Rising Like The Sun [Night & Day Weyrling Lesson]

[Zen]

BT Month 12 - Late Winter
Weather: Gray skies, cold and wet, with most of the snow having melted into slush.

Weyrlingmaster D'rew

As soon as the weyrlings had all gathered outside the barracks at Sabanth's call, D'rew couldn't help but grin at them, despite the chill. While it wasn't quite as exciting as a first flight with your dragon, watching your dragon take to the sky for the first time was still a memorable moment and an important milestone during weyrling training. “We've been talking about safe flying habits the last several days in preparation for today, your dragons' first flights. Each of your dragons will take off one at a time, circle around the plateau and the lake, and then come back to land so the next dragon can have their turn. This should be a simple flight. Keep a close eye on your bond in case your lifemate starts getting ideas about trying something they aren't ready for. They need to get their wings used to carrying their weight before they try to get fancy and end up hurting themselves.”

He paused and looked over the group, hoping they understood that he wasn't just putting limitations on them for no good reason, “After every dragon has had their flight, they can take a short rest while we go over riding straps and each of you has a turn getting Sabanth fitted into his gear so you can get a working knowledge of what straps go where and about how tight they should be. You'll all be crafting your own in the coming month for your dragons, so it would serve you well to pay attention when you have your turn with Sabanth. After everyone's taken their turn with the straps, your dragons can return to the air for further exercise, but you should all be watching your dragons carefully so they don't overexert themselves or crash into their classmates.”

Another pause to let the day's events sink in for a moment and he continued with a warning, “While your dragons may be flying now, you are absolutely not allowed to ride them for another two months. As I already said, they need to get used to carrying their own weight first, and some of the smaller dragons will be too small until then to carry a rider as well.” His gaze flicked to Tellamuth briefly, unsure if the white would even be able to carry a rider when he was done growing, but he seemed to be growing at a faster rate than his siblings so he had no idea where he would stop. He'd already caught up to Lepsuth, the smallest green in the class, despite hatching much smaller than her. Well, they would just have to wait and see, wouldn't they? He shook his head slightly and continued, “On top of possibly hurting your dragon and yourself by trying to ride them too early, you can expect a punishment if you try to ride them before the class has been granted permission to do so. Now, if that's understood, if anyone has any questions you may ask them now. Otherwise, who would like to go first?”

OOC: Ask questions or jump into flight, whoever posts first can decide. Questions can obviously still be asked after the first flights start since riders will be remaining on the ground, so don't worry about preventing questions if you post first and just jump into the flying right away~

Weyrlings are 6 months old and at 40% Full Growth
Tellamuth is at 70% Full Growth
(A) ?? of Bronze Codrath - 30 feet (??)
S'goi of Bronze Ramacuth - 28 feet (Esko )
V'than of Brown Saruth – 27 feet (tovaana )
No'va of Brown Alduntulath - 26 feet (Zen)
(A) ?? of Brown Camachath - 24 feet (??)
E'san of Brown Norioth – 23.5 feet (Alyx )
T'ren of Brown Ralecheth – 22.5 feet (NPC)
Vitra of Blue Tucseth – 21.5 feet (Taxx )
R'tol of Blue Hadryth - 21 feet (NPC)
Maz'ru of Blue Quilath – 20.5 feet (Muze)
M'kin of Blue Silvagenith - 20 feet (NPC)
I'an of Blue Delphith – 19.5 feet (NPC)
(A) ?? of Blue Mucalonith – 19.5 feet (??)
Ny'x of Blue Nimocith - 19 feet (kevna )
Muze of Green Rylath – 18.5 feet (Muze)
C'rys of Green Vorscuth – 17.5 feet (Hiko )
Ts'lar of Green Serenth - 17 feet (Esko)
Krista of Green Ophiuth – 16.5 feet (NPC)
(A) ?? of Green Laspherith – 16.5 feet (??)
Siorreya of Green Amagetith – 15.5 feet (Kevna)
Javana of Green Volututh – 15 feet (NPC)
D'lon of Green Catarath – 14.5 feet (NPC)
K'zar of Green Lepsuth - 14 feet - (Taxx)
Joia of White Tellamuth - 14 feet (Alyx)

[Alyx]

Joia and White Tellamuth

He is giving me that look again. Joia ducked her head, the smile taking her lips before she could stop it. ‘What look is that?’ You know what look I am talking about. He gives it to me every lesson. Tellamuth’s voice sounded someplace between exasperated and humorous, tilting his head to bump his nose against the girl’s hair as she sat cross-legged in front of his forefeet. ‘I know. He worries.’ I don’t understand why. I’m just as big as Lepsuth now. Joia brought a hand up, cupping her fingers over the White’s nose, her fingers tracing the elegant curves of his muzzle as D’rew continued to talk about the lesson. ‘Don’t worry too much about it, alright? Afterall, you are special, remember? He doesn’t quite know what to expect.’

Joia’s words seemed to temper the Dragon’s response to their teacher’s scrutiny, the White rumbling softly as the others moved and milled around them. ‘I wish I could fly with you.’ Well then, let’s go. Joia shook her head, shifting her hand to push on Tellamuth’s nose. ‘Nice try. We don’t even have straps on you. I’d fall off.’ Tellamuth’s breath rushed against her hair and cheeks, his tone snapping from playful to serious in a wink. I would never let you fall. Joia believed him. ‘I know, Love.’ She turned quickly, kissing the dragon’s nose before looking back at the class as D’rew called for volunteers.

Can I? Joia wasn’t even surprised as the voice threaded into her thoughts. ‘Want to prove something?’ Of course. Joia nodded. “Tellamuth wants to go first, Sir.” Joia leaned to the side, remaining seated as her dragon stepped around her to move so that he could have space to take off. She thought about standing, but she was comfortable, and if their teacher had reservations about Tellamuth’s abilities, Joia was the complete opposite. For her, the young White could do anything. ‘Be careful.’ You sure you don’t want to come along? She smiled. ‘Maybe next time.’

Tellamuth stretched his wings, giving them a few slow beats, seeming to feel them out a bit before he looked back at Joia. Ready? ‘Sharding right.’ There was a thrill and a surge of pride as the White pushed off with all four feet, launching himself into the sky in a rush. ‘You looking wonderful.’ I feel like an off-balance wherry. Joia gave a soft laugh, watching as Tellamuth gained height over them. ‘Not too high.’ Tellamuth sent a rush of love back at her. Close your eyes. ‘Why?’ Trust me.

Shifting her seat, Joia closed her eyes; in a breath, she was seeing images that weren’t hers. Her eyes seemed too far to the sides, and she felt the warmth as Tellamuth pulled her closer. ‘Whoa.’ Like the view? His voice was bright and proud as the White wove his slender, dancer’s like form around the plateau and circled the lake. He was gliding most of it, his lighter frame making it the easiest way for him to make sure he had the energy to complete the circuit like D’rew had told them too. But, at the same time?

Shall I go again? Joia was so tempted to say yes. The White chuckled as he came off the lake and gave a gentle beat of his wings to push himself back toward the waiting weyrling and his siblings. ‘Careful.’ She could feel the slight ache in his wings, but he was almost done. That will take getting used to. ‘I expect so. Was it worth it?’ She pushed her feet as the Dragon touched down, bugling as he did. Extremely worth it. Tellamuth folded his wings against his side, turning to focus his gaze on D’rew for a moment before trotting back to Joia.

Joia stepped to meet him, her hands reaching to run over his shoulders and chest, her fingers dancing over the pale, spectrumed hide to makes sure he hadn’t strained anything in the short flight. Tellamuth dropped his head, huffing her hair before lifting his head and eying his siblings. You’re up, Alduntulath.

Zen (E'san and Sexy, er I mean Norioth are here, will go in my next post. This one is long enough for my recovering writer's muse)

[Zen]

No'va :: Brown Alduntulath, D'rew :: Blue Sabanth

Blah blah safety first. That's what all of D'rew's words amounted to in the end while No'va impatiently waited for the weyrlingmaster to finish talking so their dragons could finally fly. Alduntulath rumbled a soft agreement to the sentiment, on his feet when many of the rest of the class had settled to the ground to listen, ready to take to the sky at a moment's notice.

At last D'rew asked who wanted to go first. No'va had just opened his mouth to try to claim the first spot when Joia spoke first. Blowing out his breath with his disappointment, he looked over at his friend as her white moved off slightly to take off. The disappointment didn't last long, he was almost as eager to see everyone else's dragons in the sky as he was his own. Alduntulath rustled his wings impatiently and huffed, You should have been faster to claim the first go.

No'va grinned up at him, Sorry. D'rew's talking was boring me to sleep. We'll definitely get second go, I'm awake now.

I suppose I can forgive you. He turned to his brother, Fly well, Tellamuth.

No'va watched the white rise and wooped. He'd been the last to hatch, but now he was the first to fly. It seemed fitting somehow, but he didn't really stop to think about it too long. Alduntulath watched as well, following his clutchmate's progress through the air, eager to try it for himself. The sky was his birthright after all. Without incident, Tellamuth returned to land and promptly called him to go next.

The brown rumbled amusement, Was our impatience that apparent?

“Woohoo, go Aldy!” No'va took a step back even as Alduntulath was moving away so there was room to take off. He huffed at the nickname, muscles bunching, and leapt into the air with a broad downstroke, faltering briefly, but soon rising steadily. I am heavier than I thought. No'va snorted a laugh, watching the brown, Well yeah, have you ever seen yourself? You're as thick as a bronze. His tone was colored with pride at the description. Aldy was way better than a bronze.

Circling around the plateau, Alduntulath dropped altitude slightly as he flew over the lake, surprised at the change in air temperature and how it affected his flight. He recalled a lesson from only yesterday, D'rew had gone over again how warm air rose while cold air fell, and how it could affect flight. Now that he'd experienced it himself, Alduntulath understood far better what he meant. You alright? Fine. It is a good learning experience. No'va wasn't quite sure what the brown meant, but let it go. He was sure it was something he'd never understand since he'd never have his own wings to fly.

Finally he came in to land, not so gracefully. The thud marked his heavy landing and No'va was subjected to a jarring sensation through his bones that had him wincing at the same moment as his dragon. “Well that was terrible.”

Alduntulath huffed indignantly, It was my first time.

Tellamuth's flight had gone far better than D'rew had expected, and he was hopeful Alduntulath's would be the same. But when the brown came in for his landing he could already tell he was coming in too fast, and the landing was a rough one. He glanced back at Sabanth, Why didn't you warn him to slow down?

The blue's eyes whirled, I would have if he was in danger. Some learn better through experience than through telling. He turned to the young brown then, but his words were broadcast to every dragon in the class so they could all learn from the brown's mistake, You came in too fast, Alduntulath. Next time make sure you've slowed your descent enough before you reach the ground.

Shaking himself as if he could shake off the rest of the discomfort from his landing, Alduntulath took the blue's advice to heart. Duly noted.

[Taxx]

The months had gone by so quickly; Tucseth was still far from grown, but he was well on his way. He was the biggest blue of the clutches, mere inches ahead of Hadryth and only a foot smaller than Ralecheth, the smallest brown. She had grown too, but not nearly as impressively- just a few inches, and the rounded cheeks of her pre-Impressed days had faded as work and near-constant exercise had toughened her. The changes were merely physical, though, for both of them.

First flights. Excitement was nearly overwhelming the girl, making her fidget constantly. Vitra wished she could be going with Tucseth, sitting on his back and taking this first flight together. Soon enough, she consoled herself, forcefully stilling her body as she watched the class gather, focusing on D'rew as he began. Most of this was new to her, and even if it had been covered before she didn't miss a word the bluerider said. It all seemed fairly straightforward, and when he had finished, Tucseth sprang to his feet. Tellamuth beat him to it however, padding forward to stand at the cliff's edge before springing out into empty air. His flight went smoothly and before too long he was back on the plateau, looking somewhat worn from the flight. He'd get stronger, in time- this was practice as well as a way for the dragons to get used to flight.

Another flicker of anticipation as No'va and Alduntulath went for their turn; in contrast, Tucseth snorted in annoyance. I'm next! he announced to them all, tail flicking as he glared around at the rest, irritated that he had not only lost his chance to take the first flight, but the second too. It's not a race, Vitra tried to calm him, but he ignored her- focused on the brown's flight and coiled to spring the moment the way was clear. Pride warmed her as the brown landed, less than gracefully but safely, and she puzzled over it- she supposed it made sense, to care about the brown's achievements and well-being, since No'va was her friend.

My turn! Tucseth cried, darting forward; a sudden fear as she realized what he was going to do gripped Vitra.

Stop! she ordered, body stiff as the blue skidded to a halt, orange flickering through his eyes as he looked back at her. They softened quickly at the images in her head of him falling- too focused on taking his turn to grasp that it was his first time, and if he hurt himself... A low rumble rolled from Tucseth's chest.

I'll go slow. Don't worry, I'll be fine! Peering over the edge of the cliff, his front toes curled over the rim, Tucseth's tail swished in delight. His wings spread and then he leaped, wings flapping to give him lift, airborne for the first time. Pride, joy, love- Vitra watched, feeling Tucseth's own delight in the feel of the wind sweeping past him. Not until he had gone around the lake did the blue realize how low he'd dropped, and it took much more effort to increase height to make it back to the plateau, and his own landing was sloppy, too much momentum causing him to stumble over his own feet and crash onto his chest. Hardly bothered, he looked up to Vitra as she approached, tucking his wings to his sides again and pressing his nose to her shoulder. My wings hurt. Can I go again?

Not yet, she scolded, unable to help a grin. Let your wings rest. There'll be plenty chances later for you to fly.

[tovaana]

Weyrling V'than :: Brown Saruth

‘Would you like to go next?’
If that is what you want.
‘That’s not what I asked…’ V’than sighed in his thoughts.
Oh… There was a pause and Saruth turned his massive wedge shaped head toward the ledge where an overly excited blue was charging toward the edge. Well, I suppose he’s going next.
‘Yes, but you could go next when he comes back.’
I could, yes.
V’than was using all his training to keep his frustration to himself. Saruth’s eyes started to whirl gently, noting the sudden absence of feelings from his rider.
I will go. When Tucseth comes back. Will you tell the others?

He felt a twinge of guilt for getting so frustrated over a silly thing. ‘Yeah, of course.’ He rested a hand on Saruth’s soft shoulder that was level with his own.

“Saruth will go when Tucseth gets back.” He said aloud. Saruth stepped forward accordingly after nudging his rider affectionately.

‘Remember what happened to the other brown close to your size, be sure to slow down when you come back.’ He felt his dragon’s affirmation at this and stepped forward after Tucseth returned and moved out of the way.

V’than eyed the edge with slight worry in his chest. It was a long fall. The ocean was far deeper in some areas, but he had never felt the strange fear that poked his thoughts. Don’t worry. Saruth spread his large powerful wings. Like the boats you ride were made to float, so was I made to fly. V’than’s gaze widened a little. He hadn’t heard Saruth speak so… eloquently? Saruth had become better at flipping through V’than’s thoughts and memories, becoming even more sensitive and caring for his rider. Only after V’than could feel his tense muscles relax, Saruth turned back to the sky and launched off.

“Go Saruth!” His sister’s voice came from behind, cheering his dragon on.

V’than inhaled sharply at the sharp pain of the air catching Saruth’s wings and pulling him up on the cold gentle currents. Saruth dipped further than the lighter dragons before being able to pull up and flap higher into the sky. V’than gulped back emotions as he watched his dragon rise and fly away. Yet even as he was flying away, he could feel the connection.

Don’t use your eyes. The statement was slightly confusing, but the burly weyrling remembered quickly the extent of their connection. While he wouldn’t be able to ride on Saruth today, he would be able to feel what it was like to fly. He closed his eyes and for a moment there was a feeling of shock – because while his lids had just closed – it was like they were open again. He laughed, “this is amazing!”

He refused to open his eyes till Saruth had returned and awkwardly (yet not as heavily as Alduntulath had) landed back.

V’than blinked his eyes open, Saruth came strutting back – there had never been any fear or doubt in his sure and steady dragon. ‘You did great. That was amazing.’ Of course it was. It had not been said with pride, but with a matter-of-factness that made V’than grin. He turned to find Muze and shared his large grin with her.

[Esko]

Ts'lar and green Serenth

It'd taken some time to get used to the constant headaches. Ts'lar rubbed her nose in between two fingers, despite knowing it wouldn't do squat to help the pounding in her head. Maybe, she should talk to D'rew about that. Maybe, he'd have a solution for both her and Serenth. He might have noticed, too- Serenth's attentions during lessons flitted wildly about from individual to individual, and it was distracting. The green was as cuddled up to her rider as possible, looking around at her fellows and their bondeds. I'm sorry, Ts'lar Mine. She whimpered. I just can't help it.

'I know. We'll figure it out.' Ts'lar sighed and gave Serenth a gentle pat. Emotions were high today, and the pair could feel it; while not nearly to the caliber that first flights would likely be, many of the dragons were eager to test out their wings. And, frankly, Serenth was too. But, she kept on reaching out to her clutchmates while Ts'lar tried to listen to D'rew. Delphith, are you sure that scratch of yours won't be reopened during flight? Please, Codrath, take it easy during this lesson, I don't want to see you overstress your wings. Ts'lar's brows knitted together and she accidentally let irritation through- Serenth picked it up immediately. Her wings drooped, her head went down and she tucked her long tail in. I'm sorry, I'm so sorry-

'Don't stress it.' Ts'lar sighed once more. She was overtired, stressed and the emotions of others were stressing her out. She wanted to ask T'skel if this was normal, but he wasn't here right now. He was still back home, in the present, probably freaking out because surely they've found out they were gone? I should really stop putting a visit to D'rew off. By then he was done speaking, and dragons were lining up to go. First was the peculiar Tellamuth, an oddity that the Weyrlingmaster seemed fixated on. He went up and down rather fine, though, and Serenth warbled a cheer for him as he landed. Aduntulath was next, and it started out fine but ended rather poorly. Serenth croaked, then slipped out from her spot at Ts'lar's side to her brown brother. Aduntulath, are you hurt? Are you alright? She fussed over the brown.

'Serenth, please come back.' But the green was preoccupied. In the time that it took to convince Serenth that Aduntulath was (probably) alright, blue Tusceth took the opportunity to rise into the skies. When he landed, brown Saruth went next. Ts'lar wanted to get her turn over with. 'After Saruth lands, we'll go next.' The green was a bit bothered by this, but Ts'lar managed to convince her that nobody would be harmed while she was flying. Right when the brown touched the ground, Ts'lar rose her hand. "Serenth will go next."

With a defeated snort, Serenth spread her wings and braced herself. 'Remember. Circle around the plateau and the lake, then come back. Land slowly.' A wave of confirmation washed over Ts'lar and Serenth took to the skies.

Woah! The green's excitement rose to new heights as she climbed higher into the sky, all thoughts of her classmates momentarily washed away by the rushing wind. 'Careful!' Ts'lar mentally called, as Serenth began to circle the plateau. Her tail whipped behind her like a banner- the weight of it felt strange and she'd never thought of her tail as being in the way before. Now around the lake. She couldn't help but rise higher and higher, and Ts'lar eventually had to call for her to control her height. But it's getting so fun! She wasn't one for showing off or anything, but oh, she could just spin in the air right about now! 'Please don't.'

Once she'd followed the course around the lake as well, it was time for her to lower to the ground. 'Lower your speed before you try to land.' The reminder came, and Serenth tried to follow, but then something hit her wings and lifted her higher. A gust of wind had come out of nowhere and startled her, and now the green didn't know what to do. Squawking, she flapped her wings in panic. The emotion flooded Ts'lar's senses and she had to fight it, fight it so her green didn't crash into the stone walls. 'Serenth! Regain control of your wings and slow down.' Oh shards, this was bad. This was very, very bad. Aduntulath experienced some minor difficulties when landing, but this was so much worse. Would they be punished for this? But, Ts'lar realized, this wasn't time to worry; this was time to calm Serenth down.

Serenth managed to get ahold of herself again, and began to slowly descend towards the ground. Ts'lar's olive cheeks started to burn- this was wholly embarrassing. She felt eyes boring into her head, especially the Awful Man himself. She could detect a quiet snicker from S'goi, before it quickly cut off. Irritation quickly sprouted- she didn't really consider herself one to hold grudges, but S'goi seemed to take those expectations and crush them under his rich-boy boots. If there was anybody she could love-to-hate, it was him. Serenth awkwardly stumbled onto the ground and opened her wings to steady herself, feeling her rider's embarrassment and sharing it. She was shaken, but fine, it seemed.

Faranth help them.

(Zen Hope you don't mind Serenth pestering Aldy xd)

[kevna]

Siorreya -  Green Amagetith 

Sio enjoyed watching the flights, the excitement in the air, the fresh breeze. She winced as Mimsy's claws tightened on her shoulder and the small green firelizard chirped in irritation at all the jostling. So many people. She relished in the feeling of freedom, and anticipation that rang through Amagetith. She felt it too. The first time to see her bonded fly. Pictures sprang to her mind of other dragons flying, and then a picture of Ama, and Sio nodded. 

"Yes Mimsy, it will be Ama's turn soon." She realized belatedly she should have been surprised that Ama hadn't jumped forward calling for her turn. Siorreya raised an eyebrow and turned her questioning gaze to Ama. What are you waiting for? Let's do this. Amagetith turned bright green whirrling eyes towards her bonded, and the young blond woman felt the mischief in that gaze. All in good time. Soon I will take to the sky, but not yet. The sleek green dragon turned her gaze to Muze's dragon, intent and excited. Sio hadn't noticed that Ama had sidled them so that they stood near Muze and her green Rylath. 

Don't do anything rash Amagetith. We don't want to get into trouble, and we also don't want for you to get hurt the first time out. Amagetith tried to look innocent. Apprehension and humor filled Siorreya, but she tried not to pay too much attention to those feelings, as Mimsy was trilling for her attention again, asking another question about flying. From the corner of her eye she through she saw the fire orange hair of her friend Maz, and that too distracted her... 

Amagetith took the distraction of her rider to turn her full mischievous intent upon green marbled Rylath. That does look like fun, doesn't it sister Rylath? I overheard Sabanth say that the best flying is done with other dragons in the sky. What better way for us to learn if not together, each of us pushing each other, there for each other... Kind of like a race. We could leap into the sky and be away just like that! What do you think Rylath? Are you ready for an adventure?   

N'yx - Blue Nimocith

N'yxmine, there are far too many here. Why again did D'rew say no to the private lesson?

The voice was jittery and the disquiet behind the quite inquiry made N'yx feel guilty. She hadn't asked D'rew, because she didn't want special treatment. Nimo had to learn to get along with his wingmates and their riders. Plus N'yx had been craving human attention. 

Because he thought it best that we have the opportunity to watch other's fly and he reminded me that this is our wing. We must be able to get along and move in sync with each other. 

I've watched enough. I can go now, and be done. Then we can leave. I can move in sync with my siblings, that's what our connection is for. 

Nimocith was too intelligent for his own good, and it frustrated Ny'x that he always used that intelligence to get him out of these types of circumstances. Fine, if you insist. But it looks like there is a line, Ts'lar just said that Serenth will go next. 

She called out brightly, "Nimocith is after Serenth!" As she informed her blue of the fact she caught a glimsp of V'than, the handsome young man she had sat next to in their first lesson. He had been kind, and she enjoyed looking at him more than she normally would admit. His dragon was in the sky, quite large for his age and color, but not alarmingly so. She bumped Nimo with her hip and mentally pointed at the young man with his eyes closed. Let's go join him, he was nice, and I would like to make more friends.

She felt the instant anxiety as Nimo looked to see everyone they would have to pass in order to reach the young man, but didn't refuse the small young woman. She moved to stand near V'than, noticing that Saruth was landing, and when the brown reached V'than he turned and joined a younger girl, his sister if she remembered correctly. Awkwardly realizing that Nimo would not join the small group forming there, she decided to veer towards another bystander, No'va, who had a cheeriness that was refreshing, even if a bit much. 

"Hey Nova right, and Alduntulath?" She had made it a habit to memorize everyone's names, but was still working on the dragon's. She was pretty sure she had it right... "Great job with your flight, you caught yourself well." She directed the phrase to the big brown dragon, smiling at them. "I'm N'xy, this is Nimocith, do you mind if we stand with you while Nimo waits for his turn?"

Nimo stood slightly afar from them so not to be too close, and he clumsily shifted from claw to claw while waiting for his turn. He saw Serenth's loss of control and increased speed before she did, and bellowed out warning and concern. N'xy turned in time to see the danger, and she gasped. But Serenth got her wings under control and landed without mishap. Relief for both Serenth and her rider coursed through Nimocith and N'yx. 

Are you alright dear Serenth? 

The blue waited an appropriate amount of time to make sure that Serenth seem alright, and then launched into the sky. N'xy turned away from her companions with a apologetic smile, and watched her dragon take to the sky. He was magnificent, the shiny blue patches brilliant, and the fears and anxiety he had been feeling fell away as the ground grew farther from him. She couldn't remember the last time he had felt at such peace and enjoyed such elation while awake, and the short brunette enjoyed the feeling wholly. She closed her eyes to bask in him, but quickly opened them again. She wanted to see him. 

You are quite beautiful my love. You are perfect. 

She felt her bonded's pride, and he circled around the lake, heading back to her. He let out bugle, the noise bright with enjoyment and freedom. Tears peaked her eyes, and she watched as Nimocith, careful not to repeat Serenth's mistake, slowly made his way back to her. She could feel the intense calculation in his landing, and he accomplished it gracefully. Immense pride overcame her, and she threw her arms around his long neck after he had wobbled his way back to her. 

"Superb my dear, just like you!"

She had a few seconds more of the joy, before she felt the anxiety begin creeping in. I did do well, didn't I? Can we go now? 

"Actually, I was thinking of spending just a few more minutes conversing with No'va, soon though, we will go." 

She turned back to No'va, ignoring the jittery unhappiness now radiating from her bonded. "Wasn't he magnificent? I never knew just how joyful flying could feel, I can't wait till we can ride with them! Did you feel weightless as well No'va?

Zen tovaana Esko

[Hiko]

This does not seem incredibly difficult, Vorscuth sniffed, watching her clutchmates as they went in turn around the lake and plateau. C’rys was mindful to resist the amused quirk of her lips that almost always seemed to appear when Vorscuth decided she was too good for something.
Perhaps not, but it is necessary.
Why?
How will our dear weyrlingmaster find the faults in flight form and body conformation if we do not appease with the basics?
Hmph. Lesser dragons can worry about that. You know I am fine.
I know, but does D’rew?
If he has eyes, then he should.
Ah, my love, not everyone is as astute as your rider.
That must be it. We will go next.

Vorscuth stepped forward, breaking away from the gaggle of weyrling dragons and C’rys watched on, hands in pockets. Wisps of draconic conversation wafted over her, and she could hear the impatience in some of the voices. Had Vorscuth felt similarly? The green launched into the air and, with less enthusiasm than some, stretched her wings out and flapped.

Even months into training, the dragon was still somewhat of a mystery to her rider. Vorscuth could be both frustratingly snide and despairingly out-of-touch, both of her own volition and both at seemingly random intervals. She never failed to remind C’rys of a house cat, graciously receiving affection and turning around to knock a glass off the table the moment the mood changed.
Sighing, she squatted and kept her eyes to the skies until the dragon banked back to return and land. She’d paid attention to the rather horrid landings some of her peers had made, and returned with more confidence than C’rys thought she likely should have had, considering how the larger males had managed.
I am not so bulky as Alduntulath, nor as ungainly as Tusceth. I am a green, and I know my own merits, C’rys. You will not see me falter in the same fashion.

The dragon was, of course, right in her self-assessment, and landed with a light step forward, appearing to have precisely planned that footing. She returned to C’rys’ side and snorted, disdain in every breath. She laid beside her lifemate, and C'rys did not ask if the green tired; Vorscuth would deny the obvious if given half a chance.

[tovaana]

Weyrling Muze :: Green Rylath

Muze pushed a clump of mousy brown hair back behind her ear as stood gathered with everyone else. She had recently had her hair chopped to just below her jawline and was regretting it already. The breeze pulled greedily at her hair, but she tried to pay it no heed as she glanced over her classmates. She was in a sort of a daze and somehow whenever she broke her trances she was staring at E’san. This time was no different, she blinked a few times and tried to look normal as she blinked purposefully and let her brown eyes lock onto her speckled green that was passing by her for the trillionth time. While Rylath was too large to skip around her feet, she still hovered near her in her excitement.

Muze unfolded her arms and reached out to touch her smooth dragon who paused immediately under her touch. It could seem likely that she was checking her dragon for dry spots, that was a likely story – she had been just deep in thought, not staring… “Oh my.” She whispered. What? What is it Muzemine? Her head was level with her shoulder as she craned her neck around to see what seemed to be the matter. ‘Oh nothing, I thought I saw a dry patch, but you’re just perfect. And ready to fly. Are you ready?’ Oh yes! Oh yes! If Rylath was feeling any fear, it was consumed by her excitement and eagerness to please Muze.

The small girl looked up and over her dragon’s back as D’rew started speaking. She could feel Rylath’s energy under the smooth coat, her muscles tensing and twisting and she shifted excitedly. I want to go first! Can I go first?! Rylath nearly bolted – but they weren’t close enough to the front and not nearly quick enough (though Muze wasn’t entirely sure how Rylath hadn’t leapt off the cliff with any of the others. I would like to go… Rylath was trying to sound happy for the others and didn’t want to sound bothersome, but she also wanted to show Rylath how good she was.

Muze was distracted as she watched her friends’ dragons take their turns. Her chest nearly burst as her brother’s brown took his turn. She found herself jumping with her hands clutched to her chest, “Go Saruth!” She took a step closer to her dragon and wrapped her arms around her dragon’s neck.

When Saruth came back, V’than and the brown made their way to Muze. “Tell me all about it!” She squealed with a bounce to her step as she went to give him a hug.

“I won’t need to, you get to do it – why don’t you go next?” Muze glanced and saw others claiming their turns.

“I will. I mean, we will.” She glanced distractedly at Rylath who seemed to be distracted by another green. Her eyes narrowed momentarily, remembering stories (some including her own Rylath) with the mischievous green.

“You’re not scared are you?”

Muze twisted her brown eyes at her brother, her dark eye brows furrowing, “no, of course not!”

Whilst the siblings were in bantering conversation, Rylath turned to her smaller green sister. Oh it does look fun! I want to go next. She said with a wistful trill. She turned her whirling gaze more fully on Amagetith as she started to describe what she knew. If a memory tickled warningly in the back of her thoughts, it had been too long since the last time Muze had told her to report any shared knowledge from others dragons. Her tail swayed as she came in a little closer. That does sound like fun! And it made sense, weren’t they supposed to fight thread together? It seemed only natural for two greens to take their first flight together. And if the older Blue had said so... Yes, yes! I am ready! Let’s go. I should tell Muze I am ready. She knows everything best.

Weyrling Maz’ru :: Blue Quilath

The color of ice blue, auburn red, and grass green huddled toward the back. “Hush, hush, sweetie.” With a couple last chirps Mimic rose higher and zipped away to go talk with any of the other firelizards in the group or near distance. That left just the cropped short wavy auburn hair and icy blue and mottled blue speckled hide to clash. Maz watched the little flit fondly as she zipped away, not unlike a hummingbird.

Why don’t you just paint her blue and ride her to fight flame? Maz’ru’s bliss faded in the form of a sigh. I thought you are done being bitter. I’m not bitter, I just don’t see the reason for such a small dragon. If it makes you feel any better, I love you too. Maz’s hand came and stroked the blue’s darker speckled nose. Quilath shuffled a little, much akin to a shrug by a human. Maz only smiled and looked around after D’rew had spoken to them and dragons and started lifting off. He was in no hurry, though he was excited as the rest of them. Well… He glanced at Rylath, which green seemed to be fighting imaginary ropes that were pulling her to the cliff. Perhaps not as excited like that, but he was excited.

Once he spotted Sio he and Quilath made their way behind the crowd to get to her. Why don’t we go next? Maz’ru didn’t pause his direction as he considered Quilath’s remark. He glanced toward the cliff and shrugged a shoulder. I can wait, but I’ll have to go sometime. Maz bit the inside of his lip and nodded absentmindedly. Right, you’re right. Of course I am. It was not a conceited phrase, just matter-of-factly stated.

Quilath started through the crowd just as the black…dark green…green black? Black green… dragon lifted deftly into the air. As Quilath left Maz’ru’s side, Maz’s feet stopped moving toward Sio. He sighed, glanced at Sio and tried to catch her attention before pointing toward his dragon that was moving away and shrugging at the same time. Then he followed. Shouldn’t he be more excited? Quilath seemed to feel the same way, which was why he had taken the initiative.

He didn’t even have to speak up to claim that they were next. Quilath smoothly stepped in front as Vorscuth came back. He took his place and Maz’ru expected some sort of mental announcement that he was going to take his turn, but instead he just took a few running steps and then jumped into the air and spread his wings. Maz’s own mottled green blue brown eyes widened at the suddenness.

Uhm, well, goodbye! Maz called in panic. Why are you saying good bye, I’ll be back. Oh, no, really? Quilath seemed to realize from Maz’ru’s open surprise and sarcasm of what had happened. Please Maz’ru, close your eyes. For a moment he couldn’t, he watched in awe at his dragon’s body as he quickly adjusted to the air…it was like he’d been flying his whole life. Maybe if you had wings, it would be as easy for you. A calm voice prodded his thoughts and reminded him politely that he should join him. Maz gulped, but awkwardly fluttered his eyes closed, worried that if he took his eyes off his dragon he would disappear, and he’d wake up from a horrible nightmare that he had never been chosen by Quilath. The sensation of flight that overcame him was an easy indicator that he wasn’t dreaming, or even sleeping.

Then before he knew it, it was over. He watched with interest as the cliff came back into view and he could see himself. That was too weird and he quickly disconnected himself. Thank you Quilath. The thought was for the flight, but there was deeper emotion and meaning that he pushed toward his dragon. Quilath stretched and folded his sore wings to his sides and nudged Maz’ru. Now you may socialize. Except, Amagetith also needs to take her turn. Maz grinned, moving quickly to find his blonde friend. “You’ve got to try that!” He said as he came within speaking distance. He was beaming, running his hand through his hair as if he’d felt the wind ripping through it like it had under Quilath’s wings. His hair was shorter – shorter than he was used to, he didn’t mind it though. It made caring for easier in some aspects, but had lost a lot of the curl. It had been annoyingly long before and he had asked Sio to cut it back, but she kept insisting in cutting a ‘little more’ to fix mistakes. He let his hands fall to his sides, one hand reaching for his dragon.

[Alyx]

E'san and Brown Norioth

E’san was almost relieved for the lesson, even if the idea of flying was both thrilling and terrifying. At least, for this one time, the topic of that class managed to get Norioth to focus on something other than the nearest female… anything. Okay, maybe not anything, but when it came to the ladies, be it dragon or rider, E’san was beginning to think he spent more time trying to rein the charmer in then he was at his studies.

Well, you know.. The sly, smooth voice slipped into his thoughts. If you didn’t try to stop me, we’d be much more popular. E’san gave the dragon a dark look. ‘Don’t start that.’ Start what? Norioth’s voice was full of fretted innocence as the Brown turned his attention from one of the nearby greens and her rider to his own, less thrilled partner. ‘You know sharding well what.’ E’san crossed his arms, his attention focused on the young Brown. Norioth shifted his head, a gesture that reminded E’san of a parent rolling their eyes. Don’t do that, you look grumpy. ‘I am grumpy. You aren’t taking this seriously!’ I am taking it seriously. I can listen to the directions and admire the… surrounding at the same time. It’s part of my stellar skillset. E’san resisted the urge to throw his hands up.

‘Okay then, since you were listening, you tell me what we are supposed to be doing then?’ Norioth’s attention turned away, watching as one of the greens moved to take flight. It wasn’t really the dragon the Brown was focused on, and E’san shifted to kick lightly at the Brown to get his attention. Norioth, without looking at him, sidestepped the kick, which only annoyed the young man more. Why would I need to tell you? Weren't you listening? ‘I was listening, but I want to know you were. The only way to do that is to make you tell me what you heard.’ You are making that up. ‘Would you please stop staring at Ts'lar. It’s creepy.’ Norioth looked away, his eyes focusing on E’san’s gaze. I wasn’t staring. I was admiring. ‘Still creepy.’

Oh fine. If you must know, since you weren’t listening – ‘I was listening!’ … since you weren’t listening, the dragon continued, making E’san want to storm off. D’rew said that we are going to be flying and that we will be will take off one at a time, circle around the plateau and the lake, and then come back to land without breaking anything or showing off. Flying sounds fun, but the rest is very boring. Norioth paused, glancing around a bit. But at least the surroundings are worth the wait until I get to go, and I get to see how the girls handle the winds. E’san still wasn’t convinced, but at least he felt a little better that Norioth wasn’t totally lost in the lesson.

Of course not. I can’t show off is I’m not listening to the rules. ‘No. No showing off.’ See, there you go again. ‘What does that mean?’ I am trying sooo hard to make us stand out and look fabulous, and you are just throwing a wet towel on all my work. How are we supposed to be admired and wanted by the lovely ladies with you being a lump? ‘You are too young to be thinking about that!’ Norioth laughed, the sound rolled over E’san’s skin in a way that made him shiver; he was happy he was the only one that could hear it. Amagetith took her chance, and Norioth rumbled appreciatively as the young green completed the little exercise.

Oh, Rylath’s rider is looking at you again. ‘What?’ E’san blinked, pulling his eyes from the flyers to glance in Muze’s direction. Quick, take your shirt off. ‘What?!’ I said take your shirt off. Or undo the ties at least. ‘Its winter, you dolt! Why would I do that?’ Norioth snorted at him. Show her what you have to offer. ‘Oh by the Egg, Norioth..’ What? She likes to look, why not show off a bit? You are handsome. A bit out of shape, but – ‘Oh look, it’s our turn.’ “Norioth is up to go next.” The Brown looked very annoyed when E’san cut him off.

This talk isn’t finished. ‘For now it is.’ Norioth gave him bump, not enough to know him off his feet, but enough to jar him a bit. I am only trying to help you. E’san watched the Brown strut away, moving with a elegance that a dragon his age shouldn’t. It’s all in the hips. The voice threaded into the young man’s thoughts and E’san choked on the laugh. ‘What am I going to do with you?’ Enjoy the ride, my dear E’san…enjoy the ride. ‘You are so full of yourself.’

As soon as he reached the edge, the young Brown opened his wings wide, letting the sun catch the star-like field of speckles that coated his hide. He stretched them wide, giving them a couple gentle beats before he moved to leap off the edge. E’san wasn’t sure if it was just the dragon showing off or not, but it did seem to have the effect the Brown was looking for – all eyes on him. The three bright markings that made up Norioth’s ‘necklace’ marking caught the light, seeming to glow in the day shine as the dragon couched for a moment, then pushed off the ledge into the open air. E’san’s throat tightened. ‘Be Careful.’ Of course.

E’san was almost lost in the awe of his dragon in the air, he almost missed the little tickle in the back of his brain. ‘Don’t..’ Norioth’s wings flared, powering the Brown up into the air, over the height the others had gone to. Why not? ‘Because D’rew said simple.’ Simple is dull. ‘Norioth..’ The tone E’san used was one he hoped would let the Brown know he was serious. Instead, he felt his bonded pick up speed, taking the being around the lake faster than he should have. ‘Norioth stop it.’ He could see the Brown clearly, watching him roll in the air a bit; almost barrel rolling, but rocking back at the last moment. ‘Do you want to get us grounded?’

He could feel the frown over their connection. This is boring though. 'Boring is safe; right now safe is good.’ But it’s so… dull. ‘I am sure you’ll have plenty of time to show off in the future, but right now, if you start messing around, you are going to get us held back.’ E’san could almost feel Norioth’s need to stir things up, to show off and do something that the boy was pretty sure D’rew would have frowned at them for. Norioth winged his way back at them at full steam, looking stream-line and stunning as he coasted back in for his landing. ‘Slow down. I don’t think you’ll be impressing anyone if you faceplant into the grass.’

Hm. True I suppose. Grace is better than crashing. The brown slowed just enough to touch down without too much impact, trotting a few steps with the momentum of his landing, head high and wings still partly own. There! How was that? ‘Wonderful. You were grace on the wind. Now get out of the way so others can go.’ Norioth shook himself, folding his wings back against his sides as he moved purposefully back to his rider’s side. Now.. let’s go stand by Rylath and her rider. ‘No.’ Why not? ‘Because I don’t trust you to behave.’ Norioth lifted his head, meeting his rider’s eyes dead on. I’m wounded, E’san. ‘You will survive.’ Well, at least unto the ties of you jerkins then, give her something to see?

E’san just couldn’t win today.

[kevna]

Green Amagetith

No Rylath, don't do that! Amagetith spoke softly and convincingly, Don't you want to surprise her with your strength and speed? Your agility-our agility as we circle each other will take their breaths away! The smaller green pictured them darting up and down, circling and falling with the wind. Pleasure and excitement coursed through her at the near prospect. Quilath had returned, and Maz'ru was approaching her human, but the distraction wouldn't last much longer. Let us go after our brother Norioth returns, what better way to surprise and enlighten all at oursudden speed, then to dart out together?!

Siorreya

Siorreya smiled in welcome at Maz'ru, noting him brush a hand through his short curly red hair. She blushed as she studied her folly. Who knew hair could be harder to shape then glass? 

"Yes, we plan to! Mimsy has been keeping me busy, and Ama... Well?" She turned to her dragon, who turned too innocent eyes whirring blue eyes back at her. 

In time, in time, it shall be my time, do not be concerned. There is fun in other things too you know. Her tone was chiding and her reply was simple and to the point. 

"Like what things?" Sio prodded, suspicious, bumping her hip against her bonded to further prompt a reply. The lithe dragon looked patiently at her, but did not say anything for a moment. Like-watching. It is... Very fulfilling. I am learning quite a bit. And then the small green promptly turned away, acting unconcerned and disinterested in her bonded. Sio raised a concerned eyebrow at her dragon, and then turned to Maz'ru with a confused shrug. 

"I have never seen her so patient for anything fun. I mean everything is a race to her! I can barely keep up, and then this!" She gestured at her strange acting dragon, and rolled her eyes. "I-I think she may be up to something." She whispered the last part so only Maz could hear her. 

Green Amagetith

She didn't think a dragon could fly so slowly, she reflected in mild annoyance, struggling to keep her mind closed to her human to hide her plan. Are you ready sister? It is time indeed for our majesty! Now, wait just a second more... The moment the brown's claws hit ground, Amagetith trilled, shouting Go, go, go!!! To her sister Rylath, and with a short running leap to get her lithe body off the ground, she was airborne, the sense of freedom and power hitting her with the wind. She didn't look behind, but focused on what was in front of her. She allowed herself a quick somersault mid-air tucking her wings into her body to execute the almost natural action, feeling confident she was far ahead of her sister. She ignore the shock, anger, and fear that her bonded exuded, ignoring the reprimands. Come back this instant! Ama! Be careful! Such freedom! She trilled again, for all to hear. 

Focus on this feeling mine, focus on this! Ah Rylath, can you catch me sister? 


*** Feel free to pretend that Ama (and possibly Rylath?) has made it back by now, if you would like to role-play your flight! Do not let Ama's mischief get in your way! 

tovaana

[Taxx]

Curled into a tight ball, Lepsuth was stoutly pretending to not exist, one shoulder pressing into K'zar's legs where he stood, her eyes squeezed shut and nearly as still as the ground underfoot; only her necessary breathing ruined her act. She hardly reacted as her clutchmates took their turns, one after the other leaping into thin air and looping the lake before returning to the plateau. She was only present because K'zar was and she didn't want to be apart from him. She had no desire to actually participate in the lesson, she just wanted to stick close to Hers.

K'zar moved and an eye opened, but he was just sitting down; happily, Lepsuth shuffled closer, tucking her head into his lap with her eyes closed again, more than willing to accept his hand stroking from nose to forehead. She watched through his eyes as each of her clutchmates took their flight, but remained content to stay right where she was. She leaned her head into K'zar's hand as he switched to a light scratching of her eyeridges, but the purr that started up died away quickly as he spoke- silently, just between the two of them. Don't you want to try? he asked, watching as Amagetith took to the sky before dropping his gaze to the green who quivered, her body tensing in denial.

She didn't move away from him, but he could feel her building fear, the whirl of what-ifs and possibilities of outcomes that would lead to injury- or worse. K'zar, though, wrapped his arms around her head, hugging gently while imagining a different possibility- where she took her flight and returned safely. Assuring her that even if anything did happen that Sabanth would be there to help her. The blue wouldn't let anything happen to her. But she was big enough to fly now. You can do it, he encouraged, soothing her worries and gently bolstering her courage. You'll do great. I know you will.

The two got to their feet together, and with her face pressed into K'zar's back- eyes still shut tight- Lepsuth followed her rider as he strode toward the cliff. Amagetith was back on the ground now, freeing the air for Lepsuth's flight; K'zar paused a good ten feet from the edge, his own wariness of heights keeping him from going any further. He looked over his shoulder at his green, then turned back to her. You are going to have to open your eyes. It won't be so bad- I bet once you're up there, you'll love it. Dragons were made to fly! Hands on her cheeks, he lifted her head level, and she tipped it farther to look up at him, the yellow in her eyes plainly obvious of her lingering uncertainty. For a moment, he lowered his head to hers, taking more time to assure her before stepping aside.

Paws dragging, Lepsuth inched her way to the cliff's edge, peering over it and then ahead to the path she had seen the others take. Once around the lake, K'zar reminded her, and she couldn't help the reluctant whine in her throat. She didn't want to. She just wanted to keep her feet on the ground, wanted to keep close to Hers- not that him coming with her would make her any happier at having to do this. She backed up a step, but her wings stretched out and under gentle, but persistent, urging, she began to flap them. Weakly at first, then stronger; if she had to do this, then she might as well get it over with- the sooner she did, the sooner she could put this whole thing behind her.

A leap and a hard downstroke and she was airborne. She hovered a moment, almost surprised that nothing terrible happened, and then drove forward, heading for the lake. His eyes closed now, mind firmly meshed with her own, K'zar encouraged the flight, keeping her calm. She might not be thrilled about doing this- there was not even the hint of enjoyment as she rounded the water and headed back- but she was doing it. Opening his eyes, K'zar backed from the edge and watched, waiting just until Lepsuth had all four feet back safe on the plateau before letting his pride in her accomplishment loose, and without a word between the two they both retreated to the back, where few people would be looking, and the green once more planted her face against her rider's chest, blocking out the world as much as possible.

[Esko]

S'goi and bronze Ramacuth

Perhaps, S'goi's dreams of Weyrlinghood could've been fulfilled with a more like-minded bronze. So far, he had to struggle with some old grandpa being attached to him, popping up to give him some oddball advice on not being such a big meanie-head. Or whatever. It made him sick to think that his bronze thought of him as a fool. He had been alive for a lot longer than the bronze and to think that somehow, he had less wisdom and experience? It was comical. I am not trying to come across as wiser, but I do think that you should take a less, mmm, hotheaded approach. The bronze rumbled at his side, tail slowly waving back and forth. His eyes whirled slowly too. If S'goi didn't know better, he wouldn't be able to predict the highly intelligent mind within.

But still, it irritated him. 'I'm not hotheaded. If anyone can think up a good plan, it's me.' After all, he thought up the idea to come to Mavros and Impress bronze so he could eventually make some sort of impact in a young Weyrhold's history. Sure, it hinged on luck, but he was destined to Impress bronze and look what happened? Ramacuth's low grumble seemed to reverberate in the air, with the slightest shake of his head. If you insist. S'goi smirked. It was always a lovely feeling when someone admitted he was right...but then again, Ramacuth never said he was right. The realization did cause his brow to twitch, but if the bronze had heard that tidbit of thought, he didn't let on. That was the most irritating thing about Ramacuth. S'goi prided himself on being a people person, on being able to read expressions and emotions. Sometimes, Ramacuth was like an open book. But it was the times when the bronze was unreadable that scared him.

This day in particular, S'goi was tired and bothered by a lot of his classmates. That was probably why he was unmotivated to charge first. This class beat being in the class before with those three, but there were plenty of annoying, 'strong' women who wanted to undermine men at every turn. Thinking that they were all that. Likely only lashing out at him because he was successful and they were recoiling from daddy issues. It was the one explanation that made sense. If they have been hurt by their fathers, is that something to blame them for? Perhaps their fathers should be held responsible? Ramacuth chimed in once again, as his sister Serenth took to the skies. S'goi snorted, chuckling and then giving his dragon a pat on his haunches.

'Their fathers are not the ones giving me grief. They are. So, it's their fault.' he said matter-of-factly, as if he were stating that murder was wrong. Ramacuth did not respond, but S'goi could feel the doubt on the other side on the bond. Then he felt panic flare up as the green in the sky lost control. Serenth couldn't get down, and Ramacuth took a large step forward, his dark wings opening. Serenth! He called, and S'goi didn't like where this was going.

'Ramacuth! Stay down!' He commanded, staring right up at the dragon's eyes. Ramacuth looked back. 'I know what you're going to do, and it's not worth it!'

Serenth is in danger. It may not look like it now, but this could lead to something worse. And then what will we do, if we stand idly by? His voice was slightly higher with the distress.

'If she can't figure out how to land, she's useless! You can't help every damsel in distress, Ramacuth. Because she's a dragon, and she needs to learn herself!' S'goi stared firmly into Ramacuth's eyes, and by the time their argument reached maximum tension, Serenth was safely on her way down. "Hmph." S'goi went, but Ramacuth wasted no time reaching out to his green sister. Serenth! Are you alright?

Oh, Nimocith, Ramacuth dears, don't worry about silly me! The green tried to shrug it off, but as Nimocith next took to the skies, Ramacuth stayed near the stressed dragon. S'goi shook his head. Honestly, greens were awful enough, but he really wished his dragon's penchant for chivalry ended with females that were important. Another green, the useless scared one, took off somehow. 'Alright, Ramacuth, we're going next. I'm tired of waiting.' He got a wave of acknowledgement but nothing more. Oh great. Ramacuth was cross with him.

When Lepsuth landed, Ramacuth moved forward to take off. He stretched open his wings, getting used to the muscles and movements. And then, with a great beat of said wings he lifted into the air, sending currents of air around him. S'goi had to admit; even when he wasn't fully grown, the sight was marvelous. It was enough to give a cynic like himself some romantic giggles. Ramacuth followed the course, circling around the plateau and then the lake. He appreciated the gentle breeze, took in the fresh air, and S'goi could tell; he was thinking. Mulling over things. And when he landed without issue, S'goi clapped and whooped. "That was a performance there!" He didn't let his pride hold back. But it did bother him when the bronze didn't reciprocate the joy. Ah jeez. He hoped Ramacuth wouldn't be sore about not helping some green for long. He didn't hold grudges, but one never knew.

[Taxx]

The past six months had been an experience, but L'rey had loved (almost) every moment. Codrath was headstrong, demanding, and full of ideas, never at a loss of what he wanted and with no qualms about going for it. He was a bronze through and through, confident of himself and his standing- and yes, quite the bully with anyone he thought he had a chance of bullying. His habit of hoarding had been discovered early, and at first L'rey had been innocently amused at his insistence on keeping bones from his meals; it hadn't taken that long for the first battle of wills. The pile had grown, and they'd started to smell, but when L'rey had tried to get rid of them Codrath had thrown himself belly first on the pile and snapped at his rider's hands, shrieking insults about the destruction of his hoard.

They'd had a time of it- fights fought and insults passed between them, but they were partners. And they were making it work. Codrath cared for him, and L'rey would never feel regret for Impressing the bronze. He was what a bronze was supposed to be, after all.

Since the time of his hatching, Codrath had grown impressively, reaching a current length of thirty feet. He was the biggest dragon in either clutch, if not by much, and there was a definite smugness about the fact. Settled among his clutchmates, Codrath had hardly moved as one and another had taken their flights. L’rey had half expected him to insist on jumping in first- to lead by example or some such reason- but when he’d looked at the bronze after D’rew’s invitation to begin, Codrath had sat still as Tellamuth took the jump first.

Not until Ramacuth moved did Codrath show any sign of interest, and then only in the slightest turn of his head toward the other bronze as he strode forward to take his turn. When Ramacuth was halfway around, curving into his return to the cliff where the class waited, Codrath finally pushed himself to his feet in preparation of his own impending flight. By the time his brother-bronze had landed, Codrath was ready.

L’rey walked with him to the edge of the cliff, one hand braced against the greenish hide as he leaned over to look at the ground far below. You’ll be careful? he couldn’t help but ask, flashing a look into the eye staring back at him. A blink and a rumble before Codrath was nudging him back and away from the edge. That’s why we have wings. I won’t fall. Stretching those wings out to their full length, Codrath tossed the quickest glance over his shoulder, and L’rey snorted at the rush of satisfaction that everyone was watching. He watched Codrath crouch and then spring, hind legs launching him into space as his wings drove downward, catching lift… it was awe-inspiring and terrifying to know that the only thing that kept the dragon from a deadly fall was a stretch of bones, muscles and hide, programmed just right to give a dragon the power of flight.

Eyes closed, L’rey melded his mind with Codrath’s. He couldn’t be with him on this first flight, but he could still experience it through their bond. The weightlessness of the sky, the power of his own wings as they pushed him onward, the innate skill that guided his actions: to counter turbulence, to know how to angle his wings to turn, to glide to conserve energy between wingbeats.

There was, of course, room to improve. As he swept toward the cliff, one of Codrath’s dangling hind feet scraped the edge of the cliff, the jolt of pain interrupting his poise so that his landing was far from the stately maneuver he saw in his head. His front paws tangled as he hit the ground, his balance thrown so that he stumbled into Hadryth, who squealed as his brother’s near ten-foot-longer body collided with his own, the blue’s rider throwing himself aside to be clear of the dragons. Codrath hauled himself back to his feet, glowering at the dark blue; L’rey noticed the ooze of ichor from his foot- a patch of hide scraped off by the stone.

You should not be in my way! he hissed at Hadryth, who seemed to realize the wisest thing to do was to say nothing at all, and at the silence, the bronze spun aside, dull red gaze settling on L’rey as he approached.

We’ll look at your foot later, he spoke silently to Codrath, who grumbled wordlessly. To Hadryth and R’tol, he said nothing. Why should he? Codrath was right; the blue should have given him more room. The bronze’s fall wasn’t entirely Hadryth’s fault- he might have done so even if the blue hadn’t been so close- but it made the bronze feel better to blame it on someone else rather than himself and L’rey didn’t feel like arguing that point.

It doesn’t hurt, Codrath sniffed, despite the fact that L’rey could feel the twinges of pain. He patted the bronze’s shoulder, nodding agreement as he replied. We should still take care of it. It may not hurt but you’re bleeding and you lost hide. Shouldn’t risk infection. Just to clean it, okay? It won’t take long.

If you say so, Codrath rumbled back, dropping his nose to L’rey’s shoulder where it remained for the rest of the lesson.