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For Fun and Profit


Date:  August 19(?), 1998
Places:  Bitra Hold's Drum and Fire Heights, Third Floor, Second 
Floor, Great Hall, and Courtyard
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:  Kharty's very own Sweet Love-Muffin--who happens to be
Bitra's Steward--has a plan that requires help from the local Weyr.
And as said plan involves paying the participating riders, Kassima 
and Aurian are both naturally interested in following Kharty to the 
Hold and hearing out the proposal.  Kassi being Kassi, she even 
suggests an additional way for riders to earn Bitran marks to Lord
Tenefel; a shame it didn't work out, but there's something 
exhilerating about bargaining with the Lord of Casino Hold all the
same!

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The Log:

You descend to the Drum and Fire Heights.

<*> Virroth flies down from above.

<*> Keagan shields his eyes from the glare of Rukbat and peers up at the
dragons as they descend. Recognizing them from afar, he waves animatedly.

<*> Keagan steps back to make room for the dragons to land.

<*> Lysseth banks to a neat landing, her wings stirring the cold air into a
brief breeze. She rumbles to Virroth as the younger blue arrives. Her
rider, of course, elects to greet the human-types instead. "Beat you here!"
she calls over to Kharty before hailing Keagan with, "Duties t'Bitra, her
Lord, her Lady, and all the rest of the formal rigamarole!"

<*> From Virroth's back, Kharty unbuckles, then waves down to Keagan.
"Heya! We've come for the discussion on how to make more mark.. er.. help
out with ferrying! You remember .. uhm.. Kassi, right?" she laughs. "Good
thing I didn't bet on who'd make it first, Kassi!"

<*> Keagan smiles and calls up, "Bitra duties to Telgar!"

<*> Kharty swings her leg over Virroth's neck then slides down the blue's
side, pausing to give him an affectionate pat.

Kassima wrinkles her nose at her wingmate as she unsnaps the straps from
around her waist. "He's a Bitran now, Kharty. Think you're going t'fool him
into believing we're nay here for the profit of it? As to the bet... next
time, mayhaps, 'twill have t'be placing one!"

You slide off of Lysseth's neck to land beside her easily. She rumbles,
cocking her head down at you, and you rub her eyeridges gratefully.

In the Sky Over Central Bitra, Kvasith emerges from Between with a blast of
cold air!

Kvasith flies down from above.

Kvasith rumbles as he lands.

Kharty rubs her upper arms to warm them as she smiles, seeing Aurian
arrive. "I know better than to bet with you, Kassi! Heyla, Kee! It's been a
while since I saw you last."

Kassima gives Kharty a somewhat disbelieving look at this claim of long
separation, but says nothing, instead occupying herself with the task of
pulling her helmet from her head. A quick shake dislodges her braid from
its hasty coronet, sending it thwapping against her back. "You're
mark-hungry too, eh Auri?" she greets the brownrider with a grin.

Keagan smiles as the riders dismount, then grins at Kharty, as he measures
Rukbat's position in the sky, "A while, yes." he says with a grin, then
turns to Kassima with a smile, "Welcome back to Bitra, Wingleader."

From upon Kvasith, Aurian curves a grin, "Mark hungry.. trying to rob your
wingrider again?"

Aurian slides off Kvasith after unfastening her riding straps. She lands
neatly on her feet this time.

Kassima answers breezily, "Oh, I take m'marks where I can find them."
Sliding a glance at Keagan, she remarks shrewdly, "First time I heard of
'awhile' being measured in a manner of minutes, but I suppose if'n you're
truly impatient... thankee, though, Assistant Steward. 'Tis always
something of a pleasure."

Keagan laughs heartily at Kassima's comments, then says, "Well, I'm being a
horrible host. Won't you all follow me down into the hold for something to
warm your bones."

Kharty finds something very interesting on her left boot and leans down to
'fix' it. A low muttering is heard, 'Can't keep a secret around that
weyr..' Standing upright, she smiles obligingly, then grins at Aurian.
"Keep us honest, brownrider. We need a sane head talking to these folks."

Aurian snorts with laughter.

Kassima asks drolly, "Isn't a sane head too much t'be expecting amongst a
group of Telgar-affiliated riders, Kharty? Though methinks 'twill simply
nay comment on the honesty issue... by all means, Keagan. I don't believe
I've had a chance t'sample Bitra's cider yet."

Keagan grins all around, lingering just a bit longer on Kharty, then he
says, "Right this way."

Keagan descends the steps back down to the interior of the hold.

Kharty angles her brows then hides a grin fairly effectively. Again rubbing
her arms, she agrees, "Cider'd work for me. Shall we then?"

"As if'n we could stop you from following your light-of-love?" Kassima asks
innocently.

Kharty would probably glare if it wasn't her wingleader, so she simply
smiles and says, "I'll go first."

Kharty descends the steps back down to the interior of the hold.

Kassima just grins. Broadly. Bad sign, that.

You descend the steps against the face of the cliff, open a metal-shod
door, and step back into the hold itself.

Kharty stands waiting for Aurian to descend, then asks Keagan, "Did you
ever get that bookcase changed around to the way you wanted it?"

Keagan shoots a quick glance at Kharty, then smiles, "Uh, yeah. I ended up
having to move the table over though."

Aurian comes in the metal-bound door from the Drum Heights.

Kassima comments offhandedly, "Seems like you know his room fairly well,
Kharty." Innocent grin. "She told us about how you lured her in there with
a promise of... ah... something t'show her. So t'speak."

Kharty nods thoughtfully. "The one next to your bed? Doesn't that make it
hard to get around your bed though?"

Telgar Weyr> Aurian says, "K's I'm surrounded by K's"

Keagan nods, "Yeah, but there's only so much room in there you know.", he
grins at Kassi, but doesn't respond, as the comment was directed at Kharty.

Aurian peers at Kharty. She then smirks.

Kharty flushes a little as she realizes what she's started, then quickly
changes the subject. "Hmm. So there was talk of cider? That would be that
way?" She points ahead of the group.

Kassima starts to open her mouth, probably to make some comment or other
about how Kharty certainly seems to know a lot about Keagan's bed. Her
conscience, however, taps her on the shoulder and causes her to stifle it.
She gives her Wingrider a too-bright smile instead.

Keagan smiles politely and in response to Kharty's comment, says, "Hot
cider, right this way!" then heads down the stairs.

Keagan walks down the stairs to the second floor.

Kharty waits till only Kassi's eyes are her way then wrinkles her nose at
her. Of course a small smile plays on her lips.

Kassima, being a paragon of maturity, just sticks her tongue out at the
bluerider in response.

Kharty laughs then heads down the stairs.

Kharty walks down the stairs to the second floor.

You walk down the stairs to the second floor.

Aurian comes down the stairs from above.

Keagan leads a troupe of riders down the stairs toward the great hall.

Keagan chooses the stairs leading down.

Kharty nods politely to Jenah with a smile. "Telgar's duties to Bitra,
ma'am.." then follows Keagan down the steps.

Kharty chooses the stairs leading down.

Kassima trails along after Keagan, occasionally shooting Kharty Meaningful
Looks for no apparent reason. She smiles and bobs her head quickly in
greeting as she passes by.

Aurian follows the others nodding to Jenah.

You choose the stairs leading down.

Keagan comes down the stairs at the head of a troupe of riders from Telgar.

Aurian climbs down the stairs from the second floor.

Norri looks up suddenly as people troop into the hall, "'Afternoon
Keagan..." she stares past him at the riders, "Are these friends of yours?"

Aurian runs her hand through her hair as she looks about.

Bahlt mightn't hear the first person's footsteps, but he hears the rest,
and leans forward quickly. "Talk with you later? These - I'll just see
about some klah for everyone." He gets up, and does so.

Norri nods to Bahlt, "Of course," she says rather stiffly, picking up her
knitting again. "We'll talk about it later."

Bahlt drops his gaze in favor of pouring, need it or not.

Norri looks over at the riders again, "Bitra's duty," she says politely.

Tania climbs down the stairs from the second floor.

Kharty takes a moment to look about the room, following Keagan rather
closely. "Telgar's duties to Bitra!", she calls out amiably to those present.

"Duties t'Bitra, her Lord, and her Lady," is Kassima's automatic greeting
upon espying people in here. "And a g'dafternoon t'you, Headwoman." She
makes no response to the question of being one of Keagan's friends... she
just shoots Kharty another Meaningful Look. How odd.

Tania smiles to everyone, looking over at the rider and nodding politely.
"Hello."

Aurian grins, "Telgar's duties to Lord and Lady.." She smiles as she places
her hands into her jackets.

Norri smiles, "Lord Tenefel and Lady Jessy will be most gratified by your
good wishes., How may we serve you today?"

Kharty notes Kassi's Meaningful Look but simply wrinkles her nose again.
Such a habit she's picked up. She defers the explanations of their presence
to Keagan as she walks over to the serving table, scouting for the promised
cider.

Keagan smiles at Norri, saying, "I apologize for the invasion, headwoman. I
invited some of the Telgar riders to come by to discuss some plans I have
for the racetrack when it's done."

Keagan adds, "with Lord Tenefel, when he has time."

"'Tis a matter of business that brings us here, Headwoman--or rather, a
discussion of business, with your Assistant Steward here," Kassima pipes
up. If her eyes are also roaming the premeses in search of cider, they at
least do so discreetly. "I do hope that we're nay imposing with our presence?"

Tania looks over at Keagan at that. "Oh, how is the racetrack comming
along? I was speaking with Lord Tenefel about it, and I offered to help. He
said to speak with you."

Norri blinks wide blue eyes. "Oh! I see! I wish I'd known Keagan, I would
have had the meeting hall cleaned and fresh glows brought in and arranged
proper refreshment." she says, somewhat distressed. She looks at the riders
again, "I had no idea that Telgar's riders had expertise in the area of
runner racing."

Norri shakes her head to Kassima, "No, no imposition at all of course! I'll
just make sure that sufficient fresh hides are available for notes and that
there's a servign drudge to wait on you during the meeting..." she begins
to reel off.

Aurian chuckles, "More like wagering."

Kassima explains with a perfectly straight face, "It depends on where we
hail from, ma'am. We've several Ruathans in our midst, for instance; I was
Searched from that Hold m'self, while visiting relatives. And, a'course,
runner racing can be very... lucrative, in certain aspects." She grins
slightly at that. "You're truly most kind, Headwoman, though if'n 'tis a
bother--"

Kharty gives Keagan one of those You're In Trouble Looks, impishly grinning
at him. Saying nothing, she looks about the tables, then finds the cider.
"Ahh. Here it is!", she notes softly.

Norri nods to Aurian, "Of course - you'll want to visit the Even Odds while
you're here as well! I'll speak to the attendants there immediately...oh
Ruatha! Yes, I see!" Looking flustered, she picks up her knitting, "Please,
excuse me one moment and I'll see to it that someone is along to see to
allyour needs!"

Norri heads north into the hold kitchen.

Keagan smiles at Tania, "It's very slow. The ground is so hard right now
that the picks barely scratch the surface, but with the right incentive the
men are bending their backs to the task and progress is slowly being made."
He tactfully does not mention what the incentive is. Keagan then turns to
Norri with a grin saying, "I know that you always have the Great Hall in
impeccable order, Norri. Not to worry."

Aurian calls to Kharty, "Could you fill me a mug of that cider?"

Kassima suggests blandly to Keagan, "Mayhaps some of our better
firestone-breakers could be convinced t'come up here and help out some
winter evenings, given similar incentives." Does this woman think of
nothing but money? "I do hope that we're nay inconveniencing her," she adds
with a touch of concern, watching Norri depart.

Kharty gathers several mugs up by the handles, placing them on a tray she
finds slightly to the side of her. As she fills each one, she calls over
her shoulder, "No problem, Aurian. I presume we're all having some? Or can
I get something else?"

Tania nods at Keagan and a slight smirky grin appears on her face, she has
learned all about 'incentives' in her year at Bitra. "But do you need any
help? With organizing things or something?"

Keagan grins at Kassi, "I'm afraid talk of the racetrack distresses her
greatly. She's convinced that we're going to destroy the valley." Then he
calls to Kharty, "I'll take some cider to, Swe.., er Kharty."

Tenefel comes in the large eastern doors from the courtyard.

Ninya comes in the large eastern doors from the courtyard.

Tania turns around and straightens a little. "Good day, Lord Tenefel."

Keagan quickly turns to answer Tania's query, "Well general supervision of
the work is always necessary. For now if you could just keep and eye on how
things are going, that'd be great!" Over Tania's shoulder he spots Lord
Tenefel enter from outside. He calls out, "G'day, Lord. Been out to the site?"

"Kharty, you didn't have t'pour me one; I can do it m'self," Kassima
lightly chides. Still, she doesn't contradict the bluerider's assumption.
"I suppose it may nay do much for the local scenery, true. Racetracks tend
t'be less picturesque than rolling valleys. And you needn't keep yourself
from calling Kharty your Sweet Love-Muffin or whatever on our account,
Keagan," she further assures him, managing--Faranth only knows how--not to
grin. A perfectly innocent comment, that was. Hearing the swing of the
doors, she turns to execute a half-bow of respect to the Lord Holder.
"Duties and greetings, Lord Tenefel."

Aurian peers at Kharty and Keagan with more than a little amusement.

Tenefel enters, banging some of the clinging slush off of his boots as he
does so. Gloves are tugged off and hands are rubbed together in an attempt
to produce some warmth. "Afternoon, Tania. How are you this fine bright
day?" A nods is sent to the others. "Bitra's Duties to Telgar." This after
a quick look at the assembled knots.

Ninya walks in shortly behind her Lord Holder, stopping before runnning
into him. Seeing the assembled riders, she nods a greeting. "Bitra's duty."

Aurian nods respectfully, "Telgar's duties to Bitra.." She smiles.

Tenefel does nod to Keagan. "Out for a bit of a ride up to the ridge, now
that the mud's frozen, actually. There's a good view of the site from that
overlook rock up there, but it's much the same as from the fireheights.
Nothing to do but wait till spring, I'm afraid."

Kharty notices Keegan's slip but says nothing to indicate she did, just
simply calls over her shoulder again, "Any others?", then almost chokes
when she hears her wingleader's words to Keagan. Picking up the tray, she
begins to walk toward the group, noticing Tenefel and Ninya. "Oh, Telgar's
Duties..", she says quietly, noticing the lack of extra filled mugs on her
tray.

Keagan takes a step toward Tenefel, saying, "I've asked some of the Telgar
riders here to discuss some of the issues with respect to the racetrack, if
you've time, Lord."

Ninya heads for a hot mug of klah, then stops as she catches wind of Keegan
and Tenefel's conversation. She turns and finds herself a seat, obviously
interested in anything that might involve her precious runner.

Tania grins over at Ninya, then walks over to get some klah. "Does anyone
else want a mug?"

Kharty places the tray down onto a large table then quickly counts heads
and mugs. "Did you want cider?" she asks Tania and Ninya. "I've some poured.."

Tenefel nods. "I do, yes, Tania, thanks." He approaches Keagan. "Time
enough, I think. What specifically did you feel needed discussion."

Tania shakes her head as she pours herself some klah, then she pours some
for the lord.

Aurian takes a mug of cider from Kharty, she sips slowly relaxing. "Its
rather good actually.."

Ninya pauses, debating between faithful old klah and something new. After a
moment, she nods. "Cider, please." She accepts a mug, then turns her
attention back to Keagan and Tenefel.

Tania picks up the mugs and carefully walks over to Tenefel, handing him
his, then walks back and sits down.

Kassima offers Kharty another of those too-bright, too-innocent smiles.
Glancing down at the tray, she shakes her head slightly to Kharty. "Go
ahead and give 'em mine if'n they want," she murmurs. "I can always get
some m'self if'n I wish it." Her gaze slides back towards Keagan and the
Lord; if nothing else, she's at least learned how to be discreet about
eavesdropping over the Turns.

Kharty recounts again, secured in the fact that all are taken care of.
"Does everyone here know each other? I'm not sure I've met.. your
apprentice?" She notices Ninya's knot before she asks her question. "I'm
Khar, rider of Blue Virroth, and this is Aurian, Kvasith's rider, and our
wingleader, Kassima. Of Telgar weyr, of course."

Keagan pauses a moment to collect his thoughts, then starts speaking
rapidly, "Well, Lord. It occured to me that it was extremely wasteful to
have such a nice facility and only use it a few sevendays out of a turn for
large race events. So I thought, why not run several short races on the
flat track on 5 out of the seven days provided that we could entice enough
people from the other holds to bet on them. Of course this involves getting
them here and that's where the Telgar riders come in." he pauses for breath.

Kassima affirms, nodding to Ninya in greeting, "Kassima, green Lysseth's
rider. Most call me either Kassi or 'that sharded wher-brained loon.'"

Keagan says "They've agreed to ferry holders to Bitra on a non-interference
basis for certain, uh, compensation provided by Bitra." He quickly adds,
speaking quietly, "By my calculations, the money made on the races should
more than offset any compensation we would be giving them.""

Ninya smiles and nods to Kharty. "Ninya, apprentice Baker under Daphne here
at Bitra. I think the others can introduce themselves," she adds with a
wider grin. "I believe I've met Kassima during that snowstorm a few months
back."

Tania smiles. "And I'm Tania, huntress here, well met." She nods to all the
riders.

Keagan folds his hands behind takes a mug of cider from Kharty sending a
smile in her direction, then sips slowly as he waits for Tenefel to
consider his proposal.

Tenefel nods to each name in turn, then listens to Keagan. "All at once or
phased in? I'm not sure we can financially support marginal crowds from the
onset, although I would be interested in playing loss leader if it looks
like we'll be making the marks later."

Kharty returns Keagan's smile with one of her own then glances at Kassi
briefly. Her gaze falls on Ninya thoughtfully as she walks over beside her.
Leaning down, she asks, "Were you at Katz Field?", she asks quietly so as
not to disturb the conversation. "You look familiar."

Tania mutters to Kharty, "... was Ninya... about..."

Kassima snaps her fingers and points, a grin blossoming across her face.
"Aye, I remember you! 'Twere with the larger group, weren't you? Bahlt, the
injured man, and that tenor? I fear to admit that I don't recall the
majority of the names; I'm nay certain 'twere ever given. 'Tis good t'see
that you're apparently faring well." A quick glance is darted towards
Tenefel again, but most of her attention is on Ninya and the others nearby.

Keagan smiles, "Oh, phased in, Lord, and only on an as needed basis. The
holders wanting to attend would notify me or one of my assistants via
firelizard couriered message. If we get sufficient requests to make a race
day profitable, then I set up the rides with Telgar."

Ninya nods. "Yes, I was in your search party." Her face scrunches into a
frown. "Did they find the child yet? I've heard some awful rumors here."
Here her gaze flies to the gossipy Kaira. Then she nods to Kassima. "I was
in the group with Bahlt. /Have/ either of you heard anything about the child?"

Tenefel glances at the riders, noting those easedropping. "And the riders
would work on what, commission, prepayment or tips then?"

Kharty nods to Tania, pursing her lips thoughtfully. Quietly, she answers
Ninya, "I took some searchers to Nabol yesterday to search, but I've heard
nothing as yet as to if the little were found. It's been quite a problem
getting reliable information about Lord Fezzik's son."

Keagan takes another sip from his mug and says, "Well, that's why I've
asked them here. To see what kind of arrangement would be best for Bitra...
and Telgar."

Tania shakes her head sadly. "I can't believe someone would be so
cold-hearted, so crewl, I just can't imagine..."

Kassima shakes her head, admitting, "Save for the aid in searching that
morning that was promised, and one other morning as well, I've nay gotten
back to the Hold. Word is that he's still missing, though." She muses
thoughtfully for a long moment. "Mayhaps 'twill have t'consider returning
t'see what's what this evening, if'n an opportunity presents itself."

Tenefel nods, a bit of his attention spared for the other conversation.
"Horrid event, that. I do hope they find the child." Then he turns back to
the riders to see what their thoughts might be.

Keagan looks over at the group of Telgar riders to see who their
spokeswoman is going to be.

Tania frowns into her mug thouthfuly, frowning as if angry at it. She
suddenly snaps out of whatever dream world she was in and takes a sip of
klah, continuing to listen to the race conversation.

Ninya looks disappointed, as though hoping for better news. "I spent half
the night listening to a panicky Holder and crawling under things. If I
have a chance, I'll try to return and help." She glances quickly at Tenefel
before continuing. "Fezzik's panic didn't help any, with his checks and
double checks. Spent too long, wasted too much time!" She glares a little,
although not at anyone in particular. "Idiot. I know he was scared, but he
was being a sharded idiot."

Tania turns to Ninya and raises her eyebrows. If she had ever spoken that
way about a holder in front of her holder...

Telgar Weyr> Kharty says, "I think a Kassi-pose is coming? :)"

Tenefel perks an eyebrow at Ninya. "Tall words for one free with her
opinion, Ninya. Are you certain you would have been more calm had your own
offspring been involved rather than his?"

Kassima isn't one to assume the position of *sole* spokeswoman--but neither
is she one to keep quiet, let's face it. "We can't truly bargain in earnest
for the entire Weyr, m'Lord," she explains. "Nay without the Weyrleaders'
consent. For individuals, however... we could mayhaps work out something
and spread the word of what 'twould be willing to consider to other Telgar
riders. I believe it can be safely said that this is an enterprise several
may possess an interest in." It involves marks; need this even be said?

Ninya, realizing a little belatedly what she's said, glances at Tenefel
before returning her eyes to her mug. "I don't know, Lord Holder," she
mumbles. "I don't have any children."

Telgar Weyr> Kharty laughs!

Kharty affirms Kassi's comments with her own nod and smile. "And I'd
certainly be one of those riders to do some ferrying in my spare time for
some marks to spend. Of course, AFTER my duties were finished." She glances
Kassi's way, then looks down at her hands, grinning softly.

Tenefel chews his bottom lip, thinking. "A question then. How about a flat,
say, five percent of wagers for persons brought to the stands. More than
that, and my own recording costs are going to make it prohibitively
expensive for me to track. Either that or you could work with those who you
bring, asking for a quarter to third of their winnings, each. That way
Bitra stays out of your bargains and there's less strings all around."

Aurian chuckles at Kharty, "Oh of course."

Keagan stands back, sipping cider as the riders present their proposals.

Ninya grins at Kharty. "Assuming I have the marks. I'm just an apprentice."

Kharty mouths to Aurian, 'and NOT on dresses.', then does one of those
award-winning nose-wrinkles, aimed at the brownrider.

Aurian curves a grin at Kharty, "But you'd look so lovely in blue sisal."

Ninya leans back and stays out of a potentially dangerous dress conversation.

"I like the concept of less strings, and of bargaining," Kassima replies,
"but should the passenger be a poor gambler, they will have nay winnings
and the rider in question will receive nay compensation. As such, I'm
inclined to say that more riders would be in favor of the flat rate--plus,
a'corse, any tips that the passengers wished t'give going to the rider in
question." There's a pause before she inquires, "While we're on the
subject--if'n I may inquire, is it true that you're having troubles with
clearing and digging the site due to the current state of the ground?"

Tenefel nods to Kassima. "We are. Came mid the first month we had that cold
spell that lasted two full sevendays. The ground's been frozen solid since
then and with Fall every few days we've not been able to erect any stone
shelters or even build good firepits to warm the workers. So I disbanded
most of the short term hires and will reenlist laborers come spring thaw.
I'm looking for three full shifts so that work can even proceed during
crewing and during the nights between Falls. I do intend the first races to
be off and running come the fifth month."

Ninya frowns. toward Tenefel. "Are you going to be able to hire enough
laborers? You might have to enlist some part-time workers here."

Tania smiles at Tenefel. "You know I'm glad to help in any way I can."

Aurian frowns a bit as she listens.

Kassima explains, folding her arms, "I'd had a thought, y'see, m'Lord.
You're probably aware that a good part of a rider's time as a Candidate and
Weyrling is spent breaking firestone--also a task for our residents, and
for Wingriders if'n there's a need. Many of us know our way around a pick.
I'd thought that, mayhaps, 'twould be possible that riders could help you
with this digging--'twould be worth a shot, anyway, and if'n it proved
successful, then I'm certain some could be persuaded t'take on the task in
their off-duty time if'n there were marks involved."

Keagan makes his way over to stand near Kharty as Kassima and Tenefel
discuss a potential agreement.

Tania, in mid-sip of her klah, almost spits it out, she swallows and
chokes, thinking about watching dragonriders digging in the dirt with pick...

Ninya glances over at Tania with a raised eyebrow. "You okay there?" she
asks with a grin.

Tenefel just stops, dead. "We simply couldn't have that. No, absolutely
not. No riders sweating elbow to elbow with the holdless and skillless. No,
I'm afraid that just won't do."

Kharty reaches out to pat Tania's back, giving it a few thumps. "You
alright Tania?"

Tania attempts to smile and say 'yes', but all she can get out for a second
is coughs. Finally she manages a choked. "Yes, thank you."

Kassima's eyebrows both arch in surprise. "Whyfor? As a Wingleader, I'll
tell you that I'd certes nay object to m'riders being employed in a task
that would keep them in excellent shape and mayhaps even build strength
through the winter, were they willing--and where there are marks involved,
m'Lord, there will *always* be riders willing. We're certes nay too proud
t'be doing work that involves a bit of perspiration. If'n you like, 'twill
make the attempt m'self t'see whether I couldn't break some of that frozen
ground with a pick; if'n I could, I'm sure many another rider could."

Satisfied that Tania isn't going to choke on her drink, Ninya returns her
attention to the debate shaping up between Kassima and Tenefel. While it
would be nice to have a place to exercise her runner or even race him...

Kharty sits up a little straighter in her chair, head staunchly situated on
her shoulders. "I'd agree with that, Lord. And I'd be the first to swing my
pick beside her."

Aurian shakes her head, "Kassima... we have other duties. And I have a
pretty substantial feeling that M'hryn will not agree."

Ninya decides to speak finally. "Pardon, but I agree with Lord Tenefel. The
holders can do the job and I can help. You fight Thread, you shouldn't have
to dig!" She pauses and glances skyward at the mention of the age-old
menace and strokes her little queen so she won't bugle. "We can handle it.
Really."

Tenefel thinks. "Wingleader, we've managed to dull more than a dozen
perfectly good iron picks before we suspended digging. I don't think the
muscle's so much to blame as the weather. But if you're even inclined, far
be it for a poor (cough!) holder lad such as myself to dictate a rider's
behavior. Still, despite your rider status, I can't see parting with more
than labor's wages for digging. A sixteenth on the candlemark, half again
for clay, double for rock. And the foremen will expect to see results..."
He pauses to see what effect his words will have.

Tania stands up, clearing her throat. "Well, I have some things to do with
the hides Norri asked me to make into some new gloves." She nods to the
riders. "Nice meeting you." She nods to Lord Tenefel.

"We have other duties," Kassi agrees with Aurian, "but riders have free
time. Especially in winter. As t'M'hryn... if'n it doesn't affect our
duties, and if'n it proves our willingness t'help the Holds under our
coverage, why should he object?" Big, innocent eyes are turned on Aurian
before the rider sobers somewhat and shakes her head. "'Tis nay even a
selfless matter... 'twould be an exchange of services." Considering this,
the rider finally says, "Allow me t'make a proposal, Lord Tenefel: 'twill
go up there today with Kharty, since she's willing, and take a swing at the
ground with those picks of yours. The dull ones, if'n you'd prefer. 'Twill
see what effect it has. If'n none, well, nay harm done; if'n we did manage
to accomplish aught, we could go back to the Weyr, tell other riders about
the nature of the task and the wages, and they could come down here t'make
arrangements with you personally. Would that suit?"

Khartys deep brown eyes steadily watch Tenefel for his reaction. Glancing
quickly to Kassi, she nods her agreement to such an endeavor then waits for
the reply.

Tenefel nods. "That sounds certainly more than fair to me. And now that I
think of it, I can't help but imagine that getting to know riders first
hand can only help to serve the interests in the weyr. Diffuse some of the
mystique, as it were." He sips from his mug. "Keagan will show you to a
half dozen or so of the picks." He turns to the steward. "Make sure one of
them's sharp, too." Back to Kassima. "Do what you can and Keagan will, I'm
sure, give me a full report. I am anxious, but at this point resigned to
waiting for the thaw."

Ninya stands suddenly, glancing toward the kitchen. "Shards! I told them
I'd help with dinner. I'm sorry but I have to go help." Regretfully downing
her cider in one mighty gulp, she hurries toward the kitchens after a quick
nod to all.

Keagan snaps to alert attention as Tenefel mentions his name, "You can be
certain of it. Lord. And a bargan well struck, if I might say so, Sir."

Ninya heads north into the hold kitchen.

Kassima says with all seriousness, "Strengthening Weyr-Hold relations would
benefit both sides, m'Lord. There are a number of us who would nay be
ill-content t'see fewer people fearing riders... or thinking of them as
less than human." She nods to Ninya, and calls, "Clear skies!" after her
before resuming. "I hope that we can be of service t'you then, sir."

Aurian shakes her head again but refrains from saying anything.

Kharty sits back in her seat, draining her mug of cider. Always loving a
challenge, her face shows her delight with the upcoming test. "You won't be
needing a sharp pick, Keagan, we'll do well with two dull ones.", she
mentions to the steward with a smile.

Keagan smiles down at Kharty from his position slightly behind and to her
right. The gleam in his eyes shows his pleasure at another scheme
successfully concluded.

Tenefel chuckles. "I've got some administrative issues to deal with
otherwise I would love to come and watch. Speaking of which, please carry a
message to your weyrleader for me?" He fumbles for a small slip of tied
hide which turns up in his inside breast pocket. "And don't let the winter
conditions frustrate you. Spring will be so much easier to dig - more like
a hot blade through butter."

"By all means," Kassima replies, holding out a hand for the message. "It
may well be that we won't be able t'do aught for you, but nigh aught is
worth trying once. It's been a pleasure dealing with you, m'Lord."

Tenefel smiles and nods formally, his head tilted. "And I you, Kassima,
Lysseth's rider. Very much so. Clear skies to you and your wing. And I look
forward to us all being introduced to the odd few spare marks before this
is all over."

Kharty also adds her thanks, aimed at the lord holder. "That it has, Lord
Tenefel, although I still think that giving a few picks a swing would be
well worth the attempt. Clear skies to you as well, sir."

Telgar Weyr> A'lex waves to the Weyr.

Aurian curves a slight grin.

Telgar Weyr> Kassima tosses Carmen Miranda's hat at A'lex.

Telgar Weyr> K'tyn swoons! A bronzerider! Owait.;) It's just A'lex.:) (GRIN)

Kassima chuckles, flashing a grin at that. "Even or odd, spare marks are
always welcome, as I think many a person would say. I wish you--and us!--a
great deal of profit in this new venture."

Telgar Weyr> A'lex pthtttts at Kiat. :)

Toar comes in the large eastern doors from the courtyard.

Toar walks in, whistling an old sea tune.

Telgar Weyr> N'ren pthtttts at A'lex.

Telgar Weyr> A'lex smooches N'ren all wet like. :)

Toar blinks at all the people. He walks in and pours himself a small mug of
klah before walking over to sit by the fireplace, whittling a small piece
of wood.

Kassima nods a greeting to the newest-arrived stranger before asking
Keagan, "So, Kharty's Sweet Love-Muffin, weren't you going t'show us to the
site and some picks?"

Tenefel turns and nods to Toar as he hands the hide over to Kassima. "Be
well, all." He states flatly, then heads up the stairs with polite haste.

Tenefel climbs up the stairs to the second floor.

Kharty turns a brilliant shade of red at her wingleader's words. She just
stares for a moment, amazed at what she just heard from her then looks down
quickly, barely able to stifle a laugh.

Kassima just blinks at Kharty, perfectly guileless green eyes widened
artfully. "What?" she asks innocently.

Telgar Weyr> N'ren steps to one side at the last moment and substitutes
Rennick.

Telgar Weyr> A'lex fehs, "Not after a lag like that you don't."

Keagan chuckles, but doesn't respond to the prodding, "All who're
interested can follow me to the Central Valley and we'll give it a try."

Telgar Weyr> Jehrina smooches A'lex. :)

Kharty remembers a favorite tactic of hers, so she herself artfully sends a
light kick to Kassi's boot underneath the table, not daring to look up at
the woman. Quickly standing, she puts her mug down, ready to follow.

Telgar Weyr> A'lex says, "YEA! I got a smooch from her Goldness!"

Kassima smiles in satisfaction, tucking the message away and scissoring out
with a glancing side-kick back at Kharty. "I'm up for it. Are you, Aurian?
And what about you, Keagan's Veritable Sweetroll of Love?" That, of course,
would be Kharty.

Telgar Weyr> Aurian offers Rina a bottle of mouthwash, "You might want
this.. he has cooties you know.."

Aurian laughs softly, "Sure Kassima."

Telgar Weyr> A'lex says, "If you're my daughter, I'm going to have to whup
you for that."

Telgar Weyr> Jehrina has met A'lex. He's adorable. :)

Telgar Weyr> Aurian says, "Yes father"

Keagan throws on his cloak and says, "Bundle up. It's cold outside the hold
walls."

Telgar Weyr> A'lex says, "Adorable? You make me sound like a kitten.... :D"

Telgar Weyr> K'tyn peers. Aurian is A'lex's daughter?! Buh?!

Telgar Weyr> Jehrina says, "that too. :)"

Kharty hrrumphs loudly, mock-glaring at Kassi. "I was ready long ago,
wingleader. I'd always stand beside you in any task you'd undertake!" Oops.
After a short pause, she adds, "Well, *almost* any that is."

Telgar Weyr> K'tyn says, "A'lex you're adorable. Deal with it.;)"

Telgar Weyr> A'lex says, "Yea, Kiat, Kassi and I were so embarrassed about
it that we had to go back in time to ditch the kid..."

Telgar Weyr> K'tyn just snickers. Well that explains a lot.

Telgar Weyr> A'lex says, "Or so the Knot-rumor goes. There's no actualy
basis in fact here."

Kassima extricates her gloves from her pockets, tugging them on over her
hands. Then, oddly, she picks up her nearly knee-length braid and wraps it
around her neck like a scarf. "Ready," she reports. "Oh, would you, Kharty?
I'll keep that in mind, next time I decide t'throw fish-heads at people
from the Star Stones."

Telgar Weyr> Aurian giggles.

Telgar Weyr> Kassima still thinks she's A'lex and Kin's kid. ;)

Telgar Weyr> Aurian says, "Noooo I wouldn't do that to kin"

Keagan laughs at the rider banter and heads outside.

Keagan walks out the main doors to the courtyard.

Kharty has just about reached her limit of banter and laughs. "Sounds like
fun!", she says then follows Keagan outside.

Telgar Weyr> Kassima says, "But you'd do that to me? Yeesh, Aurian, what'd
I ever do to you?!?"

Kharty walks out the main doors to the courtyard.

You walk out the main doors, to the courtyard.

Kharty's hair blows about her face as she looks into the wind, squinting.
"Brrr.. it's true that the cold's found a home here."

Aurian comes out of the hold.

Telgar Weyr> Aurian smiles evilly.

Kassima pauses to peer at the sparring circle, a reminiscent smile tugging
at the corners of her mouth. "Been too long since I last went home and
sparred with Da," she says to no one in particular before walking back
after the others. "We're a ways south of Telgar, Khar; 'tis nay so bad as
there. Just remember that, and you'll be fine." Of course, it'd probably
help if Khar, like Kassi, were liberally cloaked in helpful, warm-bodied
fire-lizards.

Keagan chuckles, his breath frosting in the air, "Wait until you get out in
the valley, the wind nigh cuts right through you up there." He pulls his
cloak tighter and heads for the gates.

Telgar Weyr> K'tyn glad he's just out of this

Keagan heads out the gates and down the ramp.

Aurian fastens her jacket as she steps into the cold.

Kharty heads out the gates and down the ramp.

You stroll out the gates, and down the ramp into the central valley.

Aurian comes down the ramp from the hold proper.

Telgar Weyr> A'lex says, "What do you mean, out of this? I'm sure we'll
find some way to get you involved."

Telgar Weyr> N'ren thought Aurian was my daughter by Kerlyn.... oh wait,
that's something else entirely.

Telgar Weyr> Kassima says, "You didn't realize that A'lex was really *your*
son, did you, Kiat?"

Kharty pulls her jacket closer around her thin form as she looks around
her, shivering once the cold gusts of air hit her again. "I'm not sure that
I'd ever get used to this, Kassi." she comments as she rubs her hands
together for warmth.

Telgar Weyr> K'tyn good lords.;)

Telgar Weyr> Aurian coughs at N'ren, "I thought that was some sort of tale
spread by Kassima and A'lex.."

Keagan yells through the stiff wind, "Just a bit farther up the road."

Keagan follows the path to the Upper Bitran Valley.

Kharty follows the trail to the Upper Bitran Valley.

Kassima admits, ducking her head a bit so that the high collar of her
rainbow-splotched jacket can protect her face, "Comfortable, 'tis nay, but
at least 'tis nay *between*!"

You follow the road to the Upper Bitran Valley.

Telgar Weyr> A'lex looks at Kiat, "Dad?"

Aurian comes up the path from the Central Bitran Valley.

Telgar Weyr> Jehrina says, "omy."

Telgar Weyr> Aurian begins to think that Telgar is more redneck than she
thought.

Telgar Weyr> Jehrina says, "Na, that was Benden. Home of the inbreeding
dragons."

Telgar Weyr> Kassima says, "There's a reason that M'kla originally proposed
just renaming the place to Yncezt Weyr when the issue of the move came up. ;)"

Telgar Weyr> Aurian giggles.

Kassima squints against the bright glare of sun-on-snow, looking rather
relieved as the helpful Kiylir extends a blue wing to shield her eyes. FLs:
don't leave home without 'em. "This is the place, eh?" she observes. "Where
d'you want us t'try digging first?"

Keagan says, "Wait here. I'll go get the picks." He crosses over to a small
cairn and moves an old metal shutter which blocks the opening. He enters
for a moment, fumbling around just inside, then emerges with two picks, one
exceedingly sharp, the other not quite so.

Keagan return to the group, holding out the picks, one in each hand,
"Choose your weapon, ladies." He looks around and selects a likely spot
where some progress was made before the cold spell. Pointing to the area he
says, "That would be as good a spot as any."

Kassima offers magnanimously, "Take whichever you like, Khar. Who breaks
ground doesn't matter, so long as one of us hopefully does." Straightening,
she turns to survey the open area. "Huh," is her response. "I could wish I
had some of the tools from back home. That looks almost as tough as the
granite quarries. Still, 'tis worth a shot...."

Kharty reaches out to grasp the sharper pick, then holds out the duller one
to her wingleader. "What do you say if we have a team effort here, Kassi?
If you'll whap it good, I'll stick the sharp end in and yank it up."

Aurian taps her foot on the ground listening to the sound, "Bad. Dad
wouldn't reccoment this to his miners.

Kassima takes the dull pick, twirling it in her hand for a moment before
gripping it comfortably. "We'll have t'see whether we can make a dent in
the ground, first. But if'n it looks as though 'twill work," she agrees as
she starts off towards the indicated area, "I'm all for it."

Kharty follows Kassi right behind her, just a few steps. "Never hurts to
try, I'd say, even if we can't, we've not walked away saying we didn't try."

Keagan follows the two riders over to the scrape in the ground, bowing
against the wind.

Kassima unwinds her braid and loosens her jacket once she reaches the site.
Foolish? Perhaps, but it suggests that she knows full well that work such
as this makes jackets less necessary. Toeing the ground, she grimaces at
the seeming solidity of it before raising her pick high and aiming it for
what looks to be a suitable place. Ker-*thunk*. There's a dent, yes, but
little more than that, and Kassi grimaces at the rebound of force back up
the pick. "Like the quarries, indeed," she mutters, hefting the pick for
another swing. Give up easily, she doesn't.

Kharty leans up and back, rocking with Kassi's movements, invisibly trying
to help her. "Go Kassi!", she yells out over the wind. Moving behind her,
she shelters the woman from the wind with her own body.

Aurian shakes her head, "We could have a dragon flame the area... but it
would more than likely ruin the grounds.."

Keagan says "I'm not sure your weyrleader would approve of using firestone
for digging trenches, Aurian."

Aurian tilts her head, "I don't think he would approve of this at all. But
I had already discarded the idea.."

Kassima looks up and flashes Kharty a brief grin, before applying herself
to the task at hand. Ka-*chink*. Ka-*chink*. Ka-*chink*. The pick keeps up
a steady rhythm, swung by a very determined woman who's going to *will*
this ground to break, sharditall. Ka-*chink*. "Could be used *puff* as a
practice area *puff puff* for 'Lings just learning t'flame *puff*," she
puffs between blows. "Doubt it'd help the land, though...." Ka-*chink*.

Kharty opens her jacket, unmindful of the cold. Much like a dragon
sheltering a mate, she stretches it out on either side of the woman, urging
her onward. "Go, Kassi... go... it's cracking!"

Oh, thanks, Kharty. Not enough that you're Keagan's Blueberry Love-Muffin;
now you want to call up images of mated dragons with Kassi of all people?
Fortuitously, Kassi's a bit too busy to notice. "Nay really," she grunts,
swinging the pick again. "Only a bit." Ka-*chink*. You can say this for the
woman: she has good aim. And she's stubborn. But the ground's rather
stubborn too. Now, the question is, who's going to give up first?

Dragon> Lysseth senses that Kvasith starts sending as if he's been prodded,
<< Are you cold? Maybe we should go to somewhere warmer? >>

Keagan steps up and says loudly in the wind, "Enough, Kassima. Even if you
manage to crack the surface, you'll not be able to accomplish enough to
make the work worthwhile."

Lysseth> Kvasith senses that Lysseth replies, a bit bemused, << Cold? I am
not. This is nothing to *between*. My rider is, of course, but she will not
listen to me. Where did you have in mind? >>

Kharty sees that some help is necessary so she walks around to the front of
her wingleader, and prepares to heft her pick as well. Poised over her
head, she stops as she hears Keagan's words then looks questioningly at
Kassi. "Want to give it one more try?", she asks with a grin.

Kassima lifts her head, peering through her forelock, which is clinging to
her brow and thus draping into one eye. "It'll work eventually," she
argues. "It has to. Naught's impossible if'n you work hard enough at it."

Keagan reaches out and grasps the handle of Kassima's pick, saying, "I
don't doubt that you'll be able to crack it eventually, Kassima, but we
need real progress here. All you'll do is wear yourself out with little to
show for it." He sighs, "Tell your riders to come back in a month and we'll
try it again."

Dragon> Kvasith bespoke Lysseth with << Oh we could see the clutch at
Igen... or we could go swimming. My rider is cold and is wondering if your
rider realizes how futile this is. >>

Kharty also agrees, nodding enthusiastically, then says quickly, "But
what's important here is the trying, not so much the accomplishing. Kassi?
Whatever you say.."

Lysseth> Kvasith stretches his wings for a moment, he then rests his head
on his forefeet.

Keagan looks at Kharty, "No, Kharty, trying isn't good enough now. We can't
pay riders just to get exercise by hammering at rocks. We need them moved
and this just isn't getting it done."

Keagan releases Kassi's pick and says, "I'm going back to tell Lord Tenefel
that he was right. The digging will just have to wait.", then he turns and
walks back towards the hold.

Keagan follows the trail to the Central Bitran Valley.

Kassima frowns after the younger man, looking as though she's seriously
considering resuming just to spite him. But vindictive and stubborn though
she may be, she's not foolish. "I hate being patronized," she mutters.
Glancing at Aurian, she adds, "If'n you're cold, you can go; I didn't mean
t'imply 'twas trying t'hold you here, y'know."

Aurian shakes her head, "No its alright Kassima."

Kharty decides to get a few swings in herself so she leans the pick back
behind her more then gives a huge, strong swing right at the dent Kassi's
put in the ground. *crack* A small, think mark is etched into the ground.
Shoving the pointed end into it, she leans against the handle, trying to
pry it loose. "Mmmph! Errrrg!", she grunts.

Kassima shakes her head at Kharty. "Much though I would devoutly love t'be
able t'go back to the Hold and tell Lord Tenefel that Keagan gave up too
soon, I suppose if'n they're really that unwilling t'have us work, we
shouldn't dull their picks more than need be." She does not look pleased,
for some odd reason. "If'n you lot want t'go someplace warmer, that's fine.
I truly hadn't intended t'make you feel obligated t'stay."

Kharty looks up in disbelief at Kassi, her brows turned down, eyes
questioning and flashing. "Obligated to stay? Whatever do you mean...
'obligated'? I go where I want and I'm with who I want to be with! If you
had something to do, I'd help you. Shardit, Kassi, you don't know that by
now?"

Kassima explains simply, "Lysseth tells me that she's been asked, in
effect, if'n she wouldn't rather drag me someplace warm, given the futility
of this task. Neither of you have t'wait for me if'n you're wanting t'go,
is all I meant." Straightening, she rests the pick on her shoulder, much to
the consternation of the 'lizard who had been perching there. "I don't
misdoubt your loyalty, Khar, but this isn't official business--and most
people *do* have things they'd rather be doing than swinging picks in their
off-time when they're nay getting paid and don't need t'get back into
shape, you must admit."

Kharty leans into her own pick, rocking on it a little. Brown eyes set to
Kassi's, she shakes her head. "This has nothing to do with 'getting paid'
or 'getting into shape', Kassi. This is about *trying* to do something
that's been seen as impossible." Tugging her leather jacket about her now,
she takes in a long breath then almost whispers, "and it's about ..
friendship. Friends help friends. Enough said."

Kassima has to smile at that, a genuine smile and not one of the
mischievous ones that usually find a home on her face. "Aye, well... 'tis
so. Don't think I don't appreciate it. Friends don't impose on friends
either, though, if'n they can help it--which I suspect means we should
probably blow this fried wherry stand. If'n Lord Tenefel wants our help at
some later date, he'll get in touch with the Weyrleaders, more like than nay."

Kharty nods then takes Kassi's pick and her own to return them to where
Keagan got them. "Shall we go back then? To where it's warm, perhaps?", she
asks as she strides back to the women, shivering again, teeth chattering.

Kassima shrugs, squinting up into the sky for a moment. "Viewing the eggs
wasn't a bad idea, but I'd want t'take the spawnlings t'that. Kaylira at
least is getting old enough that she might remember. Warmth *does* have a
definite ring to it, though."

Kharty smiles and motions the way back. "Shall we leave this place then for
a warmer one?"

Aurian nods, "I would have to agree with that." She grins.

"Sounds good t'me." Kassima casts an inquiring glance at Aurian. "Any ideas
for where we should go, Auri?"

Aurian hmmms, "Greystones.. or Boll... we could do shipfish again."

Kassima ticks the possibilities off on gloved fingers. "Shipfish,
Greystones, Boll, Igen. Of the four, I'd prefer one of the latter two; they
have food."

"Well, I for one will need to stop back at the weyr, but I'd love to join
you. That is if you two can decide on one place.", Khar grins teasingly at
the two women there.

Aurian hmmms, "Boll or Igen."

Aurian says "Ista is there as wel"

Kassima agrees, "True... but we've nay real reason for going there, do we?
I could always seek out G'har for those knives or take Khari t'see her Da,
but they're probably busy. As we would be, if'n this didn't count as an
errand for the Holders." She winks at the other two riders, then asks more
seriously, "Your duties for the day are done, then?"

Aurian nods.

Kharty winks then adds her yes to Aurian's. Been done for a while. I knew
this trip was to come so I made sure my duties were finished quickly. "So
what is it? Ista?"

Aurian hmmmms, "Igen then?"

Kassima recites, "Ista, just for visiting; Igen, for egg-viewing probably;
Boll, for swimming, drinking, etcetera. You pays your marks; you takes your
choice, as Aunt Tariani sometimes told me."

Kharty follows the path to the Central Bitran Valley.

You follow the road to the Central Bitran Valley.