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Post by kysseh on Jul 18, 2008 20:08:47 GMT -5
Hepaticath snorted mischievously at the weyrleader, noting that he had ducked under to avoid her splash. Well, he had started it! Or had she? She could not remember, but she crooned in response to his childish reaction to her splashings, her eyes whirling affectionately. He and his bonded were fun playmates; they did not fuss that she splashed and floundered. She gave the gentle bronze an affectionate nudge, moving awkwardly through the water to stick closer to Ciceroth. She trusted him to not let her drown. I will try to be patient, but it is very hard to wait. she admitted readily, though she seemed calmed by her companion's reassurances. She did not want to seem undignified or ungainly.
Savitri was thankful that Hepaticath missed Ka'rys' grin, but she did not. Thankfully for both weyrleader and gold weyrling, she opted to not mention it. Cath would have been a bit ashamed and embarrassed, and Savitri knew that the gold should be neither. She was not trying to be clumsy; it was just difficult to coordinate all of those appendages when still growing. She would get better with lots of practice, and she was far better than she had been at that first hatching. Granted, all of the weyrlings were that clumsy, but they also lacked her size.
His irritation was obvious, though it passed quickly, and Savitri strongly suspected that he was less than pleased about the way the weyr was run. It was not in her place to judge that, though, so she decided to just deal with whatever she could, whatever Shmee would let her handle. She knew the Infirmary much better than the senior weyrwoman did, so perhaps Shmee would let her help Kalierre with that. His smile, although slight, made her offer up one in return, though hers was a little broader. "Yes, I'm a healer. I'm hoping to get my journeyman knots within a Turn or two," she replied, though the dry undercurrent to her voice suggested that she had doubts as to whether or not that would actually happen. "I'm sure the weyrwoman would rather have me help oversee the boiling of numbweed than do it herself. The stuff doesn't smell pleasant."
If it was possible, Savitri blushed even further as Ciceroth's rumbling and Cath's admission let her know that the bronze knew what the little white brat had been up to. Her embarrassment was now more for blushing than for seeing something so... private... but she could not manage to keep the rare show of humiliation under control. The blush refused to fade, not with Shadow so generously providing her with continuous images. She opened her mouth in an attempt to explain but only managed an incoherent stutter and immediately snapped her mouth shut before she could further humiliate herself. Shardit, but there went making a good impression.
Cath was completely bemused by the whole situation until Ciceroth had the good grace to explain, and then she let out a loud rumble, flaring out her wings and flapping them excitedly. Suddenly, she very much enjoyed Shadow and his spyings. Humans are silly about things. I think Mine looks very funny too, and she is very, very embarrassed about it. Why would Yours try to hide? she inquired suddenly. What was so embarrassing about all of this? She just raised up on her haunches and tried to nose his wing out of the way, too small still to reach. Why are you hiding? Hiding from Yours?
Finally managing to get her stutter--if not her blush--under control, Savitri opted for an honest but less than informative explanation. "He... likes to spy on people," she explained, trying to pry the 'mandyr off her ear to no avail. His little claws were sharp, and she let him cling to it like a bulky sort of earring, taking his nibbles to be some sort of affection. "And takes pride in sharing everything with me at all times." Especially when the objects of his spyings were so close, Shadow simply could not resist. The 'mandyr sent her another stream of thoughts to imply smug victory at his good image-hunting, and then he thoughtfully gave her yet another suggestive image of her and Ka'rys in a similar position, along with the overtones of an inquiry as to whether that was a reality.
Sav looked positively horrified, and Cath fell over again, floundering about in her utter glee. I like the pet-thing too. she told Ciceroth, though she opted not to share the newest image to spare Hers such mortification. The poor young woman was attempting to keep herself under some semblance of control, but she was being bombarded from all sides. Cath would take pity... for now, and she crooned delightedly, wishing the 'mandyr had even more imagination. How funny he was!
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Post by glamourie on Jul 19, 2008 1:26:22 GMT -5
Savitri's stuttering and embarrassment only served to confuse Ka'rys further and the explanation of spying did not help him much. His understanding of salamandyrs was fairly limited, and the more horrified and embarrassed Savitri looked, the more puzzled he became; what could the little white thing be saying to her to merit such reactions? He cast a half awkward glance toward Ciceroth, who was still hiding behind his wing, rumbling in amusement. The fact that Ciceroth felt inclined to hide made him wonder what exactly he was missing out on. What, had he surfaced with a fish on his head or something of that nature? Ka'rys frowned slightly and lifted one hand to smack at the top of his head, just to check. Nope, nothing there. Awkward.
What is so funny? Nothing that concerns you, Rysmine; or nothing that I will share.
Ciceroth's response made Ka'rys turn to completely face him, though he was presented with nothing more than dazzling coppery-brass hide, as the bronze still had his wing up and over his face. His rumbling was undeniable, though, and anyone nearby would definitely hear it. Coupled with the playful swish of his tail which caused definite ripples in the water, Ciceroth was the perfect image of amusement. Ka'rys shot the bronze a very displeased glare. Not that it did any good. Ciceroth was quite set in his ways, and the more annoyed Ka'rys became, the more entertaining he found it -- within reason, of course. Since he knew that finding out what was so funny would just serve to embarrass Ka'rys further, one might argue he was being merciful. Ka'rys wouldn't see it that way but Ciceroth had no intentions of asking his rider's opinion. He simply rumbled, eyes whirling vividly, his wing still up above his head. It was the dragon equivalent of hysterical laughter.
I don't intend to tell him what is so amusing and mine does not like that. Rysmine is confused and it is very funny to me. What did the little one do now? Ciceroth inquired, turning his head to look at Hepaticath as she floundered in the water. He was keeping a good, close eye on her, even though he was trying his best to be subtle about it. The youngest queen at Selenitas would not be drowning on Ciceroth's watch. Besides, her delight was contagious, and even if he had no idea what was so funny, he couldn't help but be entertained. His gaze turned back toward Savitri and he crooned at her - and her little pet. It was a warm, approving sound that left no doubt to the fact that Ciceroth liked the little salamandyr.
Oblivious to his dragon's discussion with Hepaticath or the reason for his obvious affection for the little white critter, Ka'rys turned back to Savitri. Asking her why she was so flustered or for details, he suspected, would get him splashed -- or worse. He settled for pretending not to notice that she had turned an admirable shade of fruit-red and was stuttering. Truth be told, he probably didn't want to know the source of her embarrassment. In his experience, finding things like that out just led to awkward conversations, and they were doing so well, too. So he latched onto the previous topic, which was probably a very obvious show of trying to pay less attention to her embarrassment, but what else could he do?
"The boiling of numbweed is an important job?" he said softly, as a brush of cool air fluttered above his shoulder. His dainty green firelizard landed on his shoulder, soundless, and curled her tail around his neck. Ka'rys did not appear to notice her. "I wouldn't get attached to any job yet, though. Where you'll be assigned is dependent on the Weyrwoman, after all. Did you say his name is Shadow? -- I don't know much about salamandyrs. The only one I've seen up close is Showoff, and he just likes to steal things..."
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Post by kysseh on Jul 19, 2008 1:53:56 GMT -5
Savitri was completely bewildered by the sudden smack that Ka'rys gave to the top of his own head, wondering if he had perhaps felt an insect or something on it. Or perhaps he was just crazy. Who knew? Whatever the case, she was relieved when his attention turned from her to his bronze, and she had to admit that the bronze did present an amusing picture with his wing held over his head like that. Hepaticath wordlessly reassured her that the bronze was highly amused by the entire situation, and the young woman snorted softly. Of course he would be amused, and were Ciceroth within reach, she would give him an earful about laughing at something that was so obviously not funny.
Hepaticath steadied herself and moved closer to her playmate, getting rather tired of struggling to stay upright in deep water. This was harder than it looked, after all, and she glanced about for a rock to lean on, vaguely noting that Ciceroth was watching her... or he had been for a brief moment before he crooned at Hers and the White Thing. Yours is very confused, it seems. she agreed, finally managing to settle herself comfortably, if not stably, upright. The White Thing? Oh, he asked Mine in pictures if Yours Flies her. She is very embarrassed, but she should not be. the little gold said as she sent along the accompanying image with the same inquiring feeling that Shadow had sent, her eyes whirling a bit nervously at the sight of Savitri's unease. The young woman was not mad at her, was she?
Though she gave Ciceroth a look of patience, albeit one that lacked any real amusement, Savitri informed Cath that she was not angry with her... sharing, so long as Ka'rys was not privy to those embarrassing little images. The last thing he needed was encouragement to avoid her, and she was loathe to lose such a beneficial conversation partner over something as ridiculous as Shadow's nosy nature. She was grateful, although surprised, when Ka'rys deemed to not bring her embarrassment important enough to mention. Her humiliation had not gone unnoticed, but it had gone unrecognized. For that, she could rest easy. He had not seen the pictures, then.
His firelizard's appearance startled her, and she smiled at the sight of the creature, her blush receding a bit with the new distraction. His question was more troublesome, and she gifted him with an look that implied exasperation on multiple levels. "Well, if you riders would not choose to go Threadscore yourselves or get into fights, then it wouldn't be important. As it is, boiling numbweed plants to make salve is exceedingly important. For all that men claim to be tough, you do tend to fuss when numbweed salve isn't readily available," she said, and if her tone was a bit short, it was understandable. Honestly... was the man just stu-
Ohh, he was baiting her, wasn't he? Now she was just annoyed.
"Perhaps, but unless she or the other one want to do it--which I doubt--I'll be helping to oversee it," she continued, idly running a finger along Shadow's back, which elicited a vibrating, soundless hum from the creature. He released her ear and crawled onto her hand, winding between her fingers and blinking up at her when she moved her hand from her ear to stare in complete bewilderment at his sudden change in moods. Fickle little... "Yes, his name is Shadow. He speaks in mental pictures and feelings, and he is the nosiest beast ever hatched. I think Showoff is his sire, though I've never met the creature." She gave a one-shouldered shrug and then gestured with her chin at the flit on his shoulder. "What's her name?"
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Post by glamourie on Jul 19, 2008 23:17:13 GMT -5
Ciceroth lowered his wing to look at Hepaticath, noticing for the first time that the deeper water seemed to trouble her. He made a low noise in his throat before backing up, slow enough not to cause too many ripples in the water or to leave the young queen behind. He retreated to more shallow water and then literally laid down. The movement put him closer to the two humans, but Ciceroth did not appear to notice. His eyes instead fell closed and his rumbling quieted, his tail whipping around to curl comfortably against his body. He asked that? Ciceroth inquired, before rumbling - again. If Ka'rys knew what was being discussed he probably would have fled in embarrassment. Oh, he had no problem with people getting busy together, or even himself being in the process; he would have simply been embarrassed because of how embarrassed Savitri was. That and the first images had involved that woman and Ciceroth knew, despite his attempts to pretend not to, just how little Ka'rys liked her. She shouldn't be, but it is not unusual for them to react that way. Rysmine would be embarrassed if he knew that the White Thing had seen him with that woman, too. Yours is not odd in that respect. I do not understand it either, but then I do not understand much it seems. He did not elaborate on what he meant by that, but his good humor lessened slightly at the thought and his eyes opened, only to whirl a faint shade of orange-yellow in annoyance. It wasn't worth the fuss of stating his reasons, though.
Though he wasn't privy to what was so funny, Ka'rys was aware of the stream of thoughts that followed Ciceroth's amusement; the mild indignant feelings streaming from the bronze were hard to ignore. It wasn't prompted by anything Hepaticath had said or done, and there was nothing he could do to fix it except to remind the bronze that he had the utmost respect for him. Even if others were too blind, ignorant and unintelligent to comprehend manners at all. He pushed that agitation down inside of himself, to deal with at a later time. Savitri didn't deserve to have his anger taken out on her or even expressed in front of her, and Ka'rys would never be the kind of person who was comfortable showing his emotions so openly anyway. He would always keep most of them to himself. Besides, Savitri seemed... agitated. Her reaction amused him greatly.
"I wasn't disqualifying the usefulness of numbweed," he said softly, one hand coming up to cover his mouth and thus hide the smile. "In fact, I was agreeing with you..." Although, he probably sounded distracted. The truth was, he doubted Shmee would be intelligent enough to put Savitri in charge of something she was good at and would make good use with. That would be practical and the woman had proven intelligence was not one of her strong points. How she had managed to be taken on Search let alone to Impress a queen was beyond him. His only explanation for it was that Selenitas must have been desperately lacking in competent women. In the south, though, most everyone was 'soft.' Soft, pampered and spoiled. Very few really knew anything about working for the things they wanted, or fighting to survive. It was pathetic. They were like pastries and the north was waiting, eager to take a bite out of them. Embarrassing, at times. "But you're right -- I very highly doubt that our Senior Weyrwoman would be interested in overseeing the numbweed production." Or doing anything that qualified as real work. She'd probably whine a lot. "I can't speak for Kaegan, though. I don't know her at all."
Ka'rys lifted one hand to brush his fingers over Ophelie's side, earning a low vibration akin to purring from the delighted firelizard. It was a soundless motion, but left no doubt to how much she was enjoying herself as she writhed and squirmed in his palm. "Showoff is his sire; he's the obnoxious little bronze one that looks to K'lir. He has a fondness for stealing my things." The fact that Ka'rys found that annoying was plainly obvious in the way he rolled his eyes. Ciceroth on the other hand found it entertaining, but he was easily amused.
As if noticing she was being acknowledged, Ophelie turned and preened prettily, making light show of her wings. Ka'rys held his wrist out and the firelizard glided from his shoulder down to perch at the outside of his arm, her wings spreading to full size as she tilted her head up to look at Savitri. She remained silent the entire time but her eyes whirled, as though to ask who the young woman was. "She is called Ophelie," Ka'rys explained, and then turned to the firelizard. "Ophelie, this is Savitri of Hepaticath. Say hello." The little green chirped - a single sound, high and sweet. It was her version of hello. Most of the time, Ophelie didn't make a noise unless she was called on. Thus was her nature. "Why did you name the salamandyr Shadow? Ironic really..."
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Post by kysseh on Jul 20, 2008 0:55:06 GMT -5
Offering up a mild croon, Hepaticath watched intently as Ciceroth moved closer to Theirs, carefully following after on her still-clumsy legs. He was in the shallower water now, and she could move much more easily, edging as close to him as she dared as he settled down and closed his eyes. Was he going to sleep? She arched her neck and eyed him curiously, eyes whirling a bit more slowly now that Hers was suitably distracted from the embarrassment. He asked it, and Mine was embarrassed very much. She likes Yours better than some of the others, but she does not want to Fly him.
The little gold gave a sudden croon of concern at Ciceroth's statement, upset by the sudden whirl of unpleasant colors in his eyes. Had she done something to upset him by accident? She padded closer, mindful to not step on his tail where it curled around his body, and nosed lightly at his shoulder, settling down by his side. Her eyes were whirling a bit quicker in her agitation, sensing that was not right. I am sorry if I upset you. Should I go back by Mine and leave you be? she asked a bit sadly, despite the fact that she was reluctant to leave. He seemed a bit agitated, though, so perhaps leaving him with his thoughts was better.
Savitri's eyes flicked toward Ciceroth and Hepaticath as the pair moved closer, her brow furrowing lightly in confusion at the sudden upset that Cath was radiating. The little queen seemed to be under the impression that she had done something wrong, and she silently soothed her that that was highly unlikely. When had Cath ever offended someone? Cath had many times Savitri's patience and tactfulness, so rare was it that a creature could be upset with her. It bothered her to see her mindmate so ill at ease, though she opted to not intrude and ask Ka'rys what was wrong. Cath seemed to be handling the situation admirably as it was.
His tone and the fact that his hand had to drift back toward his face made her scowl a bit at the weyrleader. It had not sounded like agreement, and now she sounded like a petulant child for acting so in front of him. The complaint was still valid, but he did not seem to have inadvertently opened up the door to it. Well, an apology was useless, so she did not bother with it. She just rolled her eyes lightly at his admission that Shmee would be unlikely to be involved in such an activity. Considering it reeked horribly and burned the eyes, she doubted it highly. She hated doing it, but the end result was well worth it. She hated listening to whining patients who had no numbweed.
"I haven't met Kaegan yet either. She does not seem to be involved in much," was her only comment, and she shrugged lightly, more than adequately distracted by his comments about Showoff. So, that little annoyance was Shadow's sire after all, was he? She was glad that Shadow had not taken up the other 'mandyr's thieving habits. The healer had to offer up a slight smirk for Ka'rys' annoyance, though. "What does he steal?" she inquired, watching the flit squirm around beneath the attention. Such a sweet thing... unlike the 'mandyr who was twining around her fingers in a very vague show of affection.
"Hello, Ophelie," she replied in response to the little creature's greeting. "She's very lovely... and very sweet. I wish Shadow was half that affectionate." Her tone was a bit dry, and she glared at the white 'mandyr as he began to gnaw on her middle finger. The little bugger was a royal pain, and she wished that he would do something besides wander off and embarrass the living daylights out of her with his spying. Really, he was such a- "Because he never makes a sound and follows things around until he can root out their most scandalous secrets. Flights and Flying are his favorite topics," she said with a grimace, though she offered no further information on that matter. "If someone is keeping a secret, he'll figure it out very quickly."
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Post by glamourie on Jul 20, 2008 2:10:14 GMT -5
Hepaticath's concern momentarily surprised him and Ciceroth turned to look at her. The fact that there was such a thing as a queen who thought of someone other than herself, even for a moment, puzzled him, but he did not give voice to that thought, instead nudging the gold reassuringly. You did nothing. You are not at fault in any way. Do not distress yourself, he replied. Her concern temporarily brushed all negativity away. While it would doubtlessly come back at some point, he felt a touch better that he had a distraction. Hepaticath was far more interesting than darker thoughts. When he was alone again he would probably find himself annoyed, but for the moment he was completely fine. To be honest, Rysmine would probably be reassured by that. That woman does not like him at all, and while he doesn't mind, her attitude seems to have spread to many of the people at the Weyr. He says he doesn't mind, but it can't be normal to spend as much time alone as he does. Ciceroth looked thoughtful for a moment before adding, Yours is one of the few people to talk to him that he hasn't wanted to run away from on sight. And from both Ciceroth and Ka'rys, that was quite the compliment, though it was doubtful that Savitri and Hepaticath would understand the extent.
What Ciceroth was careful not to say was that Ka'rys was not exactly 'lonely' by any means. True enough was it that he spent most of his time alone, and more true than that was that what he didn't spend by himself, he often wished he could. Ka'rys was very much a self-contained person most of the time. Ciceroth, on the other hand, did not approve of his rider spending every waking moment hiding from people, particularly when he was the Weyrleader. That did not set a good precedent, and Ciceroth preferred the idea of his rider being a good leader instead of a hermit. Whether Ka'rys liked it or not. It wasn't a lie, his statement to Hepaticath, but he'd worded it deliberately to sound like Ka'rys needed more company. Doubtlessly, his rider would kick him if he found out. Goodie goodie.
Ka'rys's smile, behind his hand, widened at Savitri's scowl. It was hard not to find it amusing that she seemed so annoyed, though he supposed he could understand. When he was scored, he rarely complained, but Ka'rys was a rarity in that aspect. Pain didn't phase him much. He felt it, acknowledged it, but did not let it show on his features if he could help it and he most definitely was not prone to whining, no matter what the Weyrwoman may have believed. He was too proud to let anything like that reach the surface. Anything real. Emotions were an affliction Ka'rys would much have preferred to do without, thank you very much. Not that anyone listened to him.
"I believe Kaegan may be shy," Ka'rys replied with a shrug. She was not a common thought for him. The Junior Weyrwoman was a former Benden rider and Ka'rys could do without that. Benden riders in his opinion were not to be trusted, particularly ones that once had any rank. Not that he'd ever told anyone that feeling; it would be awkward. Still, given how often Benden attacked Selenitas, he was surprised more people weren't up in arms to keep them out. The South was truly too 'soft', too 'gentle'; they needed to toughen up if they expected to survive. Kill or be killed wasn't too bad an attitude to adopt, though most people he'd met at Selenitas seemed scandalized by the concept. Growing up in peace without any real danger would do that, he supposed. His gaze lingered on Ophelie, but he watched Savitri from the corner of his eye, and his free hand came up to his ear. Gently, he removed the silvery stud from the lobe before holding it out toward Savitri to look at. "Everything he can. My earrings are a particular favorite of his, or so it seems. She's really quite docile - when she decided to look to me, she brought me back my earring that Showoff had stolen. If she'd been anything less sweet, I'm not sure I could have handled it."
But something else about Savitri's words struck a cord with him. Flights and flying? Ciceroth's amusement came back to him and he turned to look at the bronze, whose eyes suddenly whirled rapidly. Ka'rys paled slightly. "All flights...?"
She turns red, you turn white. All flights, mine, all flights. At least now I know what you found so funny! Now you know why Hepaticath's looked so embarrassed. He likes sending pictures.
Ciceroth's last statement made Ka'rys cough and he deliberately turned away from Savitri. No one ever said he was stupid and put into context, everything suddenly made sense. He wasn't modest by any means but the idea of anyone - even a stranger - seeing him with ... her made Ka'rys want to curl up under the water and drown. He repressed most of his embarrassment by not actually meeting Savitri's eyes, but the fact that he was uncomfortable must have been obvious.
"I suppose you have a lot of... blackmail material..."
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Post by kysseh on Jul 20, 2008 3:01:25 GMT -5
Ciceroth's nudge was returned with a gentle nuzzle, and Hepaticath rested her shining head against his shoulder, her eye-lids half-drooping over her whirling eyes. Floundering about in the water had temporarily worn her out, though she was loathe to nap with such good company... for her and for Hers, most especially. I am distressed if you are. she told him honestly, crooning to encourage him to elaborate. I am glad that Yours did not run away. Mine likes him better than most of the others, even if he laughs at her. Cath was reluctant to say anything negative about her dam or Aslath's bonded. It was rude to do so. If Ciceroth had something to say, she was more than willing to listen, but it was not proper for her, a little weyrling and not a queen, to speak ill of the one who bore her, even if the dam's Mine was not among Hers' favorite people.
Her eyes whirled a little quicker suddenly, as she was struck by an idea. Of course, it was a brilliant idea, and Ciceroth's comments concerning His had gotten her to thinking. Yes... this would be beneficial on both sides, and it would give Hers some much-needed outlet for frustrations. Mine does not have many friends that she likes... or that I like. She should talk to Yours more, and then they could both have company. It made perfect sense, didn't it? At least, it did to her. It seemed the solution to both problems: Ciceroth's would not have to spend time alone and Hers would have another friend who was as much or nearly as sensible. She arched her neck, suddenly proud, though she made no move away from her comfortable spot. He was a very warm pillow, after all.
So... Selenitas had one shy and reclusive goldrider and one irrational and overly emotional senior weyrwoman? Savitri sighed softly. It made a bit more sense why Hepaticath had picked her now, if Ka'rys' and her own assumptions were anywhere close to the truth. She wished that she could ask Hepaticath why, but on that topic, the gold had not been able to offer up more than a simple, "Because you are Mine" sort of answer. It was unhelpful, really, but it would not do to dwell on that. Things had to be done, regardless of whom she had to get them done with.
Savitri gave the earring a brief glance, wondering mutely if Shadow's spying was any worse than the thievery that his sire obviously demonstrated. She did spare a smile for the firelizard, more of a smile than she ever gifted Shadow with. Shadow seemed to care little, for he had possession of her hand and was wrapping himself in and around her fingers with much gusto, sending her all sorts of pleasant and unpleasant images all the while. Yes, her pet truly did-
-get her into many horrible situations. Savitri saw Ka'rys turning toward Ciceroth and knew in her heart that he had made the intuitive leap. She made a brief wish that the ground swallow her up right then and there, but since that was not going to happen, she settled for an uncomfortable fidget, the water lapping around her as she tried to figure out a way to remedy this... awkward situation. "All flights," she admitted in defeat, not blaming him in the least when he turned from her. He had to be embarrassed, especially if he would not look at her. She felt horrible, but it was not as though she could control the spying little pest.
At his statement, she snorted lightly. Oh, she had plenty. "Yes. Three weyrlings in the stable. Two teens in the bathing pool. A few very awkward flights, and of course, the weyrwoman and her... weyrmate." She wanted to skirt the subject but knew that it had to be addressed at some point. "He was very gleefully spying during Aslath's Flight too. I'm sorry to have... seen something that private," she said, and her tone was apologetic, if mildly thoughtful. The view had not been all too terrible, and she was not completely immune to the fact that men were--shockingly, sometimes--physically attractive. He was, at least, though she was not sure how well that would go over if she said it aloud. "Though I assure you that watching the weyrwoman and her weyrmate when he returned was far, far worse."
Shardit. All right, she needed to stop before she truly dug herself into a hole. She simply shut her mouth and let him work his way through his own embarrassment. Really, he could not be ashamed of the fact that he was an attractive man, though... well, she had seen something that was rather personal. She flushed a bit. "I am sorry... perhaps I should just... leave you be?" She did not want to, but if the man had any pride, she expected him to be fleeing, based on his current response. And he was actually tolerable too. She sighed quietly and glared daggers at the white 'mandyr that so lovingly curled himself around her index finger. This was awful.
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Post by glamourie on Jul 24, 2008 4:38:18 GMT -5
Such a considerate hatchling, but Ciceroth did not elaborate on what was bothering him. Though she had offered - or at least implied - that she was willing to listen to what was truly distressing him, Ciceroth did not see it as his place to give voice to the complaint to anyone but His. More over he would not burden Hepaticath with a problem not hers to attend to. There was nothing she could do to fix it, no way she could truly make his agitation dissipate completely. Time would fix it as Ciceroth did not stay mad for very long, he was incapable of it; his rider was too detached for him to become latched to one hostile emotion. Anger and temper were truly only momentary emotions for the bronze, who was often found in decidedly chipper spirits. He did appreciate that Hepaticath cared, though; it made him feel a touch better. No sense dwelling on something that could not be remedied, though. He was much too practical for that. He settled for an efficient distraction in the form of the two humans lurking nearby and the conversation that he and Hepaticath were having about them -- and most decidedly tuned out the embarrassment he felt from his rider.
He laughs but it is not meant to offend, Ciceroth explained, crooning softly. Yours amuses him. She is bold. Bold was something of an understatement. Ka'rys tended to have either one of two effects on people. On one hand people were prone to telling him off without any real valid complaints; disliking him for no reason but because the Weyrwoman was so open about her dislike. The ones with valid complaints or comments based in truth often were too intimidated by rank to come right up and say something to him. Technically, Savitri would rank him once she was no longer a weyrling, but that didn't change that she didn't yet. She seemed perfectly willing to tell him what she honestly thought, regardless of whether or not it risked offending him. Ciceroth approved of Savitri. His lifemate needed people willing to put up with his foolishness.
Foolishness like the kind he was currently displaying. Ka'rys quite pointedly stared at the surface of the water, his swirled face and expression blurred from the rippling waves. He could see his own reflection well enough to know that he had blanched to a rather pretty chalky-white color - or at least, it would have been pretty if not showing on human skin. As it was, he felt certain he looked sickly, though he was grateful that he was not immediately called out on it. How ... embarrassing. He wasn't sure what bothered him more, the concept of being seen with someone by a perfect stranger ... or with her. Considering that he wasn't modest (Nor was he vain; Ka'rys didn't much care one way or the other as far as the physical went. He was Weyrbred, after all, and completely accustomed - or so he'd thought), he could only guess that it was the fact that he absolutely detested Shmee that made him want to curl into a ball and wish the entire event away. His expression darkened just slightly and the look he gave Ciceroth was burning with annoyance. Though he'd let it go he still found it ridiculous that Ciceroth had put him in that position to start with. Not that the bronze cared. It wasn't his job to cater to his rider's petty likes and dislikes. Even if he had begun to understand why his Rys disliked that woman so.
"I hope you reported the Weyrlings," he said weakly. It was his best effort to turn the topic away from the idea that she had seen him. That was the absolute last thing he wanted to discuss. Weyrlings breaking the rules was hardly any news to him, though, and truthfully Ka'rys would be lying if he said he cared. He'd rather not discuss it at all, though. Should he have felt bad for Savitri, that she had such a naughty little pet? Probably, but he was self-oriented enough that he was doing everything in his power not to sink into the water and hide as it was. Little bubbles up above the surface. Just no. He'd rather discuss .. something ... anything else.
The fact that she'd seen the Weyrwoman and her weyrmate actually amused him too. He was tempted to point out to her that he was surprised she hadn't bludgeoned her own eyes out but that would be childish. No, he didn't envy her her little pet one little bit. His glare finally turned away from Ciceroth and back to Savitri as she spoke again and he raised an eyebrow. "Why?" His embarrassment was already waning, probably because of the amusement at other people's misfortunes. No one ever said Ka'rys was nice. "I don't envy you your little pet. You should try to convince him to spy on people and give you information to use against them as blackmail material. It's what I would do." Probably not the most professional admission, but considering what she had just told him he was fairly sure they were past formalities. "But then, I'm the type of person who likes having leverage... just in case. Are all salamandyrs like that, then?"
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Post by kysseh on Jul 24, 2008 11:34:43 GMT -5
Ciceroth's lack of response to her encouragement was mildly disheartening, but Hepaticath brushed it off. If it was troubling him, he could talk to her, but she would not push the issue. That would have been unmannerly, not to mention it would have scared off a very fun and interesting playmate. Thus, she let his avoidance of the issue be, and her attention span was short enough that she was soon very completely distracted by his statement concerning His.
The weyrleader thought Hers was bold? Well, of course she was! She would not be Mine if she was shy. She must be bold and sensible. the little gold said very calmly, crooning affectionate in the direction of SavitriHers. Savitri was very forward and unafraid, to be sure, though at times like this, Cath could not help but be amused by her embarrassment at the White Thing's spying. Savitri was not usually so flushed at the mention of Flying, though having the object of Shadow's spying right in front of her was probably the cause. The little queen gave a soft snort and nosed lightly at the older, larger dragon. She is usually more bold, but she is embarrassed by the White Thing. And she is not sure what to make of Yours either.
He looked... awful, Savitri noted, and she was worried for a moment that he was going to be physically ill. His skin was terribly off color, and she instinctively took a step closer for a better look, the healer in her taking precedence over the slightly embarrassed weyrling. The man seemed to be pointedly ignoring her--not that she could blame him--though the glare he sent toward his dragon spoke volumes. She wondered if Ciceroth had said something to him, or perhaps he was glaring at the dragon for putting him in the position that had caught Shadow's interest. It was hard to be sure, though his rather weak attempt at a subject change confirmed the latter. Was he... shy about those things?
Her look was one of mild confusion. "Well, no. I didn't see any point to it. They're teenagers; it's what they do," she pointed out, though she knew when dragons were involved, it became something different. However, it was not her place to tattle on the three. What they did was their business, not hers, unless they affected their mindmates. "Besides that, I never got a very good glimpse of their faces," she added, glaring at her little pet. The stupid creature.... always getting her into mischief.
Ka'rys finally turned his gaze back to her, though in a way she wished he would not have. He seemed more than a little patronizing, which rankled on multiple levels. Well, said 'little pet' had given her a plethora of images that she would not hesitate to send to him via Cath and Ciceroth if he continued to be difficult. Was that an abuse of power and knowledge? Probably. But it could serve as an aid, if she needed it to. "I do try, but he quickly loses interest. I think he's fascinated with Flights because he's genderless, so he gets... focused on them." However, she was starting to get a few tidbits here and there that were more than worth the effort spent focusing Shadow's attention on other things. It was nice having another set of eyes and ears, even if Shadow could not repeat what they said word for word.
His query had her shrugging her shoulders a bit, shaking her wet head. "No, not that I know of. He's... special. It's a good threat to make to people, though," she pondered aloud, watching the little creature twine around her fingers. "If anyone angers me, I'll have Shadow tail them for a bit to see what he can get. It'll keep people in line." Her stance was nonchalant, but her gaze slid sideways towards Ka'rys, the threat implied that if he should ever truly cross her, her pet would make sure to dig up something humiliating. Shadow seemed to pick up on her thoughts for he spread his wings and performed a short, hopping glide up to Savitri's shoulder where he immediately began to preen. Yes... he was a brilliant spy. "Just in case you like the idea of having leverage on me." No, that would be most unwise of Ka'rys to try. She did not like the idea of having someone hold an incident over her head, giving them power.
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Post by glamourie on Aug 4, 2008 1:53:37 GMT -5
Many people seem to take that reaction to him. Rysmine does not respond well to people; he never has that I can remember. Which wasn't really that far, by Ciceroth's memory was decent enough for a dragon. In his experience, Ka'rys seemed to attract people who did not in any way understand him. Not that Ciceroth understood most people (or dragons; evidently he misunderstood them on a level he could barely begin to describe) but his Rysmine was on the short list of the few who did make sense to him. All in all it was quite odd. He'd yet to meet anyone who knew exactly what they thought of Ka'rys without a single doubt in their minds, other than him. He blamed it on the fact that Ka'rys kept so many secrets, which he didn't fully understand, either. For reasons Ciceroth could not fathom, Ka'rys felt as though telling anyone - dragon or person alike - anything abut himself was a crime. Long ago, the bronze had come to terms with that. However, most of the general public did not seem to understand that about him, and/or found it strange when he evaded questions. Another thing Ciceroth didn't understand, but then, he was perfectly fine with not having his questions answered. If he absolutely needed to know something, he'd find it out on his own, some way, somehow. Ever-so-practical was Ciceroth.
He dislikes talking about himself; he grows restless and avoids the topic, and then people avoid him, and he avoids people. Rysmine is broken. There was no small amount of fondness in that statement, though. Ciceroth wouldn't change anything about Ka'rys, even if he was strange, especially for a person. Yours fascinates him, I think; he normally runs away much sooner. I would steal his clothes to keep him from doing, but he is wearing them.
Perhaps it was fortunate that Ka'rys was pointedly focusing on the annoyance he felt at Ciceroth. He was oblivious to his bronze's comments, as they were meant only for Hepaticath. If he had been aware of what the bronze was saying, he probably would have left, though he would quite fixedly claim he wasn't running away by any definition of the word. Ka'rys simply loathed conversation, especially awkward statements between two people who blatantly hated one another, but were too entwined by circumstance and responsibility to act on it; there were some occasions where it was simply better to avoid than generate more uncomfortable feelings. Ka'rys was a master of avoidance. Actually, his default reaction was to leave rather than make small talk. The less he talked to people, the less inclined to approach him they tended to be. But Savitri didn't seem eager to leave, and Ciceroth liked Hepaticath; Ka'rys couldn't bring himself to wander off, since Ciceroth liked to spend time physically in his presence. Even if he did think running away and hiding in his furs would be a good idea.
The bronzerider chose not to comment on the subject of the Weyrlings; he'd only remarked on it to avoid having to admit that the idea of being .. seen... was disquieting. He wasn't shy, but the fact that he was, at least for a little while longer, stuck with Shmee in the sense that he couldn't just go back to pretending she didn't exist was annoying. He really didn't like any kind of reminder. He was still miffed with Ciceroth. It had taken quite awhile for the bronze to get back in his good graces for that one. Shmee was almost a fate worse than death.
Almost.
Hnn, genderless. That did explain it on some level but Ka'rys was fairly sure if he was genderless he'd just be.. glad. Not that he had a problem being male, but he wasn't exactly fixated on the physical aspect of anything, and never had been. Multiple people had commented throughout the Turns that he was strange in that respect, but Ka'rys just preferred to be left alone. Solitude was not uncomfortable to him. Neither were long, gaping silences, which appeared to be growing more and more common in his life. He just had nothing to say most of the time and Ka'rys truly loathed talking for the sake of doing so. He often had a very good reason for anything he gave voice to. Otherwise he just sort of... nodded.
"It's only a good threat if the person is modest, uncomfortable with flights, or has another reason to be embarrassed," Ka'rys replied drolly before raising an eyebrow. "I very highly doubt your little salamandyr would find my life very interesting, but you are welcome to have him follow me around..." His eyes narrowed and his expression changed to a slight smile. "You truly are Southern, aren't you? A good policy to abide by is to never tell someone your plan of action if they do something to merit your vengeance. They expect it when you warn them. Threats are meant to intimidate but from a logical standpoint they ruin the element of surprise, and the blatant advantage it causes. Don't warn someone in advance what you plan to do. Keep your advantages." Threats never scared Ka'rys. Most people who bothered with them were never as bad as their word, and besides, his life wasn't very fascinating. "You're a Healer, aren't you? ... Have you ever actually been to the north?"
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Post by kysseh on Aug 4, 2008 2:35:01 GMT -5
Hepaticath rumbled softly, lowering her lids over her slowly-whirling eyes as she rested. Ciceroth's was not a people-liking person? That was strange. Hers seemed to be appropriately confused by his changes in attitude, but other than that, Cath could sense no dislike on the young woman's part. Annoyance, a bit... confusion, most assuredly. But no dislike. Mine is curious too. She is annoyed with him and confused a little, but she does not dislike him. She is thinking his attitude is.... patronizing, though. the little gold said slowly, having to refer to Savitri for the proper word. Yes, patronizing seemed to be a good description. Hers was miffed and mildly insulted by being spoken down to, but she was taking in the lessons nonetheless. That reassured the weyrling.
Mine does not mind talking about herself, usually... except she gets bored with it quickly. Except some things, which upset her, and she will not talk about them at all. Aslath's asked her about something, and she changed the subject and then would not tell me. It upset me. ...I am glad you do not have to resort to stealing his clothes. Mine might not be able to keep from laughing at Yours if you did. Actually, Cath thought Hers would probably fall over laughing, which would be both good and bad. Ciceroth's probably would not enjoy being laughed at like that, even if he had tolerated it thus far. But it would be good to hear Hers laugh that hard. The weyrling snorted softly. Perhaps she should try harder to amuse SavitriHers...
"You were embarrassed enough," Savitri pointed out without any real force behind the statement. It was fact, and she was not saying it to be truly mean. She just wanted to make a point. The raise of his eyebrow made her lips thin. There went the arrogance again. She hated being spoken down to, and it appeared she was about to get a lecturing. What he actually said had her tilting her head to one side, green eyes lightly narrowed as she considered. Savitri had rarely had any real need for vengeance. Granted, when she had taken the opportunity, it had been satisfactory, terrible in its completeness, and really quite ruthless. But she had found little need for such things, even since getting to the weyr. Apparently, she was going to have to learn a few things about... maneuvering to keep the top spot.
"Healer, yes. Born and raised in Southern Hold." The woman missed it very little, though. Her father, she missed most of all. The remaining siblings were scattered about in various crafts in the hold, and her older brother and the sister younger than her by a Turn were both Joined and settled down with the intention of raising families. Her mother had quite scathingly wrote her missive containing the details of the birth of her sister's first child. She was not surprised to learn that her sister had been remarkably intolerant to the pain and had screamed the entire time. No, it was the anger in her mother's words that had rankled and made her hate hold life. She was a woman and an independent creature, not breedingstock to produce more offspring, shardit! "Never been to the north, and I have no wish to go either. I saw what it did to some of the riders."
As a healer and a friend to a victim, it was understandable that she looked angry at the whole prospect of war. Savitri preferred healing damage to doing it, and the thought of such wanton waste of life made her furious. However, that did not negate the fact that the war was going on with Selenitas right in the middle of it. "I almost never have to do anything more than intimidate," she admitted, though she doubted he believed her on that. Most people did not. Then she turned on the full force of her temper, and people tended to cower. She had picked up the skill quite by accident and had master it into an art. It worked wonders on fractious children.... and obstinate, obsessed followers. "Besides, at the rate this war is going, it'll be here within a Turn or two, if not sooner. No need to travel to the north to get a taste of it then." Her tone was rather grim, and Shadow seemed to pick up on her agitation, for he latched on to her ear and began to curl his body around it, nibbling delicately at the soft cartilage. "And we might not be as lucky as the last time." Ohhh, how she remembered the last time so well...
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Post by glamourie on Aug 4, 2008 22:53:21 GMT -5
Patronizing? Ciceroth snorted, sending a ripple in the water, before he flicked his tail in amusement. His eyes whirled, a colorful myriad of hues. Doubtlessly, Hepaticath's knew very little about His. Often Ka'rys did not bother with talking down to people. If he spoke at all it was a compliment to the person. Still, Ciceroth was fairly sure he could guess why the young queen's bonded thought His was being patronizing. Ka'rys was very bad at expressing himself. Ciceroth, on the other hand, had no problem stating exactly what he meant. Of the two of them he was by far the more eloquent and that alone was a very sad fact indeed. Not that Ciceroth was anything shy of eloquent much of the time. Someone had to make up for Ka'rys's antisocial demeanor. If only he could make RysHis listen to him and actually say what he wanted him to stay instead of what he thought was right. Alas, no miracles.
He does not mean to be. Rysmine is simply not good with people, and... well, that is how he is. Actually, Ka'rys was exceptionally arrogant, even Ciceroth knew that. But he wasn't about to offer that explanation up as justification when it really didn't help matters. It wasn't as though Ka'rys wasn't entirely fair in his arrogance on some levels; he definitely was. He was Ciceroth's, after all, and that made him special, better than the rest. Ciceroth would not have settled for just anyone. More over, his Rys was very intelligent. Just from a guess, though, Ciceroth was sure that Hepaticath's bonded would not appreciate that explanation; she would probably much prefer the true fact that Ka'rys was just... awkward. Awkward with people entirely. He is not used to people talking to him for this long. As I said, he usually runs away -- or they do. I apologize for his behavior if it offends. He truly does not mean to.
What could have disturbed the young woman, though, that she would refuse to talk of it to her dragon? Ciceroth flicked his tail curiously, but did not inquire. He wanted to know, but if he asked Ka'rys, his lifemate was likely to simply tell him it was none of his business. So, he kept that thought to himself, but he did nudge Hepaticath; it was meant to be both affectionate and comforting. Odds were, Savitri would explain it to her when she was older, or when she was more comfortable with it. Ka'rys usually did when it came to him. He was sure Hers wouldn't keep secrets without a very, very good reason.
Savitri's statement earned nothing more, nor less, than a casual look at her that could have said a lot - or nothing - depending on what the viewer wanted to interpret it as. Yes, he was embarrassed, but he wasn't modest, and he wasn't shy. He was embarrassed because it was Shmee, and there were not a lot of people who were quite so disdainful of the Weyrwoman - that he knew of. Then again, being openly disapproving of Shmee rarely gained anything. She seemed to just become more bratty, rather than listen to what could be considered good advice. It was truly better to just... let her have her way, or shut up about it. Not that most people, he believed, were capable enough to recognize that the real source of Selenitas's problems was the Weyrwoman. The southerners, in his experience, were very naive and inclined to believe the absolute best of someone. They probably blamed Benden, rather than recognizing that Benden wouldn't have the success they did if the Weyrwoman was less spineless and idiotic. Pathetic.
Some part of him wondered if he should have been offended at the implication that there was something wrong with northern riders. He wasn't a fool. He knew how the south viewed the ways of the north, and he knew, likewise, how the north viewed the south. Both were right and wrong, but ultimately and undeniably one thing remained certain: the south needed to change. They generated weakness, and the north preyed on it. There was just no way to go about that without the Weyr leading the example and... well...
"Intimidation works only so long as no one calls your bluff. Don't rely on it. Eventually, someone will," Ka'rys replied quietly. "And you'll be as though left without a boat in the ocean during a storm. Helpless and powerless to stop it. You seem sensible. Don't follow that example; Selenitas needs more people competent and willing to fight, tooth and claw, to defend themselves if necessary. Because... like you said... we may not always be as lucky as last time, and the war already is on our doorstep." Such a shame some people couldn't see that. "It's here; to believe otherwise is to negate obvious fact. Benden will not leave us alone. Not when it's obvious that, while Selenitas fights back, we're like scrambling, terrified children. We don't pose a real threat and they have yet to launch a real, all-out attack..." He dreaded when it would happen; and it would, eventually. Topic change - he didn't want to think about the fact that Selenitas was helpless and Shmee wouldn't let him fix it. Curse her. "I was born at Fort. Should I be offended?"
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Post by kysseh on Aug 5, 2008 17:53:55 GMT -5
The explanation had Hepaticath wondering for a moment, and she was quiet, considering. Ciceroth seemed amused by His' inability to properly deal with people. Then again, Cath herself found it amusing how annoyed Savitri could get with certain others, so perhaps it was much the same. Either way, Theirs made for endless amounts of entertainment, barring the occasional serious upset. Savitri's embarrassment over Shadow's spying was quickly becoming less, which deprived the gold of yet another source of entertainment. Very well. She would have to learn from Ciceroth and find new ways of amusing herself at Hers' mild expense.
Still, the thought that Ciceroth's was not trying to be patronizing was appreciated, and the goldweyrling quietly passed that on to Hers. Savitri did not respond, but Cath took the liberty of listening in on the thoughts she radiated until she got an accurate sense of what was passing through Hers' mind. She did so need to teach Hers to think less loudly, but until then, it was a useful thing to know what was on Hers' mind at all time. Hers was far too secretive... or tried to be. I think she understands that now. She is just not used to males acting like he does. He is rather strange... though in a good way, mostly. she pointed out thoughtfully, and her tone clearly implied that she was not at all trying to be insulting. Neither was Savitri. Both males were just... a departure from what they were used to, and Savitri, especially, was a little confused by it.
Not that either minded the difference. The young healer thought it rather better that he was not speaking down to her when he so easily could have. And probably should have, really. She had already been told that she had far too much boldness, and now that he had thoughtfully revealed his northern upbringing--ohhh, they'd touch on that issue in just a moment--it made sense that he would try to speak down to her. That he wasn't was gratifying, and he at least had a measure of respect in her eyes as of now. For now. His casual and altogether ambiguous expression as a reaction to her statement had her a bit surprised. She could not tell how he felt about it in any sense, though she sensed that that avenue of discussion was closed. Fine, then. On to other things.
While his rant--or... lecture?--about forethought might have been deserved, Savitri found herself a bit offended by the fact that he thought she was incapable of any real action. It was sorely tempting to inform him that she could handle herself just fine when it came to vengeance, thank you, but she doubted that would convince him. Besides, he did raise the valid point of being able to fight competently, and she acknowledged that the weyr was sorely lacking in able fighters. They needed a few more Aliscias and Taniths in the weyr, though... well, in retrospect, perhaps one Tanith was enough. She said nothing at first, but she was sure her expressive face was fairly well following her line of thought: annoyance to resignation... to consideration. Shardit. He had to be right, didn't he?
"Offended by what? That I think the north is a place dominated by ego-driven men compensating for some sort of lack by fighting and ordering others to fight to the death?" She shrugged. "Up to you." She had better things to do than reassure him. If he was going to be offended by her view of senseless killing, then that was up to him. "I hate seeing lives wasted over foolish pride." As a healer and a woman--and a stand-in mother--it hurt on many levels. Her anger was not going to make the war go away, though, and she was already taking steps to get herself prepared for the fact that the war could arrive soon. "Should I be offended that you think I'm helpless? I've already asked two friends to teach me to fight. I'm not completely soft and stupid." No, she was not. She was slowly learning how to throw a knife, and while her aim was... chancy, at best, she was getting better. Besides, she had enough anatomical knowledge to know where to hit... and how deeply to... to make someone stop. "I know I'm vulnerable, and I hate it." Shardit. She should've shut her mouth before that came out.
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Post by glamourie on Aug 6, 2008 1:12:12 GMT -5
What kind of behavior did she expect? Ciceroth inquired, curious. He knew very little about how Hepaticath and Hers were being treated, or what people viewed as normal behavior for a bronzerider - or male in general. Oh, he was intelligent enough to recognize that His was odd; he made too many enemies to be anything else, but that didn't mean he knew what was off about him. Not that he would change a thing about Ka'rys. He loved his rider with every part of his being, but he, like Ka'rys, liked to understand the way people worked. His rider never analyzed himself, but Ciceroth liked to study everything. It was an inherent desire to figure out why people and dragons did the things they chose to do; why they acted on some impulse and not others. He'd never really given voice to that interest before, but Hepaticath had opened the opportunity with her statement, and Ciceroth was not about to ignore the gaping chance. If she was willing to answer, anyway. He wouldn't have blamed her if she didn't. It wasn't entirely his business, even though he had no intentions of telling RysHis.
No, it was better for all that Ciceroth did not intrude on Ka'rys's thoughts, as the dark-haired man simply tilted his head and stared at Savitri with a level gaze. Blank face. He let her speak without interrupting, nor commentary, and none of his reactions showed on his features; turns and turns of practice helped him bottle his emotions, lock them away, hide his face so the world would never, ever find him. He had a great many opinions on what Savitri said, but he was polite enough not to say it outright when she was trying to speak. His foster-mother taught him young that it was always proper to let someone say their peace before he demolished their points or destroyed them verbally. Not that he intended to do either to Savitri. In fact, she'd piqued his interest. Had she said something about defending herself? And how vivid her expressions were. So naive and... southern.
"The wars are less about compensating anymore," he corrected quietly as he turned to look toward Ciceroth. "It started... Well, it started as the idea that one unified Weyr to handle all of the North would be a good idea; there was no Thread, so why not just merge together? But both Benden and Fort wanted to be that one Weyr." He motioned in the water, ripples surrounding his fingers. "Wars are fought for less. Sometimes I think territory is just another term used to explain the fact that Benden and Fort have harbored an intense dislike for one another for as long as I've been alive. Just an excuse to fight." He shook his head. "These days, the war continues partially out of pride - the one to back out first will look the part of the coward. But also for safety. If one side stops fighting, you can bet without hesitation that their opponents will take it as weakness and use it to crush them. The wars will wage until one side wins because a treaty will never be formed. Neither side is willing. Maybe in Turns well past our lifetime, but I doubt it very seriously..."
As for her being helpless, what had she expected him to say? Ka'rys was on the observant side. Whether Savitri recognized it or not, the fact that he'd told her the truth meant, in its own way, that he was confiding something in her - that he was trusting her. That meant he didn't look down on her as heavily as she may have thought. And she did say something about learning to defend herself.
"I didn't say you were helpless." It was the truth. "I said that you shouldn't rely on threats, because eventually someone will call your bluff, and if you're relying entirely on them, you're at sea without a ship. There's quite a difference in the two statements, healer. If I thought you were helpless, you would have the same amount of attention from me that the Senior Weyrwoman has -- the bare minimum and nothing more. I'm still here. That alone should tell you that I am not of the belief you're helpless." He flicked his wrist at the surface of the water, sending a slight splash Savitri's way. "Who have you asked to teach you self-defense?" He chose not to comment on her last statement; he didn't think she'd wanted him to hear it and Ka'rys was respectful enough not to point out the admission. Oh, he heard her well enough, but... he wasn't completely monstrous. Most of the time.
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Post by kysseh on Aug 6, 2008 1:46:57 GMT -5
Well, that was certainly a whopper of a question, and Hepaticath was momentarily stunned by the enormity of it. She was silent for a good few moments in trying to sort through the mixture of emotions her bonded was radiating. Confusion, pleasure, curiousity... annoyance. It was odd, and the little gold found herself a bit perplexed by the complexity of it. I am not being rude, I promise. she told Ciceroth while she attempted to make sense of the muddle. It is just... hard to describe. It was likely the understatement of the Turn, especially for a young weyrling, but Hepaticath was determined to try her best. It was the least she could do for such a polite and honest inquiry.
Hers had been expecting... interest and curiosity. Some sort of normal social indicators, Cath thought. But Savitri was not displeased to find Ka'rys not showing the wrong sort of Flight-interest, which pleased Hepaticath. Hers was smart, and Ciceroth's was wise to not trifle with Hers. She expected to understand him better. she finally attempted, moving her head to curiously watch her playmate and wonder why he had inquired. She is used to males making compliments or insults or at least using their faces or bodies to speak. She can often see what they mean in their body and their face even if their words are wrong. But... Yours is not speaking without words, and it is confusing her. And he is not noticing that she is female and he is male. She does not mind that at all. But she is not used to it. All of the others look at her differently than Yours. I think she likes the difference, but it still confuses her. She can not tell if yours is being honest or... patronizing. The effort of attempting such a massive feat of explaining had Hepaticath a bit perturbed, and she gave a sudden soft croon and then leaned further against her bronze playmate for comfort and reassurance that she had made herself understood. She had tried. Truly, she had!
The thing that Hepaticath had most correctly was Savitri's current frustration with being unable to read Ka'rys' nonverbal communication... or, rather, his lack thereof. She had often met people who were far less expressive than her, but even then, they had given her something to go on. Body posture... unconscious hand gestures. Something. Shardit, she could usually tell the mood of a child that had no words to describe its feelings. But Ka'rys was seemingly completely devoid of expression, and just when she thought she had a handle on the attitude behind his words, he said something completely... well... opposite. And it was bothering her.
His explanation of the wars was... depressing, at its very best. Savitri hated war and fighting. Oh, she was no stranger to conflict and arguments, but the thoughts of so many deaths and heartaches over nothing more than pride was ridiculous. Granted, it was past the point of no return, and the resignation on her face acknowledged that. They were stuck in this... debacle... whether she liked it or not, and grouching about idiot male egos and pride would accomplish nothing. Shardit. Of course she had had to live in a time where war was the commonplace way of life. All she could do now was adapt. What was that her father had always told her about the sea...? "Adjust, adapt, overcome," she murmured softly, toying with that thought.
Ka'rys' repeated comment about the ship had her giving him a look of obvious frustration. Honestly, if he was going for metaphors, he could at least use a less trite one. She was not a moron and knew quite well what a storm-tossed sea could do to a stranded and floating human body, thank you. The look faded slightly as she realized what he had intended to say before his vagueness got in the way of her comprehension. Well, the insult to Shmee was clear, but it was gratifying to know that he did not think her a complete waste of time. "If I knew you... or could understand half of the vagueness that comes out of your mouth... I might have understood that the first time," she admitted, wishing just a bit that he would be more plainspoken. Oh, she could deal with the flowery speech just fine if the accompanying vocal and nonverbal cues were present. He, however, was making her life difficult. Shard him. "I'll admit I appreciate you not having run off yet." For the sake of her curiosity and Cath's happiness, both.
The splash surprised her, and she mercilessly flicked a bit of water back at him, heedless of where it hit him. Her wet clothes were starting to cling uncomfortably, and she briefly debated getting out to dry. "Aliscia... of green Tanith. And Mutasim, one of the candidates. That's supposing I can convince him that Cath won't eat him, though." She snorted softly. Honestly, Hepaticath was not of the sort of temperament to maul the boy. Even looking at the little queen resting, one could see her lack of aggression without provocation. But... well, maybe Mutasim had his reasons. She just thought it ridiculous. "And supposing Aliscia can keep Tanith from eating someone long enough to give me another lesson."
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