyrs to ask their healers if they've had any success with alternative medicines and treatments. We've also sent off to the Healercraft Hall to have them check their records for references to other methods for dealing with joint injuries this severe."
J'ren interrupted before Kaylynn could respond. "Kaylynn, I see that you've now decided to flex the power of the Weyrwoman by dragging these poor healers out of their beds in the middle of the night...again?" he drawled. The flash in her eyes told him he'd hit the target and distracted her. The healers hid their smiles behind their hands as they excused themselves as she began to hotly protest.
"That's totally unfair! How dare you accuse me of..." She broke off as J'ren's smile alerted her. She took a deep breath and pushed a long tendril of wavy auburn hair out from her face. "You know, I really hate it when people do that to me." She cast a mock glare at him.
He ignored it. "Did you sleep at all?" He asked.
Sighing, she replied. "As much as I could." He looked at her closely. She was still pale and the stress was evident. But the pain and desperation so close to the surface last night was controlled now. Still, if she didn't start taking care of herself, he'd have the healers step in and take a hand.
"Rest some more. You look as if you need it." He warned her.
"Yeah, right. Like I see you lying around taking it easy," she shot back. J'ren grinned at her.
"I guess I don't need as much beauty sleep as you." He groaned as she hit him in the arm. 'Good,' he thought, 'she hasn't lost her playfulness.' Grimly, he thought she was going to need as much of her sense of humor as she could muster in the next few weeks. "I received messages from some of the other Weyrs this morning. Some of them will be flying in later to discuss how many riders they can send to us." he paused, knowing what her next reaction would be. "I've also asked if anyone had any golds that would be willing to transfer."
She winced and turned blindly towards where golden Lyrissath gleamed on the ledge of her weyr. "And?" she asked tensely.
"We'll find out in a few hours. The Weyrleaders are going to be hear just before midday." He followed her gaze to where her dragon lay sleeping, tail twitching as if in a dream. "How is she?"
"Lyrissath?" A troubled tone colored her voice. "She is fine, I think." The hesitation in her voice made him look at her sharply.
"What is it?" He pulled her around to look squarely into her face. She was biting her lip...a sure sign that something was bothering her.
"I'm guessing. But I've asked some of the other dragonhealers. With everything that has been happening these past few seasons, the plague, and now this...the stress....well, Lyrissath may not rise on schedule." The words rushed out as the color rose into her cheeks. "She hasn't turned color, or showed any of her usual signs. She was suppose to be due to rise any day now, but ..."
His laugh startled her. "Is that all?" He swung her around and hugged her. The relief and excitement were evident in his voice.
She gasped out, "Have you lost your mind?" She convulsively grabbed his arms to stop him, afraid she was going to be sick from dizziness. "~Stop~ it, J'ren!" When the world finally righted itself, she glared at him. "I wouldn't think that Lyrissath's problems would be something to laugh about."
"Don't you see? It gives us more time!"
"More time for what?" She demanded, hands on her hips.
"Time to make plans! Time to get some help...time for everything, Kaylynn!" He whooped in excitement. Several of the injured dragons nearby grumbled at the noise and the glares from the dragonhealers clued him into lowering his voice. He grabbed Kaylynn's hand and began to lead her towards the Infirmary.
At the entrance, they stopped. Kaylynn had a thoughtful look on her face as she put together the implications of his words. J'ren wanted to give the Weyr time to recover. With Lyrissath's mating flight potentially delayed, J'ren was still Weyrleader. And it gave him time to help his Weyr and bring in new blood.
She unconsciously squared her shoulders and took a deep breath. Looking into his eyes, she said simply, "Very well. How can I help?"
A near boyish grin split his face as he proceeded to tell her.
~~~
Kaylynn's head was still full of the information J'ren imparted when she walked into where M'kel was quartered in the Infirmary. But she put it in a small compartment to deal with later as she silently stepped over to her weyrmate's bedside.
M'kel was sleeping soundly. Kaylynn loathed to wake him. Sleep was one of the best healers and she knew he'd chafe unbearably at the forced inaction his injury caused. She'd consulted with the healers about his recovery after she'd left J'ren at the entrance. M'kel had had a good night, but they had just given him another dose of fellis and changed the dressings on his wounds. It would be hours before he would wake again. She walked over to sit down beside his bed in a comfortable chair the healer's had installed for her that first ugly day. Ruefully, she noted that the pillows were starting to take the shape of her well rounded backside!
Reaching down, she took his hand. A part of her was glad he was asleep; she was secretly grateful that the confrontation with M'kel would be delayed a bit longer. His constant questions and worry over his bronze wore at her. She hated to keep things from him. Almost as much as she missed his playful company. But M'kel couldn't do anything about Paragath until he himself healed. Kaylynn had Lyrissath hovering over Paragath as much as possible and asked her to keep Paragath from worrying about his rider. It was a dangerous juggle to keep dragon and rider from upsetting each other. But Kaylynn was determined to get both of them well...even if it meant no sleep for the next turn. If they couldn't help each other, then she and Lyrissath would help them both.
Her thoughts continued to race through her mind as she reached out with her other hand and smoothed the blonde hair from his forehead. M'kel stirred slightly and turned his face into the warmth of her hand. It seemed as if a slight smile appeared on his face as she lovingly stroked his face. As he slept on, Kaylynn's hungry gaze roamed over his beloved face. Strange how men seemed so boyish when they slept. All the personality lines disappeared somehow and their faces reflected a strange sort of innocence. Not that M'kel could even be remotely accused of innocence when he was awake!
Kaylynn couldn't help but stifle a snicker at that thought.
Kaylynn? The Weyrleader says you are needed back at the Conclave Chambers. Lyrissath broke into her thoughts.
"Thank you, Lyrissath." She rose and placed a tender kiss on M'kel's brow and turned to leave. How is Paragath doing? Have the healers finished with him yet? Kaylynn thought back at the gold as she moved quickly down the hallway and out into the main room of the Infirmary.
He slept a bit, but the healers are changing the dressings and have added some more herbs to the poultice they were using yesterday. Paragath says it stinks, Kaylynn was informed by her gold, but the men put lots of numbweed on his wounds before they started. Right now, he is grumbling about being moved, and not at all happy that he is separated from his rider. I have promised to get him a large wherry this morning.
"Lyrissath, you are a jewel beyond measure!"
I know. Lyrissath replied smugly. Paragath would feel better if he could be with his rider, she continued.
"Tell Paragath I will ask the healers if we can arrange something. I know he and M'kel would take comfort in each other, but you have to remind Paragath, it would hurt M'kel if he knew how badly his wing is injured. Please, Lyrissath, make sure that Paragath doesn't tell M'kel anything about his wing?" Kaylynn begged.
After a moment, Lyrissath responded, Paragath understands and asks how can he hurt his rider? He loves him. He would not say anything that would hurt his rider. Her draconic voice took on the unmistakable tone of the young bronze dragon's indignation at the suggestion of his causing harm to M'kel.
"Tell Paragath I understand and that he is the bravest, most loyal of all the bronzes. I will come by later after he has eaten to see him and scratch his favorite spots," she said as she projected gratitude and flattery towards the injured bronze through her link with Lyrissath.
I have told him. Lyrissath responded. But when do I get scratched and bathed? she complained peevishly.
"My love, I know I've neglected you shamefully. Poor baby. I promise you, after this meeting with the other Weyrleaders, I will come take care of you. I'll even ask Jina if I can borrow some of the younger weyrlings to help scrub all of you!"
Tell her to send a lot of the young ones. There is a lot of me to bath. Lyrissath told her loftily.
Kaylynn's laughter rang out over the Weyr Bowl like a knife cutting through the morbid gloom that had hung over it.
~~~
D'ven sat at E'treyu's side, listening as J'ren and Kaylynn laid out the problem at StarRise Weyr. There was little enough aid that Igen could offer, being in similar, and worse, straits. However, this was the first Weyrleader's Council since E'treyu had become Weyrleader of Igen, and thus a good enough reason to attend.
Weyrleader J'ren looked exhausted, and Weyrwoman Kaylynn far more so. D'ven recalled with a pang of regret the days when both he and J'ren had been Weyrleader-Seconds together. While they hadn't been friends, precisely, the potential had been there. D'ven did not doubt that a friendship would have developed between the two of them if they'd been at the same Weyr.
Weyrwoman Kishandra sat next to Weyrwoman Kaylynn, an occasional whispered comment passing between the two. Did Kishandra now regret her offer to come to Igen? StarRise was her home Weyr – now, in it's desperate situation, did she wish she'd never made her choice? In the way of golds, Igen was slightly better off. They had had another transfer in just two sevendays before, and had a weyrling in training. StarRise, after that tragic 'Fall, had but one.
"....And that is as it stands," J'ren finished, leaning back in his chair. "StarRise needs golds. We need riders, both new-graduates and those with experience. Even temporary transfers would be welcome."
D'ven opened his mouth to speak, but recalled in barely enough time that E'treyu spoke for Igen now. How quickly one became used to the responsibilities and authority of Weyrleadership, even when so briefly held. E'treyu sat silent beside him, his intent expression signaling his concentration on the meeting.
The meeting didn't last very long. Promises of temporary transfers, and assurances of requesting volunteers answered J'ren's request. Shortly, the various Weyrleaders were filing out. E'treyu and D'ven hung back, waiting for their Weyrwoman. Kishandra was in no hurry, her conversation with Kaylynn intent. D'ven wandered toward the door, well out of ear shot of the two women while E'treyu waited in patient solitude at the same seat he'd occupied during the meeting.
"How fare things at Igen?" J'ren asked, approaching D'ven with hand extended. "It's been a long time, D'ven."
The Igen bronzerider grinned. "Too long, J'ren. Things are well enough, considering. My sympathies about your goldriders. I know it's a blow that StarRise could ill afford."
J'ren sighed, his shoulders rising and falling in a brief shrug. "One would almost think that Thread had intelligence. Two queens in the same fall, and one the senior – it has been rough. But StarRise will recover."
"Of course it will. I wouldn't be at all surprised if Lanarth and Lyrissath produce a queen with the next clutching," D'ven agreed. "Igen can't provide you with much, J'ren. We're scrambling as it is. However, there are some riders who find the memories are too painful there now, and would welcome a transfer. E'treyu will put the word out to his wingleaders." D'ven chuckled wryly. "Who knows? Honora is so displeased with her current Wingleader she just may offer to come herself."
J'ren winced. He'd met D'ven's blade-tongued sister once. He had no doubts that she and Jina would get along perfectly well together. "She's of too much value at Igen. I wouldn't dream of depriving you of her," J'ren said hastily.
D'ven grinned ruefully. "You are too kind, Weyrleader. She claims that she'd never dream of telling me how to do my job, but I get the feeling she frequently does just that."
"I can sympathize," J'ren grumbled. He eyed D'ven for a moment. "So...Igen might be able to send a few riders?"
"A lot of us lost family to the plague. It's hard to walk into a room every day and have a thousand memories assail you. Honora and I lost both our sisters, our brother, and our parents. More often than not, a transfer sounds to be a very tempting thing," D'ven said quietly. "Others feel much the same. A new Weyr would help them heal more easily, and more quickly. I imagine that there are StarRise inhabitants that would agree."
"Hmm." J'ren gave him an intent look, then smiled as Kishandra and E'treyu joined them. "Clear skies, D'ven, E'treyu. Kishandra, can I walk you to Rhysendith?" J'ren nodded pleasantly to them and escorted his former Weyrwoman out the door. E'treyu and D'ven followed more slowly, granting the two some privacy.
~~~
Late afternoon, 21.10.27
Jina wanted some answers. She knew her brother well. There was some plot going on behind that beady mind of his, or she'd eat dragon midden. As soon as he returned from escorting Kishandra to her waiting gold, she waylaid him.
"J'ren, what are you planning?" she demanded.
The wary trapped look that closed down his face told her all she needed to know. "Not now, Jina." He made a move to go past her and down the steps. She effectively blocked his path and forced the confrontation.
"You know, " she drawled, "it's interesting that each Weyrleader had at least one bronze wingleader with them." She paused to see the effect of her words on his expression. "I noticed that you took note of each rider. Planning any replacements?"
Roughly, he grabbed her arm and pulled her into a empty room nearby. "Jina," he snarled at her, "Stay out of my business."
"The Weyr is my business, you fool." she hissed back.
With a muttered curse he turned to leave, but stopped at the entrance and spoke over his shoulder, "Jina, we've lost too many good people. First from the Threadfall and plague, then Kishandra and now Ashleen and Danwa. I'm tired." He hung his head and sighed for a moment. "I'm tired of sending them out to die." His fist pounded into the stone wall as his agonized voice whispered his pain.
Jina crossed over quickly to where her brother stood and placed a hand on his shoulder in rough sympathy. "Dragonmen fly when Thread is in the sky," she quoted.
"No, that line should be re-written: Dragonmen ~die~ when Thread is in the sky," he hissed and left. Jina was left to shake her head in frustrated pity and wonder at what the future would hold for StarRise.
~~~
21.10.28
The tropical heat of the island Weyr swiftly dispersed the chill of between. D'ven was well accustomed to heat, although Igen Weyr itself was not so very hot as most Pernese assumed. There was a humidity in StarRise's climate, however, that Igen's lacked. The air felt too close and D'ven wondered briefly it he'd smother in it.
Venjyth winged to a smooth landing in the Weyr Bowl. Dragons lounged in the late afternoon sunlight on their ledges either rumbling greetings or ignoring the bronzes arrival. D'ven removed his riding helmet and jacket swiftly, hanging them from hooks attached to the riding harness for that purpose, then slid down Venjyth's shoulder.
She is a beauty, his bronze said adoringly.
D'ven looked around, following Venjyth's gaze. Lyrissath lay like a graceful golden carving on her ledge, watching the Weyr with a maternal eye. D'ven sighed and shook his head. "Don't get any ideas, Venjyth. That's the senior gold."
I know, the dragon replied complacently. Lanarth's rider is waiting.
"I'm going, I'm going..." D'ven mounted the stairs to J'ren's office quickly, then knocked briefly on the door. "Weyrleader J'ren, it's bronzerider D'ven."
A muffled command to enter followed, and D'ven swept the curtain aside. J'ren glanced up from his paperwork and grinned. "D'ven! You're here. Good! Have a seat."
D'ven dropped into the offered chair and leaned back, elbows on the armrests and his fingertips touching at heart level. "Reporting as ordered," he said mildly.
J'ren glanced at him and grinned. "And glad we are to have you." He pushed something across the crowded desktop. "Very glad, indeed."
Arching a brow curiously, D'ven leaned forward and scooped up the item. It was a set of Wingleader cords. Eyes widening in surprise, D'ven stared at the StarRise Weyrleader. "I don't understand."
J'ren shrugged. "It's simple. DawnStar needs a Wingleader, you need a Wing. Experienced riders are hard to get these days, and I'd be a fool not to make use of those I do have. Welcome to StarRise, D'ven."
D'ven looked at the rank cords again, conflicting emotions at war in his mind. He'd gotten so very easily at StarRise what he'd wanted so much at Igen, but at the cost of his home. Honora would laugh. "Thank you, Weyrleader. I will try not to disappoint you."
J'ren waved his hand dismissingly. "Nonsense. Why don't you go find the Headwoman and settle in. We'll see you at dinner tonight."
D'ven nodded and rose, somewhat dazed. Settling in sounded like a very good idea right then.
~~~
21.11.02
Senior Weyrwoman's Quarters, late morning
Kaylynn looked around the room. It seemed unreal and unnatural to see her wall hangings and belongings housed in what she'd always considered first Kishandra's, then Ashleen's weyr. But like it or not, this was the Weyrwoman's quarters. Now it was her home. Lyrissath had settled in nicely and was quite happy at the larger weyr. There was a ground level weyr at near the foot of the stairs which led to the Weyrwoman's weyr. Kaylynn had directed that M'kel's belongings be moved there. While there was a partly formed weyr halfway up the stairs that ~could~ have housed a bronze, it would have been too difficult for Paragath to get to the ledge with his injuries.
'Yes,' she thought, 'this might work out nicely.' It afforded a bit of privacy and perhaps a haven when the burdens of being Weyrwoman became too much and that suited her just fine. She wanted M'kel close by for as long as he would stay. It would also help if he was housed close by when the healers finally released him from the infirmary. Then she could oversee his care personally.
More drudges appeared with armloads of her belongings. Sighing, Kaylynn began ordering them to unpack. It felt as if all the goldriders had been doing a vanishing act from these rooms. The unbidden thought came to her and was squashed just as quickly. "Perhaps it is these rooms that are cursed." She gave her head a little shake to clear it. Her mouth set in a grim line as a plea to that unwelcome thought popped into her head, "Please let the StarRise goldrider curse end with Ashleen and Danwa."
~~~
21.11.03
It had been a long Threadfall. Once they'd checked on injuries and gotten the wingleader's reports, J'ren and Kaylynn had each disappeared off on their own. Kaylynn had muttered something about rinsing the sickening stench off of both her and Lyrissath and J'ren had left without comment.
D'ven was one of the first riders to notice the new gold on the ledge. "So," he mused, "the new goldrider is here." None too soon, either, he noted with interest. She looked distinctly golden. Still, you didn't know about each beast. Gold's rose to mate when they were ready and you couldn't always tell each queen's readiness signs. He'd make a point to ask. A faint grin curved his lips. Nothing improved the mood like a good mating flight! This place had felt like a tomb since he'd first arrived – three days ago. Not that you could blame the riders and weyrfolk. After all, they'd just lost a lot of beasts and people. That kind of thing would depress even the happiest of souls. D'ven remembered that he'd heard some talk about new queenriders arriving soon.
I stink and you stink. I want a bath. Venjyth injected into his thoughts forcefully.
D'ven chuckled. "Phewgh! You're right. We both stink enough to wake the dead! Let me check on my wingriders and then we'll see if we can't find room on a beach to wash off.
Venjyth grumbled at the delay, but patiently waited as D'ven cornered a healer and demanded the status of each of his wingriders. The bronze grumbled more as D'ven spoke with each of his riders personally. Venjyth didn't stop griping until D'ven returned with washing brushes, soapsand and oil. Finally! Venjyth snorted impatiently. I want to look my best for our new queen.
D'ven rolled his eyes as he pulled himself up the riding straps. "You always look your best, boy. Don't you know those golds can't resist a hard-working, sweaty bronze, but toss off those pampered soft-looking dandy-wings?"
With this stench, any sensible gold would resist me with a green-length of flame. Venjyth asserted shortly. He lifted, flying low as he searched for a beach to his liking. D'ven let him choose, mentally reviewing the report he'd have to prepare for J'ren. He grunted at a wrenching direction change and frowned as he looked down. Of course, he through disgustedly. Venjyth had managed to find a beach with only one occupant -- the Weyrwoman and her Lyrissath. Venjyth's infatuation with the senior gold was still going strong, much to D'ven's dismay.
D'ven watched Kaylynn as his bronze landed. He'd barely met his new Weyrwoman, which was highly unusual under normal circumstances, but entirely understandable as things currently stood. It didn't stop his curiosity. He was waiting to see just what kind of Weyrwoman Kaylynn would be. He'd known two, to date. Politra, who was not the cream of Weyrwomen, and Kishandra, who seemed a capable and competent one. He'd met Kaylynn before, but they had never had the chance to speak. He had been Weyrleader Second and she Weyrwoman Second at two different Weyrs. He had brief knowledge of her, but nothing that really told him what kind of woman she was. Besides a workaholic, which he'd seen for himself over the past few days.
Venjyth joined Lyrissath splashing and making waves in the ocean until she reluctantly obeyed Kaylynn's request to depart. Then Kaylynn greeted D'ven as he walked across the sand to join her.
"I see you've found my favorite beach," she smiled as she vigorously dried her long hair. "I'm sorry I haven't been able to welcome you to StarRise as I ought, D'ven. I've been..."
"...busy," D'ven said, smiling faintly. As he had thought, friendly. He wouldn't be facing a Weyrwoman with Politra's habit of cool condescension for transfers. "Yes, I know. Your first goldrider transfer has arrived. I'm sure we're all hoping that this will lighten your workload a bit."
"As do I. I think the stress is just getting to me. A bath in warm waters always does me good," she grinned back. "I'm sorry, D'ven. I hope we can get a chance to talk some more, but Lyrissath tells me they want me back at StarRise. As you said, a new goldrider has come in and duty calls. A Weyrwoman's work is never done," she quipped as she stored her wet things in a bag and lightly ran to where Lyrissath stood grumbling about having to leave. "Oh, D'ven?" Kaylynn turned back just before she mounted Lyrissath. "You and Venjyth flew well today."
D'ven nodded his thanks and watched as Lyrissath winged away. The compliment was sincere, he guessed, but left him feeling like Kaylynn thought him a fresh-fledged weyrling. He was, he thought dryly, a man with many turns of flying under his leathers. Ah well. He put his fleeting moment of pique down to transfer unease and turned to the task of cleaning his bronze.
Thinking of which...he should probably write Honora. His sister did have a tendency to worry. Maybe this transfer would be a good thing, after all...
~~~
21.11.17
It was a dismal day, matching D'ven's mood just too perfectly. He leaned against the smoothed stone of his doorway, watching the rain drizzle down. He'd been at StarRise for over two weeks now, and J'ren's gift of a Wing of his own had been a tunnelsnake in firelizard's hide. The Wing was a mess, but for the first time since the plague had struck, D'ven had every confidence that it was a mess he could fix. DawnStar had suffered from pitiful leadership, from both it's Wingleader and it's Wingsecond. While he had yet to choose a Wingsecond, wanting to make an informed choice, the Wing was already showing signs of improvement.
Which should have put him in a good mood.
And it would have, normally. If it weren't for that blasted bronze. Venjyth's fixation on the senior gold, Lyrissath, hadn't faded a single spark since the bronze has first sighted her two weeks ago. He doted on the queen. As the days passed, the bronze just became worse, flirting outrageously. Really, D'ven was considering having the dragonhealers look at him. But the dragonhealers were under-strength and swamped. He didn't have any physical or valid reason to bother them looking over Venjyth. The overgrown firelizard was just acting like a love-struck miner apprentice who wouldn't know a love poem from a essay of firestone properties, and it was flat out embarrassing.
Venjyth rushed by, his lashing tail glancing off his rider's shoulder and sending D'ven sprawling out on to the ledge, and in to the rain. D'ven muttered a curse as his bronze took to flight. "Hey! Where are you going?"
She rises! She will be mine!
No doubt in that declaration, just an intent statement of what would happen. D'ven's next curse was considerably more potent. He'd intended to have enough warning to be elsewhere when Lyrissath rose, for several reasons. One, most important, he had no desire to have even the faintest risk of J'ren losing the Weyrleadership. Second, having a newly transferred bronzerider unexpectedly become your Weyrleader did not sit easy with most weyrfolk. While StarRise wasn't as insular as Igen was, every Weyr was resistant to accepting strangers as their leaders. Lastly, and his most personal reason, D'ven did not feel himself fully qualified and trained to lead a Weyr. Igen had proved that. L'ree had left him a mess, and hadn't trained him to be able to smoothly take over in case of emergency.
Venjyth, wait! We --
I will win her! The bronze was adamant, and even D'ven had no hope of dissuading him. Cursing, again, D'ven dashed through the rain as Venjyth proceeded to blood his kills. He could see other bronzeriders heading for Kaylynn's weyr. As his dragon's mating lust began to fill his thoughts, he noted the odd bronze actually leaving the Weyr. By then, he wasn't able to wonder who it could be.
Dragon passion swirled around him. Quickly enough Venjyth finished his blooding and settled on a high ledge as Lyrissath's challenge scream ripped through the sodden air. The gold caught her first herdbeast and, after a brief struggle with her rider's iron control, proceeded to blood it. D'ven shared his bronze's fascination and let himself be swept up into the intensifying emotions of lust and need that emanated from every dragon and rider within the select circle. He hadn't wanted to participate in this flight, but he'd sharding well not inhibit his bronze from it.
With a final flick of her tongue, cleaning the last drop of blood from her lips, Lyrissath through her head back with a scream and launched herself skyward. Bugles answered her challenge and a stream of bronze followed her lead into the sky....
