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Symphony In Black and White


Date:  October 24, 2004
Places:  Bitra Hold's Courtyard and Great Hall
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:  Here we have the Harper Concert at Bitra in its 
entirety.  Kassima didn't join the scene until it was underway, so I've
taken the liberty of including the Great Hall +watch before she got 
there.  This was a great event:  various Harpers have agreed to put on 
a premier event for the Hold, which personages from all over Pern 
attend.  It's a night for beautiful music and beautiful dress... but
less-than-beautiful politics.  

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The Log:

Bitra Great Hall> Vorlin climbs down the stairs from the second floor.

Bitra Great Hall> In honor of the day Vahara sits at Lord Vorlin's table.
Not in His chair this time, but somewhere a few seats down on one side.
Emerald eyes are watching the hustle and bustle of the hold as everyone
prepares for the concert to come in the evening and, upon occasion, the
lady answers questions and gives instructions. She doesn't seem
particularly stressed by the situation and then lends a calm to the others
who speak with her.

Bitra Great Hall> Vorlin is impeccably dressed as he glides into his great
hall, but then, isn't he always? Everything is looked over with a critical
eye but then there's an almost impossibly approving nod and he takes up his
position in his chair. "Good evening, Vahara. All looks well. How did your
luncheon go?" Polite conversation between titanic cousins as the wine is
served.

Bitra Great Hall> Vahara looks blankly at Vorlin a moment before a bright
smile descends upon her fine features. "It's going to be a delightful
evening." Now there's silverly laughter, "Luncheon was divine.. both food
and company. You have chosen well, as always, Vorlin. At the new boots
working out comfortably enough?"

Bitra Great Hall> Vorlin lowers his voice as he continues the conversation,
He mutters to Vahara, "... approve... guardian then, dearest cousin?...
would... to asking.... true... M'rek... outstretched... This...
situation... much... unless... something... to... on... his father or...
cousin." 

Bitra Great Hall> Genevieve climbs down the stairs from the second floor.

Bitra Great Hall> Vahara sits at Vorlin's table and speaks quietly with him
in the moment, She mutters to Vorlin, "... is a... my... I'm... work out...
I... know why... undo... wondering... to... situation at... Or... you...
your... Southern Boll already?" 

Bitra Great Hall> Genevieve takes the last few steps down into the Great
Hall, hand smoothing down the skirt of her dress carefully. Her cheeks are
flushed a pleasant rosy color. Blue-hued eyes dart to where the stage has
been set up - and that is the direction her feet first take her, pausing
just by it to look it over - taking a deep breath before she strolls over
to the serving table, taking up a mug and filling it with water.

Bitra Great Hall> Vorlin chuckles in his softly wicked way, "That is the
plan, my dear. You just work on those contracts." Lord Bitra settles into
his chair and then he looks at his cousin with sharp, glittering eyes, "And
Vahara? Do not dare to ever sit in my chair again."

Bitra Great Hall> Vahara bats her sooty eyelashes at Lord Bitra then, a
dazzling smile is quick to her lips, "I've little enough desire for a
chair, my Lord." Daring words spoken and then followed with teasing
laughter that's lilting in tone. Her eyes come very close to daring the
Lord to a verbal sparring right when the hustle and bustle of the harpers
is starting to warm. At the last moment Vahara puts her fingertips to her
mouth and blows Vorlin a kiss, "It will be a divine concert and everyone
will have an enjoyable time. We've made sure of it."

Bitra Great Hall> Kasedy climbs down the stairs from the second floor.

Bitra Great Hall> Vorlin arches his eyebrows at Vahara and then makes a
snort through his nose and takes a drink of wine. He mutters to Vahara,
"... far too pretty to... it,... cousin."  Glass settled once more, he
watches what's going on.

Bitra Great Hall> Kasedy glides down the stairs, hands upon her skirt and
her immediate destination is clear. With one sweeping glance aross the
faces, the redhead move towards Vorlin's table, curtseying deeply when she
arrives there, "Good evening, my Lord, Cousin Vahara." The woman's smile is
gentle and each move she makes seems to be calculated to achieve the most
elegance possible, "I hope this exciting evening finds you both well?"
She's using every ounce of her Etiquette and Speech lessons to manage this
performance of hers, only the very smallest trace of accent slipping into
her speech occasionally.

Bitra Great Hall> Lily shuffles in, stopping just behind Genevieve. "Hey!
I'm here. Where do I put this? Just keep it with me?" She holds up a harp,
mid-sized really, and looks her friend over. She sets the thing down next
to her, sighing with relief. Her arms are sore from hauling that thing
around everywhere...all day.

Bitra Great Hall> Creusa comes in the large eastern doors from the courtyard.

Bitra Great Hall> Rodric climbs down the stairs from the second floor.

Bitra Great Hall> Edris climbs down the stairs from the second floor.

Bitra Great Hall> Vahara smiles over to Genevieve in recognition of her and
one hand slides up in a protective instinct towards her neck. Fingers move
a moment and then slip upwards to touch at one earring before that hand
slips to her own wineglass. Emerald eyes look to Lord Bitra at last and she
nods, his message was not loud but was definitely clear to her.

Bitra Great Hall> Quentin climbs down the stairs from the second floor.

Bitra Great Hall> Rodric arrives from above, escorting Edris. Both are
dressed to the nines, he in blue, she in red. He carries a folder of music,
presumably under his other arm, and surveys the room from the last two
steps before moving toward the Lord, with the Journeywoman still on his arm.

Bitra Great Hall> Creusa finds a seat in an out of the way corner to wait
to see where everyone goes for this concert.

Bitra Great Hall> Vorlin regards Kasedy with those critical eyes of his and
then makes a bare nod, "Have a seat, Kasedy." Fingers flicker towards the
chair on the far side of Vahara. His raven haired, emerald eyed cousin is
looked at once more, tips of his teeth showing when she touches her neck
and then he's nodding to her, recognizing her acceptance of what quietly
passed between them. Eyebrows lower and his head turns just in time to take
in the arrival of the Masterharper and Journeywoman. "Good evening, Master
Rodric, Journeywoman Edris. I am looking forward to your concert."

Bitra Great Hall> Edris drops into an actual curtsey, this being a more
fomal of occasions, at least for the Harpers. "I hope that you will enjoy
it, Lord Vorlin." she says as she rises again. "From all I've heard so far
they hve been working most diligently to ensure that it's an original
programme for you." She nods quickly to the others around then to
acknowledge them too.

Bitra Great Hall> Something slips into Kasedy's eyes at the greeting from
the Lord Holder and she simply gives another curtsey, moving to the seat
indicated and settling herself there, hands folding in her lap and falling
absolutely silent, a single glance directed to Vahara before she raises her
eyes to the Master Harper and Journeywoman, a smile on her lips - so real
that its hard to tell its not.

Bitra Great Hall> Rodric draws right on up to the Lord and as Edris
curtseys, he bows. "Indeed, Journeywoman Edris is right and we hope to
offer a veritable feast for your ears tonight," he says somewhatly grandly.
"Tonight, we unveil what has been called, around the Hall as it was
composed, the New Question Song ... something appropriate to the Interval
that has just begun, as well as original compositions by Journeywoman Edris
herself, and several other talented Harpers." He gestures toward the stage,
then with one hand. "If it troubles you not, we will begin then my Lord?"
he asks, brows slightly lifted over engaging smile.

Bitra Great Hall> "Oh, ask Journeyman Trenor, Lily. He's in charge of
making sure we put things where they're supposed to be." Genevieve's
slender fingers twist in one another before her, an obvious sign of
nervousness. Her blue-hued eyes dart about the room - away from the faces
of the apprentices she's gathered with and she smiles as they catch on the
familiar forms of MasterHarper and Journeywoman.

Bitra Great Hall> Vahara smiles to Kasedy in welcome and then gets to her
feet and gives a curtsey to the arriving Master Harper and Edris. "Good
evening." is the softly muttered welcome before Vahara retakes her chair,
fingers quick to settle her skirts once more. Emerald eyes move over each
person in the assemblage before she glances towards the hold's doors as if
expecting to see someone else arrive.

Bitra Great Hall> Quentin, unlike many of those present, isn't garbed in
finery or the trappings of rank; he makes his way along down the stairs one
step at a time, fingers fussing against his hairline to try and get those
wild locks at least somewhat presentable as he comes down.

Bitra Great Hall> Lily nods with an 'ah'. "I think I'll just keep it here.
Um...it's special to me is all." She eyes the harp, tracing the little
designs with her finger. "I'm so excited! Aren't you? Kind of nervous
though..." She, too, recognizes the Masterharper and Journeywoman. "Oh,
they look so nice!"

Bitra Great Hall> Vorlin inclines his head to Rodric and says smoothly,
"Sounds excellent. You may begin whenever you are ready, Masterharper."
Then arms are dropped to the rests of the chair and those glittering dark
eyes look towards the area where the Harpers have set up, curious as to
what will unfold this evening.

Bitra Great Hall> Edris takes her arm from Rodric's as she moves back to
sit with the Harpers. "You'll be fine." she whispers, noting the
nervousness that surrounds them. "You're Harpers, that's all that matters."
with that, she carefully sits down so as not to crumple her dress.

Public announcement: Vorlin announces "The Harpers will be performing a
concert shortly in the Bitran Great Hall. All are invited to attend. Music
will be played, eyebrows will arch, and Bitran/Harper fun may be had by
all. +go bitra-gh"

Bitra Great Hall> Bethy comes in the large eastern doors from the courtyard.

Bitra Great Hall> Airedale comes in the large eastern doors from the
courtyard.

Bitra Great Hall> Quentin drops down the last step of the stairs, giving up
on his hair for the moment and sweeping his gaze over the increasingly
crowded hall; lips pursing, a hand lifts to scratch a bit under his chin,
searching for a chair or other seat somewhat out of the way but not -too-
obtrusively far from things.

Bitra Great Hall> Divya comes in the large eastern doors from the courtyard.

You place one hand on Lysseth's neck and she warbles down at you fondly.
You grin and scratch her eyeridges once before climbing up onto her lower
neckridges, using the riding straps and Lysseth's thoughtfully offered
foreleg.

Bitra Great Hall> Rodric nods once for the Lord, a smile curling his lips
for Vahara briefly. "Thank you kindly, Lady, and likewise to you, I hope
that you will enjoy the entertainment that we bring you this evening." Then
he turns toward the stage, and hops up onto it lightly, clapping his hands
three times for the general attention of the room. "Ladies and gentlemen,
if I may have your attention please, it is my honor, as MasterHarper of
Pern, to open tonight's festivities with a few words." He pauses for a
moment, looking about the room, noting where each person is and expressions
on faces. "Pern stands on the bring of interesting times, the Interval has
come at last, and things that were long held out of our grasp are within
reach once more - we have the luxury of time now and open skies, in which
to explore, to expand on what we already know, and make our world, a better
place. Some of tonight's music is themed in that direction, conveying hope
and an outward outlook for the Turns to come. We humbly hope that you will
enjoy what we have to give you." He pauses again, smiling warmly now then
nods toward Genevieve. "Our first performer, is Apprentice Genevieve, who
will give you a Harper Tale."

<*> Lysseth springs from the ground, the air from her wings churning up
dust as she takes to the skies.
You spring from Lysseth's ledge with one downsweep of your wings, soaring
into the sky above the Northern Bowl.

The rim of the bowl falls away from you and you soar into the open skies.

<*> 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!

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

You descend to the Bitra Hold Courtyard.

Bitra Great Hall> Divya slips into the room in time to hear Rodric's
annoucement. She finds a seat near the back of the room and settles in to
enjoy the music.

<*> Lysseth spirals to a neat landing, folding in her wings and lowering
her neck so that Kassi can dismount, skirts and all, without undue
difficulty or unseemly display. It's with gratitude that Kassi slaps her
shoulder before heading inside.

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.

You enter Bitra Hold.


Kassima:
	Someone once compared Kassima to the ice-lights of Pern: colorful, 
sharp, and flickering against the black of night. Kassi seems to have taken 
a fancy to this image, since it is incorporated into her floor-length gown 
of rich velvet, dyed a shade of blue so dark as to be nearly 
indistinguishable from black in the low-cut bodice and tapering, 
off-shoulder sleeves. The silver stars that spangle it glitter and flash 
with light's provocation.
	The full underskirts are of the same hue and design--but to observe 
that, one would have to look past the overskirt of filmy, almost sheer 
sisal that is belted around the greenrider's waist by a band of wavering 
white silver. Rippling to the floor in shimmering folds, this outer layer 
is streaked with cool greens and blues, intermixed with hints of rose pink, 
delicate violet, and dusky indigo. The stars underneath occasionally add a 
wan sparkle to the ever-shifting aurora borealis pattern.
	To this, Kassi has added further decoration: a large black opal 
flashes from a silver chain around her neck; diamond beads dangle from 
braided argent at her ears, shining like stars against the background of 
the blue-black hair that pours down to her calves; said hair is crossed at 
its crown by an argent headband set with white crystal. Her final ornaments 
are her canted dark emerald eyes and amused smile, the latter in frequent
evidence on this night of celebration.


With one final nervous glance around the room and a swallow, Genevieve
rises and moves to the stage, a shadow passing over her face as she takes
up the mask of the confident Harper. She takes position on the stage,
smiling to the MasterHarper for the introdruction. "My Tale this evening
comes to us from Tillek's Misty Hold, and from distant Sattle Hold - also
within Tillek's fair reaches." The woman's alto is projected easily across
the Hall, firm and full, some might even say sweet on the ears. "Once, in
turns long passed, a daughter of Misty Hold was betrothed to a fine son of
Sattle Hold for moves to benefit the Holders of each Hold. The Holder of
Misty Hold summoned his daughter to him after negotiations with the Holder
of Sattle." And here the apprentice manipulates her voice to give it the
lower, more grating quality that suggests a more masculine voice,
"'Daughter, you are to be handfasted.'"

Lysseth> Kyruth flies down from above.

Vahara makes a motion with one hand, fingers curling in to rest at her neck
before she remembers herself and drops both hands to fold in her lap.
Emerald eyes shine like jewels in the light that's been arranged so that
the stage is brighter than the rest of the room. She looks towards the
stage, eager to hear what will follow and there is a nod for the words
spoken by the MasterHarper and then a knowing smile curves her lips and
then her attention belongs to Genevieve.

Lysseth> D'ru slides a leg over Kyruths neckridge and firmly gripping the
riding straps, slides down to reach the ground safely. Kyruth watches a
moment before turning to examine his surroundings with a contented rumble.

Lysseth> Draila slides a leg over Kyruths neckridge and firmly gripping the
riding straps, slides down to reach the ground safely. Kyruth watches a
moment before turning to examine his surroundings with a contented rumble.

Lysseth> Draila slides down once again thankful for D'ru's aid. "Do you
think anyone will notice that we're arriving late?" She softly asks as the
doors are spotted.

Lysseth> D'ru laughs softly, "We are fashionably late.." He says, and
offering his arm to you, he makes for the doors.

Rodric slips off the stage as Genevieve begins her tale and settles into a
seat amongst the other Harpers, watching the performance as well as the
reaction to it in the room.

"The girl blinked, confusion marring her lovely face a moment, 'But to
whom, Father?' Gen's alto lifts into her higher ranges - sweetening the
firm tone of her usual voice, dropping back to the masculine most
skillfully as she continues, "'To a son of Sattle.' The girl's father
replied. 'But, Father, I do not love any of the sons of Sattle - I do not
even know any of the sons of Sattle Hold? Why ought I to marry one?'" A
pause here as Genevieve adjusts her posture to suggest pride - shoulders
rolled back, "'Because, my daughter, it is your duty to handfast for the
good of your Hold. This union will prove to be most beneficial to us all.'"

Lysseth> Draila links her arm with the Bluerider's and giggles as she joins
step with him towards the hold.

D'ru comes in the large eastern doors from the courtyard.

Draila comes in the large eastern doors from the courtyard.

Kassima aims for an unobtrusive entrance, making her way in relative
silence towards an open seat; she sinks into this, smooths her skirts once,
and fixes her attention on the tale being told. The subject matter causes
her brows to twitch upward slightly.

Draila enters still giggling with her arm linked with D'ru's. Shyly she
glances about then motions towards a pair of vacant chairs. "Over there?"
She whispers to the Bluerider hoping not to interrupt the ongoings they've
stepped into.

Edris leans forward in her seat, listening attentively to Genevieve's
rendition of the Tale, only glancing away to establish whether she
recognised the people arriving or not.

"Aghast, the girl stood looking at her Father, tears touching her starry
eyes. 'But, Father...' and here the girl's soft voice dropped," Harper
Genevieve's alto doing just the same though it can still be heard, "And
saying then as if he didn't understand these words when she'd said them
before, 'I do not love any of the sons of Sattle.' With a heavy sigh, her
father took hold of her shoulders, 'Daughter, you must do this. It is the
duty to which you were born and you will bring honor to our family by your
submission to this necessity. Perhaps in time, you will come to love the
son of Sattle that you are to wed.' Understanding her duty, the girl gave a
meek nod of her head and the preparations for the ceremony were made."

D'ru nods to Draila and escorts her over, trying not to get in the way of
anyone, nor interupt the recital going on. He smiles to those he knows, and
sits down next to Draila once she is seated.

Rodric turns slightly in his chair as new arrivals enter and he smiles
cheerfully, nodding to riders from Fort and Telgar and Reaches, mouthing
the words: "Duties," to each.

Vorlin steeples his fingers in a classic pose and watches the harpers with
glittering eyes. His eyebrows arch in amusement for the topic of the first
tale and he can't help but look over at Vahara, eyes almost needling in
intensity. It's only a moment and then the Lord of Bitra is looking at the
harper who speaks once more.

After a pause to swallow a mouthful of water, Apprentice Genevieve closes
her eyes, taking a deep breath, "She looked radiant on her handfasting day
- deep red dress fitting her down to the last seam. She met the Son of
Sattle then as the Harper joined their hands together. Her things were
moved into the new chambers permitted her and the Son of Sattle by his
parents. After the evening repast, she sat in silence with her new husband,
neither having said a word to one another - perhaps out of fear or
nervousness, then finally she broke the silence, 'Husband, I have been
raised to uphold high morals and above these I have been taught that truth
is the most virtuous quality a person can possess, so I must speak my mind.
I do not love you, I do not even know you, and I did not wish to come this
day to wed you, but came nonetheless out of duty's sake. I care not if you
like what I am saying, but I say it because it is the truth and I will not
live in silence the rest of my days, unable to breath for fear that the
truth might slip out. I will do my duty and bear you children and care for
our union, but I do not love you.'"

Bethyleans forward, listening eagerly to the tale, having never heard it
before

Draila gives D'ru's arm a squeeze when Gen's familiar voice is heard
reciting. "Doesn't she look splendid up there?" is whispered to D'ru just
before she's able to mouth back to Rodric a similar duties greeting.

Valon climbs down the stairs from the second floor.

Edris glances around, trying to gauge reaction to the Tale as she sits
herself up straight in her chair, silently tapping the scroll that she
still holds against her leg.

Genevieve steals another swallow of water before she continues the tale,
"Their eyes met across the table as he rose and moved to take a knee beside
her. 'Wife, I know that you do not love me. Though I had no objection to
the union as it is my duty to marry also whomever my father select for me,
perhaps through the turns you shall come to love me, and I you, without
sacrificing any of the honesty that you and I both value so highly.'"

Kassima shifts in her chair enough to incline her head back to Master
Rodric, mouthing a full, 'Duties to Harper Hall and her Masters'--someone's
feeling formal, apparently. A quick smile and she looks back forward,
thumbs tapping together where her hands are folded in her lap.

Vahara stares back at Lord Vorlin when she can feel his eyes boring into
her, there's a wan smile on her lips and then she looks up at the stage,
features a little more pale than before. Her hands move to smooth her skirt
even though it's already perfect and then she takes a soft breath and sits
as a statue, face expressionless.

Genevieve clears her throat softly as the tale winds on, "Duty was upheld
by both through the turns. He eventually inherited Sattle Hold, and she
bore him remarkable children who grew in their mother's love. One evening
as the couple sat before the hearth, he with his hidework and she with her
mending, the Son of Sattle looked up at his wife and said, 'Wife, I have
here an offer for our son's hand from Volcano Hold. What do you think,
truthfully?' With a thoughtful, hmm, the wife looked on her husband, 'If
you'd asked me when we were first handfasted, Husband, if I would ever
allow our children to attend to the same duties, I would have told you no.'"

Valon quietly slips into a chair in the back.

Rodric nods encouragingly up at the stage, should the Apprentice look his
way, though he does flag down a server for a glass of wine, beaming a smile
and murmuring what he wants from the Lord's special cellar. The serving man
eyes the MasterHarper closely, then looks up toward the Lord and approaches
him, murmuring something.

Kasedy sits in silence beside Vahara, her green eyes upon the performing
Harper, head tilted as she listens to the tale, lips curling in some
personal amusement, her hands staying carefully in her lap. Gaze slides
momentarily to the Lord Holder and then to her Cousin Vahara, before they
move with some curiousity to touch upon the MasterHarper - look appraising
a long moment before her attention returns politely to the apprentice on
the stage.

"'Over the turns, however,'" Genevieve continues in the light tone that
indicates the daughter, "'I have done my duty and you yours, and we have
always been truthful with one another. I brought honor to my home Hold of
Misty, and you have brought much honor to Sattle. Through doing our duty we
have earned the honor we now have, and between us has grown the seed of
love, tended carefully with honesty and trust over our turns together. It
is as I thought it could not be, Husband. Happiness can be found hand in
hand with honor and truth by complying with one's duty. I love you, and our
children, and this life that I have had. In truth, I would not change it
for all the marks or power in the world - happiness is worth more than
wealth or power.' And now I will do my duty to my audience, and tell that
they lived happily until the end of their days." And so Vieve concludes the
lengthy tale, smile on her lips.

Vahara pulls a small handkerchief from one sleeve and moves it
surrepticiously under each, now faintly pink rimmed eye before she takes a
deep breath and raises her chin. Poise found once more her control of the
tears follows and she locks the emerald of her eyes on the stage.

D'ru nods to Draila, agreeing with her and he smiles a tad. "Didn't know it
was her giving the show tonight, else I would have left much sooner." He
says to her quietly.

Bethy puts a hand to her heart, a tender look on her face as the tale turns
to one of mutual love.

Quentin is settled in near the back of the hall, having finally found a
place to do so; leaning back a bit, elbows on the chair's arms and hands
folding loosely before him as he listens to the tale. A bit of a wistful
expression as the story comes to an end, head shaking slowly from side to
side and one hand lifting to brush hair from his face.

Draila applauds lightly as the tale comes to a close, her smile bright for
the reciting of it. "Now that would have been a sight to behold though I
must admit I'm sorry we missed the beginning." She states aside to her
companion.

Vorlin regards Vahara and looks suitably pleased with the situation that's
been brought around by chance to help his design. The server sent over by
Rodric is given a moment and then there is a nod and a point that comes
with a command. It's several minutes but eventually the Masterharper is
served a glass of deep red wine. There's a carafe as well, letting the rest
of the wine decant and the idea is clear that Rodric can have all he can
drink tonight.

Kassima's brows arch that much more at this particular ending to the story.
She shakes her head very slightly, expression wry for a moment before she
tucks such behind the mask of noncommital interest. Her quiet applause at
least seems genuine enough.

Rodric applauds as Genevieve concludes and returns to the stage, even as
his wine is brought to his seat, still clapping. "Well done, Apprentice,"
he says to her and then beams widely around at the room. "And now I'm
pleased to present ... myself," he says and bows once. "I have undertaken a
wager with Journwoman Edris, who is the posted Harper here at Bitra, to
play, sight unseen, music that she has written for this occasion." So
saying, he takes a bound folder of music from an apprentice who hands it up
to him and sits in a lone chair that has been drawn up by another discreet
group of harpers behind him, along with a beautiful set of pipes, glossy
wood shimmering in the glowlights, that he takes up from the music stand in
front of it.

Edris rises silently from her chair as the MasterHarper takes the stage,
moving herself away from the Harper group and into the shadows.

Bethy slips quietly out during the small break with a wistful look back at
the room, wishing she could stay, but duties compell her to go.

Bethy walks out the main doors to the courtyard.

Genevieve moves gracefully off the stage after a curtsey, finally allowing
that performer's mask to go and give way to a burning blush on her cheeks
as she moves to settle by the Harpers - catching sight of Draila and D'ru
who get a friendly wave - much like some of the younger apprentices are
giving to those they recognize from time to time. A hand reaches to mess
with the teased ringlets in her hair and then she sittles back into her
seat to watch Rodric's performance, amusement and interest on her face at
his words.

Rodric blows softly into the pipes to warm them up and check the tuning,
then looks up from the music. "The piece, is entitled simply, 'Bitra' and
the Journeywoman notes, that it was inspired by her time here so far," he
says with a bright smile and a look over toward the Lord, nodding
graciously his way, before the pipes are lifted to his lips once more.
Music pours forth then, a single note first, soft to start and then
crescendoing upward slowly, held and then repeated. It moves into another
note, the two combined in alternating pattern to draw out a slow stately
theme that speaks of longheld tradition, honor and duty of a revered Hold.

Vahara looks like she's about to leave the hall when the change in
performance comes but that look from Vorlin shifts the despair in her eyes
to something harder and she's able to stay, at least for now.

Quentin brushes one hand up to rub against the side of his face briefly,
before with a shake of his head he rolls up to his feet from the chair;
moving to trot along towards the door out with a quick but quiet step, not
wanting to disturb the performance with his departure.

Quentin walks out the main doors to the courtyard.

Draila returns Genevieve's wave with a shy one of her own as she sits
forward slightly in her chair listening to the new musical performance. the
notes catch her ear in a surprisingly pleasing way that brings about a warm
smile.

Clearly, the MasterHarper is MasterHarper for a reason. The rich tones he
is able to evince from the instrument ring off the walls, like caramel for
the ears, as the theme is built upon, carefully, not by note, through a
first movement, encompassing all that Bitra traditionally stands for,
including a hint of gaiety for the games that are so often played there.

Kassima's half-grin at the words 'sight unseen' brightens into a full smile
when the pipes come into view. The Wingleader sits up that much more in her
chair to listen with evident pleasure, and evident curiosity.

Edris emerges from the shadows and steps lightly on to the stage area
behind the MasterHarper, lifting the edge of her skirt slightly as she
walks to avoid tripping on it. Warming her instrument in the meantime she
stands, waiting patiently for Rodric to get to a particular section.

Genevieve's blue-hued eyes flicker shut as the MasterHarper plays, various
emotions playing across her face - head bent so as to conceal her
expression from sight - as the music manipulates her mood. There never
ceases to be a smile on her face as the man performs though and
occasionally her eyes slip up to regard him.

Vorlin listens to the music and for once seems to forget about ruining
people's lives or crushing all of Pern under his iron grip. He's just
another man listening to something beautiful, and for some reason it makes
him appear a whole lot younger than he'd be comfortable with looking if he
realized what expression was on his face. There's an inclination of his
head and his eyebrows take a break to just sit there above his brilliant eyes.

The pipes wind out the music, up to an achingly beautiful point, still
within the stately rhythm set out, but with little gay flourishes, a
reminder of what was laid out, before it peters out into long held notes
once more and there's a brief pause as the Master turns over the music,
takes a drink from a convenient glass of water, and launches into the
second movement. The atmosphere of the music changes, darker in tone, notes
speaking out in long phrases that fold into each other, layer upon layer of
intertwining patterns, subtle and intricate.

D'ru listens to the performers, smiling and whispering something to Draila,
and in general pays good attention to the performance, though he does start
to take in the surroundings of the hall a little more now.

Kasedy's eyes now are most keen on the other faces in the room as the
Harper plays, unobtrusively taking in each expression, lingering upon
Vorlin a moment before she touches her gaze upon Vahara and then simply
closes her eyes, a soft expression, not so uncommon for her face, settles
in nicely. A brow quirks at the second movement, some amusement in her
expression, but more simple enjoyment.

Draila closes her eyes allowing the music to carry her away with the potent
emotions it brings out for her. Her hand lightly draping over D'ru's arm
seeming to ease her shyness of strange places. She utters not a word of
reply to the rider beside her for the moment.

Kassima permits herself a smile at those flourishes, certainly
appreciative, perhaps slightly reminiscent; the second movement is met with
a thoughtful nod. Her eyes flick briefly to the other Harper behind the
Master, though by and large her attention is as caught by the music as
anyone's.

Almost urgent now, the intertwining themes roll, one over the other,
building to a peak and then collapse into a single-held not. Victory, or
defeat? Then quietly, so quietly, another of the earlier patterns, is
picked up once more and gently unfolded, a question, left unanswered,
speaking of hopes and fears and lost dreams that may yet be regained.

Vahara looks down at the wood grain of the table as she listens to the
music. A glance is risked in Vorlin's direction and she seems momentarily
confused by what she sees. Then the pipes fill her ears and mind and let
her forget the day for at least a while.

Genevieve smiles softly up at the stage, expression showing her
appreciation for the playing, and also the hint of realization washing
across her features. She says nothing to the apprentices around her for the
moment, simply watching and enjoying, some of her reactions now gently
suppressed.

The notes finally die out and the Harper turns the music one more time,
eyes lifting to Edris waiting in the wings, he nods very slightly.

Edris moves forward at the nod, smiling to herself as she lifts her own
pipes and as Rodric starts the third movement, she introduces a
countermelody into the performance - high, bright and weaving itself in and
out of the Master's line. The only thing that seems to be the same
throughout both is the rhythm, seeming somehow to give the impression of
laughter.

Vorlin looks bemused now, the arrogance all seeping back into his face as
he listens to the story in the music. Eyes hone in on Edris and Rodric and
fingertips tap lightly together with the pattern.

The two melodies continue to dance around each other weaving intricate
patterns until Edris's line drops out, leaving the MasterHarper to returns
to the simpler melody that had started the whole performance.

D'ru leans over to Draila, "Think Genevieve was a little better?" He asks,
a very quiet whisper meant for Drailia alone to hear, as he is a little
biased towards someone from his weyr.

Draila's eyes open quickly when spoken to and she smiles while whispering
back in reply to the Bluerider. "I think in story telling Gen is a master
but this is musical and it's an area I don't recall ever hearing Gen
perform in. Are you not enjoying the combination then the solo performances
D'ru? I find them very moving."

Kassima would still appear to be enjoying the music, but her expression has
taken on a slightly wary, alert cast--as one might wear when watching a
duel, or some other activity that involves edges as much as beauty.

Genevieve grins up at the Harpers in the stage, some level of awe expressed
in her eyes, herself being better with telling a story in words than in
song. She straightens in her chair a bit as Edris drops out and the
MasterHarper takes the melody on his own once more. Her look is warm as she
looks to the Journeywman - and then her attention is back on the MasterHarper.

Rodric takes over the final paces of the piece, the long slow notes of the
beginning, easing out over the Hall, stately and pristine, simple theme,
simple notes, with that hint of gaiety once more, the Hold painted in all
its finery until the final note is sounded and held, like a clarion call
before finally dying out leaving only echoes in the room.

Vahara finds something heartening in the piece and at last her lips curve
in a faint smile. Her eyes still have the too-bright shine of sadness but
she sits perfectly composed and even laughs softly in her lilting manner
once the silence falls over the crowd. She's quick to start clapping, to
her feet in the process as she expresses delight for the piece and the
performance of it.

Creusa smiles and begins to clap loudly.

Rodric rises from his seat, bows once, then holds a hand out to Edris and
claps as well. "The composer!" he says gaily and smiles warmly at the
Journeywoman. "Did I do it justice, Journeywoman?" he asks teasingly, eyes
merry.

Valon grins and joins in the applause.

Draila seems disappointed as the music ends, her flight of emotions leaving
her slightly shaking yet she claps softly for the performance. "I can't
recall hearing anything so... Its hard to find words to describe it."

Edris drops the quickest of curtseys in response to the applause and the
introduction. "All that I could have hoped for, MasterHarper." as she
applauds /his/ performance.

Genevieve puts her hands together after the echoes die away, grinning in
amusement as she hears the exchange between the two - her appreciation
going to both the performer and composer equally. She leans to the
apprentice beside her, murmuring, "And that's why composition is important
Cheswyn. So things as beautiful as that song can exist."

Kassima applauds, if more slowly at first than she did for Genevieve's
recital; but the music was beautiful, and she's soon clapping heartily.
"Very skillful, the playing," she murmurs to no one in particular. "And
such an interesting theme."

Rodric bows once more, then waits for the applause to die down before
lifting his voice to carry over the assemblage. "Please, avail yourselves
of the Lord's excellent hospitality, there is food and wine, while we take
an intermission!" So saying the MasterHarper slips his pipes into a soft
case and hands them off to one of the multitude of hovering apprentices and
steps off the stage, though he offers a polite hand to help the
Journeywoman down.

Vorlin gets to his feet to clap as well, he looks extremely amused. As the
crowd expresses admiration he signals for the trays of filled wineglasses
and finger foods to start circling. Servants of Bitra enter the crowd and
make food and drink available. Servants in red carry sustenance and
servants in blue the wine. It seems that there will be a break.

Edris smiles her thanks as she takes advantage of the MasterHarper's offer
of assistance and then starts across to the little Harper group.

Valon gets up and stretches, not used to sitting for so long. Starts
looking for a servant with wine.

"Masterfully written, Journeywoman Edris." Genevieve greets the Harper as
she arrives at the little Harper group, a genuine and wide smile for the
woman. "And performed." She adds, whether the MasterHarper is near enough
to hear the compliment or not. She raises a hand to wave more fully to the
Fortian riders if she can tactfully get their attention, a smile for them
also.

Vahara seems glad to step away from her seat at last and she leaves it
without looking back, moving towards the edge of the crowd and looking over
the faces of the visitors. A greenrider from Telgar is approached with a
greeting smile, "It's very nice to see you here tonight, Wingleader
Kassima. Are you enjoying the music so far?"

Kasedy seems grateful for the glass of wine a servant delivers to her after
she shows appropriate appreciation for the music, remaining where she is -
even as she watches Vahara move off. She glances towards the Lord Holder a
moment before she simply takes a long sip of her wine.

Rodric moves towards his own seat first, collecting the glass that was
delivered there, then moves into the crowd, mingling. He finds himself
drifting by the rider from Telgar and the Lady Vahara. "Good evening
ladies," he says pleasantly. "Harper's Duties to Bitra and Telgar Weyr," he
says correctly and gives a slight bow. 'May I extend compliments to both of
you on the magnificence of your gowns? You look absolutely radiant."

Creusa gets up and heads to the table for a cup of tea.

Draila appears thankful for the chance to stand and move about, and though
she waves off the wine she thanks the server with the food tray. It takes a
few moments but she thinks she may have caught sight of their hosts. Slowly
she wades her way in that direction in hopes of thanking them for a
wonderful evening. "Lord and lady Bitra?"In her soft spoken manner she asks
of Vorlin and Vahara. "Pardon my interruption but I just wanted to
personally thank you for tonight."

Edris takes a deep breath before smiling over to Genevieve. "Thankyou, I am
rather glad that it's over though." A glass is snagged as it passes by, and
she sips at it to counter the effects of the playing. "I shoud have made
the music a little more difficult for him.' she laughs, watching as the
MasterHarper mingles.

Kassima, risen from her chair to stretch her legs during the intermission,
greets Vahara with a matching smile that would seem to be genuine: "Vahara,
a pleasure 'tis t'see you again as well. Likewise a pleasure t'be here. The
performances have been delightful, haven't they? So very... what's the word
I'm looking for... expressive. Have you too found them so?" She laughs
softly at Rodric's bow, returning it with an equally light curtsey. "Duties
t'you and your Craft, Master, and thankee. Congratulations on your lovely
performance up there."

D'ru follows close by Draila, taking it in his duties to make sure she is
alright in her state, and stands behind her as she makes her introductions
to the holds leadership.

Genevieve chuckles softly, a hand moving to smother the amusement, "I
imagine with your skill at composing, you easily could have ma'am, and made
it sound just as lovely." She pauses and a smile creeps across her lips, "I
can certainly appreciate the relief of a performance being over - at least
now I can." She's obviously quite pleased to have survived the ordeal of
her first official performance.

Vahara nods to Kassima and says, "I'm very glad you could make it.. I hope
we get to see even more of you in the future. You know..you're welcome any
time." She then half turns to Rodric simply by moving her shoulders and so
speaks to him as well as to Kassima. Her laughter is easier now, almost
bright, "Thank you Craftmaster... and may I say that your playing simply
glowed? As bright as a Queen tonight, Master Rodric."

Vorlin sips at his wine and turns to Draila, looking her over before he
says smoothly, "Nice to have you with us. There is no Lady Bitra at this
time. Still." He's bemused looking again, smugly so.

Draila ohs over the correction which brings about a deep blush. "Forgive my
assumption I had thought..." Leaving the though unfinished she steps back
shyly almost bumping into D'ru who stands behind her. Turning she quickly
covers by asking him, "Have you tried the wine?"

Edris laughs at Genevieve's words. "It was a once in a lifetime
composition, Genevieve. The hours spent on that one piece that anyone else
could have written in half the time..." but she shrugs, and smiles again.
"I am pleased with the result, however." She sits then, trying to hear
snippets of conversations as they flow about the room.

D'ru smiles to Draila, and shakes his head, "No, I havn't, used to be a
farmer that lived here, Njal, was once handfasted to Norri when she was
here, that made this one drink, but I fear that no one makes it anymore."
He says.

Kasedy /almost/ visibly winces at the Lord Holder's tone as she's not far
off from the man as he speaks to the goldrider. She, at least, offers
Draila a half-apologetic smile before looking to him, staying silent as she
continues to sip from her wine glass. As the rider moves away, something
akin to amusement slips across her face and she looks to Lord Vorlin again.

Valon snags another glass of wine from a passing servant and sits the empty
one on the nearest table.

"It may be so. I've taken delight in visiting Bitra nigh all the time I've
flown over it--particularly," Kassima admits to Vahara, with an amused
glance in the direction of the Even Odds, "certain aspects. But 'tis truth
that I've nay visited so much as I used t'do. The hospitality the Hold has
shown over these past visits do incline me towards mending that." Eyes
skimming the crowd, the greenrider adds, "Many would seem t'be enjoying
that hospitality tonight. The turnout surely honors both Bitra and the
Harpers."

Creusa carries her tea back to the chair in the corner, sits, sipping her
tea and watching the people.

Edris hmms thoughtfully, "Excuse me a moment, Genevieve?" and while
everyone is mingling, she diplomatically selects a small group of harpers
together and sets them on the stage to provide incidental music to fill any
lulls in conversations. Choosing simple pieces that they should all but now
by heart, she counts them in and lets them play away for a while.

Draila's blush continues thou her hand lifts to rest on D'ru's taking
comfort in the familiar form he offers. With lowered voice she asks him
curiously, "Norri, Fort's former Headwoman Norri? I never knew she held
from Bitra." Iced blue eyes lift to glance around though she seems to avoid
joining the crowd due to her extra girth.

Vorlin looks over.. not the faces in the crowd but the heads of the people
as if looking for someone. There's a frown that passes over his mouth for
one rather conspicuous absence in the usual Bitra party crowd but the
displeased look only lasts a moment and then the Lord Holder is chatting
with a visitor from Lemos.

Rodric twinkles brightly at both greenrider and Lady, "Thank you both for
the compliments," he says lightly. "The piece was a challenge, but I trust
I did it justice. Edris writes beautiful music." So saying he tips a look
toward the Journeywoman for a moment. "As for the hospitality of Bitra, it
excels, as usual."

Valon notices Creusa sitting in the corner and walks over to chat with her
a bit.

D'ru nods to Draila, "Aye, she was for a while. Where she met bahlt if I
recall correctly." He says, and smiles.

Genevieve nods to Edris as she moves to gather the other Harpers,
re-settling herself in her chair, blue-hued gaze slipping about the room,
obvserving the faces as an excited apprentice - much younger than the
blonde - chats away excitedly to her.


Rodric:
	 Tall and well-built without being overly muscular, Rodric smiles at 
the world from a tanned face topped with a pate of curly brown hair lightly
touched with a hint of silver at the temples. Appearing to be somewhere
between his late thirties and early forties, clear blue eyes spark with
humor framed by a few telltale laugh lines above an unremarkable nose and
generous mouth. Plush, indigo blue velvet makes up the Master's doublet,
stitched through with diamond shapes that provide texture and a decorative
touch as well as holding the pieces together. At each shoulder, a slight
roll of the fabric trims the armholes, making his shoulders seem a bit
broader than they actually are. Tucking in neatly to the man's waist and
cut just above the hip, the doublet ends in a line of silver trim that also
chases up each side of the front opening, laced together with a twisted
cord of the same blue and silver. Pure white, his shirt blouses out between
the lacings a little, the sleeves cut generously through the arm where they
bell out before tucking into neat wrist cuffs that fold back and fasten
with expensive, lapis-set buttons. Beneath the doublet, the crispness of
the shirt rises up into a neat mandarin-style collar, though it isn't done
up tight to the neck, the final button lying just beneath the Master's
adam's apple. Velvet pants to match the doublet have been tailored
perfectly to fit the wearer, neither loose nor tight, but comfortably
form-fitting and tuck into a pair of sueded wherhide boots in the same blue
shade as the rest of the outfit. At the joining of every other diamond
shape on the doublet, a tiny shimmering stone has been set, winking as it
catches the light. 

 	 The knot of the Harper Craftmaster sits upon his shoulder, whilst a 
pin at his collar denotes a specialty in Instruments. Upon his breast is 
also pinned the sapphire-jeweled brooch that signified Mastery in the 
HarperCraft.


D'ru nods to Draila, "Aye, she was for a while. Where she met bahlt if I
recall correctly." He says, and smiles. "Used to come out of here on
errands a lot, before and after impressing. I imagine I know some of the
back halls and ins and outs better than most of the people who live here."

Kasedy rises while the Lord Holder is distracted and makes her way silently
to the stairs, hands on her skirts as she glances around the room one more
time and exits - quite quietly and obviously hoping not to be noticed.

Kasedy climbs up the stairs to the second floor.

Vahara touches lightly to one sleeve of her gown with the other hand and
laughs, "It's my hope that everyone will find Bitra's hospitality
improved... at least for as long as I am here and able to help with the
duties that should be carried by Lady Bitra. Yes.. Edris has written a
lovely piece. I wonder if we'll be able to get a copy of the score to save,
Master Rodric? Do you think Edris would indulge me?"

Rodric beams a smile at Vahara, inclining his head slightly. "Certainly,
you are the consummate hostess, Lady," he replies smoothly, then tilts
another look Edris' way. "I'm sure you have only to ask, Lady, though if
you like, I can have it made up for you by our Archivists in a special
edition, for presentation to the Lord."

Draila's giggle is heard as she ohs again, still keeping her discussion
with D'ru. "I hardly think this is the time to ask for a tour, Perhaps
another time? Do you think we'll get a chance to speak with Gen before we
have to head back?"

Creusa nods as she glances up at Valon.

D'ru thinks on that, and then guides Draila over in the direction he thinks
he last saw Gen, "Well, one way to find out, try and see if they will." he
says, chuckling softly. "Used to do a bit of Trading with Lord Tenefel,
shame he isn't about anymore."

Kassima says to Rodric, "I doubt anyone could complain of your performance,
Masterharper; your talent shone as much as your attire. Edris is the
artist?" Her brows furrow very slightly at that. "Edris. I know that name.
Someone I know has a sister, Edris; I wonder if'n 'tis the same. Either
road, compliments t'her on her ability." As to the other subject, "I didn't
mean t'cast aspersions on the hospitality at any point," she assures,
slightly apologetic, to both. "M'reasons for nay visiting had less t'do
with that than simple preoccupation. Still, it seems t'be beyond reproach
now."

Genevieve hasn't moved from her seat with the other apprentices, save but
angle away from the still chattering teenager beside her so her eyes can
obsserve all the curious interaction at a big to-do like this. As she
catches sight of the Fortians moving through the crowd, the blonde rises
finally, moving towards them, "Weyrwoman Draila! Rider D'ru!" She calls
brightly - just loud enough to get their attention, but not enough to be
overly disruptive to the conversations going on around her.

Vahara laughs softly and shakes her head enough to make a curl shiver, "Not
for Lord Vorlin, but for myself, Master Rodric. Something to take with me."
There's a bright smile for the greenrider, "Have you not met
Edris..Kassima? We'll have to introduce you...she's marvelous."

Rodric tugs a little bit on his tunic and beams at Kassima now. "Thank you
kindly, Wingleader, and I believe one of your riders is Edris' sister -
Talisha, if I'm not mistaken? I will be sure to convey your compliments if
you are unable to do so yourself." Brows lift slightly at her apology. "Oh
no, I did not take it that way at all, Wingleader," he assures, "and I'm
sure I agree that there are many pleasant diversions to be had at Bitra
Hold." Then azure eyes rest on Vahara once more and his smile waxes warmer
still. "Ahh - then you are an aficionado of good music, Lady? I'm sure Hall
would be honored still, to present you with such a copy."

Draila hears Genevieve before spotting her coming towards them as she's
lead in the right direction. "Gen your story was wonderful. I couldn't
believe our luck when we walked in and heard you reciting tonight. How have
things been for you at the hall?" A quick thankful glance is given D'ru for
his mastery of direction.

Kassima shakes her head in answer. "I don't believe I have, although I
might have seen her a time or two when 'twas here; I didn't catch the names
of everyone I saw. Ah!" Her smile brightens as Rodric confirms her
supposition. "Talisha's. Exactly. Nay that Tali's one of m'riders, more's
the pity for me, but I call her friend. Indeed, the Hold seems lively with
diversions these days."

Valon gives Creusa a smile and a slight wave, heads across the hall to the
courtyard, sitting his empty wine glass on a table as he passes it.

Valon walks out the main doors to the courtyard.

There's soft laughter for Kassima from Vahara, "No offense taken.. maybe
you'll find more reasons to visit Bitra in the near future." Rodric is
given a curtsey then, "I'd be honored, Masterharper..but you need not go to
any trouble for me. I do love good music. It's good for the heart... or
does that sound silly?"

Rodric inclines his head slightly towards Kassima, blue eyes twinkling
warmly. "Indeed, and the diversions are well worth their while, doubly over
since they attract such lovely ladies as yourself," he says mildly to the
greenrider before he shakes his head, expression more solemn now for
Vahara. "No my dear Lady, it doesn't sound silly at all, in fact, part of
Harper teaching, is how to use music to heal the soul."

Genevieve's cheeks take on color once more at Draila's compliment, giving a
slight curtsey, "Thank you most kindly, ma'am. It was quite the
experience." She grins to the goldrider and replies, "The Hall has been
-wonderful- aside from the perpetual problems of living in a dorm with teen
girls, and of course the apprentice rules - though they're no worse than
the ones we had as candidates, Dra." Informality finds it's way into her
words as she addresses her friend more than the Weyrwoman her friend is,
"But, please, do tell me, how are things at home?" Meaning of course, at Fort.

Kassima offers by way of opinion, with a fleeting smile for Vahara, "The
best music speaks t'you, some say--nay surprise if'n some of the words
might be healing. Or if'n naught else, it can make you forget awhile. At
least, so I've found. Thankee again, Masterharper." Her cheeks flush, but
she seems amused by the compliment. "You're only too kind."

Creusa finishes her tea and stands, puts on her cloak and quietly makes her
way out.

Creusa walks out the main doors to the courtyard.

Edris moves over to sit at the edge of the stage so that she can keep an
eye on the music, making quiet suggestions occasionally to the ensemble as
to their next selection, or so that it puts her in a better position to
hear conversations.

Draila glances again to D'ru before replying softly, "He may be better to
answer that since Rey has taken to keeping me close to the ledge as my time
draws near. Thankfully he was away tonight when I begged D'ru to bring me
here. The Weyrlings are trying to keep up with V'yse's training sessions
and from what I've heard all is fairly well with the records room, aside
for a group of littles getting in there again two sevendays ago."

D'ru walks out the main doors to the courtyard.

Vahara smiles to Kassima and Rodric, "You're both very kind... I'm going to
go and speak with Edris... I hope to see you both soon. Always a pleasure,
Kassima. Perhaps you'll let me come and visit your Hall sometime, Master
Rodric?"

Genevieve's brows rise in interest, "Really? I do hope things are getting
cleaned up well. It's good the Weyrlings are working hard - I saw V'yse a
few months ago - but he stayed only a moment - I think seeing me an
apprentice shocked him right out of his smelly boots." The blonde's grin is
wide. "I'm glad to hear things are going so well - are you and Rey...?" She
trails off meaningfully, grin softening to a smile for her friend.

Draila nods as a hand rests on her protruding mid section. "Yes we are."
Catching sight of D'ru's signal by the door, Draila excuses herself with
regret. "I think it's time to head back. Do keep in touch Gen?"

Hamari climbs down the stairs from the second floor.

Draila walks out the main doors to the courtyard.

Hamari enters and pauses to take a look around, before heading for the knot
of folks that includes the Masterharper.

Genevieve blinks downwards - noticing for the first time and she is left
gaping a moment and then simply grinning goofily after the goldrider.
"That..." She mutters something under her breath probably about the Fortian
Weyrsecond, before she errupts into giggles and moves back to her seat.

Rodric smiles affably at Vahara, "Certainly, Lady, the Hall would be
honored to welcome you," he says warmly and then marks the approaching
CraftSecond. "Would we not, Hamari?"

"Likewise a joy, Vahara," Kassima replies, smiling and inclining her head
to the lady in question. "I hope you enjoy the rest of the evening; and
your copy of the composition, when you receive it."

Hamari answers smoothly, even if she's only heard the tale end of his
remarks. "We certainly would. My apologies for missing the earlier
festivities. I hope everyone enjoyed them?"

Vahara lets her lips curve in a warm smile to the small group, "Thank you..
one and all. I'll see if I can find my way to the Harper crafthall some
morning then." And then she moves over to speak with the journeywoman,
"Edris? I wanted to compliment you on your composition. Beautiful...just
beautiful. How long did it take you.. if you don't mind me asking?"

Rodric gives a half bow as Vahara excuses herself, then nods Hamari's way.
"I trust that they did - my dear Wingleader, I trust that you can uphold
that assumption on my part for the CraftSecond?" he looks toward the
greenrider over his glass, blue eyes mock-beseeching.

Edris taps on the leg of the nearest apprentice who, to her ears is playing
too loudly for background music, motioning him to bring the volume down
just a little. "Thank you, Vahara, and not at all. It was a process of
about five sevendays, and a lot of revision until I was happy with it. I
believe that the MasterHarper's playing made it appear somewhat better than
it actually is."

Hamari turns to the rider with a slight smile, though the dark eyes are
intent and alight with recognition. "Kassima of Telgar, yes? It's many,
many turns ago I first saw you there, I believe."

Kassima's laughter rings out at the look, though more quietly than it might
at a less formal occasion. "I thoroughly enjoyed both performances," she
assures the Craftsecond, "and would say so even did you nay so plead,
Master Rodric. A'course, I am partial t'pipe music. Such remarkably
textured pieces, both. I thought that the works had quite a bit t'say,
although I can but speculate on all the meanings."

Kassima then nods affirmation to this: "Aye, that name is mine. Green
Lysseth's rider. I think... did you once play for a gathering at Shipfish,
mayhaps?"

Genevieve's attention is upon the apprentices performing, her fingers
playing with the material of her dress, as she watches. Blue-hued gaze
glances to Vahara as she approaches Edris, but it is very much in passing
and she simply looks back to performing group - as if making mental notes
on their show.

Vahara steps back a little so that she won't get in the way of Edris' work
with the apprentices and says to her, "That quickly..it's even more
impressive then." Eyes touched green glance around the hall but the lady
continues to speak with the journeywoman, "I think that performance spoke
to two talents. Both yours and the Masterharper's. To have played it so
splendidly on the first reading? I wish I'd been paying as close attention
at the start as I was once the music got hold of me. Do you think you'll
perform it for us some night.. yourself.. when there aren't so many other
things going on?"

Hamari's turn to laugh, and she shakes her head in disbelief as well. "I
surely did. A very long time ago. Hmmm, maybe more than once, now I think
about it. I am amazed you recall it, really."

Rodric chuckles at Kassmia's rejoinder. "I am pleased indeed, to hear you
say so, Kassima, and even more so to find another lover of pipes - they are
the instrument that first brought me to the Hall, yea these many Turns ago
now, and have kept me there too." Amused smile touches lips and widens into
true smile for the compliments to the music. "I had, truly, not seen the
finished pieces before this evening, but yes, Edris acquitted herself
remarkably with shi composition. I belive it captures the ... current
situation very well, don't you think?"

Edris glances over to where the MasterHarper stands talking, "He is a very
talented Harper indeed, and I doubt that after hearing it played so
perfectly, I would even attempt it myself. Perhaps if you could convince
him to play it again one day?" She laughs then, "Others would have had it
prepared long before I did. I was getting a little particular, and was even
up making changes to it as late as last night. I am so glad that you
enjoyed it though."

Kassima flashes a full if slightly sheepish grin. "Good recall is one of
m'gifts," she says, "and occasionally m'salvation. I hope that the Turns
have found you as well as they've evidently found you successful." Now that
grin is turned on Rodric. "'Tis the instrument I play--though a'course nay
so grandly. M'path never quite got to the Hall for all that I considered
it. Though, speaking of which...." She doesn't finish that thought yet,
however, instead letting a wry expression cross her face as she answers the
last rather carefully. "Methinks that might depend on how one reads it,
Master. And on one's perspective. I don't feel I know enough about that
situation yet t'give an opinion with confidence."

Hamari spends a couple moments looking around for a glass no one has
claimed, beckoning a server to her and sighing in pleasure once a wine has
been poured for her. She smiles at Kassima's words and murmurs quiet 'The
turns've been very good to me, thank you' before the rider's attention
passes once more to the Masterharper, and Hamari stands there listening in
to every word they say.

Vahara follows Edris' glance with her eyes and the laughs in a soft noise,
"I wouldn't think I'd be the one to convince him. Maybe..someday he will
favor us again, though. I hope it won't be too long before Bitra gets to
hear another concert such as this one. Making changes even to the last
minute? Yes..I wondered at one point..if maybe you had put something recent
into the piece. Then again..my inexperienced ears made up all kinds of
stories to go with the melody."

Gerome quietly slips into the Hall, giving the guards a look indicating he
does not wish to disrupt the concert. He makes his way down towards the
throng of people, easilly catching sight of his quarry. A look here, a look
there.. a very quiet but threatening look, and people move out of his way
as he makes his way towards where two lovely women, one a Harper, the other
a Lady of note. "Harper Edris, Lady Vahara, have I completely missed the
entire concert?"

Rodric's brows lift with pleased surprise as Kassima names herself a piper.
"You play, Wingleader? Would you care to grace -us- with a performance? I
believe we had intended to open up the floor to local talent at some point
this evening, and there's grand and then there's other wasy to play that
are equally as entertaining," he notes, expression still warmly engaging.
"Did you at one point consider becoming a Harper then? Or ... did you
merely wish lessons to improve upon existing skills?" Both questions put to
the trailing statement, and then a wicked grin for her disclaimer. "Quite
so, there usually is more than one perspective to ever piece, and music can
be read in more than one way, I certainly hope that my interpretation was
not far off of Edris' intent. As for your opinion, should it ever become
more ... informed, I am sure that I would be glad to hear it." He casts a
smile towards the CraftSecond now. "What say you we call them up on stage
now and giving a rousing chorus of the New Question Song, Hamari?"

Genevieve hums softly along to the tune the apprentices have taken up,
blue-hued eyes casting about again - resting on the MasterHarper,
Craftsecond, and their companion ebfore darting to the group not far off
from her, Harper Edris and Lady Vahara as the man joins them.

Edris laughs, "Not at all Holder Gerome." and she motions towards the
stage, where she's gesturing to the apprentices to set instruments away so
that the next part of the concert can start. A quick nod to Vahara. "I
suppose that you are never entirely satisfied with a composition, and it
was my last chance to add anything to it."

Hamari grins at Rodric and sighs in mock sorrow, holding her almost full
glass up for him to see. "I hardly got started... but you're right, I'll
collect some players and see how well they have rehearsed! Excuse me,
Wingleader, Master." With that, she moves off, tapping a shoulder or two
and waving to a couple apprentices as she moves toward the stage.

"I am glad of it," Kassi murmurs back to Hamari with a smile before her
focus flicks back to Rodric--less, it would seem, because she isn't
interested in the Craftsecond than because the topic at hand is rather an
absorbing one. "I might sometime, Craftmaster, did you wish it, though I
don't know about here tonight--'twould be a shame if'n I caused an Incident
with Bitra because I made someone's ears bleed," but her eyes sparkle a
brighter green with amusement as she says this. "I did indeed. And lessons
sound intriguing, but 'twas actually someone else I was going t'inquire
for... specifically, 'twas wondering what the cost is, these days, of
enrolling someone as a student in your Hall." She bobs her head to him then
and notes, "'Twould nay mind hearing your opinion either, Masterharper,
should I someday be so priveleged. I've enough Harpers in m'family t'know
that a Harper's ears and eyes are always open. --Oh, a'course, Craftsecond."

Vahara turns a little bit, seeing Genevieve and smiles to her in greeting
before Gerome draws her attention and she names him outloud before saying,
"You haven't missed all of it...you did miss Edris' composition. It was
lovely..cheered me right up." Her eyes move towards the stage, "It looks as
if there's to be more?"

Hamari gently catches the attention of Edris and then Genevieve as well as
she walks by them, lifting one hand to indicate the stage. "I'm hoping for
some accompaniment, Harpers, if you are able to?"

Rodric casts a look towards where the Lord stands, speaking with some
holders and a hint of amusement crosses his face, perhaps pondering what
his reaction will be to this next piece, then returns his attention to his
conversational companion and suddenly laughs at her words. "An Incident
with Bitra, surely Kassima, you have Harper blood in you somewhere for this
gift of words, as well?" His expression shades back to more formal though
as she speaks of the costs of enrolling a student. "Ah, yes, well, that
would depend on the student, and what course of study, he or she wishes to
follow, if you wish, after the next piece, we can discuss it further here,
or at your convenience, come by the Hall and we can work out details." Then
indeed, Harper blood is confirmed and he chuckles softly. "Enough to know
it ... and practice it?" he quips, and winks. "Shall we say next seven-day
perhaps, to discuss matters further? I believe the playing is about to
resume." Eyes flicker towards where Hamari gathers the Harpers for the
concert's finale.

With the Craftsecond heading their way, the apprentices bring the current
piece of background music to a close, and begin shifting, leaving the big
drumset and the floor harp free, setting out another set of pipes as well.

Gerome smiles apologetically to Edris, "I am sorry that I missed your
composition. I was.. otherwise occupied with business." A look about the
hall, noting who is here. "At least, I shall get to see some of it." Gerome
watches Hamari beckon Edris, "It seems your musical talents are required to
continue the concert.. This should be most delightfull."

Edris nods, and excuses herself to them both. "Indeed, I trust that you
will enjoy what remains." and she hurries off after Hamari.

Genevieve smiles to Vahara - but her attention is claimed by the
Craftsecond and she nods slowly, rising gracefully from her seat moving to
where the floor-harp has been positioned this evening, settling herself
carefully behind it running her fingers gently across it to get a feel for
the chords on this particular instrument. Her gaze moves to Hamari
expectantly.

Kassima admits to Rodric with a grin, "Master Keyssin was m'grandsire, and
Master Keyssar is m'uncle, so one could say I've m'fair share. You flatter
me. A'course, a'course, we can discuss it later; it's waited Turns, it can
certes wait a few hours or days more. As t'practicing, let's just say I
try." She closes one green eye in a return wink. "--Aye, and I look forward
t'hearing," said as she sinks back down into her seat.

Hamari moves to the front of the stage, pausing as she waits for the rest
of the ensemble to move into place. "I want to thank Lord Vorlin for
graciously having us here to lovely Bitra Hold. We are honoured to present
another new piece tonight, a special project of our MasterHarper Rodric. He
has named this the New Question Song." Introduction complete, she settles
herself at the drums, nodding to the others and waiting till all are ready.

Rodric looks impressed indeed at the rider's lineage and bows, more deeply
this time as he takes his leave, wineglass drained. "If such is your
background, then I'm sure some lessons would not go to waste, and in fact
prove enlightening for both teacher and student," he says charmingly, then
straightens and moves in among the Harpers, taking up pipes once more to
join in the performance.

Vahara sees the concert is getting back underway and turns to her guardian,
"Are you going to hover?" There's laughter that's rather brief and then,
quietly, Vahara makes her way towards some empty chairs.

Gerome laughs, "I would not dare to Hover, dear Lady." Though he does
follow her, offering a hand to help her sit, ever the proper Holder. "I
find it hard to believe, someone would dare anything surrounded by all
these Harpers.. the safeguarders of Pern.'

Hamari begins a soft four/four rhythm and continues it with as the other
instruments join in.

Kassima laughs softly. "I can but hope," she agrees. "And since the other
student I may have in mind is nay only m'daughter, but the granddaughter of
Journeywoman Saiya, one can only imagine what lessons with her might be
like." She nods and grins after him as he departs, and settles back a bit
in her chair to listen to Hamari's introduction and for the song's beginning.

Vahara settles on the edge of her chair and looks over at Gerome, laughing
quietly in the growing hush of the room for the music, "I do as
well...seems very unlikely in general. I should just have a nanny. Or a
bald bronzerider to guard me from extra glasses of wine."

Genevieve's slender fingers pull gently across the harp's strings - their
gentle melodious sound slipping into the air. Her touch is careful - to
find all the correct combinations of strings, as a weaver would be when
creating a tapestry - Gen's is merely a tapestry of sound. Leaning a bit
towards her instrument, the apprentice tilts her head to hear the beat
being played by the Craftsecond, staying with the time as the harp's
naturally angelic shades of sound join the other players.

Gerome takes the open seat next to Vahara, a soft chuckle escaping his
lips, though he joins the over all hush, as the music rises. "I'm not sure
a Bald Bronzerider woudl really help against wayward glasses of wine." As
the music gets underway fully, he stops talking, and watches intently.

Rodric's pipes join the chorus of instruments playing the lilting, somewhat
haunting and yet hopeful melody, the notes threading between those evoked
by Genevieve's harp.

Edris brings her own pipes in after a while, a descant that takes nothing
away from the music that is already there.

Hamari lightens the beat of the drums, and as the melody, harmonies and
counterpoint swell and coalesce into a flowing river of sound she begins to
sing in her husky alto.

For turns the soil lies under siege as Thread falls ever from the sky,
 And we survive within stone walls while over us the dragons fly.
 They flame the terror that destroys all living things upon the land
 A battle fought by all of Pern till now, with End of Pass at hand.

Unsurprisingly, perhaps, Kassima's attention is caught at once by the
subject matter of the song, even moreso than it had been by the music of
the instruments. She sits up a bit straighter.

Vahara glances over at Gerome once more before she also falls quiet, eyes
trained upon the stage now and listening to the new song with obvious
interest.

The wistfulness of the pipe's melody is enhanced for an instrumental
moment, then multiple voices join in the chorus that follows.

Now with our skies all clear
 Threat drawn aside
 Where do we go?
 Where do we go from here?


Gerome is definitely taken in by the topic of the song, as he has strong
and vocal opinions on the matter. A quick glance at Master Rodric
specifically, then his eyes wander, taking in the visual poetry, as well as
the auditory.

Concentration is clear on the blonde apprentice's face as her harp takes
the lead then, skillful touch coaxing a lovely array of sounds. Gen's gaze
flickers once towards the MasterHarper though mostly it remains on the
delicate pluckings of strings, leaning a bit more to extend to the higher
range of the soft harp and back down,

A smile tugs at one side of Kassi's mouth, but it's not a very merry
expression. One of the serving folk passes near her chair; she forestalls
him long enough to claim the last glass of wine on his tray, and sip this
as she listens.

Rodric sets pipes back to lips after singing the chorus, pleasant but
unremarkable tenor blending in with the other male voices from the large
and largely Apprentice-composed choral section. From the instrument, again
come those sweet ringing tones, winding around harp's scale delicately, in
accompanying duet, the instrumental reaching and falling away, reading and
falling away and finally peaking, before floating back down to reiterate
the main melody and allow for another set of verses.

The soaring strings and dancing pipes settle once more, the haunting
quality of the melody strengthens and Hamari sings some more.

 There's no more Thread, no more to fall, though dragonriders still patrol.
 We scan the sky, still insecure from Benden all the way to Boll.
 To walk afield, leave windows wide is safe at any time of day.
 No roof of stone, no metal door protects the littles while they play.

The counterpoint played by two apprentices increases slightly in volume,
it's wistful, wondering thread enhancing the chorus, as all the voices join
in layers of harmony.

Now with our skies all clear
 Threat drawn aside
 Where do we go?
 Where do we go from here?


Vahara opens her eyes wider than usual as she listens, there's a smile on
her features and a thoughtful look as well for the question at the end of
the refrain.

Rodric's piping crescendoes, the notes more firmly played as the group
heads into the final verse.

Genevieve's fingers run across the harp-strings deftly, focus greater with
every breath she takes - in rhythem with the song. The sounds of her
insturment become more intense - following the MasterHarper's trend, sound
sharpening - not unpleasantly so - but simply having more definition to it.

Hamari strengthens the beats of the drums, increasing by the smallest
degrees, then adds the flourish of syncopation as the entire ensemble makes
the tiniest adjustments, turning the flow of the music from haunting to
eager questing. The husky voice continues.

Who yet recalls the days before when skies held only sun and rain?
 What will we feel when we can stay beyond the walls, out on the plain?
 Can we be sure, and trav'ling sleep in safety under wood or hide?
 What will we find in Interval when we can just mount up and ride?


The music reaches it's greatest volume, the harmonies now strengthened as
the counterpoints subside and every voice adds it sum to a greater whole in
the final chorus.

Now with our skies all clear
 Threat drawn aside
 Where do we go?
 Where do we go from here?


Rodric's voice rings out with the rest, eyes alight, looking pleased indeed
with the performance as the final note fades. He smiles then, nodding at
each of the instrument performers and the chorus, then look out toward the
audience.

Almost note by note the instruments drop off during one last musical phrase
as the voices end, the drum silences and the haunting ripple of pipe and
harp are the last to fade to still silence.

Vahara claps strongly with her slender hands and gets to her feet, just as
she did earlier in the evening. "Oh..well done! That was wonderful."
There's a glance around to see what others thought as the lady claps.

Edris moves out from the Harper group to the front of the stage, clapping
her hands in appreciation of playing and singing along with Vahara.

Gerome looks over at Vahara, as the song ends, his face an unscrutable
mask, then a smile breaks through the surface, and the man stands. Hands
crash together in a riotus applause, "Bravo.. a very poignant piece.."

Kassima's right hand, free of glass, has taken to unconsciously rubbing at
the velvet and sisal over her right leg. The other hand lifts that cup of
wine at regular intervals. With the song's ending, she sets the glass down
on the floor long enough to applaud, if perhaps more quietly than some.

Rodric gestures for all on stage to rise, and gets to his feet himself,
signaling for the group to bow. There are smiles traded around back and
forth amongst the performers, the happy flush of a piece well done, nerves
proved right in the end. The MasterHarper bows as well until there's no
more applause left and steps to the front of the stage. "Thank you, and now
we bid you all good night, and hope that you enjoyed our offerings for the
evening. If anyone would care to take the stage more informally for further
music, I'm sure there may be some wanting to dance out there," he says
winningly and then slips off the stage as the group disbands.

Hamari gives the apprentices a nod and a pleased smile, thanking them and
quietly telling them all 'well done, excellent performing as a group',
before rising as bidden.

Vahara reaches out to take a glass of wine as the drinks are circulated
once more. She's not dancing at the moment, but there's a look of envy for
those who are the first to do so. Turning around to see who's about she
says, "That was the kind of song to make you think."

Hamari makes her way off the stage, acquiring another glass of wine in
short order, the sag of her shoulders one of pleased relief. She pauses to
speak to some of the apprentices before mingling for awhile.

Genevieve rises as bidden and takes care of all the Harper formailites
before she slips down off the stage, mimicing Hamari's movements and finds
herself a glass of wine - perhaps it's lulling effect on her is just what
she needs right now.

Kassima shakes her head slightly, not for the first time tonight, and rises
with a long glance for the exit... but evidently decides against it just
yet; instead, she goes in search of another cup of wine to replace the first.

Gerome looks about, surpringly he also has a mild look of jealousy for
those getting to dance first. "Yes, it does make one wonder. Surely we
shall not continue the habits of the Pass, out of sheer habit. This is an
exciting time in which we live."

Llany with the lul after the wonderful song by the masterharper pulls out a
beautiful recorder, it's rich woodgrain standing out in the soft glow
light. Softly she begins to play some wordless tunes, eventually the tune
that she pulls out of the instrument is the ancient piece 'Nonsuch'.
Suitable to talk around or drink a glass of wine to.

Hamari overhears Vahara's remark as she is moving through the room. She
smiles at her before speaking in a quiet tone. "The song is meant to make
folks think, of course, that's why the Masterharper had it written. We
can't forget that we head into Interval, but it's called Interval for a
reason, too. It -will- end."

Gerome waves his hand at Hamari, interjecting. "It will end, as the last
one will. But not for another 250 turns. Noone is foolish enough to want to
repeat the errors of the 8th Interval, but an Interval is a time to expand,
grow, develop new ideas, expand the borders of civilized Pern. Who knows,
perhaps in 250 turns we shall discover a way to prevent Thread altogether,
and if not.. perhaps the Weyrs can spend the next 250 turns discovering
more efficient ways, since they won't be forced to fight thread every
waking moment."

Vahara laughs softly at Hamari's words, "Yes... everything does end,
doesn't it? Everything." There's a look in her green eyes that she tries to
conceal by taking a swallow of wine. The glass is set upon the table then,
carelessly almost, and after listening to Gerome, Vahara smiles and goes to
ask one of the visiting elderly men to dance.

"Indeed," Kassima murmurs into her fresh wine glass. "'Twill end. To Pern's
detriment, should certain things change too greatly--as, aye, a'fore the
Ninth Pass." Sip. Sip. "Which is nay t'be saying that all change is ill;
only that remembrance is wise. 'Twould have t'argue the point that we do
nay--did nay--fight efficiently, however."

Xandriel comes in the large eastern doors from the courtyard.

Hamari takes a rather long sip of wine, looking over the man addressing
her. Her smile is light though the dark eyes are serious enough. "Two
hundred turns pass all to fast, and of course there will be new ideas, new
opportunities. I think some things won't change, though. It took Hold, Hall
and Weyr to fight Thread, and likely it'll take all working together to
find these ways you talk of, to perhaps prevent it altogether."

Llany hands off the background music to another apprentice, quickly she
goes about gathering a few others and whispers amongst them. Finally she
approaches her Craftsecond. "Master Hamari?"

Hamari turns at the apprentice's words, away from the conversation. "Yes,
Llany, what do you need?"

Llany says, "Um, we..." she indicated the 2 boys and 2 girls behind her.
"...would like to preform a choral piece."

Gerome watches Vahara go off to dance, clearly deciding that hovering, just
won't do. He answers Hamari, "They will, I am certain, but perhaps the
Weyrs will concede that they no longer need the lion's share of our
resources." A nod is given to Kassima, as he stands, "I did not say the
weyrs did not do their best. But clearly, as men died.. both on the ground
and in the air, something more could be done. Unless you are saying that we
have reached the very limits of our abilities to Fight Thread?"

Hamari looks around the room, then back to the apprentice at her side.
"It's one you have practiced? One they can dance to? If so, I think it
should be fine, Llany. Go ahead."

Llany nodnods, "It's one everyone could join in if they wish." she smiles.

Xandriel walks in, hearing Llany's comment. "Join what?" she asks with a
smile.

Vahara dances with the elderly man, slower than the music calls for but
only because of her partner. Half way through the song the friend that the
man was talk to earlier cuts in and, laughingly, Vahara finishes out the
piece with the second man.

Llany smiles at her fellow apprentice, "The choral piece we're gonna
perform." she grins and shuffles the others onto the dais and into position.

Elisia drifting in from where the harpers have been put up, "the newest
apprentice" comes in through the archway, stepping out of the hallway and
into the hall. Pausing just inside the entrance she leans against the wall
and looks around, watching the throngs of people mill about in a whirl of
activity.

Hamari nods her agreement to Llany's request and turns back to the
conversation. Her left eyebrow ascends a little as she listens to Gerome,
and she smiles as she shakes her head. "I'm sure the Leaders of Hold, Hall
and Weyr will always be able to take care of the resource questions, and
death in the air and on the ground is one of the truths of fighting Thread.
That's why we fight it with all we have, because otherwise we all die."

Kassima slants a glance towards the Harper Craftsecond with some interest
in her answer to Gerome's query. She nods to the Holder herself, accepting
the point. "I'm only too aware that men and women died in Fall, aye, or
were crippled, or suffered some other deep damage." She says this with
regret rather than as argument. "And so I *hope* we haven't reached those
limits yet. Certes during the Pass we experimented with new formations, new
methods, as much as Thread will allow and 'twill imagine we'll continue
that now. But 'twill be interesting t'see how much it hampers our attempts
t'keep the skills sharp, having the actual enemy gone--death and the fear
of it are powerful teachers and motivators."

Llany stands in front of her little troupe, "This is a song you all have
heard, please anyone who wishes to join in please do so." once the song
starts one may wonder if the apprentice was eavesdropping on her Master.
The slender girl stands straight and tall, links her hands in front of her,
takes a deep breath. She sings out in a sweet light soprano... 

Oh, we must give honor to those dragons heed
In thought and in favor, in word and in deed
For our world will be lost or our world will be saved
From those dangers that are by the dragons braved.

Weaver and farmer and miner and smith
Tanner and herdsman, all lord holders with
Our harpers attuned to the lessons we learn-
Remember our duty to those who save Pern.


Hamari turns to the rider, nodding. "For the sake of my children's
children's children, I certainly hope you don't stop practicing, ever."

Gerome bows his head, granting point to Kassima. "Spar can only take you so
far. At some point, skill can only be obtained through combat. It seperates
those with true talent, from those who do not have the nerve. Still, it is
a heavy price. My people have been maintaining a substinance level since
the Pass started, providing all that they could to the Weyrs. Now that the
pass is over, they wish simply to be allowed to enjoy a respite."

Now the other 4 apprentices join in, the boys deeper voices joining in the
girls voices and echoing throughout the Great Hall.

We'll nurture our dragons, the queens rule their bands;
Their clutches will shell on the Hatching Ground sands.
We'll Search out the riders who will love and endure
With their dragonmates keeping our planet secure.

We rise from the Weyr on our dragonmates bold,
Aloft in the sky, Bronze, Brown Blue, Green and Gold.
Wheeling and turning, the hungry Threads burning
A dragon must fly when there are Threads in the sky.


Xandriel gets up and joins the singers but dances instead of adding her
voice. Her movements are fluid, they help to tell the story.

Vahara moves from the dancing as the choral piece is performed, with a slow
gait, Vahara moves to one side of the room and finds a new glass of wine
for herself.

The small choral group pause for a moment letting the resonance of their
voiced die out before loudly and proudly singing the next verse.

Oh, Lord of the Hold, you must keep your charge sure
Behind metal doors, with your people secure.
See well to the herdbeast, keep cellars well stored
Lest Fall leave you hungry and Holdless and scored.

The last verse is sung in harmony emphasising the unity needed to keep Pern
and her people safe.

Oh, we must give honor to those dragons heed
In thought and in favor, in word and in deed,
For our world will be lost or our world will be saved
>From those dangers that are by the dragons braved.


Elisia just stands against the wall as she listens. Taking the time to pull
her focus away from the performance she looks around, watching the
reactions to the song, both for merit and sentiment. Already it appears
that with thread past some are slipping into bad habbits of thinking, and a
few mutter among themselves. The girl notes faces and knots as she chews on
her lip thoughtfully.

"M'position isn't such that I can speak for all Telgar," Kassima tells
Hamari, "much less the Weyrs entire; I can however promise that Thunderbolt
certes won't, so long as I lead it. And I'd be highly surprised if'n any
Wingleader or Weyrleader on the planet has any other intention." Her turn
to incline her head to Gerome now. "Precisely so. The price is heavy on
both ends, methinks--as you've mentioned already, many of us die. It was
ludicrous, when I Impressed, to *expect* t'live t'see the Interval. That
said, I don't believe t'beggar the Holds or the Halls is ever the point of
the tithe. I'll join your hope that one way or another that situation can
be remedied. And that we of the Weyrs may continue t'offer service and aid
in exchange for what we are granted." She doesn't break the conversation to
sing along with the familiar chorus, but hearing it does lighten her
expression subtly, and raise a momentary smile.

The 5, in unison cross their legs and bow to the audience.

Gerome knows when not to beat a dead runner. "I am convinced that a medium
does exist. And if History tells us anything, the number of new eggs will
decrease, and the burden will ease of naturally."

Hamari listens to the familiar song without joining in, but nods through
the concluding verse. She gives Kassima a smile. "That I think is our
greatest hope, to find ways to work together to always improve things for
everyone." She finishes her wine and looks for a flat surface for her
glass. "I'm sorry to have to leave you in the midst of such interesting
discussion, but I must return upstairs to the aforementioned children. A
pleasure seeing you again, Wingleader Kassima, and a pleasure meeting you,
Sir."

Edris watches after Hamari, excusing herself. "I too should return to my
rooms. Wait a moment, Hamari and I'll walk up with you?"

Kassima can agree with that point easily enough: "The decrease has already
begun, aye--clutches of twenty or fewer become more frequent. Have you
attended any of the recent Hatchings?" She turns to bob her head in full
agreement with Hamari, flashing a smile back to the Harper. "Aye, 'tis so.
And 'twas a pleasure indeed; I hope your days continue t'find you
successful and well, 'til we should meet again." And there's also a nod for
Edris, with an additional comment: "Belated compliments on your
composition, Harper Edris, if'n I may offer them. 'Tis an exquisite work."

Hamari smiles and takes her leave of the small grouping, and nods to Edris
as she turns to go. "Of course, Edris, we can walk up together. Good night,
everyone!"

Gerome nods to Hamari, "A pleasure to meet you, CraftSecond Hamari." He
picks a wineglass off a passing tray, and looks about the room. "If you
will excuse me wingleader Kassima. I did not mean to spoil the evening with
talk of politics. We can reserve that for another time. Sadly no, I have
never attended a hatching. My duties keep me very busy, rarely have I time
for personal endeavours."

Edris climbs up the stairs to the second floor.

Hamari climbs up the stairs to the second floor.

Kassima shakes her head to that. "Don't be concerned; 'twas, in its way, a
very political evening. If'n you should wish to attend--and duties permit,
a'course--let me know and I can send a Wingrider when Telgar next has a
clutch rocking. 'Tis an enjoyable spectacle, methinks, worth seeing at
least once."

Llany smiles and rejoins the few apprentice still providing background
music and adds her recorder to the music, a lively little dance tune.

Elisia pushes herself off from the wall and begins moving through the room,
just wandering and listening. She knows she'll have to help carry enough
things soon enough, but for now she can just look around and mingle. She
gets a few smiles from boys her age and older and returns them shyly, but
mostly she makes her way towards where the musicians are sitting.

Gerome has disconnected.

Kassima, conversation finished, likewise finishes her glass of wine and
sets it where the empties have been going. She turns to nod her respect to
the Harpers still assembled, and flash them a smile; then she sets out for
the Courtyard, murmuring, "If'n I find you've raked furrows here, Lysseth,
so help me...."

You walk out the main doors, to the courtyard.