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Dragonflight Pern Captain
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 Posted: Wed Jun 20, 2012 2:15 pm
Dragonlight Demonstration Ancientcrafter Archimonde’s promotional efforts seemed to pay off as the majority of Weyrs voted in favour of the demonstration. Some chalked it up to morbid curiosity but none could see the danger of such a thing – everyone knew, after all, that Ancient Technology was almost entirely useless. Good for nothing but trinkets and charlatans, the scraps the Ancients had left behind were not the answer to modern problems. Archimonde insisted that it was otherwise, his zeal and devotion to his craft bordering on the insane. This did little to win support and the decision to allow the demonstration did little to deflate the already large ego. With the eyes of the world on him, Archimonde arranged a formal gathering for any and all Dragonriders and Weyrfolk to attend a three day gala. An on-going party hosted away from Benden Weyr for the safety of all, it was a highly publicized affair. Lord Holders, Weyrleaders, Weyrwomen, Mastercraftsmen… anyone of important was welcome to the Gathering Extravaganza. In the center of the field, a stage had been erected, complete with podium and tables for use in the much anticipated demonstration but the items of note were kept hidden away, known only to Archimonde and Keller. The time was drawing near to mid afternoon on the second day of festivities when the call to gather around the stage went out. Lunch had already been served and afternoon games were well underway - bets were being held in most games and Marks had been exchanging hands on the question of whether or not the machine would work. Archimonde stood on the stage, hands clasped behind his back, waiting for everyone to gather. The highest ranking individuals were up front, much to his delight, and everyone else was arranged behind. The dragons, too, were allowed to look on, crowded in behind the humans.
All players are welcome to participate so long as they have a means of transport to and from the event. It has grown from that of a simple Demonstration to a festive Gather feeling.
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Posted: Thu Jun 21, 2012 2:56 pm
This was the best thing that had happened in, like, ever. Things had been pretty grim for awhile, what with the murders, the investigations, and the return of Thread, but finally they were doing something fun! Granted, not everyone was happy with with the Ancientcrafter's latest claims, but it looked like they'd all shown up anyway. Either way, Adi wasn't going to let those crabby types rain on her fun time, and had been chatting with anyone and everyone who would talk to her, regardless of what Weyr they were from.
And now they were finally going to get to see what all the fuss was about! The bluerider really, really hoped it would work; wouldn't it be wonderful if they didn't have to fight Thread anymore, if dragons and riders didn't have to die? What would it matter if they weren't as 'important' anymore? It was better to be alive.
"This is gonna be awesome," she said to no one in particular, twirling the end of the blue ribbon she'd tied into her hair around her finger.
Mazamath had settled in the back with the rest of the dragons, thrumming pleasantly. His was happy, and so he was, too.
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Posted: Thu Jun 21, 2012 3:21 pm
Z'fer
As a Wingleader from Malvren, Z'fer was responsible for attending even if he completely despised the idea of why they were all there. He didn't want to see that ridiculous machine and felt he could gladly knock the stuffing out of that ancient crafter if given half the chance. He was only too glad when he realized a Gather had sprouted up around the spectacle. The first day was spent entertaining himself, wine in one hand, dice in the other. That evening the dice were exchanged for the hand of whatever pretty young lady he could catch for a dance. Still, all anyone wanted to talk about was the ancients contraption. Z'fer was hard pressed to turn conversations to anything else.
Klah had followed him though Z'fer rarely caught glimpse of the little black flit. He generally left the creature to his own devices, if he wanted to get himself smacked for sticking his nose in someone else's dinner then that was his problem.
Fellis was the exact opposite, sticking to Z'fer like a thorn. The green hatchling rode on his shoulder, keeping an eye on everything around her. Her owners anxiety affected her somewhat and she was loath to let anyone near him unless he permitted it.
Now, as the crowd gathered on the second day in preparation, both had claimed their spots on his shoulder as he stood near the front of the stage, behind his Weyrleaders and the other ranking riders from Malvren. His height allowed him to see easily over the heads of those in front of him and for once he had no desire for a front row seat.
Calanoth had spent his time preening and posturing for the Golds and Greens from the other weyrs, pleased for the opportunity to show off for some new faces. Of course he was the biggest and the best, even if they appeared to be snubbing him he knew they were interested. How could they not? The matter of the dragonlights barely had his attention above the fact that it angered His. He knew he and His would always fight Thread until the day they died. Nothing was going to change that for them.
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Posted: Thu Jun 21, 2012 3:36 pm
This had certainly been an interesting event, D'lin and Plexith had ferried a few people over from Trine and so far managed to enjoy their time at the gather - it wasn't often that he got to speak with those from other Weyrs and while yes things were still tense the arrival of thread gave them something in common to talk about. Even if that commonality wasn't something good, that was the thing about people though - give them something to complain about and most people were more then willing to stand around and do just that.
'Such dour thoughts' Plexith piped up as he caught wind of his rider's thoughts. 'Sorry Plexith, just pondering things I suppose' The bronze rider responded to his dragons slight chastisement. 'Do you think this thing is going to work?' The bronze asked. 'Doubtful' D'lin replied 'But I guess we're here to find out.'
Rumbling his agreement PLexith settled back with the other dragons while D'lin made his way through the crowd in search of either a friendly Trine face or a good spot to watch things. As Wingleader he supposed her could move fairly close to the stage but to be honest as long as he could see he'd just as soon stand with a friend to watch.
*****************************************************************************************
Mercy was ecstatic at the chance to come and see something new - even if she had her doubts about how this little event was goingto play out. I mean it wasn't all that long ago that half the people in the Weyrs were at each others throats and she wasn't entirely certain that all those bad feelings had been given enough time to start to taper off quite yet.
Especially since last she heard the Train clutch had been a bit..odd and small. Most were blaming the fact that their Weyrleader was still in a coma. In any case it was still nice to just get out and about for a little while and As Aerith settled down beside the rest of the dragons her white hide standing out starkly against the others Mercy started through the crowd herself, and she made a mental note to keep her eyes open for any of her fellow Weyrmate's ..or those she had meet in other gatherings.
'There are so many here' Aerith stated as she looked around 'Yes, not just Weyrfolk but holders and tradesmen as well, there are even games..what do you think Aerith, should I try my luck at some of them?'
'Probably not' The white replied 'What sort of example would that set?'
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Posted: Thu Jun 21, 2012 4:03 pm
You should stay close to me, Mine, Pipith urged his rider, lowering his head to block Set'al's path so that he couldn't join the crowd of people. I do not trust that this will work, and if it goes wrong, you should be with me.
Aw, c'mon, Pip, what the worst that could happen? Set'al protested, pushing gently on his dragon's headknobs. Besides, I can't see anything from back here! He was tall, sure, but when you were really far away, it wasn't an issue of seeing over other people, it was being able to see at all.
You are staying with me, the little bronze repeated, unwilling to take any argument on this.
---
Mazamath was quick to spot Aerith - she might be small, but she was white, and nearly impossible to miss. Good afternoon, Aerith! he called pleasantly. Are you and Yours enjoying yourselves?
You should find Aerith's, he then advised his rider, but that was easier said than done. It was hard to pick out one person in this huge crowd! With a look of concentration, she put her hands on her hips and looked around. Hmm, hmm...where could Mercy be?
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Posted: Thu Jun 21, 2012 7:21 pm
Bolth was having the time of his life. There were so many people! And so many many dragons and things to see and smells! In fact C'rci had to shoo him away from the festival tents more then once, having caught her blue peering through the alleyways of stalls trying to see in. There was just so very much to see! But at least he had the common sense after the first couple of times to listen to his rider when she cautioned him about snarling his feet among the tent ties and that he'd be better off socializing with the other dragons.
So that's exactly what Bolth did! In fact there was not a single moment when he wasn't either with his rider or surrounded by a crowd of other dragons talking about this or that or lending a sympathetic ear.
Bolth it's about to start! Mind giving me a lift? C'rci mentally called to her dragon the steely blue turning to search out his rider noticing the throngs of people and dragons crowding around the stage. Oh yes! That thing! They'd come to see that hadn't they?
Here Mine! You will see better from my back! Oh is that Calanoth!? I think I see Aerith too! This is so exciting! Bolth chirruped dipping down to allow his little flame haired rider to clamor onto his back, Fasha circling around her head chittering to land on the woman's shoulder. Spreading her wings slightly she preened before settling down to wrap her tail tight about her owners neck.
"Thank you Bolth and yes it is all very exciting." She replied her cheeks reddening at the thought of Z'fer. She still harbored somewhat of a crush on him, but shaking it off she gently patted Bolth's neck as the two peered over the crowds at the stage. They hadn't been flying and going between for long, but C'rci still reveled in how right it felt to sit astride her lifemates back. When the two of them were together like this nothing in all of Pern could harm them.
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Posted: Thu Jun 21, 2012 8:57 pm
Syn had been one of those who had managed to catch a ride with D'lin. She hadn't been particularly anxious to come along but Gementh had practically demanded that she go. She had gotten wind of the demonstration and, Gementh being Gementh, had wanted to know what it was all about. She had known that there wasn't any way to say no to the green and gave in. Syn at least hoped that the demonstration wouldn't be boring.
Don't worry Synmine. Gementh reassured hers. I'm sure it will be entertaining at the least. I'll wait with the other dragons but you should get closer so we know what is going on.
Even if she hadn't exactly chosen to come along, Syn did have to admit that she was a little curious about the demonstration. Anything that would make life less dangerous for her and Gementh and help out the Weyrs was certainly worth looking into. Even if the man behind it all appeared to be rather... off. With a nod to Gementh, Syn moved as close to where the demonstration would be as she could get. She knew there were more important people here than her and she didn't want to take anyone elses spot.
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Posted: Thu Jun 21, 2012 9:11 pm
While this event had been made into a three-day affair, Ralla and Firith were far too busy for frivolous events. They skipped the first day entirely, and were just now arriving for the second. They wanted to see the demonstration, and then they planned to return to Malvren...and to more important things than witnessing an Ancientcrafter's folly.
Having popped precisely out from between, the green circled the gathering before coming in to land. Once on the ground, the small young dragon started working on pushing her way through the older dragons to get closer to the front of the grouping.
A haughty Excuse us! was all the warning she gave, waiting only a moment for any particular dragon to get out of her way before muscling past.
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Posted: Thu Jun 21, 2012 9:38 pm
When the idea of this invention had first come up, Careesi had been midly interested yet weary. She wasn't entirely sure that she trusted this man but what harm could really come of a demonstration? Curiosity getting the best of her, Careesi had managed to hitch a caravan to the site. When she arrived, it appeared that the crowd was already forming. Quickly, the woman moved into the crowd making her way to a decent spot, wincing as she bumped her injured arm on someone. "Sorry." She mumbled quickly as she passed by.
Finally she stopped somewhere around the middle of the crowd. She was able to see the area fairly clearly here yet wouldn't be in anyone's way either. Not to mention if things got nasty she might be able to get away fairly quickly. She certainly hoped that this demonstration wasn't about to be a complete disaster. She had a hard enough time trusting normal people without having to put faith in a mad man.
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Posted: Thu Jun 21, 2012 9:46 pm
Sasar
Sasar was feeling particularly smug today. Even though he wasn't near the front of the mob, he had a relatively clear view of the stage. It filled him with satisfaction to see the high and mighty dragonriders so bent out of shape over this discovery. Teach them a sharding lesson about humility it would! Show the stuck up bastards that the suns didn't shine out of their arses and that Pern could survive without them!
There was a restless stirring in his mind and he calmed his thoughts, letting Sasask slip back into sleep in their tent.
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Posted: Thu Jun 21, 2012 10:05 pm
Siano
Siano had hitched a ride with Green Polarith and Lilias. She was bubbling with excitement to be out and about and under such lovely circumstances. The dragons had come with them for once and were allowed to watch as well. Siano chit chatted excitedly with the greenrider who occasionaly looked wistfully at a few of the passing male dragonriders. Siano squinted at her when she did that. Poor girl was to shy or too absorbed to actually talk much to them. Polarith amused herself by nudging her rider and Siano when they were close enough.
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Posted: Thu Jun 21, 2012 10:08 pm
(S’kor and Optheli are accepting passengers if you don’t have a dragon and wish to be present from Trine. S’kor will take 4; Optheli is just accepting 2. Please quote me if your char wants to ride with one of them.)
S'kor and Scarath
S’kor had spent his first day browsing the stalls after ferrying some people from Trine. He thought the celebrations should have waited until they had seen if the dragonlights actually worked. If the ancientcrafter’s claims had any merit. The bronze rider had his skeptics but was willing to wait and see. Now that it was about to begin, S’kor moved toward the front and took a seat; crossing his arms over his chest as he waited.
Scarath? How are things on your end? He nodded to the Weyrleaders, wingleaders, and seconds he saw sitting nearby.
The large bronze had politely positioned himself in the back to give smaller dragons a better vantage point. There are many here Mine. It is good to see so many. He didn’t have to mention so many from different Weyrs.
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Optheli and Dynith
Optheli had been excited to accompany her brother. She hadn’t been high ranking, but had helped carry a couple passengers. Being able to attend the Gather-like assembly was even better. Everyone was happy and having a good time. She greeted and talked with everyone she came across. The hardest part was getting Dynith to be alright among the crowd of dragons.
No one will mind you sitting there. I’m sure they’d think it odd if you didn’t. She had assured the nervous green often.
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Posted: Thu Jun 21, 2012 10:09 pm
(Wykla and F’law are accepting passengers if you don’t have a dragon and wish to be present from Malvren or Benden. Both are accepting 3 passengers. Please quote me if your char wants to ride with one of them.)
Wykla and Kameth
The young bluerider was staying with her dragon. Preferring to watch from the vantage point on Kameth’s shoulders than be among the press of riders. Her flits rested on the blue or controlled the air above him. Boreal sat proudly on her shoulder. Wykla was suspicious. She wondered how the man could make such claims about an untried machine. So though she’d brought some people, she was just going to watch from back here.
Mine. I see Mazamath, Calanoth, and Aerith. And I hear Bolth, the last was added with a bit of humor. Kameth was sitting as tall as he could to give his rider the best view.
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F'law and Zurith
It had been an uneasy flight for him, but they’d made it and hadn’t fallen into the sky. F’law hadn’t liked all the open space, and almost regretted coming. Only Zurith’s refusal to return had prevented him from going immediately home. It was hard to enjoy the pleasant atmosphere with so many strangers around. He felt like the only Benden rider there.
Finally time for the demonstration had arrived. F’law had breathed a sigh of relief. They could watch and see if it succeeded as promised or if the old man was just blowing steam. He moved to the back of the ground. Nearer the dragons than not. Were they about to witness a defining moment in dragon history?
The dark blue had settled himself toward the front of the assembled dragons. He was eager to see this machine work. He rumbled to His.
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Posted: Thu Jun 21, 2012 10:21 pm
Hekate and Devith They past two days had been quite enjoyable for Hekate and Devith. Surprisingly it had taken her little time to convince Devith that they should join Dizzian and Courath in going to the demonstration. Though the fact everyone seemed to be paying more attention to it then him might have sparked that. he would after all not be left behind and ignored. No the silver had ever plans of attending and being admired by not one Weyr, but members of all of them.
Mine? My hide. How does it look? Devith questioned Hekate for the tenth time that morning as she bent slightly to inspect him where he sat beside her feet his tail looped protectively. . .though more like possessively around her legs.
Better then any queen could hope to match Devith. She assured him running a loving hand over her lifemate's headfrill drawing a pleased rumble from his throat as he posed wings half spread preening. It irritated him to no end that everyone was staring at the stage instead of Him! He was clearly more important then any sort of crazy contraption, but before he could voice his rumble of disapproval a face in the crowd caught his eyes. That one! That was the foolish two-legger who'd dared to grace himself with His riders presence!
Letting out a low rumbling snarl he clung tighter to Hekate's side his entire body language clearly screaming 'MINE.' What was that rider anyway? Clearly not good enough for His. Hmph, at least Hekate had enjoyed the dance, that at least would momentarily spare the man the silver's ire.
"Relax. He's not nearly as handsome as you are Devith." Hekate replied with a chuckle at her lifemate as she followed his gaze only pausing for a moment to admire the man from afar. Certainly a handsome one, but no one was as fine and Devith and herself.
As if anyone could hope to match our glory. Devith answered with an amused snort at such a preposterous idea. Scratching her lifemate's eyeridged Hekate glanced over to Dizzian with a roguish grin.
"Excited?" She questioned her voice a touch warmed when speaking with the first real human friend the young rider had made. In fact it was thanks to Dizzian that the pair of them were at this event, the girl having been kind enough to talk a ride for not just herself, but Hekate and Devith as well out of one of the older riders and their dragons.
Of course Hekate was far from ungrateful and even Devith seemed to gloat and lord about his ego a little less in favor of his favorite sister. To make up for their kindness the pair had let Dizzian and Courath drag them all over the event and back again. Hekate plying her natural gifts towards games of a more roguish persuasion to take the few scant marks she'd shown up with and double them. All through perfectly normal means mind, she couldn't have Dizzian catch her stealing, but gambling was only a steal if you knew what you were doing.
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Posted: Thu Jun 21, 2012 11:15 pm
Dizzian
It hadn't been too hard for Dizzian to convince a couple friends among the riders to give her and Hekate a lift as well as their dragons. Courath had been rather enthusiastic about the adventure which surprised her rider. Dizzian wasn't about to disappoint! No matter what her true feelings about the strange machine, the chance to get out of the weyr and see new places and people was something she couldn't pass up.
Their first day was absolutely phenomenal in her opinion. She'd always enjoyed the celebrations at the weyr but to see a Gather this size was awe inspiring. Of Course Dizzian had brought her entire purse, now quite drained from shopping but not empty thanks to Hekate's talent at the gambling tables. Dizzian...did not have a poker face to say the least. That combined with her cnostantly asking about rules pretty much sealed the fate of her first few hands of cards. She'd given up quickly rather than lose all of her marks.
Courath leaned into her side, unable to see the event for herself but 'watching' through Dizzian's eyes. She snorted at Devith's worrying over his hide. That dragon was far too concerned with how he looked. She humored him though, other than that so far he seemed to be a good clutch mate and Her's liked His.
"Excited?! How could I not be! We're in Northern! I've never been here before! Shards I've never been outside of Trine! Look at all the people! And the dragons! Did you see the white one? I knew Malvren had one but I didn't think I'd get to see it! I heard their not boys or girls. It's pretty though. Did you see the size of their bronzes too? They breed them HUGE there! Especially that big one you met last night." Hekate's roguish grin was met with a catlike one of her own as she elbowed her friend.
Dizzian hadn't had an 'off' button the entire time they'd been there. Even when laying down in their shared tent she couldn't sleep for excitement and chattered until she realized Hekate was asleep.
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