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Press Your Luck


Date:  November 5(?), 1998
Places:  Telgar Weyr Southern Bowl; Bitra Hold's Skyspace, Drum and
Fire Heights, Great Hall, and Even Odds
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:  Bitra Hold is having what they may have expected to be a 
minor celebration.  However, Telgar decides to invade en masse--and 
such an attendance makes the event anything but minor.  Many thanks go 
to Lord Tenefel and the other Bitrans for this fun, casual party; 
speaking for myself, I had a  great time, even if Kassi went home with 
a lighter belt pouch than she arrived with. :)  The log begins at
Telgar, in the Southern Bowl.

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The Log:

Kassima calls down, "Hey, Auri; headed to Bitra tonight?"

<*> Kindre comes down from Herath and Prometh's ledge.

Telgar Weyr> Jayna volunteers Sioneth's big brown butt if anybody wants an
IC ride.

<*> Aurian nods, "I was thinking of it."

Telgar Weyr> Maylia hmmms, and hauls along a few NPC weyrlings, so May's
got an excuse to go...

<*> "Evening all," is the cheery call from Kindre as she follows Herath
down from their ledge. While tugging her gloves on she inquires, "Are we
all heading to Bitra I hope? They've set up quite a reception from what a
couple of sweep riders told me."

Telgar Weyr> Neliea is nabbing someone already.

<*> Ularrith backwings for a landing.

<*> Cymrith backwings for a landing.

<*> Sioneth emerges from the infirmary.

<*> Aurian glances towards Tierth who appears to be herding a small cluster
of weyrlings, she nods back to Kindre, "Sounds like a good idea for the
evening.."

Kassima grins down at Kin. "Filliana would kill me if'n I didn't attend,
after all the times she's reminded me! And when have you *ever* known me to
miss gambling, especially if'n those who don't do it very well will be
along? Speaking of which...." She waves over to the newly-descended.
"You're bringing your marks along, I hope?"

Telgar Weyr> Kindre says, "Yeah, yeah Aurian...you just think I'm a big fat
dragon, doncha? ;)"

<*> Tierth spirals downwards, her wings carrying her to a gentle landing,
as her rider cranes her neck to watch the northern end of the bowl. Harried
by an Assistant weyrlingmaster, some of the weyrlings are preparing
themselves.

Telgar Weyr> Kassima says, "And before anyone asks, yes, I'm logging. ;)"

<*> From Sioneth's back, Jayna pumps her arm to those she sees. "Headed for
Bitra?" she calls, strapping in.

Telgar Weyr> Erdrick laughs at Kassi, "You're always logging!"

<*> Atop sturdy Ularrith, M'rgan twists around to watch Cymrith land. Only
when the green is settled on the ground does he turn his attention back to
his fellow Telgarians. "Not me, Kassima," he shouts over, cocking his head
meaningfully in his weyrmate's direction.

Telgar Weyr> Neliea thinks we're invading Bitra in style. :)

Telgar Weyr> Jayna grins. "And fashionably late." ;)

<*> Sioneth takes flight, using the thermals rising from the bowl to carry
him aloft.

Telgar Weyr> Kassima hees. This is Rider399.txt. Just one more to go 'fore
I break another hundred mark. :P :)

Telgar Weyr> Neliea giggles.

<*> On Cymrith, Kena offers her Wingleader a smiling salute.

Telgar Weyr> Erdrick thinks: Log-O-Matic, the Kassi-Sisco treat.

<*> Kindre laughs aloud while bobbing her head. "In very deed, Kassi. I've
never known you to miss anything that may involve a wager," she teases the
Wingleader before striding up to Herath.

<*> Kindre gives Herath a soft, loving pat on the side. Humbling her oft
high-held muzzle, Herath dips close to the ground and Kindre half-steps,
half-tugs herself up with courtly ease. An unusally easy and contented
glint is in her eyes as her lifemate bestrides her.

<*> Maylia slides to the ground, giving Tierth a parting caress and a
tender smile.

Telgar Weyr> Aurian twiddles her thumbs, "Ummmmm slip of the typist..."
Herath big grumpy dragon... Kindre..... bettter not type anymore

Telgar Weyr> Erdrick says, "I must be out of my mind tonight to come up
with spam like that. :)"

Telgar Weyr> Kindre LOL!

<*> Aurian waves to Maylia as she pulls the goggles out of her pocket.

Telgar Weyr> Aurian smiles sweetly.

Kassima groans, of course, as always. "Keeeeeenaaaaa," she wails, "cut that
*out*! Please don't make me assign a friend dawn sweeps with L'cher for
insubordination." Meaningful look. The salute is returned, however.
"Someone amongst this lot had better have marks; how can you visit a
gambling den without 'em, after all? Ready on your signal, Kin."

<*> Aurian pulls herself up onto Kvasith, carefully. Her fingers grip at
the straps as she eases herself onto his back.

<*> Ularrith shifts is weight to his haunches, his wings spreading ever so
slightly as he prepares for the leap in to the air.

<*> On Cymrith, Kena glances at M'rgan, pleased he's not going to lose his
marks to those Bitran gamblers.

<*> From her gold Herath, "I'm ready," Kindre calls as the helmet strap
beneath her chin is finally tightened. "Let's invade," is shouted before
she gives Herath their familiar signal.

<*> Herath takes flight, using the thermals rising from the bowl to carry
her aloft.

<*> Lysseth spreads her wings to their full extent, bringing them down with
a rush of wind as she leaps nimbly into the air.

You spring into the air and catch the thermals rising from the bowl floor
to carry you aloft.

<*> Lysseth disappears into Between.

Between
You gasp as the icy black nothingness of Between surrounds you! You hear
nothing, see nothing, and feel nothing. The trip takes five heartbeats...
Black...
Blacker...
Blackest!

You suddenly emerge...

<*> Lysseth emerges from Between with a blast of cold air!

<*> Cymrith emerges from Between with a blast of cold air!

<*> Ularrith emerges from Between with a blast of cold air!

Telgar Weyr> Maylia laaagggssss.

<*> Kvasith emerges from Between with a blast of cold air!

Dragon> Sioneth bespoke Telgar dragons with << My rider wishes to know
where we shall land? >>

<*> Ularrith drops his shoulder as he spins away from the other dragons,
diving down towards the fire heights.

Dragon> Herath bespoke Telgar dragons with << Is everyone that was coming
here at Bitra? I'd hate to land without our full invading force. >>

Dragon> Bhalth bespoke Telgar dragons with << We're a bit behind, but
coming. >>

<*> Cymrith glides to the far side of the cluster of dragons. The side that
happens to be the furthest away from Ularrith.

Dragon> Lysseth bespoke Telgar dragons with << Mine suggests the
fire-heights, for courtesy's sake... ooh, good point, Herath. It's more
impressive if our wings all block out the moons first. ;) >>

<*> Bhalth emerges from Between with a blast of cold air!

<*> Kvasith glides a short distance from Herath. He rumbles happily.

<*> Kaath emerges from Between with a blast of cold air!

Dragon> Telgar dragons sense that Herath would assume the Fire Heights. >>
*snort*laugh* << Indeed Lysseth. Ah! Bhalth and Kaath! Good timing.

<*> Herath flies down to the Drum and Fire Heights.

<*> Sioneth flies down to the Drum and Fire Heights.

<*> Cymrith flies down to the Drum and Fire Heights.

<*> Lysseth swoops in leisurely circles over the heights, content to whirl
around a bit while waiting for the rest of the invasion force. Once they've
arrived, she arrows speedily after Herath.

<*> Kaath flies down to the Drum and Fire Heights.

<*> Ularrith flies down to the Drum and Fire Heights.

<*> Bhalth flies down to the Drum and Fire Heights.

You descend to the Drum and Fire Heights.

<*> Jayna scrambles down from Sioneth's back.

<*> Kindre gives Herath's neck a loving rub before she slips down with the
polished ease of familiarity. The gold's eyes seem to burn through Kindre
until she is certain her lifemate is sure-footed on the ground, then turn
equally as hot to the surroundings in a quick survey.

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.

Dragon> Telgar dragons sense that Pleiath yawns sleepily. << Bitra? >> Her
mind wanders over the plump beasts in the Bitran brood herds.

Nyth flies down from above.

R'ehn climbs down Bhalth's side to the ground, using his straps as handholds.

Keriann jumps down Nyth's side to the ground, using his foreleg as a step.

Lirra clambers down Kaath's side to the ground, as the dragon warbles a
greeting.

On Cymrith, Kena assists those who came with her and Cymrith down first
before dismounting herself.

Kena jumps down Cymrith's side to the ground, as the dragon warbles a
greeting.

Jayna shivers, tightening her heavy wherhide riding jacket. "Brr. Between
in winter is about the worst," she complains, to no one in particular.

Ularrith settles on the fire heights only after Herath has parked her
golden fanny there. As he lowers his great brown rear to the cold and rocky
perch, his rider works to free the straps of himself and his passenger.
"Got it, Nea?"

Kvasith flies down from above.

R'ehn mumbles a wryly toned comment to Bhalth, padding over to join to
forming crowd.

Kindre's eyes roll as her head bobs to Jayna's words. "I'll agree with that
easily enough," she says.

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

Kassima grins as she scans Kindre's leathers. "Oh, good. I thought for a
moment 'twould appear over-dressed, but you look decked out to the nines.
D'you think there are enough of us here to make a sufficient... what were
the words Lyss told me Herath used? Invasion force?" To Lirra, she notes,
"I hope you remembered to bring those painted shorts."

In the Sky Over Central Bitra, Tierth hovers briefly, the moonlight playing
over the silver drizzles on her hide, as a small number of Weyrlings
appears beyone her. With precision, the small wing descends.

Telgar Weyr> Kindre aies...I have to idle a few...the kidlet needs a clean
bink and I have to go fine one :/

Tierth flies down from above.

Jayna blinks. "Painted shorts? Great Faranth, Kassi, what're you talking
about?" She looks vaguely fearful.

Kvasith mantles his wings startled by emergining into more cold. He does
bugle his arrival to the Hold.

Kindre laughs before nodding. "Something like that, Kassi," she remarks and
winks.

Telgar Weyr> Kindre says, "Y'all go ahead w/o me...I'll make an excuse.
Sorry :/"

Aurian glances to Jayna, "You haven't heard what Lirra does?"

M'rgan clambers down Ularrith's side to the ground, as the dragon warbles a
greeting.

Kena gives the Weyrwoman and then her Wingleader a curious glance, then
checks her clothing herself.

Lirra winces, shaking her head. "I didn't, Kassi. They're still back at the
weyr."

Jayna shakes her head at Aurian's query. "I suppose not," she confesses.
"Lirra, you paint shorts?"

Maylia slides to the ground, giving Tierth a parting caress and a tender
smile.

Kassima grins, wickedly even, while pulling the gloves from her hands. "Ask
Lirra. She's the one who turned underwear into an artistic display. All
right, now... *someone* brought marks, didn't they? If'n I'm going t'be
gambling alone, I'm going t'be most distressed. Oh, well, 'tis all right;
your sister wanted t'see, 'twas all."

R'ehn ambles over to the painted underwear conversation, "And y'all
wondered why I have a firelizard living in the press and guarding the
clothes."

Lirra rolls her eyes, linking an arm through R'ehn's. "My sister has odd
tastes, too."

M'rgan is still in full rider gear, helmet, goggles, everything, as he
makes his way through the crowd of riders, residents, and dragons to join
Kena. "Kassi's going to scare those holders to death," he comments as he
starts to work on the chin strap of his helmet.

Jayna absently strokes Sioneth's hide, making sure that one strap isn't
rubbing again, and grins at the Telgar contingent, at large. Well, in general.

Aurian grins and leans to the other brownrider. She mutters to Jayna, "...
know... she's P-R-O-D-D-Y ." 

Jannea jumps down Ularrith's side to the ground, the dragon's sparkling
eyes watching closely.

Kassima flashes Kena an approving smile. "Grand leathers, m'friend. See,
dress-maniac?" That seems directed at Aurian. "I'm nay the only one who
thinks that dressing in leathers rather than gowns is a goodness. I certes
didn't wonder, R'ehn. I have guard-'lizards watching over m'clothing and
wine-presses, m'self. You just never know with these people."

Jayna laughs at Aurian's comment and shakes her head in amusement.

One of the weyrlings, hastily stuffs his mark pouch back into a pocket as
he realizes that /Kassi/ will be gambling.

Telgar Weyr> Jayna muahahas. "A'lex, I can TAKE you, boy!"

Kena considers what her weyrmate says and shakes her head. She mutters to
M'rgan, "... where..."  To Jannea, she calls out, "Don't tug at the hem,
dearie."

Lirra waggles a brow at Kassi and Kena. "Leathers are more than good."

Telgar Weyr> Kassima laughs! Jore's going to beat up Ushu? Awwright! ;)

Telgar Weyr> Aurian says, "Why for?"

Telgar Weyr> Kassima grins. That's a listed match. That's also a definite
goodness. But only if I get to bury him. 0:)

Jannea stops fidigting.

Squint flies down from above.

Telgar Weyr> Aurian laughs, "Kindre!"

Even though it was spelled, M'rgan still knows what those letters mean and
he shoots a look all around him, searching fearfully for that proddy
greenrider. He backs up a few steps, moving closer to his weyrmate as if
she'd protect him. "Huh? Oh, yeah. True. But still."

Telgar Weyr> Jorenan hms. Who the heck is Ushu?

Telgar Weyr> A'lex says, "NPC healer geek."

Telgar Weyr> Alyssa thought that was Garant.

Telgar Weyr> Aurian says, "Healer.. he believes that rosepetals solve
anything"

Telgar Weyr> A'lex says, "Bigger geek."

Telgar Weyr> Alyssa says, "Aha."

Telgar Weyr> Kassima says, "The psychotic rose-addicted Healer that we all
know and despise. ;) Lys!! *Snugsnugs.* No, Ushu's even worse. Barely. No
puns, though. ;)"

Telgar Weyr> Erdrick says, "Rose petals? Ohhhhhhhhkay."

Maylia gives the weyrlings accompanying her a once-over for about the third
time, assuring herself that each is adequetly well dressed and presentable.
"Alright, no wine, and if your lifemates need you, come directly here. And
Behave yourselves." She advises, yet again. "And don't pester Kassi." Like
she had to warn them of that.

Telgar Weyr> Maylia says, "LYS!?! SNUG!"

Telgar Weyr> Erdrick says, "*perk* Puns? Did somebody say puns? ;)"

Telgar Weyr> M'rgan wonders who's leading this party into the Hold?

Telgar Weyr> A'lex says, "Okay, I need to bamf for a bit... will be back!!!"

R'ehn glances around at the general crowd, looking for signs of a clue.

Telgar Weyr> Jayna points to Kassi. :)

Telgar Weyr> Jorenan says, "The party's already there. The Bakers, as
usual, are in the lead."

Kassima pthbbbbts Mart soundly, protesting, "I do *nay* scare Holderfolk! I
leave that up to L'cher, thankee." Smoothing her jacket, she asks, "Should
we head in, d'you think?" Clue? No clue here. Kassi's dressed in red,
black, and silver, not blue paw-prints.

Telgar Weyr> Neliea says, "And blueriders. :)"

Telgar Weyr> Emlyn says, "Bakers -- forward-thrusting people who smell like
yeast."

Telgar Weyr> Jayna dies.

Telgar Weyr> Alyssa beats on Emlyn.

Telgar Weyr> Emlyn likes 'em a great deal ---oof!

Telgar Weyr> Kena snugs Em!

Telgar Weyr> Alyssa enjoys doing that.

Telgar Weyr> Erdrick peers at Em.

Telgar Weyr> Alyssa beats on Emlyn again.

Telgar Weyr> Jayna says, "Alyssa."

Telgar Weyr> Alyssa says, "Yah?"

Telgar Weyr> Aurian waves

M'rgan thrusts one elbow out for Kena and one for Jannea. "Ready, ladies?"

Telgar Weyr> Kindre says, "EMLYN!!!! :) ALYSSA!!! :)"

R'ehn did not expect -Kassi- to be handing out clues, just confusion, he
looks around, "So do we go on in?"

Telgar Weyr> Kassima says, "Yes, but wait'll you see the size of our
invasion force. Not only is it large, but we know what to do with it. ;)
(I'm sorry. It begged to be said.)"

Jannea wraps her arms around her, getting a bit chilled standing here while
the adults babble. "Yes papa," she says, taking the offered arm like a
grown up.

Telgar Weyr> Maylia snugs Emlyn, too!

Kindre finishes getting whatever items it was that she felt a need to
procure from her dragon and then trots up back towards the group. "I'm
ready when everyone is. Shall we begin the invasion," she quips and chuckles.

Telgar Weyr> Alyssa says, before she stops spamming, that she's missed
having a dragon and doesn't want to reApp when she had the Perfect Blue, so
she's trying this on for size. If all agree, she might get Adonith back.
We'll see. :)

Telgar Weyr> Emlyn returns the greetings (and beatings) enthusiastically.
Apologies to those of you choking on spam.

Lirra tugs on R'ehn's arm lightly, sighing. "C'mon, love. Let's go see
what's happened to the place since we last descended," she says, falling
into postion with the rest of the crowd of riders.

Jayna straightens her jacket, smooths her hair, and follows the pack.

Telgar Weyr> <Kassima> Lysseth blinks. << Adonith? Where? Where? >>

Telgar Weyr> Aurian says, "Cools"

Telgar Weyr> <Kindre> Herath << Mine! >> ;)

Telgar Weyr> Erdrick sticks his tongue out at Kassi, juse 'cause he wants
to then shuts up.

Kassima falls in after Kindre, assured that she looks moderately less
rumpled than usual despite being clueless. "After you, M'Lady Weyrwoman
Ma'am, All Hail Your August Grace."

R'ehn pads after the others, keeping an eye out for the scary Bitran lady
with the stick.

Kindre rolls her eyes and makes a warding off motion towards Kassima. "You,
O' Esteemed Wingleader, are pushing for dawn sweeps for the duration of
your life," she returns while waggling her brows.

Aurian shakes her head at Kassima, "Utterly twisted."

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

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

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

Lysseth> Maylia catches up with Aurian, offering her friend a smile, as the
group heads for the Hold.

Lysseth> Aurian grins at Maylia.

You walk down the stairs to the second floor.

Kena comes down the stairs from above.

Keriann comes down the stairs from above.

Aurian comes down the stairs from above.

M'rgan comes down the stairs from above.

Tenefel walks into the common dorm.

Jayna comes down the stairs from above.

Maylia comes down the stairs from above.

M'rgan rubbernecks his head around as he clomps down the stairs.

"Dawn sweeps for life? Oh, the horror! The horror!" Kassi wails, pressing
the back of her hand to her forehead as she trails after the Weyrwoman.
"That you should be so cruel to one who merely wishes to throw herself at
your feet in humble servitude, forever in awe of your golden glory and
radiant magnificence?" Putting an end to the display, she asks
conversationally, "Was that any better? I've been practicing."

Keriann looks around curiously, finally smiling as she seems to recognize
where she is now. She pauses by Kena for a moment and murmurs something,
nodding toward a hallway.

Jannea comes down the stairs from above.

R'ehn hmms and adds, "Falling to your knees adds to the effect, Kassi."

Aurian chuckles softly.

Lirra casts a highly amused look at a particular bronwnrider. "Have you
never been here, M'rgan?"

Jayna grins surreptitiously at her Wingleader, hoping that "dawn sweeps for
life" wasn't something Kassi'd be thinking about passing on to some hapless
wingrider.

"You," Kindre begins, "are a sick woman." The smirk that curls her lips
betrays her seriousness. "Now, it's been an age since I've visited here. I
believe we keep following the stairs down?"

Kassima assures R'ehn a touch impishly, "If'n I ever perform this way when
we're nay walking, I'll let you know. I figured someone might step on me
if'n I tried it now, and a squeak would spoil the effect. Hmm, Kin? Oh,
aye. Stairs down. And aye, I am; you expected else?"

Lirra nods firmly, pointing the way. "Right down that hallway, ma'am. I was
a steward here for a few Turns before Kaath."

Keriann nods to Kena, a brow raising slightly to the greenrider. "I do,"
Keri replies. "You're familiar with that?"

Kindre ahs and nods to Lirra. "You were? I wasn't aware of that. Why don't
you lead us onwards then, if you'd not mind," she asks the younger rider
and smiles.

"It's been...umm...a while," M'rgan eventually replies as he finally
settles down a little bit. As if sensing his weyrmate's attention going to
the hallway, he gives her arm a little tug. "You can splash around in the
water another time."

Lirra flushes significantly. "Me, Weyrwoman? Ah...all right? All right!"
she replies, eyes gleaming as she starts off for the stairs.

Lirra chooses the stairs leading down.

Kindre chooses the stairs leading down.

Jayna chooses the stairs leading down.

R'ehn chooses the stairs leading down.

Aurian chooses the stairs leading down.

M'rgan chooses the stairs leading down.

Maylia assembles her charges, as they've strung out a bit in the process of
heading down the stairs.

Jannea chooses the stairs leading down.

You choose the stairs leading down.

Keriann climbs down the stairs from the second floor.

Maylia climbs down the stairs from the second floor.

Neliea looks up and over towards Filliana, hand dropping to her side as she
smiles lightly, "Oh, I'm fine. I did eat some time ago, but I'm never one
to pass up a mug of klah." She's not about to comment on how warm it
happens to be. Not with half of Telgar arriving.

Kena climbs down the stairs from the second floor.

Kena follows close to Keriann. She mutters to Keriann, "... brought...
here..." 

Aurian tosses a light wave to Filliana as she notes the woman.

Tahira watches the descent with widening eyes, one after another after
another rider! Where they stop, nobody knows! "Oh, dear," she murmurs,
folding her arms. "There are a lot."

Kindre smiles wide as she joins the rather large group of Telgari entering
the grand Hall. "Telgar's duties to Bitra," she calls formally and inclines
her head. "I hope all fares well and prosperous?" Finally removing her
gloves and tucking them into her pockets, she falls into a more informal
stance. "I swear by Hera's shards that this place becomes more regal
looking each time I visit."

M'rgan walks in with his weyrmate, Kena, on one arm and his foster
daughter, Jannea, on the other. He himself doesn't look fit to be seen with
the two women as he is still wearing his dusty leathers and even has his
helmet and goggles still perched on his head. He looks around in confusion
as they enter the crowded room and his eyes cast around for people he knows.

Kassima follows Lirra, Kindre, and the rest of the Mass Telgarian Invasion
in, waving greetings to the room's people. "Duties to Bitra, her Lord, and
her Lady-T'Be!" she hails in greeting, always one to remember formalities
that aren't directed at her. To R'ehn, she side-quips, "Think I should fall
on m'knees and try the radiant magnificence line with the Bitrans?"

Alyssa comes in the large eastern doors from the courtyard.

Telgar Weyr> Alyssa says, "Oh, my goodness."

Telgar Weyr> Kassima says, "Welcome to Mass Invasion '98. ;)"

Telgar Weyr> Kindre says, "No kidding! Woo :)"

Naldo nods. "Hold's going to be crowded tonight.." He shrugs. "Well, more
company never hurt." He pauses. "Well, maybe once in a while it does."

Lirra strides down the stairs on the arm of a taller bluerider, calling out
with the others, "Telgar's duties to Bitra!" and grinning like a madwoman.
She peers over at Kassima and rolls her eyes. "Only if you want them to try
and send you up to the Infirmary."

R'ehn echoes the general line of greeting, "Telgar's duties..." He blinks
down at his wingleader, "You could try ma'am, but do you have to start
grovelling yet? Shouldn't you have a reason to grovel first?"

Telgar Weyr> Alyssa, the GatherHater, just BLAHs.

Keriann gives Kena an amused glance as they come into the Great Hall,
before she nods to the greenrider. "I should have known," she tells Kena
quietly in the bustle of the arriving riders, moving away from the stairs
to take a good look at the hall.

Tenefel climbs down the stairs from the second floor.

Jorenan comments to Naldo, "Just don't let 'em have more than a skin apiece
and you'll be fine."

Telgar Weyr> Emlyn hasn't been to a gather in so long. I remember when I
first started MUSH-ing that I would arrange my RL to make it to them, then
I'd be so frustrated that the RP sucked.

Filliana just glows with excitement as she looks about the room, nodding
and offering her hand to every rider she can find. "Hello! Greetings and
welcome to Bitra Hold! So good of you all to come! Oh dear!" She does seem
delighted to see Tenefel's presence as she quickly moves to his side.

Aurian calls a greeting, "Telgar's duties to Bitra and her lord."

Telgar Weyr> Alyssa grins at Emlyn.

Deckard spots Tenefel as he enters the great hall "Evening to you Sir" he says

Jayna just gawks, saluting everyone with a big knot.

Telgar Weyr> Jorenan recalls a Gather a long while ago where Emlyn in
another guise went. He just grins.

Naldo glances over at Jorenan, just now noticing him. He chuckles, and
nods. "Good plan. Bitra's duties, by the way."

Kassima waggles her brows at Lirra. "'Try' being the key word? Oh, all
right. I'll behave, honestly. If'n," and here she darts R'ehn a mildly
steely look, "nay anyone even tries calling me ma'am for the rest of the
evening. That means you, Kilt-Man." Like a good rider-type, however, she
abandons this line of conversation to sketch a bow to Tenefel upon his
entrance. "Duties t'you and yours, Lord Tenefel, and a g'deve t'your
honored personnage." A brow is quirked at R'ehn, as though to ask, 'That
better?'

Tenefel just glances around, shaking his head. "Full house tonight." His
arm comes out automatically to intercept Filliana's. "Evening, dearest."

Maylia leads a small troup of fresh-faced charges down the stairs, their
weyrling knots worn prominently, and their eyes glinting with the excitment
of the privilege of attending. The Weyrlingmaster herself is rather
stiff-backed, keeping an eye on them, but she nods approvingly as they
chorus "Telgar's duties to Bitra Hold."

Kena gives the Lord Holder a polite nod as she, Jannea and M'rgan try to
locate seats together.

Jorenan nods. "Bakercraft's duties to you," he replies to Naldo. "I'm
Jorenan."

Telgar Weyr> Maylia's blown away by spam... my computer just can't handle
this...

Tahira leans a bit closer to Naldo, then brightens abruptly. "Kassima,
R'ehn! Hello!" she calls, hurrying over to the riders she happens to know.
"Oh...hi, Lirra," she adds to her elder sister, making a quick face at her.

"Lord Tenefel," Kindre calls, her voice taking on its more formal
inflection again, "Telgar's duties to your lovely Hold and thank you for
letting us all invade like this." A smile curls her lips up high after she
says that. "Your kindness is well appreciated. I know many of us welcome
any chance to come to Bitra. Even if we leave with fewer marks then when we
came."

Telgar Weyr> Kassima remembers being thrilled that she was home sick once
because it was the day of a midday Gather. :)

Alyssa, easing into the doorway, tucks her riding helmet under her arm,
adding her gloves to the collection of assorting gear, and steps to one
side of the entrance to remain out of the side. To those nearest she offers
her weyr's duty, but her subdued voice lingers within a few feet and
carries no further, especially not in this crowded atmosphere.

R'ehn echoes the general greeting again, this time to Tenefel, "Telgar's
duties." He blinks at Kassima again, "Yes ma'am, wonderful." Spotting
Tahira he grins, "Heya' Tahira, how goes?"

Eloran comes in the large eastern doors from the courtyard.

Telgar Weyr> Kindre still remembers her first Gather...Ruatha Runner
Festival. I think I was online for 13 hours each day ;) 'Member Kassi? :)

Telgar Weyr> Emlyn winks at Jorenan. ;-)

Neliea weaves and makes her way towards some of the other riders she knows,
mainly Aurian and Jayna. In passing, though, she nods politely toTenefel
adding a "Telgar's duties" in the mist of so many others.

Telgar Weyr> Erdrick hasn't been to a Gather in far too long.

Naldo nods, and watches Tahira as she leaves. He sighs, then shrugs, and
turns back to Jorenan. "Naldo, a fisherman here. Well met."

Eloran walks out the main doors to the courtyard.

Telgar Weyr> Jayna giggles at the +where

Telgar Weyr> Kindre smoochies Emlyn...just cause :)

Telgar Weyr> Jorenan thinks we ought to do that again sometime, Emlyn. And
grins.

If Tenefel's arm could hold hers tighter, Filliana grips him totally with
excitement, dark eyes flashing at the merriment around the Hall. "Oh,
goodness, oh goodness!" is all she can say right now, watching those present.

Telgar Weyr> Neliea grins at Jayna. We do make an impression. :)

"Speak for yourself with that fewer marks bit, Kin," Kassi mutters under
her breath, while directing a light stomp towards R'ehn's most convenient
foot. "Tahira, good t'be seeing you! I'm afraid Lirra didn't bring her
painted underwear, and--what's that, V'dan?" The greenrider is tugging on
her sleeve. Turning, she espies what he's pointing to--namely, Alyssa--and
calls over, while waving, "Duties to fair Benden and her fine-blooded
queens, Lys!"

Tenefel laughs heartily, walking slowly through the crowded room. "Our
duties to you and to all of Telgar, Weyrwoman Kindre. And welcome. May we
not be concerned with the odd mark here or there but rather that an
enjoyable evening be had by all." He gestures to the rather finely clad row
of drudges lining one wall who disappear quickly, returning with skin after
skin of what looks to be Benden Red.

M'rgan mutters to Kena, "... follows... like... wherever she... follows
he... his head... to... ducks... to... weyrmate... a low... "Maybe... have
trouble... like... did... Tyrie.... I... you... that... divorced ?...
not... something.""

Jorenan follows Naldo's eyes.. Seeing only someone's back as she leaves, he
gives Naldo a curious look and then says, "Fisherman? What sort of fish do
you catch most often?"

Lirra echoes the call of duties to the Lord Holder, crossing her arms and
giving him a decidedly amused look before reaching out to ruffle Tahira's
hair. "Hey, shortie. Stayin' out of trouble?" She blinks at the Wingleader,
then rolls her eyes. "Kaaasii. I am -not- toting painted shorts."

Jannea tries to listen in on M'rgan's and Kena's conversation, but the
general babble makes that almsot impossible.

Jayna slides into a dark corner... or, rather, the closest thing she can
find to it in the well-lit hall. Smiling shyly in the crowd, she continues
to nod, keeping her ears and eyes open as she takes in the scenery.

Filliana mills through the crowd, still on Tenefel's arm, greeting each
rider or resident as she walks. "Greetings!" she smiles at Jayna, "I
remember you from the Tavern."

Naldo shrugs again. "Packtail, mostly. And a lot of yellowtail. A few
specklers now and then. Though the fishing's been a bit off lately."

Aurian pushes her hand through her hair, she occassionally glances to the
stairs looking for someone.

Raising her head, eyes seeking, then finding the source of the call, Alyssa
picks her way through the crowds toward Kassima, a slow smile working its
way into her impassivity. "Hello, Kassima."

R'ehn erks softly, tugging his foot back, "Owww, wen...", Okay, calling
your wingleader 'wench' is probably bad, "...ma'am." Not that that's any
better, "What'd you do that for?"

Jayna flushes pinkly at Filliana's words. "Uh... the Dawn Sisters, that's
right," she confesses sheepishly. "I hope you're well?"

Tenefel arches a brow at Filliana as she stops by a brownrider. "Tavern?"
Hmm, there must be a story here somewhere.

Kassima asks in a wounded voice, "That's what I said, wasn't it? That you
didn't bring your painted underwear? Someone, back me up on this." She
gives those nearest her a plaintive, pleading look, before inquiring of
Naldo--my, what sharp ears she has--"Have they been catching more shoes
than fish again? Because you ma'amed me, blueboy. Can't you stick t'wench?
That'd be an improvement." Okay, so her priorities are odd.

Whatever her weyrmate's comment was, Kena only acknowledges it with a
silent nod. She taps Jannea's hand as it plays the the piping of her sleeve.

Jayna grins at Tenefel, and salutes. "Yes, sir, tavern, I'm afraid.
Telgar's duties to you and your lovely hold," she says brightly.

Kindre hears the name "Alyssa" and quickly turns her head. "Dearest," she
calls and smiles wider than a bovine who has hidden from a dragon's
rumbling stomach. "It has been too long since we've seen each other." To
the Lord and future Lady she murmurs, "The Weyrleader has been detained to
mediate between a rider and cotholder. Seems the former's dragon took a
snack from the latter's field. He asked me to send his regrets and mention
he'll be along as soon as possible."

R'ehn offers an apologetic grin to Kassima, "Sorry, Kassi. You just seem so
ma'am'ly this evening."

Tenefel smiles, nodding to Kindre. "A tale I'll likely hear before too
long. From the Holder's point of view."

Kassima then turns to smile back at Alyssa, with great warmth. "What brings
you up here tonight, Wingleader? Nay that I'm objecting, a'course--'tis
always the finest of pleasures t'be seeing you--but I seem to recall 'twere
never one for... well, crowds."

Filliana glances down at her skirt, leg hidden under the burgundy folds of
velvet. "Much better Jayna, now that I've gotten that brace off. Much
easier to come visit Telgar now." Tenefel gets a smile, then a small flush.
"It's a long story, dear."

M'rgan muttered all of that while following Kena around like a puppy dog on
a leash. He had been glancing back in Lord Tenefel's direction now and then
as he followed his weyrmate to a table. Forgetting his chair-related duties
for the moment, the man strips his goggles and helmet off and then begins
to work on his gloves and jacket. "It's a long story or something. Hmm.
Pretty warm in here."

The small group of weyrlings, at Maylia's gesture, heads out to mingle,
leaving the Weyrlingmaster free to do so herself. Picking her way through
the crowd, she heads for Aurian, the brownrider's red hair easy to pick
out. "Quite the group," she murmurs to her friend.

Jayna smiles happily at Filliana. "Oh, I'm so glad..."

Alyssa ducks her head to Kindre and murmurs respectfully, albeit with
considerable affection, "Our duty to Telgar, Weyrwoman," and adds them to
Tenefel along with a polite nod. The glance she gives Kassima is ample
confirmation the greenrider is right.

DelVaak walks in the room from the upstairs, lookign around at the mass of
people.

Tahira glances back to Naldo, biting her lip, then rushes out, "Painted
shorts? What painted...oh. The ones you told me about, that's right. I
can't believe you did that, Lir. I just -doesn't- sound like you. R'ehn,
what've you been doing to her?"

Kassima looks as though she's considering cuffing R'ehn in the meanwhile.
"Those who look ma'amly are either respectable or old, and I'll remind you
that I'm neither. Better warm than freezing, Mart. How could one gamble
if'n their fingers were frozen stiff? Lys, how're things back home? I'd
heard that F'hlan's apparently feeling much better?"

Tenefel folds his arms and smiles at Filliana. "I have time. How long is it?"

Jorenan nods thoughtfully, listening to the list of fish. "Good eating,
those," he says. "And good oil, as well. It's been off, you say?"

Kindre's lips curl into a brief but genuinely apologetic smile. "I hope the
incident will cause you little problems. Hopefully our young Weyrleader
will be able to smooth things over," she remarks before refinding her
smile. "Again, I must say how truly lovely the Hold looks. Something about
the chill of winter that makes the area seem so pure." Alyssa's words are
returned with a, "And Telgar's to yours. It is truly good to see you." She
quiets to hear the reply to Kassima's queries.

R'ehn blinks at Tahira a moment before solemnly replying, "It's that klah
she drinks, I swear. Blame it, I'm innocent." He blinks down at Kassima,
the very picture of innocence. "But Ka-assi, you -are- respectable."

Naldo sighs, and nods. "Yeah," Then he grins. "Which isn't exactly a bad
thing, seeing as I get to work less. But it picked back up today, so it
looks like my vacation's over."

Jayna blinks, as she hears the words "Kassi" and "respectable" uttered in
the same sentence.

"He's doing well indeed, thank you; the respite from Thread during winter
will certainly help too." Alyssa shuffles her feet, trying as ever to seem
smaller than she it, invisible even. "I expect everyone is doing well at
Telgar? It seems Turns between my visits, though I hear good report of my
children."

Neliea starts to make her way over to Jayna, seeing that Aurian's occupied
and that only leaves the other brownrider in close distance. Raising one
hand in greeting, she smiles. "Hi Jayna."

Tenefel turns back to Kindre, no doubt giving Filliana a bit of relief.
"Why thank you, Weyrwoman. Our staff has been working extra hard to prepare
for your visit. I hope you find everyting convenient, plentiful and in order."

Kena slips off her jacket and carefully folds it across the back of her
chair. She quietly, almost shyly, listens to the conversations going on
about her. Quite unusual for the greenrider for anyone who knows her. She
holds out Jannea's chair and her fosterling takes a seat, still in awe of
her surroundings.

Jayna whews as she hears a familiar voice. "Nel!" she says with immensely
grateful cheer. "Heya, how're you? We found it," she adds, never one to
leave the obvious unstated.

That does it. Kassi, in that annoying fashion that she sometimes has,
reaches up with the intention of whapping R'ehn lightly on the back of the
head. "You're supposed t'fear me, nay respect me, lout. Or hadn't V'dan
told you? Nay matter. You'll learn, you'll learn...." She moderates her
voice for Alyssa's sake, and thankfully refrains from further
head-thwapping. "The Wings have been restructuring nicely. Maylia's just
taken over Kerlyn's place as Weyrlingmaster, M'hryn's underpants are nay
longer such a hot--pun intended--conversation topic, and Pierron's as
obnoxious as ever."

Lirra snorts at her sister and weyrmate, and heads off through the crowd to
locate an empty set of chairs and tug off her jacket and gloves finally.

Alyssa's head quirks to the side as she studies Kassima; something the
wingleader stated has Alyssa puzzled, assuredly. "Well...that's well, I
trust...."

Aurian chuckles to Maylia, "That it is."

"I've never found it to be otherwise," Kindre replies to Lord Tenefel and
smiles. "I miss being able to sneak off and fish in the river. Once Kassi
and I caught a rather nice supper for ourselves not too many turns ago. I
hope the season is treating you all well?" She turns her head to blink and
stifle a giggle at Kassima's words. "Ah, yeah...quite a -heated- subject,
that of the Weyrleader's underthings." Grin.

Filliana touches Tenefel's nose with the tip of her finger then laughs. "A
story that's best told over a glass of wine." She then moves in and out of
the riders and weyrfolk, finding Lirra. She greets her warmly. "I'd like to
personally welcome you to Bitra, and invite you and your lifemate to join
us anytime you like."

R'ehn ducks slightly, but is well and duly thwapped. This is par for the
course for him however and he just shakes his head with a congenially
apologetic look. "I'm fearing, I'm fearing." And so fearful is he, he
ambles after his weyrmate, looking terrified, no really, scared, honest.

Tenefel is left watching Filliana slink her way across the room. So it's no
real surprise he only hears half of what Kindre says. "Kassima heated the
weyrleader's underthings?"

Lirra straightens from adjusting her jacket on the back of the chair,
tilting her head, looking back towards Tenefel, and suddenly beaming like
there's no tomorrow. "You must be Filliana," she exclaims brightly. "Thank
you, thank you so much."

"People had quite the *burning* urge t'know about them for awhile, wouldn't
you say, Kin?" Kassima asks mischievously. "Ah, but I digress. Aye, Lys,
'tis well... though a bit less entertaining. I'll tell you, I still miss
Benden greatly. At least there were always J'lor's pants t'talk about.
D'you think," and this is to anyone in the general vicinity, "that anyone
would mind if'n I sat down?"

Neliea smiles as she comes to a stop next to her friend, shaking her head.
"I have never seen this many people in one room at one time, but I'm doing
fine," she replies, leaning against the nearest wall. "You?"

DelVaak quietly watches the room, leaning back against a wall.

It would take a denser man than M'rgan not to have noticed his normally
outgoing weyrmate's sudden quiet and strangely shy behaviour. Thrusting out
his chest and hand, he starts to greet the Bitrans and others that share
their table. "I'm M'rgan, brown Ularrith's rider at Telgar. This is Kena,
green Cymrith's rider. And our daughter, Jannea. You are?"

Jayna grins at Nel. "I know what you mean. Unbelievable! It's almost as bad
as a Hatching... Thank Faranth's golden tail the Bitrans are hospitable."

Alyssa nods to Kassima and steps back to give her room to seat herself, her
eyes traveling the room impassively, and, touching Kassima's sleeve, she
excuses herself with a mild promise to return shortly.

Alyssa walks out the main doors to the courtyard.

Tahira does a slow circle as her sister vanishes, rather adrift in this sea
of people. Instead, she reaches up to poke R'ehn in the arm. She mutters to
R'ehn, "Hey, I... sometime..." 

Kindre laughs at Kassima and nods her head. "Twas quite the conversation
warmer, eh?" A wink follows her words before she returns her attention to
Lord Tenefel. "Actually it was Telgar's former Weyrleader, K'tyn, who set
M'hryn's undergarments afire," she explains and stops. As if that explains
it all. "So," she continiues seeing that Filliana is socializing as well,
"how are things going with the Even Odds? I fear that I've yet to look
around it."

Maylia nudges Aurian, with a soft chuckle that's likely drowned out by the
chatter around her. "M'hryn's underthings become the object of yet another
discussion," she teases, then nods her head in the direction of the small
knot of riders around Tenefel. "C'mon, I think that's Alyssa," she says,
and heads for them.

Filliana motions to the table of finger food, "Please do help yourself to
some of Bitra's finest foods, prepared for you and your weyr." Leaving
Lirra to find her way, she hears M'rgan's introduction and moves close.
"I'm Filliana and on behalf of Bitra, I welcome you to the Sweep area,
M'rgan, Kena and of course Jannea. Please do make it your home."

Aurian blushes, "Shard it when is that going to stop being a topic."

DelVaak slowly walks next to the wall, watching the people, looking for
someone he may know, a stranger that he is.

R'ehn looks decidedly hopeful and nods emphaticly to Tahira, his hair
be-fluffing floomphily, He mutters to Tahira, "... name..." 

Kassima blinks at the Lord Holder's mention of her name, taken aback. "Me,
heat M'rhyn's underthings? Dear Faranth, nay, sir! I leave that to
Auri--err, K'tyn. I leave that to K'tyn. Hmm? Oh, a'course, Alyssa..." she
replies, not seeming to notice that the bluerider's already gone as she
seats herself. "Did I hear someone speaking of fish?"

Tenefel looks mildly taken aback. "Not looked around it? Well. It /is/ the
finest entertainment spot on the entire north continent."

Kena gives Filliana a very appreciative smile. "Thank you, Filliana of
Bitra," she says a bit formally.

Neliea grins over at Jayna, "It's always nice here when I choose to stop by
on errands. Gathers, I do believe, have more people."

Lirra just shakes her head, amused beyond belief before she turns and
nearly runs into a tall young man in a Bitran fisher's knot. "Oh, excuse
me..."

"I did," Kindre says to Kassima. "Remember when we fished the river," she
asks before tapping a finger on her chin. "That must've been nearly two
turns ago I believe? Mayhaps we'll have to get a gather of people together
and have a fry," she muses.

Filliana smiles back at Kena then adds, "Bitra is appreciative of what you
and your lifemates do. The Hold doors are always open for you and your
family."

DelVaak slowly walks towards the people, deciding to meet some people
instead of being shy.

Maylia edges her way through the crowd again, frowning slightly as she sees
the doors of the Hold close. "That was Alyssa, wasn't it?" She asks of the
nearest riders, those that had been speaking to the Benden Bluerider.

Keriann's jacket slips off her shoulder where it was draped, and she leans
over to pick it up. Her gaze caught by Filliana's dress as the brownrider
straightens up, Keriann inclines her head to the woman since she's nearby
and introduces herself. "I'm Keriann, Nyth's rider."

Tahira sighs up at the tall bluerider gratefully, nodding. "Thank you. Did
she tell you about it?"

M'rgan inclines his head to Filliana as he returns her greetings, using
more formal words than he did before. After the greeting is said he relaxes
a little, giving her a crooked grin. "I've been here a few times before.
Though most of the time I just saw the Hold from the sky. I don't think
I've actually been inside since I transferred from the Reaches."

DelVaak quietly grabs some food, just a little bit, quietly munching.

Kassima's eyes widen in admiration of the thought. "Oh, aye, Kin! Several
of us came back for another trip, actually, nay so long ago; that young man
there," she adds, with a nod to Naldo, "gave me one of those
lure-thingamawhatsits that truly do bring in the fish. A'course, I still
caught less fish than trees. D'you think we could arrange another outing,
once spring comes?"

Aurian trails after Maylia, trying not to hear anymore about M'hryn's
underpants.

R'ehn's brows furrow in decided confusion, "She probably did, but
thinking's not working this evening. What's the 'it'?"

Filliana turns quickly hearing Keriann's introduction. "Well met, Keriann!
I'm more than grateful that you could find the time to join us. May I show
you the food tables? Or drink perhaps?"

Jayna sighs at Neliea. "Hard to believe, though," she comments, eyeing the
crowd warily. "I'm so bad in crowds," she mutters.

Kena nudges M'rgan with her elbow. She mutters to M'rgan, "... In...
bubble... remember?"  She seems to relax more visibly. "Bitra has always
been so welcoming and friendly."

"If Lord Tenefel does not object," Kindre replies to Kassima loud enough
for the esteemed man to hear, "I think it'd be great fun."

DelVaak quietly munches, walking out of the crowd.

Tahira sighs heavily, wrapping her arms about herself. "-It-, R'ehn.
Oh...don't worry about it, all right? I'll tell you on the way there," she
offers, standing on her toes to try to peer over the crowd as if looking
for someone.

Telgar Weyr> Kindre snugs Kena and Keriann...y'know we really wanted y'both
to transfer to up the K-Kontigent, right? ;)

Kassima nods to Maylia, having indeed blessedly dropped the subject of
M'hryn's underpants. "'Twas, aye. She said she'd be back shortly... mayhaps
she went to attend Adonith. If'n he's here, Lyss is probably preening up a
storm as we speak." At the mention of 'friendly', she speaks up with,
"Gambling dens are friendly. Very friendly. Kin, I can't *believe* you've
never been in there."

Telgar Weyr> Erdrick kerhuhs?

"Another fishing outing?" Maylia asks, eyebrows raised. "Now that we've the
hang of catching fish, not boots and trees, might be an idea." she agrees,
inclining her head to the Lord Holder as she passes. "Once the ice thaws,
of course."

R'ehn ahhs quietly, not getting 'it' but very used to not having a clue.
"Just tell me when, I'm set whenever."

Aurian chuckles, "I am not ice fishing." She playfully tugs on the new
weyrlingmaster's knot.

Keriann shakes her head to Filliana, "No, thank you, I'm quite comfortable.
Bitra has always been most gracious." An overheard comment causes Keriann
to cast a quick glance to M'rgan, to see something.

Telgar Weyr> Kena gives Kindre her most winsome smile. 0:) *halo borrowed
from Keriann without her permission*

M'rgan's cheeks pinken at his weyrmate's nudge and mutter. "I didn't think
now was quite the right time to mention /that/," he tells Kena in a
whispered aside. A second later he is giving Filliana that broad, friendly
grin again, pretending that nothing just happened. "Yes. Uh, very gracious."

Maylia smiles softly, almost wistfully towards the Hall doors. "Well, I do
hope she returns," she tells Kassi, "I've not seen her in far too long.
Tierth always did have a liking for her." Even while she is engaged in
conversation, though, her eyes do not stop watching her charges as they
mingle.

Lirra gives the young man a quick smile, then heads off in another
direction to rejoin her weyrmate. "I don't think I ever remember it being
so busy here. This is remarkable!"

Telgar Weyr> Keriann grins at Kindre. "If the kiddos were allowed out at
night, it'd be even more." :)

Neliea inclines her head to Jayna as she crosses over to a chair instead.
Sitting and looking over the group, the rider replies, "Well, keep me
company then? I'm not really talkative in large crowds either."

Filliana smiles and then nods to Keriann, overhearing R'ehn's words. A few
quick steps bring her close to him as she holds out a warm hand in
greeting. "Welcome to Bitra Hold, R'ehn, please do feel it's your home and
visit us often."

Telgar Weyr> K'tyn woahs! That Bitra thing is going on, I take it?

R'val Sits near the group, klah in hand, "Mind if I keep you both company?"
He asks of Jayna and Neliea.

Kassima observes, "Almost every dragon had a liking for Lys, and she for
them... and little wonder. Even Lysseth was fond of her. Hey, Tahira, I
almost forgot t'be asking--how went the betting after Auri and I left that
night? I truly was sorry t'go, but Kay and Khari... well, y'know how it goes."

Telgar Weyr> Alyssa nods! Come visit, Kiat. I'd love to see you again.

Telgar Weyr> Neliea nods and snugsa Kiat.

Kindre's eyes widen. "Ice fishing is great fun though Aurian," she says to
the woman and grins. Her head nods with as several people mention the
welcoming feeling of the Hold. "Dear Filliana, I swear that this is the
friendliest Hold on Pern. That, of course, is enhanced but your charm and
kindness." Shaking her head, then, to Kassima, she says, "I've never had a
chance to visit the Odds, to be true. Or the marks. You know my luck."

Telgar Weyr> Kassima says, "Ayep, Kiat! We're invading en masse. :)"

Telgar Weyr> Kindre noddles! We're takin' over ;)

R'ehn nods amiably to Lirra, "It's certainly very festive." He blinks down
at Filliana a moment, grinning. "Thank you, ma'am." This is probably a safe
person to say 'ma'am' to, she's not likely to hit him.

Jayna nods enthusiastically and drops to a chair next to Neliea.
"Absolutely." She eyes her clutchsib the way a drowning man eyes a float in
the water. "So, how's Benos? How's Xylath? How's life?" she babbles.

Tahira turns rapidly from her conversation with R'ehn, giving Filliana a
grateful smile. "Getting around to everyone, ma'am?" she asks, then blinks
at Lirra. "Where were you?" she asks, almost in accusatory tones.

Maylia giggles, batting at Aurian's fingers as the brownrider plays with
her knot. "Ice fishing would be /cold/," she agrees. "How could it be fun?
You sit by a hole in the ice, shivvering, waiting for something to bite?"

Aurian rolls her eyes, "I'm sure."

Kassima's eyes twinkle with merriment. "Indeed I do know your luck, Kin.
Which is why I'm intent on dragging you in there tonight if'n I can. I
still need t'work back up to a decent total sum, after all that shopping.
A'course, the brownie did spoil m'plan somewhat by not bringing his marks."
She shoots Mart a look that can only be described as disgusted.

Tenefel looks up from his abruptly conviened conversation with the steward
who came out of the Even Odds and looks around, trying to get back in synch
with the surrounding conversations.

Filliana sends Kindre a bright, warm smile, "You're much too kind, Kindre,
it's Bitra that's been enhanced by the devotion and dedication of your
riders." She looks over at Neliea then smiles. "And their courage."

Dragon> Prometh bespoke Telgar dragons with << Where did everyone land?
Fire Heights? >>

Dragon> Telgar dragons sense that Lysseth nodnods.

Deckard comes in the large eastern doors from the courtyard.

Lysseth> With a quiet rumble in greeting, Prometh lands, then turns his
head to peer at his rider.

Filliana now seems satisfied that she's met and greeted the newest riders
to Telgar Weyr. A long breath doesn't seem to temper her exuberance at
seeing such a crowd in the Great Hall. "Oh Tenefel, such a delight to see
everyone, don't you think?"

Lirra slips an arm through R'ehn's, beaming at the to-be-Lady Holder again
before shooting Tahira a grimace. "What do you mean, where was I? Where
would I go, shortie?"

Neliea looks up at R'val and chuckles, "Did you bring enough klah for us as
well?" Hearing Jayna's questions, she pauses, blinks and clears her throat
lightly. "Oh, Xylath's fine, Benos is okay, and if life gets any busier, I
don't know what I'll do. So many errands have kept me tired most of the
time," she answers, not seeing FIlliana's smile since the rider takes time
to glance towards the tapistry nearby in thought, or so it seems.

K'tyn climbs down the stairs from the second floor.

Telgar Weyr> Arallia says, "What's going on at Bitra? :>"

Tenefel smiles as Filliana addresses him, immediately setting off in her
direction. "Very much so, dear." In a few strides he's back by her side.

Alyssa comes in the large eastern doors from the courtyard.

Jayna leans forward. "You -do- look a little tired, now that you menion it,
Nel... Are you sure you're well?" she asks, concerned.

Tahira sighs heavily, then throws her hands out and grabs both bluerider
and greenrider by the sleeves and starts hauling them through the crowd.
"Come on, you two. I have someone I want you to meet."

Kindre chuckles at the Thunderbolt Wingleader and waves her hands at her.
"I fear I may have to hide from the Odds this eve," she remarks and grins.
"I need to save my marks for Ista's Hatching you know." Filliana's words
obviously caused the proud smile that lights her face. "Dearheart," she
replies to the woman, "you truly are an asset to Bitra. I hope the Lord
realizes that." She says the latter with a wink towards Tenefel before
continuing. "I think being so close will only further our duties with you.
Nevermind give us all a wonderful excuse to continue to invade the Hold."

R'ehn grins at Lirra fondly, chuckling. "Shortie?"

R'val puts a pot down near Neliea and Jayna and grins, "More than enough
klah."

Telgar Weyr> Erdrick says, "Telgar Weyr Invades Bitra, news at 11:00."

Jannea tugs on M'rgan's sleeve. "Papa, would it be okay if I went to look
for Kiefer?" she asks.

Lirra returns the fond smile, murmuring, "Just don't tell her she's taller
than I am," before yelping lightly as she's tugged off through the crowd.

Filliana links her arm through Tenefel's, fairly beaming at Kindre.
"Weyrwoman, you grace our home.. you and your riders and their lifemates.
Bitra is proud to share her food, drink and a few games. Oh! Speaking of
that..." She turns so fast, she spins Tenefel around. "Is the food still
hot?" she asks Tahira with concern.

Kassima makes a face at Kindre. "Oh, now that's just too much. Life's
ultimate irony: a gambling den full of people, and nay a one's planning on
gaming? It could only happen t'me." With a melodramatic sigh, the
greenrider slumps a moment in her seat before straightening and reaching
for a pot of cider someone has kindly abandoned. "Anyone see any mugs
about?" she wonders.

Jayna snorts and waves to R'val. "Klah? Eh, maybe... although it's
certainly warming."

R'val grins at Jayna, 'Nothin' wrong with klah. Or are you in a wine mood?"

R'ehn is hauled off as well, quite content to be dragged along and hence
not have to think.

Tenefel is use to it. Life has been rather the whorlwind since the runner
handler from Boll showed up. He just moves with the spin. "It should be."
He, too, looks at Tahira.

K'tyn slips in, nodding agreeably at the crowd that has invaded this hold
from Telgar. "Duties," he says with cordial politeness as he passes the
native Bitrans and their leaders and heads for a quieter corner. "You seem
to have drawn a fair crowd; congratulations. Kindre, you look lovely. I'll
be over here." the bronzerider greets his weyrmate as he slips past.

Tahira stops, mid-tug, Lirra and R'ehn unfortunately in tow. "Ma'am?" she
asks, startled. "Oh, certainly, ma'am...the cooks spent all day on it, so
I'm sure it's just fine."

M'rgan hmmms, looking down at his daughter. He's taken back for a moment as
he realizes he doesn't have to look that far down. When did she grow up on
him? "Sure. Let's go look for your brother. Kena? Do you want to come along?"

Jayna winks at R'val and Neliea. "Generally, yes. But not tonight, too
much, I don't think. Don't want to disgrace the Weyr." She eyes Filliana
surreptitiously. "She was there that night in the Dawn Sisters. Wouldn't
want anybody to think Telgar's riders are a bunch of... well," she whispers.

Jehrina climbs down the stairs from the second floor.

Deckard parts the curtains in the southwest corner of the room and enters
the gambling den.

Deckard comes away from the Gambling Den.

Arallia comes in the large eastern doors from the courtyard.

Telgar Weyr> Sisirye says, "It okay if I pop over to Bitra too? :)"

Lirra, not expecting the sudden stop, does her best not to pile into her
younger sister and ends up piling into her weyrmate instead. "Oof.
'Hira...where are we going?"

Neliea looks up at Jayna, almost shaking her head quickly, but deciding not
to at the last minute. "I'm fine, Jayna," she replies quickly, looking over
to the klah with a greatful smile.

Kena nods and rises, grabbing her jacket. "If you will excuse me, Filliana,
we are going to go look for a resident of yours who happens to be Jannea's
brother."

Aurian waves to Jehrina lightly.

Alyssa seems to enjoy the position nearest a large hearth, though her
substantial height allows her a good vantage point. People watching and
simple observation serve well as the bluerider's amusements for the time
being.

Telgar Weyr> Kindre says, "Bad net :/ Of course Sisirye!"

R'ehn manages not to stumble, which is probably a very good thing. He
reaches back to steady Lirra with a grin, patient with the pause.

Filliana listens to Kena then smiles, nodding but not understanding.
"Brother? Our resident?"

Kassima wiggles her fingers in a greeting to Kiat, while filling a mug
handed her by a kindly soul with the poor, abandoned cider. "Hey, Kiat.
Quite a crowd, isn't it? Want some cider? Someone just left the pot here
t'die, poor thing."

Jehrina stops somewhere on the edge of the room, looking around. A grin
makes it's way across her face as she observes all the activity.

Telgar Weyr> Alyssa says, "BungeeKindre."

Jannea speaks up. "Kiefer, ma'am. He's a baker's helper here at Bitra."

M'rgan slaps his helmet back on his head and grabs his jacket and goggles.
"Is his room still on the second floor? Or was it the third?"

Tahira resumes tugging as Filliana's attention is taken elsewhere, finally
making it back to Naldo and releasing both riders. "Naldo, I wanted you to
meet my sister and her weyrmate, Lirra and R'ehn. You two, this is my good
friend, Naldo."

Telgar Weyr> Kindre aies :/ Just started locking up on me :/

K'tyn grins, seeing the retired goldrider out and about. "Rina," he says as
she passes. "Get some of the drink. I hear tis good," he advises, turning
to nod at Kassi who is nearer than he thought. "Cider? Give me two?
And...Wait a moment. Alyssa? Is that who I am seeing there, Kassi?" K'tyn
nudges the wingleader carefully, nodding toward the willowy blonde.

Filliana looks around the room, still beaming, then calls out to those
gathered in a loud voice, "Please do try out our tables in the Even Odds
after some food? The tables are groaning from our cook's work, please, do
eat!"

Tenefel nods to the steward who appears at the curtain to the Even Odds.
"Ahh, he says in a well audible whisper to Filliana. "Everything seems to
be ready." He releases her arm and heads that way.

R'ehn offers waved salute to Naldo, "Hiya, nice to meetcha'."

Jayna sighs. "Klah. Maybe what I need is some air," she comments.

Kena follows M'rgan and Jannea in search of Kiefer.

"Excuse me. Scuse me. Excuse...me." M'rgan starts to push his way through
the crowd, heading for the stairs.

M'rgan climbs up the stairs to the second floor.

Kena climbs up the stairs to the second floor.

"Two should be doable," Kassi agrees, gesturing to the tray of mugs. "The
servitors must've thought 'twas planning t'drink the whole pot by m'self.
Strange people." Two mugs are poured and then proffered, before she replies
to the latter query, "Unless there's someone running around with Lys's face
of late. Lys! Care t'come and assure Kiat that you're really you?" she
raises her voice to ask the bluerider, with something of a grin. And a
wave, belated, after the departing trio.

Jehrina wanders over next to K'tyn. "Is it? It's been ages and ages since
I've had good cider."

Naldo turns, and smiles as he sees Tahira. He turns to Lirra and R'ehn, and
nods. "Well met." he says. Then, to Lirra, "So, you're Tahira's sister, are
you? I've, ah... heard about you."

Kindre's eyes glaze slightly. Those who know her fairly well would likely
realize her attention is being drawn by her lifemate. "Shard it all," is a
quietly uttered curse from her before she makes her way back towards Lord
Tenefel and his fiance. "Thank you for your hospitality this evening," she
says while pulling her gloves out of her jacket pockets. "I wish I were
able to enjoy the festivites longer, but I fear I am needed back at
Telgar." Her slightly furrowed brows and tiny frown relay her true regrets
at having to leave. "Kiat, dearheart, forgive me for leaving the moment you
arrive love." She kisses her weyrmate on the cheek before offering, "Clear
skies and thank you."

Kindre climbs up the stairs to the second floor.

Lirra looks the young man up and down, half grinning. "Well met back at
you, sir. You have, huh? Not a word of it is true. I'm innocent, I swear.
R'ehn will back me up on it?"

Tenefel starts to reply to the weyrwoman but can't quite produce the
required formalities before she's lost in the crowd with her quick
departure. He nods and turns, heading into the Even Odds.

Kassima's ears perk up then at a pair--trio, really--of magic words: Even
Odds, and Food. "Gambling and eating make an excellent combination,
wouldn't you say, Aurian?" she asks the first brownrider she sees.

Telgar Weyr> Kena apologizes and has to log off. The curse of only one
phone line.

Telgar Weyr> Alyssa hugs Kena

Telgar Weyr> Kassima snugs Kena much. :)

K'tyn offers the cider, one to Jehrina, the other to Kindre who seems
intent on leaving, and thus refuses the beverage. Meditatively, Kiat downs
a portion of it himself. grinning rather foolishly about.

Tenefel parts the curtains in the southwest corner of the room and enters
the gambling den.

Alyssa pushes herself away from the wall and, shifting the grip on her
riding helmet, again approaches K'tyn and Kassima, her gaze briefly - and
sadly - following Kindre's exit from the room. The expression she wears for
K'tyn is odd, needless to say, but quietly appreciative for the
bronzerider. "Hello, Kiat," she murmurs, flashing her slender, introverted
smile.

R'ehn nods emphaticly, "I have no idea what I'm agreeing to, but sure I'll
back her up." Always agree with the greenrider.

Telgar Weyr> Kindre says, "Time to feed the rugrat :)"

Telgar Weyr> Kena snugs one and all! :)

Jehrina grins, waving after Kindre. She grabs the cup, taking a few
experimental sips. "Hm. Not bad at all."

Aurian nods to Kassima with a laugh.

Telgar Weyr> Alyssa hugs Kindre too.

Telgar Weyr> Alyssa actually snuggliebughugs, so there.

Jayna raises her eyebrows at Neliea. "You're fine? Are you sure? I still
say you look tired." She waves at a passing Bitran who smiles at her.

Telgar Weyr> Kassima snugs Kin and the small K-Teamer both. :)

Tahira winces, edging a touch closer to Naldo. "R'ehn's going to be giving
me that ride tonight," she murmurs to him informatively, fairly forgetting
the sibling and significant other.

Telgar Weyr> J'lyn waves!! :) :)

Filliana looks about the room then at her disappearing fiance. "I believe
Tenefel's going to get the tables warmed up. Anyone for a game or two?
Kassima? As I recall you had such an interest? Aurian?" She grins at them.

Telgar Weyr> Jayna snugs J'lyn. :)

Telgar Weyr> Alyssa says, "Hey, handsome."

R'ehn isn't entirely sure what 'that ride' entails, but he comprehends he's
giving a ride. So he just nods amiably.

Telgar Weyr> J'lyn BLINKS!! LYS!!!

Telgar Weyr> Erdrick waves back at J'lyn.

"By Faranth's first mate, lys! Tis lovely to see you again. You're doing
well? You and Adonith?" K'tyn inquires, laughing as he catches Jehrina's
comment. "What? You think they'd serve swill you you, Leilanth's rider? I
think not."

Telgar Weyr> K'tyn laughs! I did the same thing.:)

Telgar Weyr> J'lyn says, "Well, isn't this a banner night?? First bagpipe
lesson, AND Alyssa! :)"

Neliea reaches over for a mug of klah, glancing over at the brownrider with
an arched brow. "I've just been tired off and on for a couple of days.
Nothing important, Jayna," she replies easily, not at all worried.

Aurian chuckles, "I don't want to loose too much."

Kassima picks up her mug and stands, flashing Lys a quick smile before
ambling towards yonder food-table. Dinner awaits, and the greenrider
doesn't like to keep food waiting. "Better watch what you agree to,
Wingrider," she quips to R'ehn on her way past. "Keep that up, and you'll
find yourself agreeing t'be put in a dress and dance the dance with the
high-kicks for a smooth-talking Holder woman someday. Game?" Kassi's
attention swivels like magic. "But a'course! Give me but half a tick t'be
putting together a sandwich and 'twill be right with you."

Jehrina grins at K'tyn, "Not likely, but it's a nice surprise to have
something this good."

Telgar Weyr> Kassima snugs a Jal, and drags him over to Bitra! :)

Shrugging, Alyssa replies diffidently, "We're well enough, thank you. I
trust you and Prometh are well too." To Jehrina she adds a duck of the head
and a mumbled, "weyrwoman."

R'val glances at Neliea, "On an off?" He asks, casually, peering at her.

Jayna shrugs at Nel. "Well, you're the boss," she says, looking around at
the crowd.

Lirra looks from sister to weyrmate and then to Naldo, then shrugs. "Beats
me." At Kassima's quip in passing, she shoots the Wingleader a smirk. "No
dresses. Not this time of year. Okay, love?" she adds up to R'ehn.

Filliana walks over to Jehrina and K'tyn, offering her hands outstretched
to them both. "Welcome to Bitra Hold!" she says rather loudly over the talk
and laughter. "Have you eaten yet?"

R'ehn blinks down at Lirra a moment, still not generally following
conversations. "Yes, dear."

Deckard parts the curtains in the southwest corner of the room and enters
the gambling den.

Jehrina shakes her head, smiling at Filliana, "No.. I hadn't. My duties to
your Hold. Been a long time since I visited."

Telgar Weyr> Jorenan says, "Don't go, J'lyn. It's a spamfest like no other."

Telgar Weyr> Jorenan says, "Well, really, like almost all others. :>"

Telgar Weyr> Jayna says, "Is not. It's its own -unique- spamfest.""

Neliea peers over at R'val and just peers. "You're almost as bad as Benos,"
she mutters quietly before looking to Jayna and nodding. "I /am/ fine," she
confirms before takng another sip of klah.

Kassima does indeed whip up a sandwich rather quickly; apparently, she has
talents in that area. Fancy that. Kassi's the Sandwich-Maker. "There," she
congratulates herself, "a perfectly normal sandwich. Nay too much meat, nay
too much mustard. Nay dresses? Awww, but Lirra...! Well, how about a
sandwich instead? And then gaming?" Hope, hope?

Naldo blinks, and looks down at Tahira. "Tonight? But.. Ah, never mind. I
suppose it's better that you go a-dragonback. You'll be back sooner."

Telgar Weyr> J'lyn grins, and can only be on briefly. I need to check
J'lyn's kilt desc.

Lirra eyes the food for a long moment, then leans into R'ehn with a faint
shudder. "Love? I don't think I can eat right now. Can we try the cards?
Please?"

"It is pleasant. I like the herbs in it, takes the edge off, and heightens
the fruit's flavor," Kiat says thoughtfully to Jehrina after taking another
sip. He turns to Alyssa, 'I can't tell you how much...how much we've missed
you." A smile curves his mouth upward. "It takes me back years to see you
again. How are things at Benden? And will you come visit us at Telgar?"

"Hopefully it won't be so long now?" Filliana asks Jehrina with a beaming
smile. "This door is always open to you, anytime you're near."

Teya comes in the large eastern doors from the courtyard.

Tahira shrugs slowly, peering up beneath her lashes. "I thought the quicker
the better. Get this over with before Turnover."

R'val winks at Neliea, "Just worrying about friends, Nel."

R'ehn blinks down at Lirra, cards are a great fearfulness, but he nods.
"Sure, lead on." Oh, the things he'll agree to.

Teya comes into the hall looking very shaken. She creeps unobtrusively to a
chair near the hearth and curls up in it, hugging her knees to her chest.

Jehrina grins, "I keep forgetting things like that. Thank you. The cider is
really quite good."

Jayna sighs at Nel and R'val. "You know, air's sounding better and better.
I think I'll go check on the dragons, if you don't mind," she says,
standing. As if she couldn't check from her seat inside.

Alyssa's answers are couched gently, her voice staying within a
confidential register. "I visit as I may...Lysian is there, you know. We're
searching for a craft for Alnar now. Benden is quite fine...again, my
thanks." She pauses, then adds more quietly still, "It's a pleasure to see
you too, K'tyn."

Lirra sighs with relief and tugs the bluerider towards the Even Odds.

Neliea looks up at Jayna and nods, "I may join you in a while."

Lirra parts the curtains in the southwest corner of the room and enters the
gambling den.

Jehrina beams at Alyssa. "Hi, you."

R'ehn parts the curtains in the southwest corner of the room and enters the
gambling den.

Kassima, sandwich in hand, trails after R'ehn as Lirra drags him off. She's
got her food; now to see to the gaming.

You part the curtains and step into the gambling den.

Telgar Weyr> Jorenan is mildly astonished that no one took that bait,
J'lyn. That spam over at Bitra must really be tasty.

Tenefel opens his mouth in an 'ahh' just as the curtain parts. Whatever he
was about to say remains unsaid as he begins to greet the arriving riders.

Lirra pauses just inside the room, sighing with relief. "I always did love
it in...Tenefel!" she calls, lighting up. "Oh, sorry...Lord Tenefel," she
corrects, eyes dancing.

Kassima salutes Tenefel with her sandwich-wielding hand, of all the
ridiculous things. "G'deve again, sir... sirs," she corrects, with a grin
to Deckard. "Trying your luck again tonight?"

Tenefel smiles broadly. "Lirra! It's been quite some time! How's
your...everything? How've you been?"

R'ehn follows afterwards, quietly. He offers Tenefel a salute and grins
back at Kassi, "Careful, you'll get mustard all over yourself again."

Deckard nods to Kassima "Hello"

Lirra simply beams up at the former steward, shifting to her other foot.
"Lovely...did you know I'm at Telgar, now? Oh...Ten, this is my weyrmate,
R'ehn. And I'm sure you know Kassi, right?" She turns an illuminated smile
at the guard as well.

Tenefel salutes. Then looks at his hand, rubs his fingers together and then
just waves.

Kassima wrinkles her nose at R'ehn, objecting, "'Twill nay. This is a
perfectly normal sandwich--just the right amount of mustard to avoid
messiness. It wouldn't do t'be marking the playing cards, would it?"
Nevertheless, she's careful about taking a bite of the sandwich and
affirming--after swallowing, of course--"I've met the Lord a'fore, aye. He
most kindly manned the Trader Wheel for us the last time 'twas here, with
Aurian."

Tenefel smiles, nodding at Kassi. "That I did. And was poorly rewarded by
luck for my efforts too, if memory serves."

R'ehn nods another greeting, rather at a loss for wordage, although this is
probably a relief considering his blathering tendencies. "Nice to meet you,
sir."

Lirra rolls her eyes cheerfully, still fairly well hanging onto the
bluerider. "Kassi, please don't tell me you're winning my former home blind?"

Kassima clicks her tongue lightly at the Lord Holder. "Tsk, sir. If'n I
recall, our luck wasn't *that* fine, even if'n it did qualiy as passable.
What's the main game of this evening, if'n I might inquire?" A curious is
look is distributed around the gathering.

Tenefel nods back to R'ehn. "And I you, bluerider. Welcome. Try your luck
at a game perhaps?"

R'ehn looks vaguely nervous, he's in a gambling den...at Bitra...and
Kassi's here. He's doomed. He blinks innocently at Tenefel, "I think I will
hide behind Lirra instead, sir. I'm much better at hiding than gambling."

Kassima waggles her finger at Lirra. "Only a mark, greenrider, and that's
hardly sufficient by anyone's ideas! A'course, mayhaps the other players
did win them blind after I left... I've nay idea."

Tenefel continues to eye R'ehn as he answers Kassima. "With most of the
weyr here, I think we'll spread the activities out a bit. Blackjack for
some. The wheel or dice for others.

Lirra leans into Kassima, tapping her with a small wooden case and quirking
a brow. "Or in many cases, poker."

Kassima shakes her head leisurely as she responds, over the top of her
sandwich, "Hardly most of the Weyr, sir. If'n 'twere so, you'd be looking
at mayhaps two-hundred greenriders all in one place, nay t'mention all the
other types and the residents. Scary, 'twould be!" She gets a thoughtful
look on her face. "I daresay there'd be plenty of makrs amongst 'em,
though... ah, blackjack? Been a bit since I've played that. Poker has its
merits, though." The small wooden case has drawn her attention.

Tenefel, too, eyes Lirra's case. "And what might we have here?"

Lirra smiles serenely at the Lord Holder and does a quick pass of her hands
to stuff the case back into her pocket. "A pouch full of marks, sir. Those
were my cards, actually." Her grin turns wry. "I doubt I'll be using them
here."

Tenefel frowns, but somehow retains his amused expression. "Whyever would
you want to?" He pats the edge of the blackjack table behind him. "Our card
craftsmen are second to none. Not but the best for our guests!"

One can just see the marks dancing in Kassi's eyes as she listens to Lirra.
"A pouchful, y'say? Mmm-hmm. Would you mind terribly much if'n I joined you
at whatever game you choose? Wheel, cards, dice... well, nay dice. I'm
terrible at dice. How current are your cards, Lord Tenefel?" she wants to
know.

R'ehn takes a quick sidestep so as to hide behind the greenriders. Never
mind that he's taller than both of them, they're scarier than he is. He
retains his innocent look on the hope that nothing scary will happen to him.

Lirra inclines her head slightly at Tenefel, smile warming. "I was kidding.
I wouldn't dream of it, sir, and you know it. I adore the Odds, and know
the quality here." She turns back and holds up a hand to R'ehn. "Love? Will
you play?"

Tenefel scoots around the back of the blackjack table. "I could open a
fresh deck for you now, wingleader. For your inspection." He reaches below
the table and produces a half dozen decks, each bound with a rose colored
ribbon.

R'ehn does not -quite- squeak, but it's very close. He shakes his head in a
brisk negative, his hair befluffing floomphily, "Lirra, you're dangerous."

Tenefel moves over to the blackjack table.

Kassima cranes her head up at R'ehn, looking, as ever, bemused. "What in
Faranth's name are you hiding from *now*, R'ehn? I realize I owe you a debt
after you protected me from the evil rump-fetish people, but d'you really
want t'use it up when there's naught t'be worth hiding from?" However, the
new decks--and their rose ribbon, which she manages to refrain from wincing
at--draw her attention quite efficiently. "'Twouldn't dream of making you
open a deck a'fore its appointed time, sir," she protests, though her
curiousity is obvious.

Deckard moves over to the blackjack table.

Lirra whistles softly, eyes widening as she peers over Kassima's shoulder.
"Nice." She looks up slowly towards Tenefel with a small smile. "You've
done wonders, sir. Bitra's never looked better." At R'ehn's comment she
turns back with a wide smile. "Thank you, handsome."

Tenefel arches a brow as he unties one of the ribbons, deftly shuffling the
cards. "Rump fetish people?"

Telgar Weyr> S'dar says, "HOOOOOOOOO!! I'm gonna destroy D'ton with a belly
to belly suplex in front of all the fans, then I'm gonna slam him with the
death valley driver over the top rope, then I'm gonna finish him with with
a bodyslam like only I can. Rest in peace, brotha. Ohhhh yeeeeeeah!!!"

Telgar Weyr> Jehrina thumps S'dar.

Telgar Weyr> R'val says, "Take your medicine, S'dar."

Telgar Weyr> Aurian pushes S'dar into the cold waters of the lake.

R'ehn looks decidedly worried at Kassima, "But ma'am, you have to let me
hide behind you now. It's in the rules or something. You're the wingleader,
I'm the hider behinder." He nods to Tenefel, "They were worried about
whether or not Kassi's butt was honorable."

Telgar Weyr> Jayna takes notes furiously, so she can do the same to A'lex.

Telgar Weyr> Kassima says, "Sandy, I'm not sure whether to be glad I'm not
wrestling you, or to wish I was so that I could laugh myself sick when you
tried. ;)"

Telgar Weyr> Aurian says, "Kindre and I are planning a huge public Fiasco"

Telgar Weyr> S'dar wonders where on Pern he's gonna find a steel cage.

Tenefel has to look. He leans around the table and takes a gander at the
wingleader's tush. "I'd honor it."

Telgar Weyr> Jayna laughs. "This is like Weyr Celebrity Death Match."

Telgar Weyr> Alyssa says, "Kindre's got one."

"Is anyone else going to be playing?" Deckard asks Tenefel

Tenefel then quickly looks around to see if Filliana is nearby.

Lirra winces, closing her eyes for a moment, then smirks. "See, Kass? I
told you you should have given me your shorts." She pads away, leaving
R'ehn unprotected to peer at the Wheel. "Is this new?"

R'ehn does not -quite- laugh, but it's only by dint of much effort that he
does not do so. He's trying not to snicker, really. "It was a dangerous
place."

Kassima explains with frightening serious, "A'lex and Kiat were drunk, and
they were insisting on seeing people wiggle their rear-ends. 'Lex was a bit
persistant. R'ehn had t'fend him off with iced tea, but little did he
realize that 'Lex had his eye on him as a replacement for Mart, his prior
source of affection, and... well, you get the idea." Another stomp is
directed at R'ehn's foot at this new ma'aming, and she just groans and
turns an interesting shade of fuchsia as her rear end becomes a
conversation topic. "Can we *please* just gamble?" she begs. "Nay more
discussing rump honor?"

R'ehn is getting better at this, and nearly manages to elude bestompage.
Maybe next time. And there will be a next time, because he was born to
inadvertantly drive Kassima nuts. "Gambling is better than discussing
Kassi's rear end. She gets really annoyed. Not that I blame her... A'lex is
-scary-..."

Kassima nearly growls, and tries to give R'ehn's collar a tug. "Just get
over here and play and leave m'rump alone," she hisses, "or I'll tell
L'cher t'pinch yours next time you're on sweeps together. But aye, A'lex
*is* scary. 'Twill grant you that."

You move over to the blackjack table.

Lirra runs a finger along the side of the table containing the wheel, then
turns to join the others, slipping into a seat next to Deckard and smiling
briefly at him. "You must be new here at Bitra," she offers, extending a
hand. "Lirra, green Kaath's."

Lirra moves over to the blackjack table.

R'ehn gets hauled along, for once rather against his will, ack there are
-cards- and -Lirra- and -Kassi- in -one room-! Fear!

R'ehn moves over to the blackjack table.

Deckard says "Deckard,Guard Cadet Well met Lirra"

Tenefel tries to place the name. "A'lex...A'lex..." He looks puzzled, then
asks. "He's not that rather rotund little brownrider, is he? The bald one
that does sweeps sometimes?"

Lirra beams at the guard again, then bursts into laughter. "No, sir. A'lex
is a bronzerider. Tall, fairly handsome," she explains, then gives R'ehn a
particularly fond smile as he sits down next to her.

Deckard puts down 4 marks

Telgar Weyr> A'ser grabs A'lex triumphantly. "Ha-ha! Now We A's have all
the power we need!"

Telgar Weyr> Alyssa says, "The A-team!"

Telgar Weyr> K'tyn hmfs.

R'ehn stares at his cards in a generally mystified manner, oh yeah, we can
tell he's going to do -real- well.

Kassima nearly snarfs sandwich-stuff out her nose at that, but mercifully
manages to refrain. Barely. "Nay, sir; A'lex is Skyfire's Wingleader and
bronze Nraith's rider. M'Wing is ten times better than his Wing, but for
some reason, he's in denial about this." With a slight frown at her card,
she sets a quarter-mark piece on the table as her bet.

Telgar Weyr> A'lex DOHS as he wakes in the middle of the crowded LC.

Telgar Weyr> Alyssa says, "Lay off the sauce, Woofster."

Telgar Weyr> S'dar snickers.

Tenefel inquires of each player, "Bets?"

Telgar Weyr> S'dar says, "this is yucky"

Telgar Weyr> Jorenan says, "You think that's crowded?"

Telgar Weyr> Jayna says, "What's yucky, Sandy?"

Telgar Weyr> A'lex says, "Well, compared to my WEYR..."

Lirra eyes her cards for a long moment, then tugs out a pair of
quartermarks and sets them forward.

Telgar Weyr> S'dar says, "there are all these cool people on, and I want to
get out and RP, but I'm so tired. Working is hard on one's fun."

Kassima taps the mark piece she's laid down. "One-quarter, sir."

Telgar Weyr> Maylia w. a. v. e. s. as her connection is s. l. o. w.

Telgar Weyr> Jehrina says, "ahhaahaha"

Telgar Weyr> Jayna snugs Maylia superfastlike, to make it seem regular speed.

Deckard bets two marks

R'ehn frowns at his again, "Um I think I lost already."

Telgar Weyr> Jerissa says, "Maylia!!!"

Telgar Weyr> Aurian smoohes a Maylia

Telgar Weyr> Aurian smooches rather

Filliana comes in from the rest of the great hall.

Telgar Weyr> A'ser steals Maylia away and leaves with her.

Telgar Weyr> Aurian says, "Hey that's my maylia"

Tenefel smiles at Filliana as he stands behind the blackjack table, wearing
the dealer's visor.

Filliana walks in, smiling at the gamblers. "Are the tables smiling on you
all?" She quickly walks over to Tenefel's side, sliding her arm around his
waist.

Telgar Weyr> Maylia says, "Oak, willow, or maple leaves, A'ser? *smoochalex*"

Filliana moves over to the blackjack table.

Tenefel notes each bet as it's placed on the table. "Hit or miss,
wingleader?" He smiles at Filliana. "It's the first hand. I think the lot
of 'em are bluffing, though."

"Don't know yet" Deckard tells Filliana "This is only our 1st hand"

R'ehn's eyes widen at Filliana's question and for a brief moment he stares
at the table in horror, then realizing it's a figure of speech he looks
relieved. "I think I lost," he reiterates.

"'The day you see a table smile at you is the day you know 'tis time t'give
up the hard liquor,'" Kassima quotes. Frowning at her cards, she mutters
and grumbles a bit, but says, "Hit me. And nay literally, please, though
I'm sure R'ehn at least is thinking of it."

At the blackjack table,  Kassima's hit is: 8/Dr.

Filliana grins at R'hen, understanding his surprise. "Our tables do odd
things here, hence part of the name perhaps?"

R'ehn does look up as Kassi mentions requesting a beating. All innocence he
just grins at her.

Tenefel turns to Lirra next. "And you, miss?"

Lirra looks up, brow quirked. "Miss? Hmpf. Hit me, if you would, sir."

R'val comes in from the rest of the great hall.

Sisirye comes in from the rest of the great hall.

R'val steps in with Sisi, and hrms at her, "What do you want to play?
Cribbage, poker, dice?"

Telgar Weyr> Maylia smacks her computer around. What the heck IS a
WSAEinprogress error anyways!

Tenefel nods appreciatively, turning to Deckard. "And you, sir?"

Deckard says "Hit me too please"

At the blackjack table,  Deckard's hit is: 12/Sh.

Your hand is: 10/Sh 13/Sh 8/Dr

Tenefel flips over a card in front of him. "And the dealer will take a hit
as well."

At the blackjack table,  Tenefel's hit is: 11/Ha.

Deckard looks at his cards and adds them up "Shards" he says

Telgar Weyr> K'tyn snerks at the grwho.

Tenefel peers at Kassima's hand. "The wingleader has twenty one showing."

Kassima, peering at the cards, wisely observes, "That's probably nay a good
sign."

Tenefel scans the other hands, merely remarking, "Quite."

Lirra casts a glance at Kassi's hand, one brow lifting silently.

R'ehn continues to peer at his cards, looking as clueless as he's purported
to be.

Kassima, pretty clearly out of the game, nudges her betted piece towards
the center pot, wherever it is, and slides back in her chair to watch the
others.

Tenefel strokes his chin. "Lirra? I'd argue it's up to you and me. Hit?"

R'ehn was never in this game really, they just gave him cards and he's
stared at them in bewilderment. He notes again, very softly, "I think I lost."

Tenefel smiles to the tall rider. "One never really loses till one gives up
trying." Easy for the house to say.

Kassima says to R'ehn sympathetically, "Join the club. But at least you
didn't see the table smiling. That's just too scary."

Deckard looks over at the Rider "Same here,maybe we'll do better next hand"

Sisirye phazes out for a few minutes and then blinks over at R'val "What?
Oh...I gotta run for a minute R'val. I'll be back."

Sisirye parts the curtains and steps out into the rest of the Great Hall.

Lirra folds her arms impassively, looking straight up at Tenefel. "Hit me."

At the blackjack table,  Lirra's hit is: Face/Dr.

Tenefel smiles. "Exquisite. The house also takes a hit."

At the blackjack table,  Tenefel's hit is: 8/Sh.

Tenefel's face is a well practiced mask of passiveness. "Again, Lirra?"

Telgar Weyr> Ro looks at the wrestling match board...."Eeep, I'll smoosh
her..."

Lirra's eyes flicking downward, and then back up, a serene little smile
answering. "If you would, sir?"

At the blackjack table,  Lirra's hit is: 3/Dr.

Tenefel does give Lirra an appreciative nod. "Again?"

Lirra is thoughtful for a long moment, then leans back in her chair and
quirks a brow. "Certainly."

At the blackjack table,  Lirra's hit is: 6/Dr.

Lirra's lips quirk, then nudge up into a grin. "Ah, well. Excellent game,
m'Lord."

Tenefel casually rakes in the marks as Lirra goes over twenty one. "Another
hand?"

Deckard says "sure I'll try againe""

"One more," Kassi agrees, glancing at her partners in crime. "And then the
Wheel, mayhaps? I get the feeling that it likes me better."

Telgar Weyr> Alyssa says, "Oh. My. GOSH."

Lirra inclines her head as well, leaning into R'ehn lightly. "One more,"
she agrees, then smiles up at him. "Is that all right, love?"

Telgar Weyr> Alyssa says, "Alyssa's nearly 31."

Telgar Weyr> Aurian says, "Eep"

Telgar Weyr> Alyssa says, "Man man man man man."

R'ehn blinks a moment at the table but then nods to Lirra, "Sure, yeah,
anything you like."

Telgar Weyr> Kassima snorts. She's only two Turns older than Kassi. :P :)

Telgar Weyr> Alyssa says, "Lys was a late starter. :)"

Telgar Weyr> Alyssa says, "Well, anyways. Night, gang. Thanks for the
indulgence. :)"

Telgar Weyr> Tiya snugs Alyssa!

Telgar Weyr> K'tyn snugs! G'night.

Your first (down) card: 13/Ha.

At the blackjack table, Kassima's second card (up): Face/Dr.

At the blackjack table, Lirra's second card (up): 11/Ha.

At the blackjack table, Deckard's second card (up): Face/Dr.

At the blackjack table, R'ehn's second card (up): 7/Sh.

At the blackjack table, Tenefel's second card (up): 13/Sh.

At the blackjack table, The last card is placed up and the dealer taps the
deck. The first round of betting begins.

Filliana smiles at the group, that beaming face that's not changed since
the festivities began. Her hand slides up to Tenefel's back, rubbing it
gently as she says, "Only one? How about something to drink?" She motions
to a drudge who scurries out, only to return with a bottle of brandy.
"Anyone like a drink?"

Deckard looks up at Filliana "No thank you"

Lirra regards her hand with utter impassivity, then says simply, "Fold." At
Filliana's offer, she begins to smile warmly but swallows convulsively.
"Oh...ah, no thank you, m'lady."

Tenefel smiles. "My usual, love." He touches her on the hand gently. "Thank
you."

Kassima, ever Kassima, eyes the bottle with interest. "Is that... 'tis nay
brandy, is it?" she asks, while eyeing her cards mistrustfully. Hmmm.
Tentatively, a half-mark is placed to the side of them: her bet.

R'val parts the curtains and steps out into the rest of the Great Hall.

Deckard sets down one mark

R'ehn regards Lirra askance and his cards equally so. He mutters to Lirra. 

Filliana does nod at Kassi before sending the drudge out for clean glasses.
As the harried girl returns, she fills several glasses then pushes them
forward to whoever wants them. Tenefel gets a special cut glass, etched
with Bitra Hold's seal. As she holds it out to him, she smiles then places
a quick kiss on his cheek. "I know, Kassi, you'll want to gag, but not
before having one of them?" She indicates the brandy glass by the rider.

Tenefel notes the bets have been presented, and he asks each player in
turn, "Hit?"

Lirra inhales sharply at the scent of the brandly, eyes flying open wide as
she leans into R'ehn and says faintly, "I'm over."

Deckard says "Hit me"

Kassima accepts a glass quite happily, as well she might; there's *brandy*
in it, after all. "With alcohol t'brace me, mayhaps I can stand for a time
against the tide of nausea," she teases the Lady-to-be, before replying to
Tenefel, "Hit, m'Lord, if'n 'twill."

R'ehn pauses to count a moment and shakes his head at Tenefel. He regards
Lirra in a worried fashion.

At the blackjack table,  Deckard's hit is: Ace/Dr.

At the blackjack table,  Kassima's hit is: 4/Dr.

Tenefel thinks for a moment, then flips a card onto his own pile.

At the blackjack table,  Tenefel's hit is: Face/Ha.

Lirra leans a bit more on her weyrmate, paling. She mutters to R'ehn, "...
I, well,... smell... to..." 

R'ehn looks mildly confused but shakes his head in a gentle negative.

R'ehn looks from his cards to the general field of play for a moment,
looking rather speculative. Well, he hasn't announced that he's lost, so
who knows.

Kassima purses her mouth, then shakes her head. "Stand," she decides,
though she seems pensive at best.

Tenefel chuckles at the coaching, glancing at one of the 'guest
specialists', a bulky man of about two hundred fifty pounds, with a subtle
shake of his head. "Another hit?"

Deckard says "I'll take one"

At the blackjack table,  Deckard's hit is: 6/Sh.

At the blackjack table,  Tenefel's hit is: 2/Sh.

Deckard says "Ok I'll stand"

Tenefel smiles, finally noting the arrival of the drink. "You're wonderful
love. Thank you." He pats a sport on the table next to him.

Tiya comes in from the rest of the great hall.

R'ehn blinks up from his cards again, still looking bemused. Spotting Tiya
as she enters he grins broadly, waving slightly to her. "Evening, Tee."

Filliana catches sight of Tiya's entrance, then her knot. "Ah, another of
our guests! Welcome to Bitra Hold, I'm Filliana and this is Tenefel. Or
have you two met?" she smiles sliding into the seat Tenefel indicated.

Tiya, still looking just a bit sheepish, calls a soft, "Telgar's duty."
Shaking her head to Filliana, she says, "No, ma'am, we haven't. Not yet, at
least." She offers a smile to the gathering, still hovering near the curtains.

Kassima waggles her fingers begreetingly to the arrived greenrider. "Hey,
Tiya," she hails. "Want t'watch us lose at cards again? And play the Wheel
later? You can win a lot of marks at that." Kassi, evidently, never
entirely stops hoping to fleece someone.

Lirra lifts up slightly from R'ehn's shoulder, offering the other
greenrider a wan smile. "Heya, Tee. Join a game?"

Tenefel asks again, bringing the player's attention back to the table for
at least a few moments. "Hit anyone?"

Deckard says "No,I'll still stand"

R'ehn shakes his head in a brief negative, "This is a really violent game."

Kassima shakes her head after a moment's mulled thought, repeating,
"Stand." A pause, and then the oh-so-confidence-inspiring, "I guess."

At the blackjack table,  Tenefel's hit is: 6/Dr.

Tiya shakes her head to Lirra. "That wouldn't be a good idea, dear. I don't
really know the rules." And lo, cardsharks everywhere take note. She moves
to look over R'ehn's shoulder, peering at his cards.

Lirra is well out of the game already, swallowing every so often through
clenched jaws. "You can take my place," she offers to Tiya lightly. Lirra
offering her place at a card table?

Tenefel smiles, "Dealer stands pat. Shall we flip them now?"

Kassima gestures resignedly. "Flip away, m'Lord Dealer. Lirra, are you all
right? You look ill. Surely your hand wasn't *that* bad."

At the blackjack table,  Tenefel deftly turns over each hand with a skill
from long hours at the tables.

At the blackjack table,  Kassima's hand is: 13/Ha 4/Dr Face/Dr

At the blackjack table,  Lirra's hand is: 11/Dr 11/Ha

At the blackjack table,  Deckard's hand is: 12/Sh 6/Sh Ace/Dr Face/Dr

At the blackjack table,  R'ehn's hand is: 13/Dr 7/Sh

At the blackjack table,  Tenefel's hand is: 13/Sh 2/Sh 6/Dr Face/Ha

R'ehn nods at Kassima's comment, as it's echoed his own multiple muttered
ones.

Tenefel glances around the table, doubling R'ehn's marks while collecting
everyone else's. "Exceptional luck, sir." he says to the rider.

Filliana looks over to Tiya, catching her eyes. "It's good to see you could
make it tonite. Are you hungry? There's plenty of food left out in the Hall
if you've not found it already. We are glad to see you now at Telgar.
Please feel free to stop by the Hold anytime you're in the area. Anytime."

"Aww, bloody shells," Kassi grouses mildly. "Looks as though the hand's
yours, R'ehn. Congrats, and expect me t'take those marks out of your hide
when next I go to assign your duties." She's kidding, though; her tone's
too light for her to be serious... right? Hopefully for R'ehn, anyway.

R'ehn blinks at Tenefel in decided confusion, still entirely mystified as
to the way this game works. "Huh?" Ah, he's gifted isn't he.

Deckard says "Well that enough for me,good game people"

Deckard parts the curtains and steps out into the rest of the Great Hall.

At the blackjack table,  Deckard leaves the game at the Blackjack Table.

Deckard comes in from the rest of the great hall.

Lirra casts a small frown at those around her, but is assailed by another
barrage of oders as someone nearby takes a drink. "Congratulations, love,"
she murmurs, squeezing the edge of the table slightly.

Deckard says "Good night all"

Tenefel smiles, "Good night, Deckard."

R'ehn mutters to Lirra, "Why... take... home to the..."

Kassima would probably be that someone nearby, consoling herself with
brandy after the loss of--gasp--three-quarters of a mark. For a gambler,
she's remarkably tight-fisted. "Did you want t'try the Wheel, or will you
need t'try the necessary first, Lirra?"

Tenefel turns to Filliana. "Have the bulk of the guests gone, love? Or are
they still out in the Hall?"

Lirra flashes an irritated look at R'ehn. "I -don't- need a healer," she
asserts, then gives Kassi a wan look. "Um...I'm not sure, actually."

Tiya, catching only part of Lirra and R'ehn's conversation, asks the
former, "Why do you need a Healer, dear? You do look a little ill."

Filliana looks out through the door, then answers, "I don't think so, I
think there are some outside in the Hall yet."

At the blackjack table, The dealer shuffles the cards at the blackjack
table, preparing to start a new game.

Tenefel finishes shuffling and reties the deck with the ribbon. "A most
splendid game. Shall we try something else perhaps?

Kassima nods only too readily in agreement. "Sounds like a plan t'me, sir.
And I must say that the cards looked quite excellent. But then, any deck
without me in it looks good t'me. Tiya? Would you be up for a game?"

Tiya shifts her gaze from Lirra to Kassi, with a soft chuckle. "Mm.
Kassima, I don't think that would be a very good idea."

Kassima shrugs and asks, "What's t'know about the trader wheel? You pick a
color or a set of numbers, and watch it spin. That's what I like about it:
'tis pure luck, nay skill at all."

Lirra grimaces at the floor, shaking her head again. "I don't need one,"
she reiterates. "It's just...something. Bad wherry back home or something,"
she protests, then turns positively green as a glass is drained nearby.
"Oh, dear... Um, the Wheel, then?"

Filliana consciously looks at Lirra then suggests, "There's a healer at
Healer Hall who I've heard is good. Treya's her name. Maybe you know her?"

Tiya's look at Kassi, miraculously, doesn't hold any suspicion, but she's
distracted by Filliana's words. "I've heard good things about her as well,"
she suggests softly.

"Treya's got t'be better than Ushu," is Kassi's oh-so-helpful note. "Or
Garant, unless you like bad puns."

Lirra swallows again, taking short breaths. "I don't need...Treya? I know
Treya," she says quietly. "She's wonderful."

Tenefel moves away from the blackjack table.

Tenefel moves over to the trader wheel table.

Kassima does agree, after setting her empty glass aside for Lirra's sake,
"The Wheel, but only if'n you're certain you're up to it."

Filliana moves away from the blackjack table.

Filliana moves over to the trader wheel table.

Lirra moves away from the blackjack table.

You move away from the blackjack table.

Filliana looks sympathetically at Lirra then nods. "She may be willing to
come and visit you. I hear she's Journeyrank now. Just for a checkup?
Everyone should have one, don't you agree?"

Tenefel coughs at his fiance's question, not being one for healers.

"Nay," remarks Kassi, positively and at once. "Unless they've reason t'be
thinking they need one, I suppose. And even then, only if'n they're
*really* sure."

Tiya nods her agreement to Filliana's words, trailing a few steps behind
Lirra. Kassi gets a pasted-on smile.

Lirra tilts her head to Filliana, managing a small smile. "I'd love to see
her again just to see her. She gave me my candidate physical." She suddenly
grasps at the table again, then looks up at R'ehn pleadingly. "Love?" she
gasps out. "Take me home? Please?"

Kassima pauses to watch Lirra with concern. "Shells," she mutters, "I don't
think now's the best time for games. Lirra, is there aught I can do? Need a
bucket?"

Tenefel looks sharply at Lirra. "Are you alright?" He approaches, unsure
what to do.

Lirra waves a hand at Kassima, grimacing. "Stay, Kassi...I'm fine," she
urges, then swallows again, eyes widening in alarm as R'ehn seems to be in
discussion with one of the guards. "I'm...fine...really," she breathes,
then by sheer force of will peers at the Wheel. "This is really nice," she
ventures.

Tiya murmurs something about her brother that is perhaps not as nice as
Tiya usually is, and gives Lirra's shoulder a gentle pat. "Do you need a
hand, dear?"

Kassima nods at Lirra, though she seems concerned, and snatches V'dan's
abandoned riding helmet off of the table... just to have something handy if
Lirra should change her mind. "If'n you're certain..." she agrees, dubiously.

Lirra takes long deep breaths, then suddenly casts a somewhat wild glance
at R'ehn, grabs V'dan's helmet from Kassi and murmurs, "Telgars
duties...excuse me!" in a rush, hurrying out of the room.

Filliana's eyes go big as she watches Lirra's quick exit. She stands then
follows her out the doorway.

Tenefel follows Filliana out.

Lirra parts the curtains and steps out into the rest of the Great Hall.

Filliana parts the curtains and steps out into the rest of the Great Hall.

"V'dan's going to kill me," Kassi observes in a murmur. "I hope she's all
right... has she been seeming at all ill after drills lately or the like?"

Tiya shakes her head slightly. "Not that I've noticed," she says, brows
lowered in concern.

Tenefel parts the curtains and steps out into the rest of the Great Hall.

Kassima nods vaguely, brows lowered in pensive thought. "Could've been bad
wherry back at the weyr, like she said, but 'twould nay think Ofira would
serve such."

Tiya nods her agreement, gaze on the curtains. "No, she wouldn't," she says
softly.

Kassima reattaches her marks-pouch to her belt, then hooks her thumbs
through the strap-rings. "'Tany rate, I suppose card-playing might nay be a
good occupation for the rest of the night." Tilting her head, she suggests,
"Mayhaps the flu that the lads and lasslings had mutated or some such?"

[Editor's Note:  Shortly after this, I had to go, so the log ends
here.]