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Candidate Surprise


Date:  January 22, 1996
Places:  Benden Weyr's Textile Stores, Candidate Barracks, and Living
Cavern
Game:  PernMUSH
Copyright Info:  The World of Pern is copyright(c) to Anne McCaffrey 
l967. The Dragonriders of Pern(r) is a registered copyright.

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Kassi's Note:  It's kind of fun to edit these Candidacy logs so shortly
after being a Candidate Coordinator at Igen.  In this particular scene
Kassi's also the supervisor for the class that day--we had a thing where
Candidates took turns being loosely in charge of the others, making 
sure everyone got their chores done and such--so it's almost surreal.
Things come full circle!  Anyway, Baram, who would later end up 
Craftmaster at Winecraft, put his talents to use working with Aphrael
and Meli to brew a surprise for the Weyr.  

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The Log:




You pass through the huge doorway into textile stores.

Textile Stores
This large chamber is dimly lit by glows. Bolts of cloth, in every
imaginable colour, from Ista's bright orange to Harper blue, are stacked in
racks along the side walls. Innumerable crates line the center of the room,
filled with tunics and trousers in a multitude of cuts and sizes. Against
the far wall are large boxes and crates containing wherhide riding gear and
other leather goods. The hides are cured, strong and new, ready for the
various needs of the riders of the Weyr.
A heavy wooden door set into an arch carved out of the very rock walls
leads out of the storeroom.
Contents:
Aphrael
Rickon
Meli
Obvious exits:
Out  

Meli looks up as Aph enters, still crouched down to pick up one of the
older ropes that are strewn across the floor. "Heyla" she says with a smile.

Kassima waves cheerfully. "Heyla and greetings, all; Aph told me I should
probably look for a Candie robe here." She blinks. "Why are there robes all
over the floor?"

Aphrael waves and smiles, "Hi guys. Just showing Kassi where to get her robe."

Rickon says "Because I knocked the pile over?"

Kassima considers, then grins. "That would explain it," she comments.

You say "Everyone got their chores done all right?"

Rickon pulls out another one and tries it against himself. "Ah HA!" he
exclaims."

Meli grins. "Kassi, there's some newer ones over there" she points to some
neater piles along one wall. "These are older -- couldn't find a long
enough one..." she trails off as Rick finally finds one that fits.

Rickon hmms. "Needs a bit of mending, but it's the right length. It'll do.
Better put the rest of these back." He carefully puts the robe to one side,
and starts re-stacking the pile.

Aphrael nods at Kassi, "Yep. Wanna report. I scrubbed, and scrubbed, and
was done." Seh grins and follows the indicated direction.

Kassima quirks a grin and rummages through the pile of new robes, slipping
one on over her clothing. "Feh," she says as it only comes above her knees.
She looks for another.

Rickon grins. "All the firestone's broken and bagged."

Kassima chuckles to Aphrael. "Aye, I saw you at work when I was washing the
dishes. The pots look fine. Did any of the others give you any trouble?
I've already had some... interesting reports from those on tunnelsnake and
weeding duty."

Meli chuckles as she helps Rickon refold and stack robes. "Yah... and I
even washed most o'the stink off... I think."

Aphrael grimaces for a bit, but shakes her head, "Nah.. it was.. fine."

Rickon grins. "Well, I think you're clean, but I don't know..."

Meli chuckles. "You're prolly not th'best one to ask... your nose is prolly
as dead as mine."

Rickon says "Hmm...well, none of the flits got hold of stone again, thank
goodness."

Kassima nods. "There looked to be plenty of firestone sacks ready. I won't
say there couldn't have been more, but since you probably got more done
than I would've, I'm hardly going to complain. No incidences with the
fire-lizards? That's good to hear. We already had one case with Emric
throwing bits of weeds at them." She chuckles slightly. "Said he was trying
to teach them to fetch."

Rickon rolls his eyes. "I won't forget when stormy got hold of stone and
went round flaming greenery in the bowl. It was funny, but...I was
terrified he'd accidentally burn somebody.

Kassima grins. "Just threaten to make yours clean the latrines with you if
they do it again. That stopped mine from trying right quick." She finds a
robe of adequate length but far too large, and sets it aside with a snort.

Aphrael laughs softly and sits on a convenient pile of robes as she watches.

Rickon says "Well, the snag is, persuading them when it's not acceptable to
get stone, and when it is...stormy's trained to work with Thread ground
crew, and I guess he forgot the difference."

Kassima sorts through the robes again. "Some of these robes resemble great
Gather tents, I swear. And some of them...." She holds up a long but
skintight robe. "Some don't have enough room to squeeze into no matter how
thin you are." She pauses. "Fire-lizards on ground crew? What a fabulous
idea! We never utilized them at Greystones, but there weren't too many
fire-lizards there anyway."

Aphrael laughs at Kassi and shrugs, "Remember you get to wear a belt too,
so it doesnt really matter if its a little wide."

Rickon shrugs. "They have the same innate ability to fight Thread as
dragons...they just aren't much use 'cause they're so small. But they can
be great help with ground crew, if you can snag a bit of spare 'stone.

Kassima holds up the big robe again, which could easily house two
Candidates of her size in the sleeves alone. "I don't think a belt would be
much help here," she says, laughing.

Rickon grins. "That one looks like it's sized for a smith.

Aphrael giggles, "Ah, true. Okay, maybe.." Hrm. She stands up and points to
the pile she was sitting on, picking up the first one, "How 'bout this?"

Kassima holds out her hand and takes the robe. "Might work," she says,
holding it up. "Long enough, and big enough without being a giant tent."

Kassima slips it on over her clothing. Not quite a perfect fit, but close
enough. "This'll do fine. Thanks, Aph," she says gratefully.

Meli grins. "We c'n take it in some if y'like... but nothing too fancy."

Aphrael giggles, "Sure thing, Kassi."

Kassima chuckles slightly. "Take it in too much, and it'll be no better
than that other. Nay, 'twill serve as 'tis, but I thank you for the offer."

Meli grins. "Ok, everyone set? Let's go get these fixed... there's
somethin' else I have t'check tonight."

Kassima hrms? "Something else? Never mind. Sure, I'm set." She drapes the
chosen robe over one arm and salutes, grinning. "Just lead the way,
Candidate Meli."

Aphrael laughs softly at Meli and nods, walking out.

Meli grins, giving a return salute as she steps out briskly.

Meli heads out of the storeroom toward the main part of the Weyr.

Aphrael heads out of the storeroom toward the main part of the Weyr.

Rickon grins, and picks up his own chosen garment. "I need to do some
darning."

Rickon laughs at Kassima.

Kassima points to Rickon's robe and says, "Darn! There, it's darned." She
laughs and follows the others.

You head out of the storeroom toward the main part of the Weyr.

You follow your nose down the hallway and into the kitchen.

From the living cavern, P'tran looks up from his conversation and glances
towards the kitchens for a moment

Meli walks into the Living Cavern.

Aphrael walks into the Living Cavern.

You walk into the Living Cavern.

Meli gives a wave "Evening, weyrleader!" in a hearty voice.

Aphrael pauses and nods to P'tran. "Evening Weyrleader." She doesnt stop
though.

Aphrael walks towards the inner cavern.

Meli walks towards the inner cavern.

P'tran takes a drink of his klah as he makes a point in his conversation.
He keeps speaking until the candidates come into view, upon which he stops
and gives them a nod of greetings."

Kassima gives a respectful nod to P'tran. "Evening, Weyrleader sir," she
says politely before following Aph.

You walk towards the inner cavern.

Benden LC> P'tran raises an eyebrow as some of them begin filing out as
quickly as they came in.

Kassima waves to Lily as she passes by.

You part the curtain and step into the Candidate Barracks.

Benden LC> P'tran hrms. "I"m almost afraid to ask what that was all about,"
he mutters quietly

Benden Weyr> Meli says, "Ooh, let's give the WL a complex..."

Kassima waves to Leonay and sits down on her cot, holding the robe.

Benden Weyr> P'tran smirks :)

Benden Weyr> Alyssa says, "He already has one. It's a requisite for being
WL. :)"

Aphrael retrieves her robe from her cot and turns to Meli, "Here it is!"

Benden Weyr> Maarie giggles, "Why stop at just one?"

Benden Weyr> Aphrael LOL!

Benden Weyr> Kassima grins. Paranoia--y'gotta love it. :) And it helps that
many other generations of Candies before us have helped foster the
"Candidates are always up to something" image. <g>

Meli opens her press, pulling out her own robe and holding it out to Aph.
"Maybe we won't have t'sew em after all..."

Kassima sighs in relief. "That's good news. My sewing could make a feline
laugh."

Benden Weyr> Meli says, "Ok, how about a complex complication?"

Benden LC> P'tran looks over to Rickon. "I see you're not following the
rest of them," he comments idly.

Benden Weyr> Sionelle wonders why that is, really. She'd always pictured
Candidates as more concerned with proper behavior, to the point of being
overly-well-mannered.

Aphrael grins and accepts the exchange, pulling the robe on over her head.
She hrms and looks down. "It looks good." She turns to the others, "What do
you think?" She swirls around.

Storm suddenly appears from out of nowhere, accompanied by a small rush of
cold air.

Benden LC> Lily walks here from the Inner Cavern.

Meli pulls on the robe Aph had chosen, trying to lean down to spy at the
hem. "Me too... how's it look?"

Benden LC> P'tran takes a drink of his klah and nods to Lily. "Evening,
Lily. I hope you're making yourself at home here at Benden?"

Aphrael chuckles, "Looks fine t'me, Meli."

Kassima slips on her own robe, then grins. "Guess we look like the real
thing now," she comments. "All we need is to look really nervous and have
our feet burnt off."

Meli walks over near Aph's cot. "Hey, Aph, stand on your press a moment,
an' I'll check the hem."

Benden LC> Lily strides into the cavern, looking down at her notes and
smiling. She looks up with a bright grin, "Oh, yessir, Mr. Weyrleader, sir.
I'm having a great time. Even got a new idea for a jewelry design."

Storm flutters around the room, the "Cheeerrrrups!" to Aphrael

Benden Weyr> P'tran says, "Candidates are always taught proper respect for
authority, naturally, but not to the point taht it quells creativity :)"

Benden Weyr> Alyssa kersnugs Ely!

Meli chuckles at Kassi's comment. "Yah, I suppose we should try these
barefoot t'be sure, but I think we c'n tell if they're ok."

Benden Weyr> P'tran waves

Benden Weyr> Kassima waffles and congrats Elyandra on the Bot Spot. :)

Aphrael laughs and nods, "Okay." She jumps up onto her cot, and from there
onto her press.

Benden Weyr> Lily waves

Kassima does a quick little mince-step, as though walking on hot sand. She
grins.

Benden LC> P'tran grins slightly. "Um, just 'Weyrleader' or 'sir' will do.
No need for 'Mr. Weyrleader sir'."

Benden LC> Alyssa walks here from the Inner Cavern.

Benden LC> P'tran adds, "and I'm glad to see that you're settling in."

Benden Weyr> Maarie adds syrup to Kassi's waffles, "We should add your
waffles to the R'valmeatballs and Aph's Vidarthburgers too."

Benden LC> P'tran says "Evening Alyssa"

Benden Weyr> Alyssa says, "P'tran, at least she knows you're weyrleader,
not some journeyman miner named Alec or something."

Storm lands on Aphrael's cot. "CHrrrrreeeep?

Meli squats down to eye Aph's hem, where it just reaches to her ankle bone.
"Seems straight enough... turn around a second an' lemme check th'back"

Benden Weyr> P'tran grins :)

Benden LC> Lily stands stock still, her cheeks flushing. "Um..okay, Sir."
She hesitates, "Could I show you this sketch? It might make a nice get-well
present for Weyrwoman Jehrina..."

Benden Weyr> Lily says, "Don't be to sure of that.:)"

Benden Weyr> Kassima says, "And the all-around bluerider stew? Oh, and
can't forget to make some R'val steaks for the dragons. And fillet of
Slithereth! :) What should we call this new restaurant? :)"

Benden LC> Alyssa smiles broadly as she comes in from the inner caverns and
heads for the beverages. "Good evening, sir. I was just visiting Caitlyn
and Calia."

Aphrael nods and turns around, and in doing so spots the brown firelizard.
She blinks in startled surprise and topples off her press onto the florr.

Meli eeps. "Aph, you ok?" as she leans down to offer a hand.

Benden LC> Lily turns to see Alyssa and smiles, "Heya."

Kassima looks concerned. "Aph? Are you all right?"

Benden LC> Rickon waves to everyone. "Hi...hello, Weyrleader."

Benden LC> P'tran nods to Alyssa. "Yes, I heard Caitlyn gave birth. I"ll
have to stop by to give my congratulations." To Lily he says, "Hmm, that's
not a bad idea, actually."

Benden LC> Alyssa beams at Lily, still cheerful from her visit. After
pouring hot water into a mug, she plops a muslin teabag into the water and
sits with the candidates.

Aphrael groans, then suddenly starts laughing. "Heh! I can only imagine the
expression on my face!" She giggles as she takes Meli's hand and pulls
herself up.

Storm stands politely and titls his head from side to side, hummmming his
silly little Firelizard song.

Benden Weyr> Elyandra says, "The Firing Hole""

Benden Weyr> Maarie says, "A Bite of Benden?"

Meli chuckles, glad Aph's ok. "Guess the robe's ok... take it off an' we'll
check to make sure you didn't rip it or stain it" as she pulls her own off
and folds it away.

Benden Weyr> Elyandra says, "Or, the Firestone Hole :) Pit bar-b-que :)"

Kassima grins, seeing Aph isn't hurt. "Be careful, Aph, lest you break your
neck."

Benden Weyr> Alyssa watches P'tran trying to figure out a way to appease
his currently surly weyrmate. :)

Benden LC> P'tran considers for a moment and says to Alyssa, "Did you
happen to see how Jehrina was doing?"

Benden Weyr> Kassima grins. How about the Firepits? :)

Benden LC> Rickon heads for the beverage table and pours himself a mug of
klah. "Anyone want anything?"

Aphrael laughs softly and pulls off the robe. "Wouldnt do t'break my neck
when the hatching is so close!"

Benden Weyr> M'kla says, "Feed all the Candidates to Leilanth."

Benden Weyr> Maarie nods and grins evilly.

Benden Weyr> Meli says, "M'kla!!"

Benden LC> Lily smiles back at Alyssa and spreads out a scrap of hide on
the table before P'tran. It shows, from several angles, an egg covered in
gemstones, which opens to reveal a tiny dragonet inside. "I was thinking
that if I knew the colors of Weyrwaoman Jehrina's dragon's egg, I could try
to recreate it with gemstones on a small egg..."

Benden LC> P'tran shakes his head at Rickon. "Not right now."

Benden Weyr> Maarie says, "And don't forget the Candidate meatrolls. We'll
just use the next bunch that come through Benden."

Benden Weyr> Lily says, "Or borrow some from another Weyr?"

Benden Weyr> Kassima grins fangily. "I still like "To Serve Man."

Benden Weyr> Maarie ooohs, "Lily the evil weyrminer."

Benden LC> Alyssa, as she dunks her bag in the water, shakes her head to
P'tran. "No, sir, Portock discharged her, and I've been busy with Gyranth
all day. How he got himself so scratched up I will never know."

Benden Weyr> Lily muahahas.:)

Benden LC> P'tran raises an eyebrow at the design and smiles, one of the
rare natural smiles he's been seen with since the Half-Circle Fall. "That
looks rather lovely. Um, the colors of her egg? I'm embarrassed to admit I
don't recall at this moment ..."

Benden Weyr> Jeshua comes in at Kassi's comment. "That's disgusting."

Stormsits near Aphrael's pillow, deposits a little purple flower there, and
tilts his head from side to side, hummmmming a silly little Firelizard tune.

Meli sits on her press a moment. "Eh, I'm glad I don't have t'sew that
after all... my seams are ok, but nothin' to brag about."

Benden LC> Rickon glances over at Lily, and then flops onto a bench at the
candidate's table. He sets his klah down, then spreads out the bundle of
cloth he was carrying under his arm. "Anyone got a needle and thread?"

Benden Weyr> Kassima bows. "Thank you, you wouldn't believe how many times
I hear that remark."

You say "At least they're okay; better than mine, I wager, and you know I
only bet on a sure thing."

Benden LC> P'tran nods to Alyssa. "She's no longer holed up in the
infirmary? Good. I thought Laerth has said something to the effect that
Jehrina was out and about."

Benden LC> Lily brightens, her cheeks dimpling in a grin. "Well, maybe
someone else might know. Maybe there's even a drawing of it someplace. I
could try to work from that."

Meli laughs. "Yah, well, I had to get by some growing up."

Benden LC> P'tran nods to Lily. "I'll get back to you soon on that, I
promise."

Benden LC> Alyssa smiles rather bashfully at P'tran. "And to be honest,
sir...I'd, uhm...sort of avoided that area of the infirmary?"

Benden LC> M'kla walks in from the bowl.

Meli sits quietly a moment, then double blinks. "Eh, yah! I nearly forgot..."

Aphrael shakes her head, "Ooh, I feel giddy, like I've been drinking or
something."

Benden LC> Lily nods, smiling. "Of course, Sir. I'll still be settling in
and stuff. Umm...any word on when my room might be ready?"

Benden LC> P'tran grins wryly at Alyssa. "I understand, believe me."

You say "My only domestic skills are cleaning and cooking... I couldn't sew
if my life depended on it. Guess I'll have to learn sometime. You sure you
didn't scramble your brains with that fall, Aph?"

Benden LC> Lily turns to Alyssa, frowning. "Why would you want to avoid it?"

Benden LC> P'tran hmms. "Well, actually, if not a little later this
evening, then definitely by tomorrow. I won't have you waiting longer than
that."

Benden LC> Rickon flashes Lily a grin. "How's Weyr life suiting you?"

Benden LC> Alyssa watches P'tran juggling two conversations -- actually a
low number for him in the LC, and falls silent and introspective, still
steeping her tea.

Stormsits quietly on his haunches, wings neatly folded. He reaches over
with an elegant curve to his neck and nudges the purple posey.

Benden Weyr> Berin waaaaves.

Meli leans forward a bit. She mutters to Aphrael, "... check... said..." 

Benden LC> Zill walks in from the bowl.

Benden LC> Lily smiles hesitangly at Rickon, "Oh, it's really kinda fun.
There's sure a lot of stuff to see and do here. And it's different from the
MineCraft Hall."

Benden LC> Maarie walks in from the bowl.

Aphrael leans back against the press and laughs, "Nah, just a little shaky.
Nothing a good bit of brandy couldnt fix though." She pauses and winks at
Meli, then nods at the mutter.

Benden Weyr> P'tran waves

Ursa peeks her head in, "Watcha up to?"

Kassima hmmms, waving to Ursa, but surveying Aphrael and Meli with
interest. "You're up to something. But I don't want to know about it, okay?"

Benden LC> Maarie comes in trying to catch her breath as she hangs her
cloak up near the entrance.

Meli winks back, rising. "Uh, 'scuse me, Kassi... gotta go check on that
something..."

Benden Weyr> Kassima waffles. :)

Benden LC> Zill smiles "Perhaps long legs arnt so good after all Maarie"

Benden LC> P'tran peers over to the bowl entrance where Maarie has just
come in.

Benden Weyr> Jeshua tsunamis. Whoosh.

Meli heads through the entrance to the inner cavern.

Benden LC> Rickon grins. "Wait until you see the Hatching. That will be a
/show/. And one hell of a party."

Aphrael laughs softly and pulls her self up, following Meli.

Aphrael heads through the entrance to the inner cavern.

Benden Weyr> Berin gets soaked. And syruped. (is that a word?) :)

Kassima changes her mind. "Actually, I do want to know. What are you up to?"

Benden Weyr> Jeshua says, "Sounds right."

Kassima drats as they leave before they can answer her question.

Benden LC> Maarie chuckles, "Perhaps not, Zill." She sticks out her tongue
at him. She nods to the Weyrleader, "Goodevening, sir."

Ursa watches them both go as she comes in to grab som ething from her
press. "What's with them?"

Benden LC> Lily wanders over to where Rickon is, "Show? You mean seeing the
baby dragons and all? And a party?" She grins. "Will there be Benden Red?"

You say "I get the feeling those two are up to something... guess they'll
slip up soon enough. I doubt they'd do anything bad... I hope not, anyway."

Benden Weyr> Jeshua says, "Or should you spell it syrupt like
interrupt...or? English is weird."

Benden Weyr> Kassima grins and agrees with that.

Benden Weyr> Berin says, "but...you don't spell interrupted interruptet.
*peer* Hmph. *gives up*"

Benden LC> P'tran nods to Maarie, noticing she was winded when she came in,
but he doesnt say anything at the moment.

Benden LC> P'tran nods to his Weyrsecond as he notices her. "Evening, M'kla."

Benden LC> Rickon grins. "Of course...and I believe some of the other
Candidates have prepared a little surprise."

Benden Weyr> Jeshua says, "of course not, I'm just drawing strange
connections. Ignore me."

Benden LC> Rickon nods to the Weyrsecond.

Benden LC> M'kla waves from over a hastily gathered dinner.

Benden LC> Alyssa offers a warm smile to M'kla before returning to her
studious regard of her tea.

Ursa nods. "Hope not. They'd get worse than latrine duty this time."

Benden LC> Lily takes a seat, smiling at M'kla before arcing an eyebrow, "A
surprise? What kind of surprise?"

Benden LC> Maarie walks over and looks for a pitcher of cider.

Berin swings his legs over the side of and then stands up from his cot,
with a yawn.

Benden LC> P'tran hmms? as he overhears Rickon. "Surprise?" he says dubiously

Benden LC> Jereth walks here from the Inner Cavern.

Benden LC> Zill wanders towards a hearth

Benden LC> Allegro appears from beneath Jereth's hair and takes off into
the air.

Benden LC> Rickon says "If I told everyone, it wouldn't be a surprise, now,
would it."

Benden LC> Lily rolls up her drawing and stuffs it in a pocket, "I guess
you're right there. We'll just have to wait until the Hatching, I guess."

Benden LC> P'tran raises an eyebrow, his expression thoughtful edged
towards serious. "This depends on what kind of a surprise it is."

Benden LC> Allegro flies down toward Zill, chirping in greeting at the
humanthingy.

Benden Weyr> Kassima dies of lag spam poisoning!

You say "Worse than latrine duty? Is there any such thing?"

Benden LC> Jereth waves at everyone and looks around for a seat.

Benden Weyr> Maarie laughs evilly, "We should put that on our menu too,
Kassi."

Benden LC> Zill looks up recognising the little file lizard

Benden LC> Alyssa discards her teabag and, tucking her feet under her,
perches on her chair and sips at the tea, her attention focussed on the
fire now.

Benden Weyr> Kassima wouldn't want to usurp Thera's title of Queen of Spam,
though. :)

Benden LC> Rickon says "It's not a bad one, Weyrleader. Honest."

Ursa nods. "Oh yeah, liike latrine duty on water rations."

Benden LC> Jereth smiles at Alyssa. "Good evening, Healer," he says.

Benden Weyr> Kassima says, "As in the pseudomeat kind, not the evil lag
kind. :)"

Benden Weyr> Meli says, "Mwahahaha"

Benden LC> P'tran nods slowly and hrms. "I would hope not. So long as its
not another new way to catch tunnelsnakes and let them loose in another room."

Benden LC> Jeshua walks in from the bowl.

Benden LC> Alyssa blinks and looks away from the fire to Jereth. "Oh...hi.
How are you?"

Kassima ughs. "That would be worse." She chuckles and folds her white robe,
placing it neatly in her press. "I'm heading out to the Living Cavern. Good
work you did on washing the dishes today, by the way."

Kassima waves and departs, whistling.

Benden LC> Jeshua salutes P'tran, smiling. She is in a terribly good mood.

You head through the entrance to the inner cavern.

Benden LC> Allegro chirps at Zill and flies down toward him.

Benden LC> Maarie grins as she finds a pitcher of cider hidden behind some
others and pours herself a mug.

You walk through the large entrance to the Living Cavern.

Lily ohs, "Catching tunnelsnakes? We had to do that as apprentices. Kinda
fun, actually."

Kassima waves cheerfully to everyone, nodding respectfully to P'tran and
M'kla. "Good evening, all." She takes an unoccupied chair at the Candie table.

Rickon grins. "Especially with trained 'lizards."

P'tran's mood seems to be hovering a bit between simply somber and
serious/businesslike

P'tran nods to the others briefly as they arrive.

You say "So long as you don't use Taylar's noose and then forget to kill
them...."

"Fine," Jereth replies to Alyssa, happy to be asked. "Yourself?"

Jeshua moves toward the skyfire table,,,, nodding cheerfully to M'kla on
her way.

Alyssa looks over at Kassima and shudders; she has not yet forgotten the
tunnelsnake incident. Then, to Jereth, she smiles again, softly. "Well
enough, thank you."

Zill snggles down near a hearth

Lily laughs, "As Apprentices we weren't allowed to use our 'lizards. Just
our hands. And picks."

Ursa walks here from the Inner Cavern.

Allegro lands on the hearth beside Zill. She gazes up at him and chitters
in annoyance before taking off again.

Kassima wrinkles her nose. "So you have to pick up the things and wring
their necks? Sounds dangerous."

Something occurs to Jesh. "Oh, M'kla, when should we get some new buckles?
I've been looking for them everywhere and can't seem to find one."

Maarie looks up, "Ursa!"

Meli walks here from the Inner Cavern.

Aphrael walks here from the Inner Cavern.

Lily wrinkles her nose and shakes her head, "Naah, you've just got to be
careful. And, " she grins, "fast."

M'kla mms at Jeshua, "Buckles? For our belts or for the straps?"

Kassima waves to Aphrael and Meli. "Heyla, you two."

Alyssa, upon hearing Lily's report of tunnelsnake killing in the mines,
shudders again and turns resolutely away.

Meli enters, smiling, carrying a wooden keg in her hands. She glances
around the cavern, then strides over to the weyrleader purposefully, then
stops short.

Maarie walks over to Ursa, "I tried looking for you yesterday. Asfala and
Dyinath let us touch the eggs again and I couldn't find you anywhere."

Ursa scurries in, hurrying over to grab some food real quick. She looks up
almost surprised to be noticed. "Hey, Maarie.

Jeshua says firmly, 'Straps. I could do without a beltbuckle."

Aphrael nods respectfully to the assembled, carrying with her a medium
sized keg. She follows Meli a little hesitantly.

P'tran listens to the conversations with a flat expression and watches the
candidates with interest. He then raises an eyebrow and leans foward in his
seat when Meli approaches. "Yes?"

Maarie says quietly, "I'm sorry."

Jazmin walks in from the bowl.

Kassima eyes the kegs in Meli's and Aphrael's hands questioningly.

P'tran looks past Meli and spots the keg and sets his klah mug aside.

Lily peers over at Alyssa, "Hey, something wrong? You look kinda queazy."

Storm suddenly appears from out of nowhere, accompanied by a small rush of
cold air.

Maarie glances over to Meli and Aph with a grin.

Jazmin looks dead on her feet as she comes in and heads for the klah.

Ursa nods, looking about to cry. "I was weeding, cin you believe that? Over
behind the outcropping, ya know, and no one thought to come get me there."

M'kla shakes her head, "Salless should know where some are in the
stores...if all else fails, ask a Smith for some."

P'tran points to the keg, face still not betraying much more than his more
serious than usual demeanor. "I trust there's a reason for that?"

Kassima nods respectfully to Jazmin. "Good eve, ma'am," she says, before
turning back to watching Meli and Aph with kegs.

Meli bites her lip a moment, then clears her throat and rushes out with
"Uh, on behalf o'some of the candidates, we'd like t'present the weyr
w'this gift... ahem, sir..."

Aphrael sets her keg down, then looks at Meli, letting her explain.

Rickon says "I thought you guys were saving that for the Hatching."

Jereth waves at Zill. "Hi," he says. "I'm Jereth."

Alyssa lifts a hand in greeting to Jazmin, then looks at Lily and shakes
her head. "I just realizes I could never be a miner, that's all."

Storm fllies about the room, looking down aat the Big ones, then quietly
lands on a table.

Aphrael smiles at Rickon, "Ah, one for now, one for after. We dont know
when the Hatching'll be."

Meli's ear twitches slightly as she hears Rickon, but her attention is
focused on P'tran.

Jazmin waves tiredly as she pours herself a klah and plunks down at the
Skyfire table.

P'tran nods slowly. "Gift? Hmm." He glances sideways after hearing Rickon's
comment and then looks back to Meli and the others. "And what would this
gift be?

Kassima looks no end of surprised. Does everyone know about this but her?

Rickon grins. "Okie."

Jeshua nods. "Okay. She must have them organized somehow...your name is
what?" her head turns toward Jereth, not sure she heard right.

Lily shakes her head, "Well, Alyssa, I don't think I could ever be a
healer, so I guess we're even." She looks at Meli, "What is it?"

Jereth notices Jeshua's comment. "Jereth," he answers her timidly.

Meli sets her own keg down, and quirks a grin. "Homemade redfruit
brandy...sir"

Zill aknolages jereth

P'tran blinks. "Brandy? You and the other candidates made ... brandy?" His
tone is more curious than anything else at the moment.

Jeshua chuckles, very amused. "You have a good name, sir."

Benden Weyr> Maarie says, "Argh! Gotta go! See ya guys later."

Aphrael nods slowly, "Aye sir. With help, o'course."

Jereth blink and says awkwardly, "Me?"

Lily grins widely, "Brandy? That's great!"

Alyssa watches the other candidates curiously, wondering what Meli is
talking about.

P'tran ahs and nods. "Help from whom?"

Aphrael shifts to her other foot and grins, "Baram sir. He was a winecraft
apprentice before he was Searched."

Jeshua nods slowly, still laughing. "My dragon's name is Jareth. I think we
should give this young man a nickname, as Jareth will not suffer /his/ name
being shortened."

Meli continues to grin. He doesn't seem too upset. "Yah, Baram, th'former
winecraft apprentice?" she pauses to see if he remembers the name. "He
helped a lot."

P'tran nods. There's now a look of interest, though mild, on his face.
"That would make sense," he comments. He gestures for them to bring the keg
closer

Rickon grins. "Yep...we planned it as a surprise. Well, I didn't do
much...but I can't say I didn't know what was going on, sir. I thought it
was a good idea."

Storm emits a loud bugle!

Jeshua listens in with her other ear to the brandy conversation, her eyes
straying every so often to the kegs on the floor. "Who gets the first sip?"
she asks M'kla.

M'kla laughs quietly at Jeshua, "I presume our Weyrleader..."

Meli shifts her keg closer, setting it down near P'tran's elbow. "Course,
it's not aged or anything, but it should be ok..."

P'tran looks over to Jeshua and says with a wry grin. "Well, I *am* the
Weyrleader."

M'kla grins, "Gotta give him credit sometimes..."

Ursa watches Aoh and Meli curiously as she stuffs the food in her face
double-time.

P'tran adds, "I would not let my riders do something that I would not be
willing to do myself." His expression is starting to soften a bit

Lily laughs softly, "We tried to make some once at the Hall. But it was
.awful. That looks really good."

Jeshua says "Yes, sir. I was talking about the sip after yours, of course."

Meli chuckles as she hears Lily's comment. "Yah, w'out Baram, ours prolly
would have been awful too."

Jereth glances at Jeshua in shock. "It is? I mean, really?"

Jeshua's voice is imbued with a deep respect that is altogether too much
and therefore bunk.

M'kla wags a finger at Jeshua, "Age before beauty."

P'tran grins a bit more and then looks expectantly to the candidates as he
calls over a drudge to bring some mugs.

Kassima chuckles. "So that's what y'all were up to in the cold stores that
time," she says ruefully. "Can't believe I didn't notice."

Alyssa watches the Weyrleader and other candidates, looking curious and a
little sad, perhaps.

Aphrael chuckles softly and pats her keg, "We thought maybe we could keep
one for after the hatching, sir."

Rickon grins. "Hey...doesn't this call for a party? Assuming it hasn't
produced vinegar, that is.

Meli tugs her ear. "Course, we haven't actually -tried- it yet..." she says
with a grin. "Gotta let the weyrleader have th'first sip an'all that." she
adds. Gosh, hope it tastes ok.

Zill walks towards the inner cavern.

P'tran hears this and loses a little of his enthusiasm. "You haven't tried
it yourselves yet?"

Lily smiles over to Alyssa and winks. "You'll be trying some too?"

Jeshua says wisely, "Who ever said that the weyrleader wasn't beautiful?"

Ursa watches the scene sadly, putting her dishes away, and finally,
regretfully scampers off.

Alyssa cannot help grinning at P'tran's expression, though she nods to
Lily. "I suppose, if I may...just a bit."

M'kla giggles at Jeshua.

Ursa walks towards the inner cavern.

The drudge places some mugs on the table. P'tran takes the nearest one and
presents it to be filled. "Well, I suppose a dragonrider is supposed to
take risks ..."

Aphrael chuckles, "No.. unfortunately not."

Jeshua advises, "Don't choke."

Meli blinks, looking innocent. "Oh, no sir" she says through a straight
face. "Not after we got in trouble that time for drinkin' too much wine..."

Storm drops his head sadly.

Aphrael glances at Meli and smiles, before watching for the Weyrleader's
reaction.

Lily frowns, "Brandy never hurt anyone. Least not if you don't drink the
whole barrel."

Jeshua offers Storm a treat. "Here, will you tell your pet that I've
someone that would like to meet him?" Her face gets a look of concentration
as she thinks of the person.

M'kla chuckles and gets her own mug, "And the Weyrsecond's here to keep the
Weyrleader alive...give me that, lass."

Alyssa smiles shyly at the new Weyrminer. "You have never seen me drink. I
pass out from a sniff at strong brew."

Meli raps on the keg a moment. "Plenty for everyone t'try... in moderation,
o'course."

Rosslynn walks over to Jereth and pokes him to see if he's awake

Jereth winces slightly at Jeshua's words. "I didn't mean to offend,
Dragonrider," he stumbles. "With my name, I mean. I mean, my parents chose
it, and..." Jereth realizes he's babbling and stops.

Lily ohs, shaking her head at Alyssa. "Well, you'd definitely not become a
Miner, then." She lowers her voice, "Some of us drink a whole lot."

Meli pours out a suitable measure into P'tran's mug, then starts filling
the others.

Storm hunches wis wings, launches himself into the air, and is gone.

Storm wings up into the air before disappearing into *between* with the
characteristic clap of air collapsing in on itself.

P'tran peers at the liquid in his mug and swishes around a bit. He takes an
experimental sniff of it, then slowly brings the mug up and takes a sip.

Allegro chirples once and vanishes between.

Allegro lands quietly on Jereth's shoulder and burrows through his hair.

Jeshua sets the treat down in front of Storm and shakes her head, turning
as she does to look at Jereth again. "That's all right. I was just thinking
we could avoid some confusion.

P'tran gets a thoughtful look for a few moments.

Aphrael hands the mugs around, to the riders first then the other candidates.

Alyssa chuckles lightly at Lily. "If I had to use a pick to kill a
tunnelsnake, I would need to drink."

Jereth nods to Jeshua. "Whatever you think is best, Dragonrider," he answers.

P'tran takes a second sip, hmms, then he grins a bit more naturally. "Not
bad."

Aphrael smiles tentatively, "Really?"

Jereth shrugs to Jeshua. "... only -- it won't matter if I'm not allowed to
stay..." he adds softly.

Jeshua is encouraged by the weyrleader's reaction, and leans toward the
group, looking eager.

Meli tries not to lean forward into the weyrleader's face, and chews on her
lip instead.

Lily laughs at Alyssa's comment. "It's not so bad, really. You get used to
it." She turns to watch P'tran, curiously, and smiles. "Sounds like it's
pretty good, then."

Jeshua mutters to Jereth.

P'tran nods and takes a bigger sip. "Actually, this is pretty good,
considering you've had to make this while doing candidate chores and such."
He pauses and some of his businesslike demeanor returns. "I am assuming
that chores did not take second priority to this ..."

M'kla sips the brandy appraisingly, and shrugs a touch.

Aphrael smiles and shakes her head, "No sir. We were always carful to
complete our chores first."

N'fan walks in from the bowl.

Meli grins. "Yessir, certainly sir. You c'n ask any of the candidate
supervisors... "

Jereth glances at Jeshua. "I'm neither Candidate nor Rider," he says.
"There's not much I can do around the Weyr," he adds softly. "They already
have a Weyrharper and a Weyrsinger both. I'd just be in the way. I'm going
to ask the Weyrwoman when she's feeling better..."

P'tran nods and ums. "I just thought of something. Where did you get your
supplies for making this brandy?"

Rickon says "We...er...well...we raided the stores, sir."

M'kla chuckles quietly.

Rickon snags a glass and the keg, and pours himself some brandy, then
settles back, sipping it.

P'tran says "Oh?"

Meli looks slightly uncomfortable, but replies "Eh, well, there were a
couple of barrels of those old, wintered redfruits down in cold stores...
not good enough for plain eating anymore... and near the back."

Salless raises an eyebrow at this herself and looks at the candidates
rather crossly.

N'fan wanders in quietly, his features calm. Spotting P'tran, he salutes
the Weyrleader before taking his seat at the same table.

Jeshua slips her own glass, sitting down and losing herself in the /tall/
crowd.

P'tran gives a nod of greetings to N'fan as the bluerider passes him.

Lily sees N'fan enter and smiles hesitantly.

Rosslynn smiles at Jereth and winks

P'tran glances over to Salless and knows what she's going to say and says
it for her. "Well, you still should have asked for the supplies rather than
just take them."

Rickon says "You're probably right."

Jereth smiles back at Rosslynn.

Salless hmphs and would have said it a LOT stronger ...

P'tran says "um, no, Rickon, I *am* right"

Aphrael bows her head slightly, "We just wanted it t'be a surprise, sir."
She mumbles.

Benden Weyr> Rowen says, "Lotsa people on tonight"

Meli nods, listening, although she can't quite stop smiling anyway. "Yessir."

N'fan spots the new miner and wanders over to sit across from her.

Benden Weyr> Jeshua says, "Join the spamfest, drink the brandy and be merry."

Benden Weyr> Rowen says, "Where?"

Rosslynn says "Jereth do you think I could hold your fire-lizard? Would it
mind I mean?"

Rowen walks here from the Inner Cavern.

P'tran takes a longer drink of the brandy. It *is* rather good, actually.
"I understand that, and I think in the long run Benden would be grateful to
have riders that could, well, brew up something," He grins slightly, then
says more seriously. "Nevertheless, I'd like you all to report to Salless
tomorrow for some extra duties."

Rowen wanders in quietly.

Lily clears her throat and smiles at N'fan. "Umm...how's your pretty dragon?"

Salless smiles in satisfaction to that. "Oh, I'll have *plenty* for them to
do tomorrow ..."

Meli nods, turning to give Salless a nod as well. "Yes sir, ma'am" she
says. "Kinda expected that..." she murmurs through another smile.

Aphrael winces at that, then turns to Salless, "I'm sorry ma'am. Would you
like to try the brandy though?"

Lily says "I would, if you don't mind."

Jeshua sips her brandy in complete bliss and no one sees the sympathetic
look on her face.

Salless hrms. "Well, maybe a little bit later ..."

Rickon sighs. "F'laav will kill me."

Jereth smiles at Rosslynn, then glances at Allegro. "She didn't mean to
insult you, little one," he tells the creature. "Maybe she has food?"

Benden Weyr> Meli says, "Brandy'll be available all evening. :)"

M'kla stands, and nods to the Candidates, "Not bad."

P'tran leans back in his seat and takes another drink of the brandy.

M'kla strolls out.

M'kla walks down the short tunnel and out into the bowl.

Alyssa looks sceptically at the brandy, still uncertain if she should risk
a drink.

Lily shakes her head, "Well, extra chores never hurt a soul. Good for the
spirit."

Meli, rather boldly, leans forward and murmurs to P'tran "Now, don't drink
too much o'that..."

Jeshua's dreamy voice answers. "Fi has never killed anyone in his life. You
shouldn't worry."

Kassima grins slightly. "Unless it's latrine duty," she can't help but
point out.

N'fan grins a little at Lily, glancing at the table and turning a little
pink. "Um..Reveth's fine." He pauses when she indicates that she wants to
try the brandy, and manages to look back up at her. "I just wanted to see
if you got settled in okay.."

Aphrael shoots a look at Kassi then eyes the brandy, wanting to try some
herself.

Rosslynn says "She so pretty.. Does she like meatrolls?"

Allegro appears from beneath Jereth's hair and takes off into the air.

Lily's lips curl up in a little smile. "I heard he won a flight." She too
looks down at the table for a moment, blushing. She glances up and nods,
"I'm settling in just fine, it's been kinda fun. Lots different, though."

P'tran grins slightly at Meli and stands. "I"ll make this one last. If
you'll excuse me, I'm needed elsewhere for a bit. I'll return later. Pleass
feel free to distribute the brandy as you like."

Rosslynn walks down the short tunnel and out into the bowl.

P'tran heads out, carrying his mug of brandy

P'tran walks down the short tunnel and out into the bowl.

Meli steps back and nods, pouring out a few more mugs of brandy and
distributing them to riders as they request them.

Jeshua giggles, setting down her glass. "Oops! That means me. 'scuse me.."
she gets up and follows, trying not to weave.

Jeshua walks down the short tunnel and out into the bowl.

Rosslynn walks in from the bowl.

Kassima looks a little surprised, and grins faintly. "Well, I'm glad to see
all turned out well," she tells her friends. "Even if you will have extra
chores on the morrow, aye?"

Rosslynn smile toward Jereth

Allegro lands on Rosslynn's shoulder.

Rosslynn smiles at Allegro

N'fan nods at Lily. "Yeah. First time he's done that for a while." A pause
and then, "Lemme know if you need any help. Moving, or finding stuff, or
whatever."

Meli grins, and finally takes a mug for herself, settling down at the
candidate's table. "Yah, s'ok, I'm gettin' used to it. And I'm in a lot
better shape'n I was when I arrived..." she admits.

Jereth smiles at Rosslynn. "She does like meatrolls, and neither she nor I
has eaten yet.

Aphrael flops into the nearest chair, after snagging a cup for herself. "I
thought I'd seen the last of extra chores.."

Rosslynn says "Maybe we should go into the kitchen then.."

Allegro chitters her agreement.

Meli hehs. "Did he just mean you an' me, Aph, or everyone who helped? He
didn't say"

Jereth smiles at Rosslynn. "Sure," he answers.

Jereth walks off towards the kitchen.

Lily takes one of the mugs and sips slowly, cautiously at first. She smiles
at N'fan, "Help? I could use some trying to find a table for my room when
it's ready. I want to set up a little workshop there if I can."

Kassima grins. "You've never seen the last of chores," she intones. She
eyes the brandy a bit wistfully. "And since I don't want extra chores
myself...."

Rosslynn walks off towards the kitchen.

Alyssa sniffs experimentally at the brandy, then takes a sip. "Hey, this is
sweet..."

Allegro enters the kitchen.

Rowen glances around at the crowd and blinks.

Meli lifts a brow at Kassi. "The chores are for taking the stores, Kassi,
not for tryin' the brandy. Have a small taste"

N'fan nods almost eagerly. "Yeah, I could help with that.." He can't build
a table, but he's sure he can find a woodcrafter to build one..

Rickon sips his brandy. "But, the brandy is almost worth it."

From the kitchen, Rosslynn smiles at Jereth

You say "Aye, but you remember that y'all did get extra chores for the
drinking before...."

Aphrael chuckles at Meli, "Y'right. Tho, I couldnt complain if we got help.."

Alyssa takes a slightly larger sip of brandy, swallowing with a little bit
of a face. "Strong, but sweet."

From the kitchen, Rosslynn says "Kinda noisey here isn't it.."

Meli pokes Kassi. "So, don't get tipsy."

From the kitchen, Jereth nods. "A bit, but I like it," he answers, smiling
at Rosslynn.

Lily licks her lips with a smile, "This brandy is really pretty good, you
know. I think it's worth the extra chores." She blinks as she turns to
N'fan, "You could? Really? That's awful nice of you, N'fan."

Rickon says "That's why I'm only having one glass, Kass."

From the kitchen, Jereth takes a meatroll for himself and bites into it. He
breaks off a bit and gives it to Rosslynn. "She'll take it," he tells her,
glancing at Allegro.

Kassima quirks a grin. "Just ask Aphrael--doesn't take much to make me tipsy."

From the kitchen, Rosslynn looks for something to eat

From the kitchen, Allegro trills softly at Rosslynn.

Meli nods at Rickon. "And remember, smaller glasses than with th'wine...
brandy's stronger" She doesn't mention ale or beer, she hates ale or beer. :)

Aphrael takes a little sip of the brandy, and blinks, taking a longer
drink. "Heh.. it is pretty good." She blinks at Kassi.

N'fan glances at the brandy and frows with mild distaste. "I don't think
that stuff's worth it. I'd do extra chores anyway, but.."

From the kitchen, Rosslynn Nods and feds Allegro

Rickon grins, and lifts up his small glass. "I know."

Kassima grins to N'fan. "Ah, but sir, it's only Candidates who get extra
chores for being drunk."

From the kitchen, Allegro trills again, this time eagerly, and seizes the
tidbit in her tiny forepaws. She bites into it enthusiastically and it is
quickly gone.

From the kitchen, Allegro chirps again. More?

From the kitchen, Rosslynn laughs and gets more for Allegro

Rowen loosk around quietly and plops down in a seat.

N'fan glances at Kassima and nods, smiling a little. "I know, but I was
just saying.." He shrugs. "I /was/ a Candidate once. About eight Turns ago."

Alyssa smiles quietly at Meli."This really is quite good," she comments as
she sets the cup aside.

From the kitchen, Jereth smiles and takes another bite of his meatroll,
then gives the rest to Rosslynn. He takes another from the plate for himself.

Lily sits back and takes another sip of her brandy, "You've been a rider
for eight turns?"

Meli sips at the brandy, and smiles to herself. "Eh, not bad... course, ol'
Hugh at the Hulk has even better... but this hasn't had any time t'age."
She offers a toast "To Baram... "

From the kitchen, Rosslynn says ""Is this for me or her?"

Aphrael giggles and nods at Meli, also raising her mug, "Praise those that
know how t'make good brandy, Baram especially."

N'fan nods. "A Weyrling for about a Turn and a half..a Rider for about
seven." Details. It's not like him to pick at details. Maybe he's just
casting around for things to say. Small talk.

From the kitchen, Rosslynn looks questioningly at the meatroll

Kassima raises an empty hand, cocked as though it held a wineglass. "To
Baram, then. And to sneaky Candidates who accomplish things right under the
noses of their friends...." She grins.

Alisa enters from the Bowl.

Salless drains the Klah in the Klah pot to make some fresh.

Meli tosses back her small portion of brandy and rises, returning the
stopper to the keg til it's needed again. "Eh, anyone hungry while I'm up?"

Alisa wanders in happily. Her cheeks are slightly ruddy from the recent
time between.

Alisa grins, "Seems I walked in just in time.. I'm famished!"

From the kitchen, Rosslynn deciding she not hungry give the meatroll to
Allegro

Lily listens, brandy mug in one hand, twining a strand around a finger of
the other. "Well, you must be very good at your job, then. Being a rider,
that is." She looks up at Meli and nods, "Have any of that baklava stuff?"

Alisa throws her heavy jacket on a chair, what appears to a flight jacket,
and sits down.

Alisa says "Anyone seen my mother around lately?"

From the kitchen, Allegro tries to hold the huge meatroll in her forepaws
and can't. It falls to the floor. She chitters at it from above, then
hops-flutters down toward it.

Aphrael chuckles at Kassi, "Dont you remember, that day you brought me
Mart's message, we were in the stores?"

Reash walks in from the bowl.

N'fan looks up over his shoulder. "Baklava..yeah, I'd like some.." With a
glance at Salless, he decides, "But I guess I better get some 'real' food
first.."

Meli smiles over at Lily. "Lemme check..." as she heads to the kitchen.

Meli walks off towards the kitchen.

From the kitchen, Rosslynn says "Oops"

Alisa hrmmsm as she glances around at the new faces.

Alyssa looks curiously at the young woman, wondering who her mother is.

Reash blushes shyly.

You say "I remember, and I can't believe I didn't catch you at it then."

Alisa says "Hmm.. I guess you all wouldn't know who my mother is..
Alisanda... the brownrider?""

Rickon says "Did somebody say baklava?"

From the kitchen, Meli gives a nod as she putters around in the kitchen,
dodging the workers, until she spots the last tray of baklava, set out to
cool. "Aha!"

Kassima nods to Alisa. "Good eve," she says.

From the kitchen, Rosslynn says "Was that the end of the story?"

Lily smiles at N'fan, "I already ate...and that baklava stuff is really
yummy."

From the kitchen, Allegro tries to pick up the meatroll from the floor. She
manages to grab it with all four tiny paws and flaps her wings vainly,
trying to take off.

Alisa smiles at Kassima, "Good Eve..."

N'fan glances at Alisa. If nobody else answers her query, he'll just ask
her, "Um..who's your mother?"

Alisa says "I just said that.. Alisanda.. the brownrider...""

Kassima chuckles ruefully. "Ever try to make it? It takes a long time,
especially if you have to be picking, shelling, hulling, and powdering the
walnuts yourself."

N'fan ohs. "Alisanda..no, I don't know where she is..sorry."

Alisa says "I guess all you new faces wouldn't know that..."

From the kitchen, Jereth smiles at Rosslynn. "It seems she had already
chosen," he shrugs. "I'm glad she did. It turns out that Shandy already had
four of her own and was just looking for a green to breed with.

Reash looks around at the people, starting to fade into shadows shyly.

Alisa nods and sighs...

Aphrael chuckles softly at Kassi, "Eh.. we both had a lot on our minds. I'm
upset that he'll be missing the hatching."

Alyssa gets to her feet and wanders to the pegs on the wall, plucking a
furlined cloak from the wall. After thanking Meli and the others for the
brandy, she swings the cloak around her thin shoulders and strides out.

Alyssa walks down the short tunnel and out into the bowl.

From the kitchen, Meli snags a towel, a serving knife, and several plates,
managing to carry them all on one hand as she balances the tray of sweets
on her other hand, held above her head. "Scuse me, pardon me, hot food,
lady with a baby" she says as she works her way back out.

Meli walks in from the kitchen.

Rickon says "Lady with a baby?"

Kassima nods soberly. "I think this punishment is a bit harsh, but I'm not
one to contradict it."

Lily laughs as she sees Meli making her way through the cavern. "Looks like
you do this a lot."

Meli returns, setting the tray down with a fluorish and says "You're in
luck..." as she starts to cut out pieces of the sticky treat. "Eh, Rickon,
old joke... gets people t'move you see..."

Rickon says "I've not heard that one before."

Aphrael laughs softly at Meli, "I told you that I wanted to learn the
drudge tricks off you."

From the kitchen, Link walks out of the passageway that leads down to the
storerooms.

Meli chuckles. "Knew that one growing up... maybe it's a Crom thing..."

From the kitchen, Rosslynn says "Will you don't have to own a female to
breed besides greens aren't usally into being the motherly type.."

From the kitchen, Allegro tries again to lift off with the meatroll, then
gives up. She chitters at it for a moment, then begins eating it where it
lies.

N'fan starts to reach for a piece, but catches another glance from Salless.
"Um..save me a piece," he says. "I gotta eat some dinner first.."

Rickon finishes his brandy.

Meli finishes slicing up half of the tray, and deftly shifts pieces onto
plates. "Ok, Lily... here's yours. N'fan? Yes or no?"

Rowen hmmms and gets up, deciding maybe she will head to te beahc for a bit.

Rowen walks down the short tunnel and out into the bowl.

Link walks in from the kitchen.

Lily shakes her head and laughs, "Well, it works. We just mention something
about firestone. Or tunnelsnake duty. Gets people out of the way." She
smiles and takes the plate from Meli, glancing at N'fan. "Whatcha gonna
have for dinner?"

Meli nods at N'fan, setting his piece aside. "Aph? Anyone else?"

Aphrael glances at Kassi and smiles, "Ah well.. least he didnt make you
decide the punishment like with Thera.."

From the kitchen, Jereth grins at Rosslynn. "I told her that this was my
first and she nodded and told me she was glad I got her, then. It all
worked out. I thought she was another one like me -- that this would be her
first, too.

N'fan shrugs.

Kassima smiles. "Aye, and I'm more ruthless than Thera, too," she says with
a slight chuckle.

Reash walks down the short tunnel and out into the bowl.

Aphrael turns at her name and smiles at Meli. "Er.. I shouldnt." She
pauses, "Ah well, I'll need the energy for the extra duties, eh?"

From the kitchen, Rosslynn says "I wish I could have stayed.."

From the kitchen, Rosslynn sighs

From the kitchen, Allegro takes another bite and then seizes the meatroll
again. It falls into two pieces and she lifts off with one, chirping happily.

Lily looks down at her plate of baklava and sets it slightly off to one
side. "The spiced wherry was pretty good, maybe you'd like some of that?
With tubers?"

From the kitchen, Jereth nods to Rosslynn. "It was a beautiful clutch.
'course, I think I got the best of the bunch.

From the kitchen, Baram walks out of the passageway that leads down to the
storerooms.

Aphrael laughs at Kassi and agrees, "Yeah, that you can be.."

Meli chuckles at Aph, and slides her over a piece. "Ok, I'll just leave
th'rest here if someone wants some..." and she takes a small piece for
herself.

From the kitchen, Allegro chirps at Jereth. Of course you did.

N'fan shrugs at Lily and says, "Probly just whatever's in the kitchen.." He
tests the air with his nose and decides, "Wherry..tubers, fingerroots..and
I think some bread and cheese.."

Kassima quirks a grin. "I would've put you on moving the stores for three
days, probably, and then an extra day of running errands for Salless."

From the kitchen, Rosslynn picks up whats left of the meatroll and sets it
on the table so nobody will squish it..

From the kitchen, Jereth glances at the Dragonriders in the other room,
including N'fan. "Looks like no one remembers last night," he says, seeming
relieved.

Baram walks in from the kitchen.

Kassima waves to Baram. "Heyla, come to enjoy the fruits of your labors?"
she asks.

From the kitchen, Allegro finishes off her meatroll and flies toward
Jereth, looking for somewhere to sleep.

Baram nods to N'fan and the other riders, then glances at Meli.

From the kitchen, Allegro lands quietly on Jereth's shoulder and burrows
through his hair.

Meli gives Baram a wave. "Have some brandy n' baklava, Baram!" she says,
indicating the mugs and plates set out.

Alisa starts out of her trance and looks around for someone interesting.

Baram grins at Kassi and Meli. "Sure."

Aphrael glances over at Salless, then lowers her voice in Kassi's direcion,
"Boy, that /is/ mean." She takes a bite of the baklave, then waves at
Baram, "Eh! The man of the moment!"

Baram takes a platter and a glass of brandy.

Baram grins at Meli. "So, everything went OK?"

N'fan stands up from his place across from Lily and heads for the kitchen.
Just before stepping away from the table, he pauses and asks, "You want
anything?" Then he remembers. "Oh yeah, you said you ate already.."

Kassima grins to Aphrael. "I did warn you."

Meli leans forward. She mutters to Baram, "... but we have..." 

Lily sniffs a bit, and nods, "Sounds like it's good. Well, if there's a
little bread, that'd be nice. If it's not a problem."

Meli eyes the unfamiliar face of the young woman, Alisa. "Did you want some
baklava or brandy?" she asks with a smile.

Baram looks at Meli with a frown. "Eh? The boss liked it AND we have extra
chores?"

From the kitchen, Rosslynn says "I can't think in here..bye"

Rosslynn walks in from the kitchen.

Baram sips his brandy wearing a reflective expression. "Interesting."

You say "Well, only because you took the redfruit from stores without asking."

Meli grins. "Yah. Liked th'taste, but said we should've asked before takin'
the stores." She shrugs. It's ok with her.

Jereth walks in from the kitchen.

Baram says "You? You mean me?""

Jereth shrugs at Rosslynn. "Better?" he asks.

Rosslynn walks down the short tunnel and out into the bowl.

N'fan smiles a little and nods at Lily. "Okay. I'll get extra bread." Then
he rushes towards the kitchen area, only to be interrupted by Salless
again. She doesn't like him in her kitchen. "I'll have someone get it for
you, N'fan."

Jereth shrugs at Rosslynn's retreating back. "Guess not."

Meli gives Jereth a nod. "There's still some baklava left, if you want some."

Rickon snags some baklava. "Only a bit."

Alisa says "Sounds wonderful Meli.."

Jereth turns around to look at Meli. "Back Lava? What's that?"

Baram nibles at his baklava.

Aphrael glances over at N'fan and Salless, "I'll get it for him, ma'am.."

Meli grins, and presents Alisa with a plate and fork, seeing that Rickon's
helped himself. "Baklava, Jereth... a yummy dessert." She hands him a plate
and fork as well.

Baram sits down at the candidate's table.

N'fan just stands there for a while, when Salless finally shoos him off.
"Go on, back to your seat. Stop drooling on my floor, or I'll have you
cleaning it up." N'fan smiles sheepishly at Salless, then at Aphrael.
"Okay. Um..thanks."

Jereth accepts the plate from Meli. "Thank you," he says sincerely, then
examines the dessert carefully. He takes his fork and cuts into it, then
lifts it to his nose and sniffs cautiously.

Baram quirks at eyebrow at Meli. "What are our extra chores?"

Aphrael chuckles softly at B'fan, "My pleasure." She takes a sip of the
brandy, then walks off to the kitchen.

Aphrael walks off towards the kitchen.

Meli glances over at Salless. "Dunno yet... it's up to Salless to decide
t'morrow."

Lily watches N'fan's rush toward the kitchen, grinning. "Guess he's
hungry," she murmurs softly. She listens to the conversation with Salless
and chuckles. "C'mon back and sit with me," she says softly. "Tell me more
about your pretty dragon."

You say "Good luck with the chores. I hope they're not too bad."

Baram sniffs his brandy, holds the glass up to the light and takes a large
drink.

Rosslynn walks in from the bowl.

Jereth raises an eyebrow at the scent, and tentatively places the forkful
in his mouth. He chews for a moment, then smiles appreciatively. "Baklava,"
he says. "I'll remember that. Thanks!" he tells Meli

Alisa smiles, "Got any brandy did I hear?

Rickon grins. "N'fan is always hungry. He eats as much as half the Weyr."

From the kitchen, Aphrael rumages in the kitchen, pulling up a plate and
piling on LOTS of things. Wherry, packtail, tubers, cheese, bread, anything
she can find.

Baram swirls the brandy in his mouth, then swollows.

Meli nods at Alisa. 'Ayeh, here's a mug already poured" she slides it down
the table.

Baram sucks in his breath through his teeth, then smiles.

Baram nudges Meli. "I'd say we done good what ever extra chores that stick
us with."

Alisa smiles and takes a surprisingly large sip, wincing just a bit.

N'fan goes back to sit across from Lily again. She brings up a topic that
he always seems prepared to discuss. "Reveth..well, he's about as big as a
blue dragon ever gets," he begins.

Jereth glances at Meli. "I heard something about extra chores. Can I help?"
he adds.

Lily arcs a brow at Rickon, "Really? That much?" Her eyes boggle when she
sees the huge pile of food that Aphrael carries out. "That's almost as much
as a Miner would eat."

Meli turns to Baram. "Meet with your approval?" she asks.

Rosslynn goes over to Jereth

Aphrael walks in from the kitchen.

Kassima grins. "Good, is it?" she asks. "I think y'all had a wonderful
idea--but next time, let the rest of us in on it, aye?"

Aphrael carefully aims towards N'fan's table, almost not able to see for
all the foodstuffs piled on it. She carefully sets it down with a smile,
"Is this enough?" She wonders aloud.

Rosslynn walk slowly toward the door to the bowl

Jereth nods to Rosslynn.

Rosslynn walks down the short tunnel and out into the bowl.

Meli *phhhfffttbb at Kassi :P

N'fan grins at Aphrael. "Um..I think so, yeah. You got extra bread? Oh,
there it is..how'd you carry all this at the same time?"

Lily smiles at N'fan, "And he has such sparkly eyes, too. Almost like
jewels. I like them." She shakes her head at the food. "Definitely a
Miner's meal."

Kassima *was just being IC, Meli. :)

[Editor's Note:  OOCly, all the Candidates were given the opportunity 
to participate. :) ]

Aphrael grimaces and shrugs, "Eh.. I guess all that breaking and stacking
stone is starting to have an effect. And I've been learning off Meli.." She
laughs.

Jereth says to Meli, struggling to be heard over the din of conversation.
"I heard something about extra chores. Can I help?" he adds.

Lily says "Breaking and stacking stone is a good skill to have."

Meli hms? at Jereth, then shakes her head. "Neh, thanks for askin', but
it's a punishment, so we should do it ourselves."
Kassima nods to Lily. "Aye, and one that Candidates have in abundance," she
says with a chuckle.

N'fan nods. "Makes you strong. Always helps, 'specially if you Impress." He
sets the bread halfway between himself and Lily so she can take as much as
she wants.

Rickon grins. "Muscles!"

Meli leans back, and smiles at Lily. "Eh, I thought I was all used t'those
chores til we were at the minecraft hall... you sure do work harder there.
Unbroken stone is -heavy- t'stack!!"

Aphrael smiles at Lily, "I cant disagree." She admits, moving back to the
candidates table to take her seat.

Jereth nods to Meli. "If you or anyone else needs anything done, let me
know. I'm anxious to help."

Baramsips his brandy, lost in thought.

Lily smiles brightly. "Then you'd all make wonderful Miners. Just like that
nice Ed." She smiles at N'fan, again somewhat hesitantly, and takes a slice
of bread, nibbling.

N'fan slips the blade of his dagger out of its sheath.

N'fan slices a roll in half and piles some wherry and cheese on it.

Jereth smiles at Maarie. "Hi!" he says as she walks in.

Jereth shrinks back slightly as N'fan withdraws his knife, then relaxes as
he see N'fan using it on food.

Maarie nods to Jereth, "Hello."

Aphrael closes her eyes as she sips at the brandy with appreciation.
Sitting back she sighs happily, slowly taking a bite of the baklava.

You say "You've the right of that, Meli, though I imagine there are harder
chores than that... though maybe they don't leave you looking like you're
wearing a mask when you're done."

Rickon says "Yeah...that was kinda heavy."

Rickon chuckles. "Taylar will never live that down."

Lily frowns at Rickon. "HIs name is Ed."

Meli grins at Kassi, and nods, nibbling at her dessert. "We did look a
sight when we were done, eh?"

Alisa sighs and slips back in her chair, sipping herbrandy.

Kassima chortles. "Nay, never! And you mean Ed, Rickon." She grins impishly.

Rickon carries on chuckling. "Shards...was Master Susaen always short-sighted?

Kassima quirks a half-grin. "We both looked a sight, though I more than you."

Meli grins around her fork.

Leonay walks here from the Inner Cavern.

Jereth finishes his baklava, saving one final bite which he offers to Allegro.

Leonay walks in, hair dripping a bit, and heads for the klah pot, yawning
widely.

Brooke walks here from the Inner Cavern.

Lily nods, "Master Susaen is short-sighted. But quite intelligent. And a
wonderful Master."

Meli waves. "Heyla, Leo, y'want some baklava an' brandy instead?"

Kassima waves to Leonay. "Greetings, get your chores done all right?" she
asks, grinning. She waves and asks the same question to Brooke.

Aphrael licks her fingers of the extra treat as she finishes the baklava.
"Mmm, that was great."

N'fan grabs another roll, slices it easily, and slaps a few slices of
herdbeast on it along with some slabs of cheese. He hardly gives himself
time to talk as he eats.

From her home around Jereth's neck, Allegro pokes her head out, sniffs the
offering, then chitters briefly at her pet. Her head disappears back under
Jereth's hair.

Coda sits at the very edge of Leonay's right shoulder, eyeing the human's
wet hair somewhat worriedly.

Jereth shrugs and eats the last piece. "Thank you, Meli," he repeats. "That
was great!"

Kassima sighs and resigns. "Meli, could you pour me just a wee bit of that
brandy? Not much, just a few drops...."

Jereth grins and waves at Leonay, seemingly much happier today.

Leonay grins and nods first at Meli, then Kassima, heading over to join them.

Meli chuckles. "Just a little, ok, Kassi..." as she pours out a scant
finger of the drink into a mug.

The ruddiness in Alisa's cheeks begins to grow warmer as she sips more
brandy, holding out her glass for another as she drains it.

Lily nibbles on the roll, occasionally washing it down with a sip of
brandy. She smiles over at N'fan, watchinig the meal disappear. "Hungry?"

Kassima nods. "Thanks, Meli." She raises her glass in a toast, a half-grin
quirking on her lips.

Brooke skips in very calmly, with a slight grin on her face. She peers
around, and looks at Leonay for a moment, giving him a
'dont-you-dare-tell-what-you-saw-or-i'll-kill-you' look. She thens miles,
and goes ovet to join Kassi and the bunch.

Aphrael looks over at the other cask, still as yet unopened. "Do you think
we should put that somewhere safe, for later?"

Rickon says "Save it for the Hatching."

Berin walks here from the Inner Cavern.

Leonay notes Brooke's glance... and grins.

Meli grins, and gives Brooke the same offer she's been giving all evening.
"Baklava? Brandy?"

Jereth grins at Rickon. "Yeah... make you forget how hot the sands are..."

N'fan nods and kinda grins. Does a dragon go *between*? He doesn't say
that, though, since he's just now swallowing that mouthful as he lifts yet
another fork loaded with tuber and fingerroot to his maw.

Brooke grins a bit as she sees Berin, giving him a winks. She ooohs at
meli. "Baklava? Sure!"

Rickon says "No...commiseration for the failures afterwards."

Kassima nods to Berin and sips the brandy carefully, her eyebrows raising
slightly. She looks at the cask with a whole new appreciation. "'Tis a fine
drink you've concocted," she says to the trio of Candidate-vintners,
smiling sincerely.

Berin strides in, tying his longish hair back with a strip of leather. He
catches Brooke's wink and smirks. Also spotting Leonay, he gives him a
meaningful glance, to be interpreted as, 'you didn't see anything. Really.'

Baram smiles at Kassi.

Alisa still holds out her empty glass, clearing her throat for more.

Lily simply smiles at N'fan as she watches him eat, occasionally nibbling
on her roll. She nods and raises her mug. "Tis a fine brew indeed."

Meli nods at Aph. "Yah, or it may be gone. Should taste even better after
it's aged a bit."

Meli leans over the table to cut off some more slices, and pulls them over.
"Here y'go..."

Leonay glances between Brooke and Berin, not bothering to stifle a grin.
Whistling to himself, he takes his klah mug and pulls up a chair by the
others.

Meli eyes Alisa a moment, then shrugs and rises from her seat, hefting the
keg to pour more into her mug. "You're welcome."

Kassima says conversationally, "Anyone have anything to report from chores
today?"

Brooke sniggers, and *mwahs * at Berin. She walks over, and actually kisses
him /again/, in front of everyone, just for good measure, then skitters away.

N'fan clears the plate quickly. He's anxious to get to that baklava, that's
why he's eating so fast.

Berin blinks, then just starts laughing. Albeit with a blush.

Leonay shakes his head at Kassima. "Nothing out of the ordinary..." He
turns and spies Brooke's kissing of Berin, then chuckles. "Can't get enough
of him, hey?" He grins.

Meli closes the keg again. "That's enough for now, eh?" she says, not
wanting her friends to get in trouble for overdrinking.

Brooke's eyes glitter as she peers at Berin. "Anope." she answers leonay
with out taking her eyes off the Bitran. She grins.

Berin smirks over at Leonay. "Could ya blame her really, though?" Wow,
Berin can be a flirt /and/ arrogant. Amazing.

Jereth waves to everyone. "I'm going to see if the coast is clear to fetch
my gitar," he says.

Lily finishes her roll, and moves the plate of baklava over in front of
her. She sets the mug down and looks at the sticky treat for a moment
before picking it up and taking a small bite.

Kassima grins. "Good to know. There've been more than enough odd incidents
today, though I suspect that's only per usual." She sips again, draining
her cup since there was very little in it.

Leonay rolls his eyes, and sips at his klah, saking his head.

Alisa blinsk at brooke.

Brooke snickers, and mms peering over at Berin s'more. "You arrogant
asshole wherry.." she mutters, but goes to give him a huge hug.

Alisa shakes herh ead at Berin.

N'fan leaves one roll in the basket in case Lily wants another. He points
at it with the dip of his dagger and asks, "You want that?" His plate is
empty; that's why he's able to talk. No more food to stuff in there.

Aphrael chuckles at Kassi, "Eh, well, what would candidacy be without a bit
of weirdness?" She grins and drains her mug.

Leonay arches an eyebrow at Brooke's choice of language, and decides to
turn and see who all he recognises in the cavern.

Brooke smirks at Alisa, rolling her eyes. She nips him on the cheek.

Alisa casts a questioning glance at Leonay as she sips at her brandy quietly.

Benden Weyr> Meli says, "Wow, never knew shyness could make you eat so
much..."

Kassima grins slightly. "Boring, most likely. Though I could live without
Rogar trying to put tunnelsnake heads down poor Marta's tunic...."

Berin chuckles, and hugs Brooke briefly. "Strange kid," he quips, winks,
and sits down in the nearest chair...watch Brooke just plop down in his lap
or something. He's half expecting it.

Jereth heard Kassima's comment and can't help giggling softly.

Lily swallows her bite of baklava before answering. She gives a little
smile and shakes her head, "Naah, I had a roll. Go ahead and eat it if you
want, N'fan."

Leonay looks over at Alisa and arches the other eyebrow curiously. "Yes?"
he asks, curtly.

Allegro appears from beneath Jereth's hair and takes off into the air.

Allegro heads out to the bowl.

Aphrael giggles, "Aye, but it /was/ funny to watch her scream and run
around in circles.."

N'fan nods and takes the roll. He can't make a sandwich of this one--no
more filling. So he just uses it to sop of the juices on his plate.

Brooke dosen't land in his lap,l but rather pulls up a chair across the
table. She gives him a brief smile, and seems to turn her attentions to
someting else..Like that baklava.

Allegro comes in from the bowl.

Kassima laughs. "You saw that too? It was hysterical! Of course, you didn't
have to help get the things out of her tunic."

Rosslynn walks in from the bowl.

Salless stirs the stew to make sure it doesn't burn.

Alisa shrugs at Leonay with a glance towards Brooke and Berin.

Rosslynn smiles at Allegro and Jereth

Rickon says "Tunnelsnake heads? Yick...that's not very nice."

Jereth smiles at Rosslynn as she enters.

Meli chuckles at that comment. "Guess I missed that, being outside all day."

Berin just shakes his head. Again. And tilts his chair back, finally
looking around the rest of the cavern to see just how many people watched
Brooke practically throw herself at him.

Lily takes another small sip of her brandy and turns to Kassima, "Someone
put dead tunnelsnakes down someone's shirt? Sounds like something we'd have
done as apprentices. To the Masters of course."

You say "'Twas downright malicious, but a scream to see...."

Leonay pats at a beltpouch, frowns, and looks down. "Shardit," he mutters,
noting that the pouch has come open, and he leans over the side of his
chair and reaches under the table to retrieve the scraps of hide that fell
out of the pouch.

Aphrael giggles and nods, surprisingly happy for one who's just been given
extra duties, "Yeah, true."

You say "Just the heads, not the whole snakes."

Brooke smirks over at Alisa, who seems to have a staring pproblem. "/Yes/?"
she asks irrtably, scowling deeply. Seems she dosen't like to be stared at.

Alisa moves over ot help, picking up a few of the papers and handing them
to the man.

N'fan's plate is completely clean now. Almost clean enough to use again.
For now, he uses his dinner plate as a place mat for the dessert plate that
was set aside for him.

Alisa giggles, "One of the fosterlings at Fort once tried to tame a
tunnelsnake..."

Jereth hears Rosslynn's whisper and blushes slightly. He stands and waves
toward the others briefly. "Thanks again for the baklava," he says.

Rosslynn says "Bye"

Allegro lands quietly on Jereth's shoulder and burrows through his hair.

Rosslynn walks down the short tunnel and out into the bowl.

Jereth walks down the short tunnel and out into the bowl.

Alisa smirks as she glances over at Brooke, "Well you can't exactly expect
not to get some looks when you do such things in the middle of the living
cavern now can you?" And continues helping Leonay.

Lily laughs, "The heads? Even better." She picks up the remaining Baklava
and takes another nibble. "It's really good, N'fan. Try some."

Brooke /glares/ at the girl, and peers at her knot. "This is a weyr,
girlie. Get with it."

Rickon says "Not very nice...straps."

Berin idly watches Brooke get irritated with the stranger, but doesn't say
anything...nope.

For some reason, three or four Candidates near Rickon giggle at the mention
of straps.

Kassima hrms? "Straps?" she asks curiously.

Alisa smirks, "I've been living at a weyr for a long time.. my mother is
the weyrlingmaster here... I AM with it... I just happen to know Berin has
a girlfriend."

N'fan nods and grins at Lily. "I know." He pauses, his eyes lingering on
her face for a long moment before he realizes what he's doing. Then he
suddenly digs into the baklava, which disappears much too quickly.

Leonay rises from beneath the table and gives Brooke a long look, glancing
once at Alisa. He looks over her knots, then his. "Pardon me, Brooke, is
it? Yes, it is a weyr. *Benden* Weyr."

Berin smirks. "I rather think of her as more than a 'girlfriend'," he says
softly, perhaps nobody can hear him, which is just as well.

Brooke smirks at her again. "Ooh. Big hairy deal." she scowls. "So what if
he has a girlfriend..or a boyfriend, even. Dosen't bother me. Never stopped
me before."

Aphrael blinks at Alisa, "Your mother is Cerilla?"

Alisa says "I can tell"

Alisa murmurs under her breath quietly.

Rickon blinks.

Alisa says "No.. Alisanda... she may not be a weyrlingmaster naymore..."

Meli sighs. She mutters to herself, "... smirk... Makes their faces...
and... like... fish..." 

Alisa says "She was last time I visited her though."

Leonay smirks and shakes his head, muttering something very likely similar
to Alisa's mutter.

Alisa grins as she hands Leonay the scrolls, slipping into a seat beside
him quietly to help him arrange them.

Baram smiles blandly at Alisa. "So, your ma's a brown rider? So's my da."

Lily blinks, her eyes gazing at N'fan as she takes another sip of Brandy.
She lowers them, after a long moment and pops the last of the baklava into
her mouth, licking the stickiness off of her fingers."

Brooke's cheeks glow a light crimson, and her eyes seem fiery. "Go to the
red star, you bitch." she hisses, loud enough for nearly everyone to hear.

Baram mutters to Brooke, "... letting her..."

Alisa ignores Brooke's idiocy and turns to Baram, "Really.. who might he be?"

Aphrael nods slowly, "Probably my we dont recognise the name. Cerilla is
the Weyrlingmaster now."

Leonay nods thanks to Alisa, then stops, turns, and stares at Brooke.

Kalea walks in from the kitchen.

Berin hmphs, this /is/ getting out of hand. He stands and puts his hands on
the table. "/Enough/." He says, mostly to Brooke, although he does glance
at Alisa.

Rickon leans back. "The eggs should Hatch soon."

Baram says "R'am, at Southern Weyr."

Alisa sips her brandy quietly, her cheeks a hot red glow from the alcohol now.

Brooke mutters to Baram, "... That..."

Meli rises, and collects the first keg of brandy, now nearly half empty.
"Let's settle these somewhere, eh?" to Aph and Kassi.

Kalea wanders in.

Kalea drops her pack and sits down tiredly.

Brooke ignores Berin, and smirks at Leonay. "You got a problem now, too?"
her glare settles on Alisa. "And as for you, deadglow, I suggest you
minding your own damned business."

Alisa chuckles at Berin, and turns back to Leonay, having far better things
to do than argue with little girls.

You say "Sure, Meli. Where d'you want them?"

Aphrael nods at Meli, taking up the cask. "Yep, sure."

Lily blinks at the harsh words being traded and shrinks back against the
bench a little, lowering her head and sipping from her mug.

Brooke's cheeks glow a light crimson, and she stands from the table,
definetly pissed now. Her fists clench at her sides

N'fan glances sidelong at Brooke, then back down at his empty plate. He
rolls his shoulders around inside his jacket, as if it's suddenly stifling
him.

Berin has far better things to do than deal with children and drunks, but
he stays, putting a hand on Brooke's shoulder. "Calm down. She's prolly
drunk, and you're blowing it out of proportion."

Meli tilts her head. "Stores, I guess" and heads off briskly.

Aphrael points towards the inner cavern, "In the weyr where we left it
earlier?" She suggests.

Baram finishes his brandy. "Hey, Meli, wait for me."

Kalea glances around, wondering what's going on.

Alisa says "I'm not drunk... I just don't feel like dealing with her."

Alisa says "Anyway..."

Baram waves. "See you kids later."

Meli walks off towards the kitchen.

Lily chews on her lower lip for a moment and then glances up to N'fan.
"Wanna go see the eggs?"

Aphrael walks off towards the kitchen.

Baram walks off towards the kitchen.

Alisa mutters to Leonay, "... you..."

Benden Weyr> Kassima ughs and has to go. Assume I helped Aph and Meli, 'k?
:) Zhai, all! *Waffles and bamfs.*

You walk towards the inner cavern.