Sometimes solutions aren’t simple. (Tags T’rid)

[Rei]

Raylin didn’t know what to say or how to say it. All she was sure of is that she had to say something, before T’rid found out some other way. Really the weyrling just wanted to curl up somewhere and cry. This wasn’t going to go well. That she was pretty sure of. Fresh from her meeting with Savitri she had gone and forced herself to eat dinner. Now she was standing, positively trembling, outside T’rid’s weyr. Quite honestly Raylin felt like she was going to vomit. Raising a trembling hand the weyrling rapped sharply on the door and took a few deep breaths. Still the trembling didn’t stop. Oh god he was going to be able to tell she had been crying. Would he hate her now? Just when she finally got everything ironed out with him. Things where good, and now? Faranth she hated her luck. Absolutely hated it. If the bronze rider asked her to between would she? Could she? That was doubtful. Raylin didn’t want to kill a baby. It wasn’t the child’s fault. It was hers. Wasn't it?

Ebolath was marginally less upset. In fact she was excited. Hers was egg heavy. But hers was a green right? Greens couldn’t clutch. So how was hers egg heavy? It was confusing. Very much so. Hepaticath’s wouldn’t lie though, and Hepaticath herself wouldn’t either. The green landed on Corinth’s ledge and watched as Rukbat started to descend. Turning back to the weyr proper Ebolath crooned a hello. Folding her wings against her back she waited for the bronze to say something before she entered.

Corinth? Mine is at the door. Please ask yours to let her in before she runs. She is nervous and upset. You may want to warn yours of that fact. Do not worry she does not intend to upset him. She just has news. I do not know why she is so upset. I think it is good news. Shifting slightly the young dragon almost pranced in place. I would tell you but mine wants to tell yours herself.

[Avu]

You didn’t bathe me yet, though, Corinth protested plaintively, flicking his tail slightly. The bronze dragon was practically sprawled over the stone couch. He was too small to take up all of it nonetheless, but he was trying – he really was – to make himself look in need of a wash, and maybe sprawling over the couch would gain some dust…? Unfortunately for Corinth, his couch was immaculately kept – rather ironically, considering the state of T’rid’s actual weyr – and he hadn’t lost any of his shine at all. The bronze crooned hopefully, flipping his tail along its length in his irritation. Was it so much to aaaask? He just wanted a baaaaath. Hrrrr. Stubborn His – Corinth was convinced he was refusing to bathe him just to be annoying – sadly, Corinth would not put T’rid past it. Don’t go to eat yet, I’m still dirty – it’s not manners to go to eat when you’re dirty…

“You’re not going to be eating,” T’rid countered absently, crinkling his nose at the bronze. “It’s laaaate, Corinth – the sun’s already nearly set – I want to eat…I know you won’t care if I drop dead of starvation or anything, but please – please pretend you care…? Conspiracy’ll bite your nose off if you don’t,” he added, vaguely gesturing towards the sleeping brown firelizard, who was curled around Stupid. The Salamandyr, too, was fast asleep; both of them had gorged a few minutes previously and, judging by the state of their stomachs, would not be waking anytime soon. The two were curled in the center of T’rid’s pillow, the rosy brown of the firelizard’s hide pressed directly against Stupid’s darker brown, and T’rid flicked a small smile at the two, the look very much affectionate despite the show of dislike he put up where Stupid was concerned.

Knocking.

T’rid actually twitched before he tilted his head quizzically to one side, blinking curiously at the door, which gave him no answers. “Who…?” he queried, glancing at Corinth, only to find the bronze crooning a greeting to Ebolath, rolling upright and assuming a position very akin to the typical Sphinx position, flicking his tail and crooning again. Hello, Ebolath. Come in? Mine is going to open the door now. Miiiine, Miiiine, Ebolath’s is at the door, she wants to see you – open the door – Ebolath says she’s very upset, and nervous, and you should hurry before she runs away. I don’t know why; she has news. Ebolath says it’s good news, but…mm, apparently Hers is still upset about it. The dragon flicked his tail curiously, and then shifted sideways on the couch to give Ebolath room when she entered. I’m afraid Stupid’s sprawled out asleep – he just gorged himself. Conspiracy’s asleep, too, the bronze commented apologetically, crooning pleasantly at the green.

News…? T’rid crinkled his nose curiously before he crossed towards the door, yelling as he went, “Hang on a second~” As promised, a second later, he opened the door, and tilted his head, his gaze focused on Raylin’s face almost instantly. She didn’t look too happy, but Corinth assured him that Ebolath found the news ‘good news’, so – so – what was up? The bronzerider stepped back, jerking his head towards the interior of his weyr, as much as to invite Raylin inside. “Hi,” he said, quirking one eyebrow slightly at the greenrider. She didn’t look like she hadn’t slept for a sevenday, at least…but – she was – she was literally shaking. “Come on in…are you cold…? Ebolath,” he added, “told Corinth you had ‘news’ – good news, but she didn’t say what, so…?”

[Rei]

Ebolath crooned happily as she entered and fixed T’rid with a whirling blue gaze. It is good news. I think it is very good news but she stubbornly thinks it is not. The green replied to the bronze rider, including hers in the conversation as well. Flopping down next to Corinth she nuzzled him affectionately. Oh they look comfortable. We do not have to disturb them I do not care if they sleep. It gives me time to talk to you uninterrupted. Ebolath made herself comfortable next to the bronze. Craning her neck, so she could keep the riders in view, she waited tail tip twitching softly.

Raylin quietly walked in as she was bidden and gave a exasperated look at Ebolath. Turning back to T’rid she searched his face for a moment. “I..” The weyrling fell silent and took a breath before continuing in a surprisingly calm tone. “I’m not cold… I don’t think. Where you busy?” Flicking her eyes towards Stupid and Conspiracy she sighed. Well if this went the way she was expecting it to they wouldn’t stay asleep for long. Stepping away from the door Raylin waited until T’rid closed it and then approached the bronze rider. Throwing her arms around him the weyrling closed her eyes against the tears that threatened to come back.

When Raylin next spoke her voice was soft and pleading. She had to tell him, had to trust him. As scared as she was about his possible reaction she did trust him. “Promise me you won’t leave me? I don’t want you to go. I don’t know what to do. I just found out and I knew you had to know. I didn’t think... My luck must be horrible.” Suddenly as if she had taken all leave of her senses she released his waist to wrap her arms around his neck. Pulling his face towards hers she kissed him fiercely pressing her trembling body against his. Leaving one arm around his neck she raised her other hand to tangle it in his hair.

Ebolath crooned once and turned towards Corinth. Raymine has been moody lately. Rubbing her head against the bronze she rumbled softly the noise reverberating though the weyr. She told me she loves yours. I am afraid I do not understand humans sometimes, but I do know yours is her favorite male friend by far. Watching the two riders for another minute she immediately changed the subject. Her voice going from happy to excited. I want to tell you the news but I think she will be mad if yours finds out before she tells him. I promise she will tell him but can you keep a secret for a minute or two? The green wanted so badly to tell someone who might share her excitement. It wasn’t fair that hers had asked her not to tell a soul. What fun was that?

Loosening her grip Raylin pressed her forehead against T’rid’s and took a gasping breath. Did she have to tell him now? Her body had other ideas. Her news would be such a mood killer. Biting her bottom lip the weyrling sighed and pulled herself away slightly. Leaning her head against the bronze rider’s chest her head swam with ways to phrase the news but no matter how she worded it the truth was it would be no less worrying. “I suppose there is no way to say this that takes the shock factor out of it.” Raylin mumbled against his shirt. Finally she pulled almost completely away keeping only his hands in hers. “T’rid I’m pregnant.” Ebolath snorted. Darn it. I wanted to tell you she was egg heavy before she told yours. She replied to Corinth her voice containing just a trace of disappointment.

[Avu]

If you think it is good news, then I’ve no doubt that it is, Corinth answered playfully, reaching out to nuzzle Ebolath gently as the green flopped down next to him. The comment on Conspiracy and Stupid made the bronze dragon glance over at the two small creatures in question, and a softly amused croon emerged from the dragon as Corinth rubbed his head musingly against Ebolath’s neck, the affection in the motion clear before he dropped his head possessively against the green’s back, arching his neck in order to nuzzle her at the same time. It does indeed, he agreed, and then rumbled his amusement again. I don’t think they would be able to wake up if we yelled at them – they’re more or less dead asleep right now…Mine doesn’t /usually/ let them gorge; I’m afraid I might have distracted him… By insisting on a bath. Which was clearly of incredible importance! It wasn’t actually the bath, though; Corinth liked to banter with T’rid, and if it got Conspiracy and Stupid full stomachs, who was he to protest?

T’rid quirked one eyebrow at Raylin’s comment. She didn’t think she was cold…? Biting his tongue, the bronzerider let the door swing shut after her, and padded barefoot after Raylin, curiosity revealing itself prominently across his face; he couldn’t see what upset Raylin so much – that didn’t upset Ebolath; the green was usually sensitive, wasn’t she…? “Busy arguing with Corinth. It can wait,” he replied, shrugging, and neglecting that he’d been about to go to the Main Hall to eat. He wasn’t actually hungry; he’d eaten not long before, a kind snack; most of his pleading comments to Corinth had been exaggerations. Why did she look so –

Before he could finish the thought, Raylin had positively thrown herself at him, wrapping her arms around his waist, and T’rid blinked in shock, glancing at Corinth and Ebolath before he wound his arms around her shoulders, tilting his head sideways to look at her curiously. Her pleading made his eyes widen, and he blinked again before he swallowed, speaking rather weakly. “I – I’m sure it’s okay – why would I leave…?” When he’d just gotten her back…? The last part of the question wasn’t voiced, but T’rid was very much aware of how sad his attempt at assurance was; he’d never actually gone out of his way to try to make someone feel better, and he didn’t even know what was bothering Raylin right now…apparently, however, Raylin was okay with it, because the next second, she was kissing him. For a moment, the bronzerider was bewildered, but he could hardly refuse the kisses; one hand came up to curl around Raylin’s chin thoughtlessly – she hadn’t told him the news, but for the moment, T’rid was content to let it stay untold.

Corinth’s amusement rose within him, though he courteously kept it from bothering His, who looked rather busy at the moment. I’m very glad Yours loves Mine, the bronze replied, and it was clear from his tone that he was being sincere as he nuzzled Ebolath. I’m sure he loves her, too. “Love” was not, perhaps, the word that the bronzerider would have used – he would admit to being very, very fond of the greenrider; she was his favorite – but love was…love was a very restricting word. The green’s change in subject made Corinth rumble in amusement, and the bronze’s eyes whirled in amusement. Keeping a secret – from His? It was hard for prolonged periods of time, but for a few minutes, he was sure he could manage. It wasn’t like His was focusing on him at present moment anyway. He started to say as much, and got as far as I – before Raylin broke away from His and – broke the news.

He froze.

The bronzerider completely froze; every muscle tensed and he stared at Raylin, blinking at her. She wasn’t – was she – it – pregnant – pregnant? Hadn’t they – the Weyrlings – they’d gone between already, hadn’t they…hadn’t they…? T’rid blinked rapidly, and then bit his tongue, taking a breath in order to keep his voice level. Pregnant. Shard it…“Are you – you’re certain…?” He wasn’t old enough – okay, so he was old enough – he wasn’t – he didn’t want…one hand rose, and he ran it over his face before he pinched the bridge of his nose, biting his tongue. “I – didn’t the Weyrlings already go between…?” He – he was going to throw up. He really was. T’rid inhaled, trying to quell the abrupt nausea of panic. It wasn’t Raylin’s fault – it wasn’t, but – but – shells and shards, pregnant…? He could feel Corinth pressing against his mind curiously, the bronze clearly taking the news as good news; the dragon didn’t speak to him, but the mental touch was enough to make sure he didn’t actually sway on his feet.

The green’s disappointment made Corinth croon, the amusement audible in his tone as he nuzzled her shoulder. It’s okay, he assured her. Yours is eggheavy? That’s wonderful! She – is keeping the hatchling? His eyes whirled so rapidly, and such a brilliant shade of blues and greens that it was nearly blinding, making his enthusiasm no secret as his tail flicked in excitement. Then he added, I’m afraid it’s very unexpected for Mine…

[Rei]

Ebolath relished the attention from the bronze leaning back into him. Oh yours really does not look to happy. Crooning, in what she hoped was a reassuring way, she pressed loving thoughts onto hers. Corinth says his is just surprised is all Minelove. Relax. Answer his questions. The green turned to nuzzle Corinth affectionately. I do not see what there is to be upset about. Hatchlings are good aren’t they? The green flipped her tail back and forth in thought. She was content to speak to Corinth for now. If she needed to reassure hers further she would. Hepaticath’s confirmed that mine is indeed eggheavy. I do not understand how this could be since she is a green and I did not think greens could become eggheavy. Raymine does intend to keep the hatchling. She could hardly kill it. Raymine is afraid yours will not like the hatchling I think. That is why she was upset and frightened. She does not want yours to go away again. Ebolath explained before rumbling and tilting her head to nuzzle under Corinth’s chin. Is yours frightened of the hatchling?

As T’rid froze Raylin did to. Oh Faranth, he was upset, very upset. His reaction caused the tears that had been building to release, although she barely made a sound. The fact that he was staring at her was noted, but she couldn’t keep the tears back even if she knew it would probably only upset the bronze rider further. He was clearly very upset as it was, and he had every right to be. So why was she the one crying? The weyrling struggled to compose herself as T'rid asked question after question, Ebolath’s calm reassurance the only thing keeping her from outright breaking down and sobbing. “I…I’m positive. I even went and had Savitri confirm it because… at first I thought it was possibly stress or sickness.” Her voice was as shaky as his and she was positively trembling again. Savitri hadn’t known how T’rid would react but Raylin had guessed it would more than likely be unfavorable. Next question focus on that.

“The day we went between I was feeling horribly nauseous so I went to the infirmary for medicine. Afterwards I went and saw Savitri because I began putting things together. I…I missed the lesson.” Which reminded her, now she would have to go and tell I’fael about her condition too. Faranth how would he react? Not favorably surely. Really she had to focus on T'rid. She couldn’t think about lessons now. She could deal with that all later. Now that the original shock of telling T’rid had faded Raylin’s mind was beginning to work again. Saeo and all the others. They would know eventually. The weyrling raised her head to look at the bronze rider.

T’rid’s reaction pained her and Raylin raised a shaky hand to brush T’rid’s hair back from his face. He looked pale. He was obviously upset but, what in Faranth’s name could she say? She didn’t want to between. She couldn’t kill a baby. She just couldn’t. It would be horrible and she highly doubted she could live with it. How far along was she now? Three months at least. How formed was the baby at three months? She wasn’t sure. Did it even have a gender yet? Raylin sank down onto T’rid’s bed and put her head in her hands. Sharding Faranth. She began to sob openly at that point. “I’m sorry…”

Ebolath shifted slightly to press more firmly against Corinth. I understand it is unexpected but hatchlings are good. They are. They will understand this won’t they? I do not see what the big deal is. Nuzzling Corinth for reassurance she crooned. Yours looks unwell. Is he sick? I preferred it when they where kissing. At least then mine was not crying. Rayminelove stop crying. Everything is ok. Really it is. Corinth is happy and I bet Stupid will be as well. When he wakes up anyway.

[Avu]

Why – what – crying. She was crying…T’rid was very surprised that he didn’t sway on his feet where he was standing; a mixture of shock and panic had twisted in his stomach and the bronzerider swallowed the rising nausea. He was going to throw up – but he couldn’t with Raylin right there, with her so upset…he swallowed again, rubbing his nose awkwardly with one hand. He wanted to comfort Raylin, he really did, but he didn’t know how well he’d be able to talk, and she was trembling – shaking – again…his hand dropped to his side again, the bronzerider resisting the urge to rub his temples as the start of a headache built behind his eyes; he blinked rapidly, focusing on Raylin as she spoke. She was – she was positive – confirmed by a Healer – was it wrong that he’d been half-hoping that it was stress, or some other sickness? He wouldn’t have minded so much if it wasn’t his baby; he’d even have helped her, maybe – but the fact that it was, indeed, his – it made him want to curl up and hide very badly. The responsibility – he couldn’t; he was notoriously good at avoiding responsibility – I will help you, Corinth promised lovingly.

And – Raylin had missed the lesson. This – that – she…T’rid inhaled deeply, abruptly wishing he was on the weyrledge instead of in his room; he wanted fresh air – before he closed his eyes. Weakly, he shook his head before Raylin pulled away and then sat down on his bed, and – sobbed. The bronzerider moved then, sitting down next to her and ignoring the fact that Conspiracy and Stupid both had rolled due to the shift on the bed. He was pretty sure he had control over his voice again, and T’rid cleared his throat nervously before he wrapped one arm around her shoulders, ducking his head to meet her gaze. “Don’t – don’t cry, it’s not your fault,” he protested, scrunching his nose slightly before he smiled weakly at Raylin. “I thought you promised me you wouldn’t skip any more lessons,” he commented; he wasn’t good at comfort, so he settled back on trying to make her laugh, or at least smile – or something. Anything as long as she would stop crying. “Corinth says you want to keep the baby – I – well…I guess it’s a good thing I hoard my marks…”

Mine is not fond of hatchlings in general, though I’m not sure why, Corinth replied, nuzzling Ebolath. He says they do not like him, but I think he’s just met the wrong hatchlings. After all, T’rid had never had any hatchlings before – clearly his hatchling would be the right hatchling, and it would love him…maybe. The bronze crooned thoughtfully as Ebolath went on, and let her finish before he replied, Hatchlings are good things, but human hatchlings are different from dragon hatchlings – dragons Impress right when they Hatch and then their clutchmothers do not need to spend time with them, and neither does the clutchfather. Human hatchlings take a very long time before they can leave their clutchparents. Both of them will need to fuss over the hatchling when it is born, and it takes a lot of time, so sometimes humans don’t want hatchlings because they’re a very large responsibility. The dragon shifted, and then huffed quietly. All human females can reproduce, the bronze explained. Green or gold regardless. Mine says it’s a good thing that green firelizards and dragons cannot reproduce, otherwise there would be an overpopulation, but since humans only clutch one at a time, it’s okay.

As for His being afraid…I think he is afraid, the bronze admitted sincerely. He had never lied to Ebolath (that he could recall, anyway) and he didn’t intend on starting anytime soon. The green was intelligent enough to know where truth and insult differed, he thought; this was truth, as had been his comment on greens reproducing causing an overpopulation. Actually, come to think of it, green firelizards could clutch, but His said the clutches rarely survived, so…Ebolath – when Yours clutches, there – he will not say it out loud, but – I think you should know that – there could be complications. The whirl of his eyes was decidedly nervous at that thought, the bright cyan dimming slightly. He does not want Yours hurt because of a hatchling. He will not leave her, he added soothingly. As for being sick...he – he’ll be okay; it’s mostly the shock… He didn’t look like he was going to throw up spontaneously anymore, which was good…

[Rei]

Raylin sniffed and wiped her eyes as he sat next to her. Ebolath’s words combined with T’rid’s helped and she managed to at least slow the tears a bit. Wiping the back of her hand across her eyes, the weyrling sighed. Leaning into the bronze rider she looked into his eyes as he spoke. Promised him she wouldn’t skip lessons? The comment drew a half smile from Raylin. If T’rid was calm enough to crack a joke he couldn’t be all that upset. Shocked surely, and she couldn’t blame him. “Did Ebolath tell Corinth I was keeping it? I…I do want to. I don’t think I could kill a baby. I don’t think I would mind so much if it was at the beginning, but now it actually is a baby. I couldn’t live with myself. Your not mad?” Her voice was soft and quiet containing just the barest tremble. T’rid didn’t look mad just scared. Like she was.

Raylin leaned her head against T’rid’s shoulder and took a few deep breaths. “You don’t have to help you know. I don’t want to take your marks. It…I don’t think that’s very fair to you. It’s not like you meant for this to happen. If you wanted nothing to do with either of us I would understand.” The weyrling spoke softly and laid a hand on her midsection in an unconscious protective gesture. “I really want you to be there but it is your choice. I would still love you either way.” Raylin’s voice was more level and clam now and she tilted her head to kiss his neck. “I really am sorry to break this to you so suddenly. I didn’t want to wait though. I wanted you to know first. Or rather second. Savitri actually found out first.” Closing her eyes the weyrling sighed.

Ebolath crooned to the two riders before turning to reply soothingly to Corinth. Of course he just hasn’t met the right hatchling. I am sure his hatchling will love him very much. T’ridyours will like it I am sure. After all he will be the sire. How could the hatchling not like him? Listening intently to Corinth’s words the green rumbled. I did not know human hatchlings where so much work. It is a good thing ours have us to watch over them as well. Does yours not like hatchlings because of the responsibility? Frosstyth’s says yours is very bad with responsibility. Rubbing her head against the bronze to hopefully take any sting out of her words Ebolath again rumbled softly. That makes sense. Human females only have one you say? I suppose there is not much room for more than one. It is indeed a good thing we can not clutch I suppose. The weyr would be very, very full of hatchlings. There are a lot of greens and Morendoth’s says that we rise more often than queens. Besides I can always share mine’s hatchling. It will be like having my own. Plus this way I will get to keep it longer.

Crooning pleasantly at that thought Ebolath’s eyes took on a slight yellow tinge, which dimmed the bright blue, at Corinth’s next comments. I do not mind if yours is afraid. Mine is to. She is happy but very scared as well. She is not sure if she would be a good clutch mother. It is silly. I am sure she will be a wonderful one. As for complications. What do you mean complications? Is it because mine is a small human? The green asked quietly eyeing hers with a bit of worry. She shifted before continuing. I am glad yours will not leave. Minelove definitely does not want him to. She thinks he will make a good sire whether he thinks so or not. Raymine believes he will take good care of her and the hatchling but only if he wants to. Crooning softly to T’rid she brushed lovingly against his mind but didn’t speak. Does he need some medicine? Mine has stomach medicine in her weyr. She would not mind getting it I do not think. Ebolath said reasonably, twitching her tail. I might even be able to get Arrogance to bring it...maybe.

[Avu]

Okay. Okay. She wasn’t crying as much. It was easier to focus on Raylin. Much easier. If he thought about the baby, he’d throw up. As long as T’rid concentrated on Raylin, he was better. He took an unsteady breath, and managed a weak smile for the greenrider. He needed to – he needed to make sure she’d be okay, and then the sooner she left, the better. It was for her own sake; T’rid didn’t want her to see him throw up, and he also didn’t want her to see him curl up in his furs. He wasn’t even vaguely hungry anymore; he didn’t think he could keep anything down for much longer – she’d smiled. T’rid would have felt relieved if he hadn’t been swallowing again, still fighting the desire to throw up. It’d be – it’d be very obvious if he up and bolted for the bathing rooms, wouldn’t it…? Hnn. Probably. He rubbed the side of his nose again awkwardly, and then shrugged weakly at her question. Corinth hadn’t mentioned it, but he’d assumed it; if she’d been planning on going between to abort it, he really doubted she’d have come to tell him about it; he knew that he wasn’t usually sympathetic. “He – uh, I assumed,” the bronzerider explained, crinkling his nose slightly. “Um…’m not mad…”

He bowed his head, his hair falling across his face nervously. He wasn’t mad – T’rid fully expected to become physically sick, though; not just throw up – actually become sick; he felt like he was going to. It was with effort that he managed to keep his hands from actually shaking, and his head ached and he wanted nothing more than to curl up in his furs and hide. The offer to have…absolutely nothing to do with Raylin and the baby made him want to actually curl up even more. He didn’t want to leave her – he really didn’t. T’rid didn’t make many friends, more out of personal preference than anything else, and the few that he made, he tried to keep. He kept his face bowed, the bronzerider closing his eyes against the headache, and sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose with his free hand before he shook his head. “I – mnnnn…I can’t ignore – I…it’s my baby too – “ Even though he didn’t want the responsibility. At all. Corinth had made his own delight clear, and he didn’t want to give up Raylin, and – “I can’t – I mean, I’ll try – “ He bowed his head again, shrugging. “You’ll – you’ll need the marks, though…to buy…uh, everything you don’t already have…are you moving into a family weyr…?”

Corinth was not as sure as Ebolath was, but the bronze didn’t say so, merely crooning and nuzzling the green again thoughtfully. Hatchlings require feeding very, very often. Much more often than dragon hatchlings, the bronze said, flicking his tail. Yours will probably be very sleepy after the hatchling is born – they like to cry in the middle of the night, Mine says, and they wake up a lot. I’m not sure how much of it is true, but I think that’s right… The comment about Frosstyth’s made Corinth flick his tail in a mix of agitation and amusement. His didn’t like Frosstyth’s at all – from what he could tell, Frosstyth’s had, a) broken curfew; b) attacked Stupid once; c) tried to catch Stupid; and d) owned the firelizard that had more or less pierced Stupid’s frill, much to the brown’s acute mortification. Mine doesn’t like it when people expect him to do something, especially when he does not have a choice in whether or not he does it, Corinth explained, crooning slightly. He also doesn’t like it when people blame him because he didn’t do something – if they asked nicely instead of demanding it, he might have done it, but he does not like being forced into doing things. And he also does not like Frosstyth’s, I’m afraid.

Surprise, surprise, because T’rid definitely loved a lot of people…

The bronze dragon rumbled quietly at the thought of keeping the hatchling longer. T’ridHis was…extremely shocked, and he’d probably go without sleep that night – and probably more to come – but he’d accepted it, and he wouldn’t go against his word – not to Ebolath’s~ A baby is a very big responsibility, the bronze repeated softly. I’m sure Yours will be a lovely clutchmother, though, and Mine – Mine will do his best, he says. Or at least, he thought. T’rid was also thinking that he was about to be sick, though, so…mnn. I am not sure exactly what complications, he went on, soothingly flicking out his tongue to touch Ebolath’s hide. Our healers are very adept, too. You should not worry about Yours, but one of the most common things to happen is a premature birth, I believe – but that should not harm Yours, and usually the hatchling is just smaller than normal. Things like that. Meanwhile, I shouldn’t worry about getting him medicine – he’ll be okay. He doesn’t want to let Yours know that he feels sick…

[Rei]

Raylin watched T’rid carefully, working on keeping her breathing even. It seemed it was his turn to panic and hers to stay calm. Her thoughts where coming out better than his at the moment. Had the weyrling not been worried about that fact, she might have found it almost funny. Normally she was the one stammering out sentences. To be fair though Raylin had gotten over her original shock at Savitri’s weyr. T'rid had just found out. She had known for candlemarks now. T’rid’s statement that he had just "assumed" the fact she was keeping it made Raylin raise an eyebrow slightly but she didn’t comment. There was nothing to say. The bronze rider’s comment about not being mad however caused her to slump against him in slight relief. The weyrling tilted her head so she could better see his face.

When T’rid bowed his head and obscured his face from view Raylin bit her bottom lip worriedly. “Are you ok? T’rid?” The words where spoken quietly and her eyes widened in momentary panic. Was he going to faint? Then T’rid moved his free hand to pinch the bridge of his nose Raylin took a steadying breath. Calm. Someone needed to stay calm, and with him upset it looked like that person, for once, was her. His words caused her to sigh. “I haven’t thought of any of that yet.” Bowing her head Raylin rubbed her temples. Was this the right thing to do? Maybe she should just between. No matter how badly she wanted not to, she didn’t want to upset T’rid. Upsetting him wasn’t worth it. She felt Ebolath’s momentary panic at her thoughts and quickly reassured her she was just thinking, before the dragon caused a scene. Ebolath would most certainly not take her between it seemed.

Clearing her throat in an attempt to clear her muddled thoughts Raylin concentrated on T’rid’s questions. “You don’t need to buy anything. I am sure I can make do. As for the family weyrs. I don’t think so. Ebolath hardly takes up much space. I will probably just stay where I am at. It’s not like I have a weyrmate. I don’t need the extra space.” Falling silent Raylin gave a sideways glance to the two dragons. At least they seemed content.

Ebolath listened to Corinth, keeping the link with hers open so she could follow the rider's conversation as well. Hatchlings sound like a lot of hard work. Rumbling softly she nuzzled Corinth in return. I wonder why they wake up a lot. Humans sleep at night and hatchlings are little humans. Maybe they do not require as much sleep because they are smaller. If mine is sleepy and the hatchling wakes at night how will she get rest? I suppose I will help her as much as I can. Her tail flicked alongside Corinth’s but there was no fierceness to the movement. The green was merely taking in all the information she was being given. It was an awful lot to think about. Corinth’s voice caused her to bring her attention back to the bronze. Oh it is a shame he does not like Frosstyth’s. I suppose he has his reasons though. Mine is asking yours about helping with the hatchling, she really does not intend to force him. He has a choice he does.

Ebolath crooned once low and soothing before nuzzling her head under Corinth’s neck. I did not realize how much work hatchlings really are. I understand now why mine was worried and why yours is upset. I am happy yours will do his best however. Yours is very good he is. Mine is grateful to him but she is also worried about yours. She does not want to stress him so. Rayminelove is even considering giving up the hatchling if it will please him. Ebolath’s eyes whirled in anxious colors. Giving up the hatchling would upset her greatly I am afraid. Raymine does not want to kill her own hatchling. Crooning she pressed loving reassurances onto hers. The hatchling could stay. Corinth's will understand in time. Give him time. I will not worry about these complications if you say so. I am afraid mine can sense yours is upset, but I will not tell her he is sick since yours wishes her not to know. I do not think I should upset her further anyway.

[Avu]

He was…very abruptly exhausted. T’rid squeezed his eyes shut for a moment before he blinked them open again, passing his hand over his face and then clicking his tongue against his teeth. Normally, when he was nervous, he didn’t do anything; he froze, completely froze – but he had a feeling that if he did that right now, while Raylin was there, she would panic, so he settled for moving. The motions were decidedly restless, but T’rid didn’t actually want to get up and pace around or anything; he wanted to curl up against Corinth and listen to the bronze croon, especially if he could put his head against the bronze’s neck and feel the vibrations – it was oddly and ridiculously soothing. He wanted to drop his arm from around Raylin’s shoulders and bury his face in both hands – he wanted to just sit and think – but he couldn’t, and he didn’t want to – he really didn’t want to hurt Raylin, especially if she was pregnant; she’d be…incredibly moody, and…he just didn’t. His stomach turned over again and he nodded silently to Raylin’s question as to his well-being (which was more or less a complete lie) before he flopped backwards onto the bed.

His eyes were both open, though his hair had fallen across his face at the abruptness of the movement, and T’rid raised one hand (his other one remained on Raylin’s back in a vague attempt to soothe her fears of his being mad at her) to brush it out of the way. T’rid actually laughed at her comment. It was a very weak laugh, and relatively humorless, but at least it was a laugh at all. She hadn’t thought about – about any of it…? Had she not thought past the baby being carried to term and born…? He squeezed his eyes shut again, fighting back a headache (and loosing miserably), before T’rid opened his eyes again, addressing the ceiling as Raylin went on. She could make do? How much was a Weyrlingrider paid, typically? He was betting it was not a lot; he didn’t remember getting any marks as a Weyrlingrider, and now he had over fifty and nothing to spend them on, and she couldn’t come and say that she wanted him to be involved and not let him pay for part of it too – he really actually did want to get rid of his marks, it wasn’t like he liked hoarding them…

“Look – I’ve got fifty-four marks or something,” he said, still talking to the ceiling, though his gaze flicked briefly towards Raylin. “I’m not going to make you pay for everything…” And – wait, what? She didn’t even want to move into a family weyr, hmm. Because she didn’t have a weyrmate…? “Do you realize how much work a baby is?” he questioned quietly. He had been fostered to Selenitas Hold; he had had to share a room with a baby before – they woke up ridiculously often. “You’re going to be absolutely exhausted…” He was trying to speak impersonally; the idea made his stomach turn over; it was easier if he projected the idea onto someone else – a faceless person, and not as him, T’rid. “How much did you want me to be involved…?” He didn’t want to share a Weyr with a baby. Honestly, he didn’t. Not even his own. But it was Raylin and he actually cared about what happened to her, and if she came to him looking like she hadn’t slept for a month, he’d rage.

Human babies must be fed often, I think, Corinth replied, and then, pressed against T’rid’s mind, commenting privately to him, Mine – Miiiine~ are we going to share a weyr with Ebolath and Hers…? I want a hatchling…you could help better if we did. The response was a wave of dismayed amusement tinged with panic, and Corinth crooned loudly, eyes whirling as he settled his muzzle more firmly against Ebolath’s back. Mine does not like Frosstyth’s because His and Olanreth’s tried to catch Stupid once, the bronze explained. Stupid was very mad, and Salamandyr emotions effect their Bondeds very badly – Mine was upset, too, and now he likes neither Frosstyth’s or Olanreth’s. He thinks they’re stupid for expecting to get away with such a mean prank, especially considering Salamandyrs can talk to their Bonded. Personally, Corinth agreed, but he didn’t feel the need to point that out, especially considering that Frosstyth’s was apparently a friend of, or acquaintance of, Ebolath’s.

The dragon crooned at Ebolath’s statements, listening in silence. As she finished, Corinth nuzzled her again. Ask her not to give up the hatchling. She has already told him, after all, and if it would upset her, then Mine would be upset, too. If it makes her happy to keep the baby, Mine will be happy, too. Er. Eventually. Diplomatically leaving that tidbit of information off, Corinth crooned again. He is thinking of requesting a family weyr when the baby is due. That way Yours will have more room; you’ll have a bigger weyrledge – and Mine may ask to move in if Yours gets too exhausted. He doesn’t want her to overexert herself because of the hatchling if he can help her.

[Rei]

T’rid’s nod did little to reassure Raylin, especially because he flopped back onto the bed after it. The weyrling bit her tongue against the urge to call his bluff. Did he think her blind? The momentary annoyance quelled itself quickly however as a pang of nausea overcame her. Perhaps she shouldn’t have eaten after all. Bowing her head Raylin swallowed once against the feeling. In a few moments it had passed. Most likely a reaction to her emotional day instead of true morning sickness. Taking another steadying breath, Raylin turned as T’rid laughed. The sound distinctly lacking humor. His attention on the ceiling was worrisome but not unexpected. The bronze rider obviously needed time to get a handle on the situation. The weyrling had admittedly had more time to come to term with it. Even if she was still nervous and horribly scared.

“Fifty four marks? That’s actually quite a bit.” Raylin commented softly. Weyrling riders didn’t even get paid. So really, she had nothing to purchase anything with. What exactly would she need that was essential? Raylin bit the inside of her check and glanced at Ebolath, before rounding on T’rid at his next statement. “Of course I know how much work a baby is. I raised runner foals and I also helped to raise my twin brothers when I was only eleven. Babies are loud, demanding, and they completely exhaust their caretakers. I will manage. I have run on literally no sleep before.” Her tone was sharper than she intended it to be and her gaze immediately softened. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to snap at you. My nerves are shot. I’ve been up and down all day. Still it’s not an excuse.”

Bowing her head and rubbing her temples Raylin tensed a bit at his next question. “I want you to be as involved as you feel comfortable being T’rid. I won’t force anything on you. Take it as slow as you need to. I don’t want to chase you away.” Flopping back down next to the bronze rider Raylin nuzzled her face against his neck and tilted her head slightly to kiss his check. “Seriously. I’ll be ok.” She whispered before closing her eyes. It was positively frightening, but it would be ok, wouldn’t it? Birth absolutely exhausted people. She had seen her own mother give birth. It was hard and painful and her mother had had help. Not only from her father but from the older children. A lot of it. But Raylin declined to mention that fact to T’rid. She would make due. No need to stress him further. “Ebolath doesn’t mind sharing her weyr with the baby. My weyr isn’t so bad. I have enough room for a baby.”

Ebolath stretched out and tapped her tail lightly on the stone floor. Corinth’s words brought a surge of anxiety and anger into her gaze. They did what! That is horrible. No wonder yours does not like them. I do not see how they find that funny in the least. I will have some words for Frosstyth’s the next time I see him. He owes Stupid an apology. As does Olanreth’s but I am afraid I do not know him that well. I certainly will not ever be speaking to him. That is a very mean thing to do. She rumbled unhappily as her tail tip lashed back and forth in agitation.

Ebolath calmed rapidly at Corinth’s next words and extended them to hers through their mental link. Raylin’s response came a bit after and the green turned to nuzzle Corinth. She says that she understands. She will not give up the hatchling. She loves yours and does not want him upset either way. She assures me that she will be patient. Crooning the green touched her nose to Corinth’s and flicked her tongue out to caress the bronze’s muzzle, the gesture undeniably affectionate. Yours is very sweet he is. However I do not wish to inconvenience him either. I do think it would be nice to have a bigger ledge however. Then you could come visit me. As it is, my ledge would hardly be comfortable for you. You are to big. Ebolath’s eyes whirled once more in steady blues as she regarded Corinth.

[Avu]

Fifty-four marks. A lot indeed. T’rid smirked vaguely at the ceiling; the expression was more habit than conscious thought. He half expected to be called a hoarder or something, because he did hoard his marks. He’d never actually bought anything within memory; he never needed anything. Lots of people liked to buy pets – firelizard eggs, or avian eggs. No need for him: He’d had Mir (he missed the blue sorely, still) and Stupid, and a nice bronzerider, his then-Wingsecond, had decided it would be a good idea to buy him a large firelizard egg and a chicken egg – hello, Conspiracy and Dinner (he didn’t know whether the chicken had died or not at the Siege, but since she hadn’t returned to “her” weyr, T’rid was very much aware that she probably was by now). But! It was all too easy to think about other things. Actually, it was safer. The thought of his pets made his headache recede; the thought of Mir and Dinner hurt, but it didn’t make him want to throw up, it didn’t make him want to curl up against Corinth and never leave his weyr again, it didn’t make him want to go to sleep and never wake up. Definitely safer, no questions asked.

She was angry with him. That was what her voice said, even if Raylin didn’t actually say the words out loud, and T’rid actually winced, biting his tongue before the words he almost wanted to say escaped. Raising runners, helping raise her younger siblings – it wasn’t the same. It didn’t even sound the same. Maybe it was comparable, though; T’rid was far from an expert on raising a child and now – now – his headache returned faster than he would have believed possible, and his stomach flipped over so abruptly that he nearly threw up there and then, flat on his back as he was. Inhaling deeply, T’rid shook his head from side to side at Raylin’s apology. “S’not your fault,” he muttered. Pregnancy: One of the symptoms that he was pretty sure everyone knew – mood swings. Morning sickness, mood swings – basically the only real symptoms of pregnancy he knew. Somehow, he doubted Raylin wanted to hear that, though, so he kept quiet, focusing on settling the churning in his stomach.

Comfortable. Comfortable? He almost raised his head to look at Raylin then, but instead, T’rid just squeezed his eyes shut, exhaling wearily as the greenrider flopped down next to him. The physical affection was vaguely reassuring – actually, it reminded him of Corinth. Corinth…the bronze was so excited about the hatchling. He couldn’t not be involved; the bronze would feel…so incredibly let down, and when it came down to it, when Corinth got this excited, he couldn’t ever, ever refuse the bronze. Usually, Corinth was so calm. Serene. In control, practical – he wasn’t the type to get excited or worked up over small things, and when he really was excited, that basically always clinched it for T’rid, whether or not he, himself, was interested. “Mnn. Thanks.” One eye opened, and he turned his head to look at Raylin. “You’d better be okay. If you come to me looking like you haven’t slept in a month because you didn’t want to bother me or something, I’ll sedate you.” One eyebrow rose; he smiled slightly at the greenrider, encouraging her to smile too; he was clearly teasing – if weakly. “That’s only for before the baby’s born, though…I doubt that the baby’d be too pleased if I sedated you afterwards, hmm…”

The last thing he wanted was to be completely alone with a shrieking baby on his hands.

Corinth crooned softly, bowing his head. Yes. Frosstyth’s and Olanreth’s – they’d been Candidates at the time, but that was hardly an excuse, and T’rid didn’t usually believe in second chances, especially when he’d been as furious as he had been in that scenario. Especially when Olanreth’s had…flipped out because he lost the ring that they’d tried to use as bait, which was just frankly ridiculous. You don’t need to be upset, the bronze said quietly, nuzzling the green. It’s not important – it’s very much past…I’m afraid it would be a lie to say that Stupid has forgotten, but likely /they/ have. The dragon huffed; that one sound made it clear how little he thought of the brown and bronze weyrlings, despite his words to Ebolath; he’d like nothing more than to verbally whip them, but Corinth wasn’t like that: That would require actually contacting them, after all – and Frosstyth was his son, and Olanreth…well, he didn’t like or hate Olanreth. The bronze was just there.

He couldn’t help the amusement in his gaze as he ducked his head again, though. T’ridHis, sweet? Hnn. He could be nice enough when it came to people he actually cared about, but otherwise? Definitely not sweet. I can borrow another ledge if I need to, the bronze replied reassuringly. I would not miss the chance to see our hatchling. ‘Our’? Yes: theirs. I can fit on the shared ledges… It wasn’t as comfortable as he was sprawled on his own private ledge, but he could do it: Corinth wasn’t that big. I will visit you whether or not the ledge is bronze-sized, as will Mine. Not that he really requires a ledge, but…

[Rei]

Raylin smiled back faintly at his words. Sedate her? Sure he would. “Is that a promise or a threat?” The greenrider returned in a slightly playful tone. Moving closer she snuggled her body against T’rid’s side, seeking comfort as much as she was trying to give it. Everything would be ok. It would. Ebolath and Corinth seemed to think so. Then again, did they really understand completely what exactly they where getting themselves into? Probably not completely. Still, they had some of an idea at least. Raylin watched T’rid for a moment, counting the breaths he took. Raising her hand she brushed his hair back and then ran her fingers through it, massaging his scalp. It was probably a pitiful attempt at comforting him, but it was an attempt nonetheless. “Are you absolutely sure your ok?” The weyrling asked softly, keeping her eyes on his face. Raylin wished there was some way to make this all less frightening, for both of them. But really there was no helping it. A baby was a scary thing. Especially when it is your own. There was just so much to worry about.

T’rid’s bed was comfortable. Now that Raylin was actually finally comfortable, she didn’t want to get up. The day had been stressful, to say the least, and for once the weyrling actually wanted to sleep. Taking a breath Raylin resigned herself to the fact that she would have to get up. It wasn’t fair to stay. T’rid had a lot he needed to deal with, and it would be easier for him to deal with it if he didn’t have to worry about hurting her feelings in the process. Rolling away from the bronze rider, Raylin sat up and dangled her legs off the edge of the bed. She was loathe to step on the cold floor. Turning to glance over her shoulder at T’rid she spoke in a soft tone. “Do you want me to go? I know you have a lot to think about. I should probably try and get some sleep anyway.” The greenrider paused before adding quietly. “Really I don’t mind giving you space if you need it.”

Ebolath watched Corinth snort and crooned softly, rubbing her head against the bronze’s chest in an attempt to soothe him. Her bronze friend should not be upset. Pulling her head back she spoke. Oh but I am upset. Even if I don’t need to be. That is a horrible thing to do to poor Stupid. If they did forget they will remember quite quickly once I toss them into the river. They will have to apologize directly to him they will. I will take Stupid along to see that they do. The green snorted pointedly and smacked her tail against the stone couch. See if she didn’t follow through with her words. Olanreth’s hung around the barracks did he not? And she could corner Frosstyth’s at lessons. If Frosstyth interfered she would politely explain her reasons. Olanreth she was not worried about. He was only a baby after all. The agitation faded from Ebolath’s gaze as Corinth changed the direction of the conversation. The change in topic was welcome. Hatchlings where happy and obviously Frosstyth’s was not a happy topic.

A ecstatic croon escaped Ebolath’s throat as she listened to Corinth. Yes you must come and see the hatchling often when it gets here. Raymine says it will be awhile yet. I think our hatchling will be quite wonderful. After all, ours are wonderful, so the hatchling will no doubt be wonderful as well. Nuzzling him enthusiastically she continued. I share a ledge with Peppeth and she is very small, I am sure you could fit. I hope you and yours come to visit often. I do not like it when you stay away for long periods of time.

[Avu]

“That’s a promise,” T’rid assured the greenrider, half-grinning even as he closed his eyes. Baby. The only word that he could focus on was baby. The responsibility – baby. Babybabybaby. He’d have to pay for some of the essentials. What those were, T’rid didn’t really know – a crib? Technically, they could smuggle one out of the crèche or something (he actually doubted they would be questioned; why would anyone want to steal a crib, after all?), but somehow, he didn’t think Raylin would approve of that, and it wasn’t like he had anything better to buy. His eyes opened again as he felt Raylin’s hand in his hair, and T’rid smiled weakly at Raylin again. It was easy to pretend that it didn’t bother him – he had practice with that. Anyway, he didn’t even know what it would come across as, if he actually let his emotions show on his face. Nausea, panic, confusion – and, most prominently, fear: He didn’t want Raylin to see how afraid he was – or how close he was to just up and bolting for the bathing rooms. The bronzerider was trying to hold the nausea back, but he couldn’t hold it back forever and he’d rather have to bolt for the necessary than throw up in the middle of his living quarters, hmm.

Fortunately, Raylin rolled away from him a second later, sitting up and offering to go, and T’rid hesitated for a moment. She said she wouldn’t be offended…“I’d appreciate it,” he answered truthfully after a moment. He didn’t want to sit up while she was there; he would throw up and that was not good. The bronzerider did, however, lift his head to smile at her reassuringly – with a confidence that he most definitely did not feel before he added, closing his eyes, and dropping his head back to the bed again and squirming backwards slightly against his furs, “Yes, you probably should get some sleep…I’m going to get Corinth to ask Ebolath in about a candlemark if you’ve gone to sleep yet or not, and if not – “ One eye opened to look at Raylin, though the fact that the other eye stayed shut detracted from the warning “ – I will make good on my promise.” The emphasis on the word ‘promise’ made it clear which promise he meant; he’d have to ask a Healer about which sedatives could be safely used on pregnant women, though, hmm. “Ebolath won’t lie to us – Ebolath, Ebolaaaaath…you won’t lie, will you…?” The last was said very loudly, intended for the green dragon.

Corinth crooned, clearly amused by Ebolath’s threats. A horrible thing to do to Stupid, hmm. It probably was; he didn’t really think about it. Occasionally His had to lock Stupid in a trunk to keep him from going after a green, particularly if Corinth was interested in Chasing, but it was more out of necessity than just because. Just because – the reason was ridiculous, and bordered on outright cruelty, which bothered Corinth. He didn’t like the thought of two of Selenitas’s dragonriders being so downright…cruel. If it was something against T’ridHis, that was entirely different, but either way, it should not have been Stupid that they acted against. The brown Salamandyr hadn’t forgotten; he loathed Frosstyth’s and Olanreth’s on sight, and the brown’s fierce dislike for the two only added fuel to the fact that T’rid was nothing if not downright sadistic when it came to those two; as far as the bronzerider was concerned, they were parasites; their dragons were their only redeeming qualities – but he didn’t want to drag Ebolath into their battle…

It should be around six or seven months, I believe, Corinth commented thoughtfully, flicking his tail. That was what T’rid thought, in any case, and he was depending on the fact that His was right and capable of doing math – he didn’t know. Humans took so much longer to clutch than dragons did – Count three months and more, and five heated weeks; a day of glory, and in a month, who seeks? – as opposed to nine months for a human hatchling…? Hnn. You must introduce me to Peppeth, in that case, the bronze commented thoughtfully. I do not think she would like it very much if I invaded her weyrledge without knowing her, or she knowing me…it would be rude. But we will definitely visit, the bronze conceded, and then added, nuzzling the green affectionately, as T’rid’s question for the green rang out, We will visit as often as we are able. He didn’t think T’rid would protest that, either…

[Rei]

Raylin smiled softly as T'rid spoke and raised an eyebrow at his following threat. Shaking her head she huffed quietly. “Only a candle mark huh?” That was certainly enough time to get home and collapse. Hopefully T’rid got at least some sleep. The weyrling felt a bit guilty really. In a way, she supposed, she was pushing this on the bronze rider. All because she couldn’t stomach killing a baby. To her it would be horrifying. Women did it often, but Raylin couldn’t bring herself to. Perhaps she was just weak that way. But furthermore it was T’rid’s baby. Raylin loved him. There was no doubt about that fact. Not in her mind. A part of her really wanted the baby. Ebolath had raised her head at T’rid’s question and she crooned softly before speaking to the room at large. Of course I wouldn’t lie to you. I will tell you if she doesn’t sleep. I promise. The green meant it to, that much was made clear as she turned to regard hers.

Standing up as her dragon spoke, Raylin made her way around to the other side of the bed. Leaning down she softly kissed T’rid her hair falling like a curtain around them. “Goodnight then love.” She whispered softly and turned to walk across the weyr to the dragons. Reaching up Raylin caressed Ebolath’s muzzle affectionately. The green rumbled before carefully withdrawing from Corinth. Careful not to jostle the bronze to much. I will make sure you and Peppeth are properly introduced. She is very nice. I am sure she will not mind sharing at all. Lowering her head Ebolath affectionately rubbed it against the bronze. I am going to take Raymine to rest now. So that yours will also have time to think. Flicking her tongue against his bronze hide she turned to nudge hers very gently. Come now Minelove. You are obviously tired. Raylin smiled at Ebolath and reached out to stroke Corinth’s muzzle. “Hopefully he does not worry to much. I’m sorry if he does.” The weyrling whispered before drawing away from the bronze dragon to follow Ebolath out to the ledge.

After hers was properly settled onto her back, Ebolath crooned a goodbye. Leaping off the ledge into the open air, she circled to gain her bearings before setting a course for their weyr. See Raymine it went better than you feared. Raylin smiled weakly. Yes it did. But I really don’t want him upset. He isn’t. T'ridCorinth's is worried and afraid perhaps, but not really upset. Do not worry so much. I will take care of you. I know Ebo. I know.