| Characters | N'sir, R'sner, Elianneth, Toith |
| Synopsis | A Between lesson, with a pit-stop for lunch and a final surprise destination! |
| Out-of-Character Date | July 7, 2018 |
Igen Weyr - South Bowl
The orange hued sandstone layers comprising the bowl walls curve gently, but ever presently in your view. Fine sand shifts underfoot, a slightly paler version of what is found upon the walls. It gives way along the eastern edge to a section of contrasting green grass where a series of cleverly engineered pipes provide water to the fenced off area of the feeding grounds, and keeps the shimmer of the shallow lake beyond from disappearing during the driest periods of the turn. A distinctly squared entrance farther south is the tunnel leading out to the lands beyond. Traders and tithes arrive here at regular intervals and it is not uncommon for part of the bowl to be set up with a series of tents and wagons as wares are displayed and sold. To the west, the bowl wall has been eroded by the desert winds into strange shapes. At their base are found the weyrling barracks and training fields.
Today, R'sner is looking every inch the dragonrider, and weyrlingmaster, that he is. The flowing Igen robe has been left behind, replaced by traditional leathers and a simple black shirt. And while he can get away with such a thing because it is still early enough in the morning that the chill of the night remains, he still leaves his jacket with Toith once he's slid down her neck and to the ground. But perhaps it is his /expression/ that is the dead giveaway that this is not a casual visit to the barracks, not a typical morning lesson but rather the lesson. Because he certainly looks rather serious, to the point of potentially being unapproachable (at least A'or has the good sense to get the heck out of sight before he's caught doing something wrong). He did not bring breakfast, but he still comes baring gifts. Namely, N'sir's finished jacket. The boots were /probably/ delivered a few days earlier by someone other than him, but the jacket Res brings personally. « Eli! Eli. » and while Toith's voice might be as gleeful as ever, there's a subtle edge of seriousness. « It is TIME » Dun dun dun? 'Course, Toith isn't going to elaborate on what exactly it is time for.
Elianneth comes bounding out of the barracks at Toith's call, the galumphing nature of her approach making it clear that she's very excited. «It's TIME!» For what? >.> She has no idea, but she's very excited about it, all the same. N'sir is a bit slower to appear, but only because he's hopping on one foot, trying to jam one of the aforementioned boots on his foot. "Eli calm down…" It's the hundredth time he's said it and it shows when it ends on a siiiiigh. For once, N'sir is clad in the more traditional fair, himself. Or, at least, he's wearing tight leather pants and boots, rather then sandles and billowing chalwar. His shirt? That, at least, is still properly billowing. It's the look on R'sner's face that has him stomping the boot onto his foot, dark eyes flicking to the side as he pushes his braid over one shoulder. For a moment, he flounders in place, physically debating between saluting or not. In the end, it's a gesture that is more wave then salute, but still holds a hint of formality to it, that his N'sir coming to a halt a few steps away. "Um… everything alright?" Eli? She is, apparently, immune to tension, and whuffles happily at Toith before turning her head to chuff a greeting at R'sner's hair. "Eli says hello."
Serious as he might be, R'sner is still not immune to Elianneth's charms. And so while he might not have heard the excitement in her mindvoice, he can read it clearly enough in the galumphing nature of her barracks exit. It tugs a hint of a smile out of him, the barest twitch at the corners of his mouth and a brief softening of expression before his gaze is sliding to N'sir and the boot-stomping. "Yes." Everything is fine. He's just… in the zone? Or doing his best to shove down any lingering anxiety. "Here," and the jacket is offered over, another ghost of a smile gracing his face for Eli's chuffing greeting. "Hello, Elianneth," is offered along with a lift of his hand and a little chin-scratch before he's stepping forward to bestow a proper greeting on N'sir. "Everything is fine," comes with a press of his lips to the weyrling's forehead. It's followed by a rather serious, "You're going Between today."
Elianneth couldn't be happier with the chin scritching, a husky croon following the Weyrlingmaster as he moves toward N'sir. It's the jacket and the kiss to his brow that brings an immediate smile to N'sir's lips, dark eyes crinkling as he leans into the gesture. It's the words, however, that has his breath momentarily catching, dark eyes flickering up. "Alright." It's tense, though, that word. The sort of tension that makes it clear that he knows he only understands a hundredth of how dangerous it is. "Right. Okay." Brushing his tongue over his lips, he still takes a step in to momentarily tuck his face into R'sner's throat, his scent more then enough to calm the rising tension. When he draws back, N'sir is composed. Or, at least, composed enough to be able to draw the jacket on and immediately smile. "It fits perfectly.."
A deep breath taken. Held. Exhaled. "It will be fine," assures R'sner, answering that tension with an affectionate rub of his hands over N'sir's arms and shoulders. "We are going to start on the ground, with some visualizations that Elianneth and Toith will pass back and forth so that I know you are both comfortable and accurate. Then, we will progress to the air." A squeeze of his arms and a murmured, "If you want to wait, that's alright, too," he assures in a voice that is much less /weyrlingmaster/ and more concerned-lover. For her part, Toith looks the picture of calm and collected, settled down somewhat more upright than her usual sun-soaking sprawl but with a cheerful sound in the back of her throat for Elianneth and a pleased blue-green whirl in her eyes. As for the jacket? "Of course it fits," he almost scoffs, a hint of feigned indignation in his tone. "I might not be a tailor, but I know your measurements."
"No!" The word bursts out of N'sir's lips without a hint of hesitation. "No," he adds more calmly. "I don't want to wait." To his side, Eli is prancing in place, her massive head swinging from N'sir to R'sner to Toith and back to the beginning to start the whole process, again. She doesn't want to wait, either, despite the fact that she has still not clued in to what they are doing. It's the last that has N'sir blinking, then blushing, then exhaling a husky laugh. "Yes," he whispers in equally husky tones. "You absolutely do." Course, a moment later, he smoothing a hand over the flight jacket, tugging his braid free of the collar in a gesture that is most assuredly preening in nature. "I look good in this," he decides. Without missing a beat, he steps in, balls his hands up in R'sner's black t-shirt and leans up to brush a kiss over his lips. It is only as he draws back, and smiles more quietly, that he assures. "Now, I am ready."
"Alright," murmurs R'sner, even if the look he's directing toward N'sir is somewhat skeptical. But a moment later, it's a half-smile that tugs at his mouth, coupled with a twitch of his eyebrow in faint amusement for the preening. But it is an immediate and unapologetic, "You looking amazing in that," which serves to correct or elaborate on the observation. A tightening of his arms for the kiss, but they fall away as N'sir steps back. Despite the hint of a spark in those eyes, it is a much more serious, "Alright," that comes in answer to that assurance. And once more, R'sner is falling into the roll of /weyrlingmaster/. A motion toward the dragons and he declares, "I want you to picture something, which you will then have Elianneth pass to Toith, who will pass it to me. It does not have to be Igen or any sort of destination, this is just to practice for Elianneth and Toith to share images. Then, we'll mount up and head into the sky."
Listening to the directions, N'sir nods slowly, his brows furrowing as he tries to decide what to picture. The first option? "Don't share that!" Clearing his throat, he blushes mildly before rolling his shoulders and trying again. "Okay." Eli, however, pauses a beat, giving him her own version of a side eye before passing along an image of the desert cave to Toith. Once he's certain it's being passed along, N'sir chews on his bottom lip, dark eyes flicking from dragon to dragon to Weyrlingmaster. "Like that?"
There is definitely a lofted eyebrow and some serious side-eyes for that 'don't share that', though Res does his darnedest to keep his curiosity and amusement under wraps. Toith, however, chuffs in good humor and then waits dutifully for the image to come to her, before offering it to Res. A curt nod of his head and an equally quick, "Exactly like that. Perfect. Our turn." With barely a moment spent to contemplate it, Res is flashing a quick glance to Toith and then settling on an image of his own. Dutifully, Toith is passing along the image of his own cave, but the view is from the inside /out/, and comes with the finer details of rain, and lightening, and tropical foliage not at all at home in Igen.
N'sir does that whole, tongue out, tucked into the corner of his lip— see I'm concentrating thing. The moment the image comes, though, his expression softens, dark eyes flicking toward R'sner. "I miss thunderstorms, to." So much. As he speaks, he steps over to smooth his hand over Elianneth's neck, his head lowering to momentarily rest his brow against her hide.
A flicker of a smile, a brief softening of R'sner's eyes, before he's all business once again. "Alright. Mount up. We'll start here," and there's a gesture toward the sky over the southern rim of the bowl. "Once we are in the air, I won't be able to shout to you so Elianneth and Toith will have to communicate for us," which, truly, is not out of the ordinary. A moment of hesitation comes and then Res is stepping forward to bestow one final hug and murmur a low, "I love you," at N'sir's ear before promptly turning and heading for Toith's shoulder.
Away from Toith, N'sir is listening, although it is the hug and the whispered words that have him raising his head and smiling. "I love you, to." He's nervous. Of course, he's nervous. It would be a very bad sign if he were not nervous about the whole affair. He does, however, swing up onto Eli, immediately leaning forward to run a reassuring hand over her shoulder before buckling himself in.
Igen Weyr - South Bowl Sky
The orange hued sandstone layers of the bowl wall rise smoothly ever upwards. Windworn, even the dragon ledges and weyrs have been smoothed by the countless seasons. Shadowed openings potmark the southern bowl wall at irregular intervals and fade into a mere handful that erode into the strange shapes comprising the harshly weathered western portion of the bowl wall. Below the blue shimmer of the lake and the contrastingly green area of the feeding grounds easily catch one's eye, both inviting if for very different reasons to those flying here. The smaller figures of residents and crafters can be seen now and then making their way across the bowl on various errands.
Hauling himself aboard Toith, Res pulls on his jacket even as the green is rocking back and launching herself into the air. An encouraging sound is called out to Elianneth and, for her part at least, Toith is not at all nervous about this adventure. Reaching the desired altitude, she overs on a now-familiar current while R'sner straps himself in completely, buttons up his jacket, and generally fusses over anything and everything in a minor, totally unconscious attempt to put off the inevitable. But he's done this before. He's done this a lot. He's just never done this with N'sir. A glance for Elianneth, and a quick nod of his head before Toith is reaching out with, « Th' first jump'll be from here t' there, » which is, really, this southern sky above the barracks to the sky above the weyr proper. « I will give ya the picture, kay? You do not jump until we say so. Got it? » this is vitally important, so all pretense of amusement or play has gone out the window.
Elianneth is very excited. Having finally realized what is going on, she trumpets her enthusiasm as she follows Toith into the sky circling around her mentor while R'sner fusses and stales. From his spot on her back, N'sir watches R'sner with a gentle smile, dark eyes shining with warmth. He knows R'sner is tense. He's tense, as well. But the moment? At the moment, all that is completely overshadowed by the fact that they are in the skies, together. «Got it!» Eli's return is enthusiastic and accompanied with a bugle of delight. On her back, N'sir raises one gloved hand, flashing a thumbs up toward R'sner.
« Good. » And along with that verbal confirmation comes a flash of a smile from R'sner that might not even translate over the distance. But the roll of his shoulders is probably seem easily enough. An habitual grasp of the leather is taken, and a moment later Toith is feeding Elianneth the image of Igen Weyr from the sky. The shape of the bowl, the position of the lake and the location of the star stones. All laid out in detail enough to know that this is Igen and nowhere else. « Got it? » and once there is confirmation, she's issuing that eager, « then go. »
«Got it!» Despite N'sir's sudden surge of nerves, Eli is elated and not at all worried. She trusts Toith utterly and there is not a single doubt in her. On her back, however, N'sir is doing his level best not to tense up, gloved fingers curling around the straps with a death grip. «Going!»
You draw into mind the wind smoothed bowl of Igen Weyr. The placement of the star stones and the worn westerly rim distinguising features that you focus on.
Between
Darkness and cold like you can't imagine. Nothing to see, feel or hear, except the beating of your heart.
<LUB> <DUB>
<LUB> <DUB>
<LUB> <DUB>
Then, as suddenly as you entered the emptiness…
Igen Weyr - High Sky
The whole of Igen Weyr spreads out below. Worn by the winds the stone about the rim is smooth, though deeply worn along the west side. Star stones stand out in contrast to the sky, purposeful no longer. The thin trail of the passage accessing the weyr can be traced dissapearing into the mountains southeastwards. Further beyond to the east and west the golden desert sands shimmer and seem to go from one horizon to the next with little reprieve. Hints of water tease at the far eastern horizon, but it's impossible to tell if one is seeing the igen river or just a trick of the endless dunes.
A fraction of a second later, and Toith is vanishing into the void of Between. It is a short leap, and within a heartbeat or two they reappear in the space above Igen Weyr with a view of the bowl spread out exactly as imagined. It is only once Elianneth and N'sir as spotted, having successfully jumped with them, that R'sner is able to take a breath. Toith, of course, is going to crow in victory for Elianneth. A triumphant cheer that is echoed in her « WAHOO! YA DID IT! »
Elianneth bugles as they appear high in the sky above Igen. She's elated and there is no denying that. N'sir? N'sir is just a little wide-eyed and white knuckled, a fact made clear when he immediately gasps and whips his head around to make /sure/ they still exist. It is not until he spots R'sner and Toith, however, that he actually allows himself to breath. «WaaaaaaaaHoooOOOOOoo! Muahahahaha!» In the wake of Eli's jubilation, N'sir raises a gloved hand, /needing/ that 'metaphorical' contact with R'sner. «He's okay,» Eli assures.
« Mwahaha! » allows Toith, cackling in delight before she's putting her serious-face back on. Or, at least, settling the jubilation of her mindvoice into something more suitable to the task at hand. « Good, » which might be an echo of R'sner's own thoughts as he lifts his hand and flashes a smile. His relief is more or less contained behind that much more stoic demeanor, and he has a job to do and they're not even close to done yet, but Res can at least allow himself a moment of peace. Hovering in the sky above Igen, Toith lets the sun soak her wide-spread sails and simply glides for another minute. Enough time to let heartrates come down and calm to settle before she's offering, « Ready to go again? » a beat and then, « Is /N'sir/ ready to go again, » because that is the most important part. « Same rules 'ply tho. I picture it, ya take it from me, an' then we go when I say so. »
Elianneth is totally ready to go again, sailing around Toith in a lazy loopty-loop. «Ready, Steady, GO!» is accompanied by a merry bugle. At the second question she is quiet a moment, offering «He's ready,» in the wake of N'sir leaning forward to lightly pat her neck. «Same rules!» On Eli's back, N'sir takes a few slow breaths, his shoulders giving a mild twitch before he tightens his hand around the straps. This? Completely different then being a passenger.
« Good. » And again, that word is much more an echo of R'sner than it is Toith speaking for herself. But the sentiment is shared by both weyrlingmaster and dragon. Blue eyes follow the path of Elianneth, though it's rather obvious that it is the /weyrling/ aboard her that has his attention rather than the green herself. « We're going to Half Moon, » declares Toith. Somewhere familiar, somewhere known to both of them even if has been quite some time since either of them had visited. Still, the image provided by Toith is crisp and clear and ought to be somewhat familiar for N'sir given that it is a view of the bowl from the sky. A radio tower instead of star stones, the wooden building of the barracks laid out against the wall, and in the distance the glimmer of water in the lagoon. « Got it? » and once more, as soon as confirmation comes there's a delighted, « Go! ». A half-second later and Toith vanishes.
You image the sprawling basin of half moon bay weyr. A large aerial antena sits on the east rim on the edge of the plateau there, while the rest of the weyr spreasd below you.
Between
Darkness and cold like you can't imagine. Nothing to see, feel or hear, except the beating of your heart.
<LUB> <DUB>
<LUB> <DUB>
<LUB> <DUB>
Then, as suddenly as you entered the emptiness…
Half Moon Bay Weyr - Sky over the Weyr
The view just above the rim of this massive basin is breathtaking as the islands take shape far below you, reaching up out of a gleaming sea of blue. Away in the west, the vast expanse of ocean continues past the horizon, to spill over its edge into eternity. A plateau on the east side of the rim makes for an advantageous lookout point, a watchdragon and rider pass the time there while on sentry duty by a large aerial antena. Gusts of unstable winds falter against the undersides of wingsails that pass you by. Half Moon Bay's bowl seems, from here, nothing more than a mere child's toy. Tiny weyrfolk, playing out the dramas of their daily and nightly lives, are no more than miniature featureless dolls come to life from the vivid imagination of a woolgathering youth.
Elianneth takes a moment to make sure she's ready before bugling her understanding. «Got it!» And the moment that 'GO' is sent, she's gone. Again there is that breathless, cold, dark, moment before the pair appear in the air over Half Moon. Immediately, N'sir smiles broadly, the husky laugh spilling past his lips matched by a husky croon from Elianneth. When Toith and R'sner appear, Elianneth sweeps around them, dancing through a graceful spin in the air.
Despite a successful first jump, it is unlikely that R'sner will lose that edge of apprehension and tension until they are on the ground and /done/. So while he and Toith are more or less confident by now that Elianneth will appear, it still takes the actual sight of the pair before Res is exhaling once again. A flash of a grin, and even from the distance the sight of N'sir's smile and the knowledge of his laugh has Res relaxing. He might not be able to hear it, but he can well imagine and recall it. Toith chortles in delight before bugling their greeting to the watch dragon. Once again, she takes to gliding lazily through the cool air as she lets the sun soak her wings and warm her rider. « How ya doing? » it's a question that is meant for N'sir rather than Elianneth, because Toith and Res both can see that Elianneth is doing just fine. « One more jump an' then we're takin' a break, 'Kay? Make sure ya give N'sir the picture, too. » A pause, and a moment later Res is issuing her another destination to pass along to Elianneth. The rocky cliffs and clearing of Xanadu Weyr. « Ready? Go. »
You focus on features of xanadu weyr. Rocky cliffs to the west with the main clearing below, and the shimmer of the rubicon to the east settle your image.
Between
Darkness and cold like you can't imagine. Nothing to see, feel or hear, except the beating of your heart.
<LUB> <DUB>
<LUB> <DUB>
<LUB> <DUB>
Then, as suddenly as you entered the emptiness…
Xanadu Weyr - High Sky
You are flying high above Xanadu Weyr. From here you can only identify the general features of the weyr. To the east are the Rubicon River and Lake Caspian, enfolding the weyr docks and beaches. A great spread of forest is on the northern end, though tiny clearing can be seen within. Bordering the river and lake is a spread of meadow and beast paddocks, while the main weyr seems to lay closer to the rock cliff outcropping in the west. At least one massive building can be seen there, as well as what looks like unnatural breaks in the cliff wall. There is also found the weyr Starstones, as well as a large natural clearing pocketing into the cliff wall.
Elianneth «It's different then being a passenger, but I'm amazing.» Clearly the words are from N'sir and coupled with a brilliant smile cast toward Toith and R'sner. «Did you bring food?» Cause he's suddenly hungery. Elianneth, however, is ready and rearing to go and takes the image readily. «Ready!» And she's gone, reappearing in the air over Xanadu. When R'sner and Toith appear nearby, N'sir immediately raises a hand in an energetic wave.
R'sner did not bring food. But, he knows where they are going and has a /plan/ that at least involves food. A blink and they are gone, the cold and nothingness of Between pressing in from all sides before they burst into the significantly warmer air above Xanadu at the height of summer. A trumpet from Toith, both declaration of their presence to the watchdragon as well as triumphant cheer for Elianneth's success. A flash of a grin and a lift of his hand comes as a return of N'sir's own, Res looking decidedly more relaxed the longer they keep going. The gleeful « Yahoo! Mwahahaha! » which is definitely Toith, is followed by a much calmer, « Land in the field, » that is definitely R'sner directing things. A moment is spent hovering before the smaller (woe!) green is winging her way down to the vacant clearing below.
Xanadu Weyr - Main Clearing
A wide clearing stretches from east to west, the ground packed hard although grass grows across most of it. Trees are strictly forbidden in this space, their danger to the constant draconic traffic reason enough to banish them to the forest that creates a border to the north. Where the ground is less trampled, tiny flowers poke their delicate heads out from their shaded hiding places with upturned petals to wave to whoever may be looking.
The cliff looms imposingly on two sides. Toward the southwest, a spire stretches up to high above where the everpresent watchdragon sits on a lonely peak with Xanadu's Starstones. A massive rocky spur extends to the north, curved slightly to hold the clearing and pocked with doors and windows.
The hatching arena and Dragonhealers' Annex sit to the southeast, built together into a single complex that takes up a large portion of the perimeter beneath its domed roof. To the southwest, wide steps lead up to the caverns, and almost directly south is the entrance to the Infirmary. Nestled between the infirmary and the main caverns there's a human-sized archway with frequent traffic - it leads to the Wanderin' Wherry Tavern.
Tucked near the arch, just off to one side is a tiny wood-frame shop bearing the name 'Wildflower Boutique'. Windows have been cut along the cliff in various places along the cliff. Those of the administrative offices are placed to have the best view of Xanadu's airspace - to the southwest, over the entrance to the caverns and the infirmary. Others mark the dormitories and those of lucky residents, while toward the northern edge of that spur cluster the windows and entrances to the crafters' complex.
The rest of the Weyr lies to the north and east - a broad road that leads through the meadow and the trees of the forest beyond. At the far northern edge of the clearing, just inside the perimeter kept clear of trees, a clocktower sits and proudly displays the hour.
N'sir swings down off Elianneth's neck the moment she is the ground. Pulling off the gloves and the jacket, he tucks both into the packs on her straps and breaks into a run toward where Toith has settled. The /moment/ R'sner is on the ground, N'sir is launching at him, a delighted laugh spilling past his lips as he winds his arms around his shoulders. "That was amazing!" For her part, Elianneth waits til N'sir is safely on R'sner before sashaying to whuffle excitedly at Toith. Clearly, she thinks it was pretty amazing, to.
One hand works at the fastenings of his jacket even before Toith has landed, the other deftly unbuckling straps so that by the time the green is backwinging in the clearing all R'sner has to do is swing his leg over her shoulder and slide down. He's on the ground with a thump, and moving toward N'sir even as the weyrling is launching at him. Amazing indeed, but rather than respond with /words/, Res is just going to catch him in a fierce grasp and kiss the hell out of him. It's clearly warranted; tense excursions and successful Between trips totally require such an enthusiastic response. But it is at least short lived, though Res keeps him close even as Toith is abandoning him for Elianneth and issuing her own whuffling breaths of agreement. "Good job," is finally exhaled once R'sner can get his thoughts collected enough to put them into words.
N'sir returns that kiss readily, yearning up into it just a tad to hard before drawing back to breath. He's alive. They're all alive and that? Well, he's pretty glad of that. Tucked securely under R'sner's arm, he presses in closer, his arm winding around his waist in an unspoken need to be closer then is probably physically possible. "I've never.. How can it possibly feel colder then it did before?" That baffles him. He remembers it being cold. But that cold? Glancing over his shoulder just to make sure Elianneth is there and fine and happily cuddling with Toith, N'sir finally relaxes, at least enough to turn a dazzling smile up to R'sner's face. "Thank you."
"It's different when it's just you." At least, that is the assumption R'sner is going to make. "But it never really gets… You never really get accustomed to Between," he admits. That utter cold and complete lack of sensation? A clearing of his throat and a rolling of his shoulders comes before he's flashing a look at the dragons and then letting his gaze settle on N'sir with finality. "You're welcome," comes after a moment's pause, expression softening as he smiles in return. "I thought," he continues, clearing his throat, "That we could eat lunch at the tavern, before you take a turn at visualizing." A tilt of his head comes as he turns his gaze and his steps across the clearing while the arm not-so-casually draped over N'sir's shoulders seeks to bring him along. "A bit of a break."
N'sir quirks a wry smile as he walks at R'sner's side, still remaining as close as he possibly can. "I think that is the worst part," he admits. "Not being able to feel anything but cold…" Clearing his throat, he glances toward the tavern as they approach, his lips twitching in a broader smile. "I'm starved," he admits. Still, he can't resist another backward glance at Eli and Toith, just making /certain/ they are there. The sight of them? It inspires an odd shudder in N'sir, and exhale that is more then a little relieved.
Xanadu Weyr - Wanderin' Wherry Tavern
It is often whispered, in the crowds that converge here, that a certain Weyrleader was asked what he wanted in the remodeling of the pub that was not so long ago given a refreshing. He muttered back over the rim of his ever-present mug, "I don't care what you do with the place, just so long as there is plenty of ale." With that in mind, cask after cask of ale lines the walls of the tavern, the remodeler's idea of a jest. As they age, the casks bring a real rustic atmosphere to the pub, along with the deeply wooden flavor that seems to be the theme throughout.
The lighting is dim, as it should be in all good pubs, and the tables and chairs are plentiful. A long mahogany bar, intricately carved with runner beasts, stands vigilant duty at the head of the bar, lined with stools for those patrons that seek the bartender's company. Behind it are drinks for those not inclined toward ale, as well as a door leading to the small kitchen where snacks are made and a back room that probably holds yet more ale.
Toith is definitely there, and happily finding anything that might vaguely resemble a raised lump in the ground, in order to drop herself down and stretch out and try to give Eli space beneath her wing. A longer look is delivered at the shudder, and R'sner tightens his arm that much more in response. But his steps take him unerringly toward the tavern and its promise of food. The heat of Xanadu is not the same as Igen, but it is still warm and muggy and soon enough the weyrlingmaster is pinching at his shirt in an effort to encourage a bit of airflow. "I thought you might be…" hungry. It's a low murmur, and somewhat belated and a little bit distracted. Just before the entrance there's a pause, a hesitation in R'sner's step before he's snorting in annoyance, rolling his shoulders and shoving himself through the doors and into the establishment. "Pick a table?" he offers.
Eli, doing her level best to press as flat as possible in order to hunker down under Toith's wing. When N'sir is drawn closer, he exhales a relieved sigh, knowing it's ridiculous to /need/ to keep looking back and make sure the dragons are fine. Still, a final glance is cast over his shoulder before they step inside, one hand raising to tuck a curl behind his ear. "Oh, this is charming," he allows immediately. It's only belatedly that he recognizes the hesitation and turns a concerned glance up to R'sner's face. "We can go somewhere else, if you prefer?"
"No it's—" but he cuts himself off before he issues that automatic 'fine' that typically comes. A dry, humorless smirk and R'sner admits, "The last time I was here was after the Igen hatching." When he showed up, promptly got himself shit-faced drunk and passed out on Lani's couch. GOOD TIMES. "The food is good, and the atmosphere is… nice." It's not seedy. But it is /busy/, so after only a moment of deliberation Res is heading them for one of the only vacant tables. "Sit," he offers, nudging a chair out with his foot, "And I'll get us something to drink. If someone comes by for food orders just… get whatever sounds good."
N'sir lightly clears his throat, his chin raising in a slow nod. "Ahhhh." Stepping in, he brushes his cheek over R'sner's shoulder, murmuring a quiet. "Everything worked out perfectly," before slipping into the offered chair. The moment he is seated, he pulls his braid over his shoulder and tugs the strands free, long fingers combing out his curls. The appearance of a server is met with a broad smile and quick order made for wherry pot pies and stew.
"It did," agrees R'sner. But before he can dip too much further into that emotional memory, he's sliding himself through the crowd and toward the bar. He's back a few minutes later with two glasses of water and a half-smirk. Glasses to the table, he sinks into the free chair and scoots it around to sit beside N'sir before murmuring an easy, "They didn't have juice, but there will be tea in a bit." Because alcohol? During a Between lesson? Never. "The first jump I usually have Weyrlings make, visualizing for themselves, is back home. But that does not mean we have to stay at Igen," he clarifies. "We can jump there, and then jump somewhere else. And," he continues, "the final jump will be somewhere… unique."
The moment R'sner is back, N'sir settles into a lean against his shoulder, one hand reaching for the glass of water. "Tea is perfect." Klah would have him on edge and he knows it. It's the mention of betweening back to Igen, that has him nodding and the last that has his smile broadening. "Unique?" He's curious and there is no concealing that. "I like unique." Winking, he takes a long swallow of cold water, exhaling a breath as he sets the glass back on the table. "I ordered wherry pot pies and stew," he informs as he drops his head on R'sner's shoulder.
"I think Elianneth will like it, too," decides R'sner in a tone bent towards teasing, a barely contained grin hinted at in the curl of his mouth. It is a sip of water that he uses to try and hide it, which turns into a much longer swallow before he's setting it down once again. Pot pies and stew? "That's… perfect," because Res is suddenly ravenous, now that he's giving himself a chance to take a breath and relax a little bit. "How do you feel, now that you've gone a few times? Not nervous anymore?" he inquires, lifting his hand to idly drift his fingers through the lose length of curls. "Eli obviously enjoyed herself."
"I think it will be a long time before the thought of Between doesn't make me nervous," N'sir admits. "But at the same time, I feel like being a little nervous about it is probably a good thing?" R'sner had, after all, told him that overconfidence kills. "Eli had a wonderful time," he admits. "And," he adds quickly. "I had fun, as well." Taking another swallow of water, he perks as the food is brought and set out on the table. "Thank you," is murmured to the server before he draws the pie toward him and immediately starts consuming it. "It's like.." he explains as he waves his spoon. "She's playing very long distance tag with Toith."
"A little," agrees R'sner. "So long as you can think through it. Being cautious is fine," and truthfully, Res would be worried if N'sir was blasé about Between. A gentle tug of a lock of hair comes before the weyrlingmaster is letting his arm unwind so that he can pull the bowl of stew closer. A spoonful taken, but he lets it cool in the air above before attempting to eat it. "Long distance tag…" he repeats, a bit of amusement evident. "That's one way to think of it." A little bit of air blown over the spoon, and then Res is taking a bite. "Mm," which is more thoughtful than appreciation for the taste, but he waits until he's swallowed to elaborate. "Once I'm comfortable that you know what you're doing," which is not meant to be rude in the least, despite the choice of words, "You will be assigned additional chores. In addition to ferrying people up and down to various weyrs, you'll run errands around Pern. Think of it as… as getting a taste of what the transport wing does."
N'sir glances up mid-bite, his chin dipping in a quick nod. "That's fair," he admits readily. "I mean, given how many times I shuttled back and forth over the course of my life? Paying it forward," he adds as he takes another forkful of pot pie. Falling silent a beat, his gaze goes distance, the fact that he is checking in on Eli clear in the hazey look his gaze takes on. "Sorry, just.. checking on her." Course, Eli is fine and has been fine. N'sir is just being overprotective. He does, however, think to add. "I'm not scared. I mean, I know it's dangerous, but I know we can do it. If that makes sense?"
A twitch of an eyebrow and a hint of a smile come before R'sner is putting another spoonful of stew in his mouth, effectively eliminating the ability to reply before he's finished with it. "It's practice," he says, once he has. "Not just going Between, because by the time you are taking passengers or messages you will be comfortable with /that/. It is practice with people. With acting as a dragonrider of Igen while out at other places." A few more bites are taken in silence, though R'sner's gaze spends an awful lot of time on N'sir rather than his food. "She won't disappear," he murmurs gently. "And she won't go Between without you. I've never met a dragon who's ever /wanted/ too, let alone attempted it." And while he might believe him, it does not stop R'sner from swapping his spoon to his other hand and reaching out to claim one of N'sir's. "It is only dangerous if you are not being intentional." But he gets it, and the squeeze of his hand is meant to say as much. "It does."
N'sir retains his hold on R'sner's hand, welcoming the comfort with a quiet smile. "I'm embarassed," he admits. "I know she's there and she's fine.. I just.." He just can't imagine being without Elianneth and trying makes him feel ill. Taking a few more bites of the pie, he sets his fork down and leans back in the chair, his legs stretching out beneath the table. "How long did it take you," he wonders. "To get all your destinations memorized?"
R'sner watches N'sir with a quietly serious look. "Don't be," he says at last. He ignores his stew for a bit longer, studying the tangled of fingers where they twine together. "She's your dragon." It is all the explanation that he seems to think is necessary; and certainly he understands it well enough. He lets N'sir retain his hand for as long as he'd like, turning back to use his opposite hand for the finishing of his lunch. At some point that promised tea arrives, though other than a brief acknowledgement to the server, R'sner ignores it. "Hm," and he frowns, settling back and pushing his bowl away to consider the question. "A few days? A sevenday? It's really not as… challenging as you might think," he assures. "You don't have to memorize every single detail; just enough to make it /unique/."
N'sir accepts that, despite the fact that is seems like a daunting task. So far, as annoying as it might be, R'sner has rarely been wrong. The thought though? That inspires a wry smile and a flick of dark eyes toward the Weyrlingmaster's face before he shakes his head and laughs quietly. "Can believe we're already here? Doing this lesson?" The words are uttered in quietly awestuck tones, his brows twitching mildly. "It feels like the hatching just happened."
"No," admits R'sner with a faint smile, reaching to pour the tea into the two mugs provided. One is set in front of N'sir before he claims the other as his own. "Every weyrlinghood seems to go fast," he muses, pausing to take a sip before continuing. "This time… it has felt both exceedingly fast and… achingly slow," he confesses. A shallow shrug of his shoulders and a wry expression before he's deciding, "It still surprises me to see Elianneth is bigger than Toith. I ought to be used to it by now…"
N'sir grins at the mention time seeming to have passed to fast and slow at the same time. "True," he laughs. "Somedays more achingly then others." Winking, he lightly clears his throat, the fingers of his free hand curling around the cup of tea. "She does not like that, /at all/," he snorts. "But it is adorable seeing her trying to make herself smaller. Ryath is the one that shocks me," he admits. "She's /twice/ Eli's size and just as creepy as the day she hatched." Raising the cup, he blows on the steaming liguid before taking a small sip.
The wink at least earns a bit of a grin before Res is lifting his mug to hide it with another sip of tea. But R'sner's amusement lingers, if just for the thought of Elianneth and Toith both trying to make the old wing-snuggle situation work despite a complete reversal of proportions. "She could always cuddle up with one of the blues, or browns," he notes, feigning innocence. Mention of Ryath gets a quiet "Hm," through another swallow of tea, though Res keeps his expression rather stoic and neutral. She is, after all, another weyrling in his care. "Golds are huge," he decides finally. "She won't be able to hide in the shadows much longer." At least not without a lot of effort. "I admit," he says at last, "That I have difficulty envisioning Ryath on the hatching sands being… maternal."
N'sir exhales a snort at the very thought of Eli cuddling with anyone else. "You could suggest that," he allows. "But you will have to deal with her creeling over the thought of not cuddling with Toith." Face it, R'sner, Eli favors girls. "Toith's her safe place," he notes as he raises their joined hands and brushes his lips over R'sner's knuckles. Never mind the fact that the thought of any of the males going near Eli makes him want to snarl. That's a problem for another day. It's the last, however, that has N'sir choking on a laugh, dark eyes wide with horror at the thought. "I can't even…" No, just no.
It is only because R'sner knows, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that Elianneth has no interest in cuddling up with the boys that he would even suggest such a thing. When she starts to glow? Definitely a problem for another day. So there's amusement and a teasing quality to that little half-smirk he's trying to suppress. But it is the thought of Ryath on the sands that brings a moment of laughter followed by almost dread. Because it might have /just/ occurred to him that whatever offspring she produces… he might have to train. A hasty swallow of the rest of his head and he murmurs a low, "Are you ready?"
N'sir has every intention of being right there with R'sner for that. At the very least, it will make those lessons more interesting. "I am!" The enthusiasm having returned, N'sir finishes off his own tea, leaning over to brush a kiss to R'sner's lips before pushing to his feet. "Lets do this."
Xanadu Weyr - Main Clearing
A wide clearing stretches from east to west, the ground packed hard although grass grows across most of it. Trees are strictly forbidden in this space, their danger to the constant draconic traffic reason enough to banish them to the forest that creates a border to the north. Where the ground is less trampled, tiny flowers poke their delicate heads out from their shaded hiding places with upturned petals to wave to whoever may be looking.
The cliff looms imposingly on two sides. Toward the southwest, a spire stretches up to high above where the everpresent watchdragon sits on a lonely peak with Xanadu's Starstones. A massive rocky spur extends to the north, curved slightly to hold the clearing and pocked with doors and windows.
The hatching arena and Dragonhealers' Annex sit to the southeast, built together into a single complex that takes up a large portion of the perimeter beneath its domed roof. To the southwest, wide steps lead up to the caverns, and almost directly south is the entrance to the Infirmary. Nestled between the infirmary and the main caverns there's a human-sized archway with frequent traffic - it leads to the Wanderin' Wherry Tavern.
Tucked near the arch, just off to one side is a tiny wood-frame shop bearing the name 'Wildflower Boutique'. Windows have been cut along the cliff in various places along the cliff. Those of the administrative offices are placed to have the best view of Xanadu's airspace - to the southwest, over the entrance to the caverns and the infirmary. Others mark the dormitories and those of lucky residents, while toward the northern edge of that spur cluster the windows and entrances to the crafters' complex.
The rest of the Weyr lies to the north and east - a broad road that leads through the meadow and the trees of the forest beyond. At the far northern edge of the clearing, just inside the perimeter kept clear of trees, a clocktower sits and proudly displays the hour.
A wider grin for the enthusiasm comes with a quick return of that kiss. "Let's go then," agrees R'sner hauling himself to his feet and pausing only as long as necessary to pay the tab before he's marching toward the door with N'sir in tow, hand still firmly claimed in his own. It is only once they are back in the field and headed toward the waiting dragons (Toith having successfully found somewhere high enough to allow Elianneth to half-hide beneath her wing) that Res relinquishes his grasp. "We're going to jump home first, alright? When you and Eli are in the air, picture Igen Weyr as you saw it this morning from the air. Let Elianneth share the image with Toith. Wait until we," he and Toith, "give the OK before you go. I won't let you go if the image isn't clear, alright?" It's more reassurance than demand; Res is not concerned that N'sir will jump ahead of him. But the earnest, "I love you," comes all the same, along with a kiss that lingers a moment longer than it ought too.
"Home first," N'sir repeats as he heads for Elianneth. Pausing in mid-step, he about faces, walks right back to R'sner and winds his arms around his shoulders to meet that kiss. "I love you more then a fish loves water, or Eli loves the moons." In the wake of the words, his expression softens, dark eyes warm as he leans in and kisses him gently. It lingers and ends with a sigh before he teasingly nips at his lower lip. "And we go no where until you and Toith give the word." Watching the pair, Eli croons up at Toith, her eyes whirling green as she wiggle-squirms out from under her wing and pushes to her feet. «We got this!» Course, the fact that N'sir agrees is clear in his answering laugh as he runs over and swings up into the straps. The moment he is secure, however, Eli bursts into the air, gliding around the bowl while waiting for R'sner and Toith to join them.
Xanadu Weyr - Clearing Sky
You are flying above the main clearing of Xanadu Weyr. The grass covered clearing stretches from east to west without the presence of any trees. The massive domed hatching arena and dragonhealer's annex dominates the landscape, with many smaller stone and wood buildings scattered around it. To the southwest, the Starstones rise above the clearing on a lone rocky peak, while another rock spur cups the west and northwestern edge. Multiple openings have been carved into the rock wall, indicating the presence of more rooms. The rock spur gives way to the dense forest to the north, though a small training clearing can be seen breaching the rock wall. The clock tower sits just where spur meets forest.
Away from Toith, R'sner lingers in the field, waiting for Toith to come to him and watching N'sir. His gaze follows that ascent up Elianneth's neck, the settling at her shoulders and the securing of straps. A chuff from Toith has him turning to follow suit, climbing easily aboard. Once more, he uses the launch up and the ascent into the sky to pull on and fasten his jacket, and the leveling out to strap himself in. But he does not loiter longer than this, does not attempt to stall the moment further with needless fussing. Instead, there's a sharp look over to where Elianneth glide, and a moment later Toith's confident voice issuing a cheerful, « Ready when y' are, » that is quickly followed by, « Picture first, and then Res'll say whether or not we go, » just in case Elianneth might forget. Excitement and all.
Away from Toith, Elianneth swoops over toward Toith as the pair arrive, N'sir still in the process of pulling on his gloves and buttoning his own jacket. The moment he is finished, he raises a hand in a thumbs up gesture, taking a few steadying breaths before imagining Igen's center bowl from the air. Situating his vantage point from above the star stones, his mental image shows the weyrlake, the desert stretching out beyond, and the faint black dot of the cavern they'd picniced in once upon a time. As soon as she has it, Elianneth sends the picture on to Toith and waits to be told whether or not they can go.
Away from Toith, There is no discernable change in R'sner, or Toith, to indicate that they have received the image, just the stiff-posture of a man lost in concentration and perhaps once more questioning the wisdom of this day and it's adventures. But after a moment of thought there's a faint smile and a nod of the weyrlingmaster's head. « Good! When ya're ready, go 'head, » issues Toith, encouraging and gleeful. « We'll be right b'hind ya, » she assures.
Away from Toith, Elianneth bugles as persmission is given, the sound coupled with N'sir offering another thumbs up before reaching down to grip the straps. «WAaaaaaaaaahoooooooo!» Is the last thing heard before pair vanish from site.
You draw into mind the wind smoothed bowl of Igen Weyr. The placement of the star stones and the worn westerly rim distinguising features that you focus on.
Between
Darkness and cold like you can't imagine. Nothing to see, feel or hear, except the beating of your heart.
<LUB> <DUB>
<LUB> <DUB>
<LUB> <DUB>
Then, as suddenly as you entered the emptiness…
Igen Weyr - High Sky
The whole of Igen Weyr spreads out below. Worn by the winds the stone about the rim is smooth, though deeply worn along the west side. Star stones stand out in contrast to the sky, purposeful no longer. The thin trail of the passage accessing the weyr can be traced dissapearing into the mountains southeastwards. Further beyond to the east and west the golden desert sands shimmer and seem to go from one horizon to the next with little reprieve. Hints of water tease at the far eastern horizon, but it's impossible to tell if one is seeing the igen river or just a trick of the endless dunes.
It is once they reappear from Between over Igen that Toith joins that triumphant call with one of her own. A loud bellow that echoes off the stone. And on her neck, R'sner is flashing a legit smile at the pair, with actual teeth and everything. « Nice! Totally legit now, » declares Toith, howling in both mind and voice as she glides around the now-familiar currents of Igen Weyr's airspace.
Elianneth trumpets her own victory call, the sound bouncing off rock and sand and trilling wild glee into the hot Igen air. For his part, N'sir actually whoops, both fists thrust into the air as Eli swirls and dance in the air. "Way to go, princess," he laughs as he leans forward and pats her neck enthusiastically. «Muahahahahaha!»
It is always a cause for celebration when Between is successful! The alternative is far too bleak to even contemplate, and so Res is doing a darn good job pushing those thoughts aside and focusing on the here, and now, and the fact that nothing horrible has happened. He's still watching them like a hawk. As is Toith, who's head follows Eli's movements through the air though the older green does not attempt to follow her. « Ya ready for the surprise? » she wonders, not nearly as reserved in her utter /excitement/ over this final jump. Res might be able to contain his delight, but Toith is all glee at the thought.
Elianneth is ALWAYS ready for surprises. In fact, it's a fair bet that there is very little that Eli loves more then surprises. Barring N'sir, Toith, and R'sner, that is. Course, if there was ANY doubt about her excitement, the fact that Eli is doing loopty loops and sailing joyously around the bowl would make it clear. Fortunately, N'sir has a very strong stomach when it comes to such things— blood, not so much, vertigo? No problem. «Yes! Surprises are fun!» In the wake of the answer, she banks sharply before gliding in to glide alongside Toith. Course, from her back, N'sir casts a wink at R'sner, one gloved hand raising to blow him a kiss across the distance.
« Good! » That time, it's definitely Toith rather than R'sner, issuing that delighted exclamation. A flash of a crooked smile for the blowing of a kiss, though Res won't return the gesture. He'll demand the real thing once they're within touching distance again. But for now, he squares his shoulders and sets a much more studious expression on his face as he issues Toith the destination to share with Elianneth. This one? Definitely a bit different. A vast but still enclosed space, with walls smoother than stone or wood could possibly be rendered; a harsh and almost clinical light that is certainly artificial. But the image is clear, crisp and detailed, even if it might be confusing. « Got it? » wonders Toith.
Elianneth pays very close attention to the details sent to her, not wanting to risk the surprise for /anything/. The moment that she is sure she's got it, she tosses her head, «Got it!» Astride her back, N'sir glances between Eli and R'sner and Toith, his wrist twisting to flash a 'thumbs up' gesture to show they are ready.
« Then go! » and a moment later, Toith and R'sner are vanishing from sight, disappearing into the dark. This trip is a bit longer, a solid five to six seconds caught in the void of Between before bursting out into the almost too-bright artificially lit cargo bay of the Yokohama. And Toith? She can't help it, she's beside herself with glee when she declares, « Welcome to SPAAAAAACE! » And oh yeah, there's definitely a 'mwahahaha' behind that voice.
Between
Darkness and cold like you can't imagine. Nothing to see, feel or hear, except the beating of your heart.
<LUB> <DUB>
<LUB> <DUB>
<LUB> <DUB>
Then, as suddenly as you entered the emptiness…
Yokohama - Cargo Bay
Since the gravity units were restored and now are maintained in working order, the cargo deck of the Yokohama is constantly buzzing with activity. With research needing to be done, equipment to be moved, or a plethora of other tasks taking place people are always coming and going, either from the planet 'below' by dragon back, or meandering in and out from other places aboard the ship.
This area is well lit, the floors themselves have had space set aside specifically for 'betweening'. Three large marked off areas remain clutter-free of people, dragons and equipment. With these 'landing pads' clear, dragons avoid the danger of teleporting into an area of space already occupied and causing a tragedy. Several massive sun lamps have been set up over off to the left, in an effort to make the stay of dragon-kind more comfortable.
Elianneth takes a moment to take it all in, her confused delighted matched only by N'sir's stunned, wide-eyed expression. «SPACE! MOONS!» Whipping her head around, Eli tries to take in everything while N'sir? N'sir leans back in his straps to crane his neck in a calmer version of his dragon's actions. Even as he twists around, Eli is backwinging to a landing, bugling excitedly at the sound of talons on the hull. «Listen! Look at that!» What? She doesn't know, but she's whipping her head around to examine the sun lamps off to the side.
Toith wings down with a casual sort of ease. The sort that says it would be a fair bet to assume she's been here somewhat recently. And once she's down, Res is unbuckling straps and sliding off her neck with that same sort of practiced ease that comes from a lifetime of dragonriding. And now? Now he can't stop from grinning, wide and smug and somewhat ridiculously pleased with himself if just for Elianneth's response (which Toith is happy to share with him, even if doing so is utterly unnecessary). « Ain't it cool?! » Yup. Totes cool. Especially those sun-lamps that she'll just casually sidle over toward, claiming a prime space to soak up the artificial rays. « Th' moons're out there, » she agrees. « Res says we, » being Toith and Eli, « can't fit through th' door but N'sir and Res can. » So… vicarious moon-viewing through the eyes of her human.
N'sir slides down from Elianneth with a wondering laugh, her joy and his own surprise clearly written on his face. By the time his boots hit the floor, he's moving toward R'sner, sliding under his arm to press in against his side. "This is…" He has no words. Clearly. Eli on the other hand, bugling happily as she bounds over to sidle in next to Toith and hunker down under the lamps. «See? They follow me!» The moons, she means. Even as Eli is doing her level best to be the center of the universe, N'sir is peeking around R'sner's shoulder, staring wide eyed at anything and everything before reaching up to catch his fae in gloved hands. "I love you," he whispers before pressing a kiss to his lips.
That bugle will just echo around the cavernous space of the cargo hold for a little bit, drawing more than a few side-eyes from those currently assigned to work aboard the Yokohama. But Res, and Toith, couldn't care less about that. They're too busy being collectively thrilled over the success of their surprise (though to be fair, it was R'sner's idea. Toith is just going to claim some credit as his dragon). "This," declares Res, in a voice dropped low so that it carries no further than the two of them, "Is just the cargo bay." He's still grinning, but there's a clear attempt being made to rein in that expression to something R'sner deems more appropriate for a public setting. But the twist of N'sir in his arms, the catch of his face between gloved hands, the whisper and the press of lips to his own tosses that thought right out the window. He does not lose himself entirely in that kiss, but there is certainly an earnestness in the return of it that might otherwise not be displayed where prying eyes could see them. And when he draws back it is only as far as necessary to gaze down at N'sir, arms still tight around him. "I love you, too." A heartbeat. Two. Three. A sigh that is somewhat resigned though it comes with a dry, half-smirk. "I want to show you the rest."
N'sir doesn't give a hoot about prying eyes, let them look. He does, however, let gloved hands slip down to smooth over R'sner's shoulders. "Show me everything," he whispers before moving to duck under R'sner's arm. Once he's settled in his spot, he glances curiously at the people milling around, before checking to make sure that Eli and Toith are fine. Really, this is just not the sort of place that he has ever had need to think about. "It's massive," he whispers.
Yokohama - Main Lift
Manufactured from a lightweight composite of Terran materials this lift supports a "microfoamed" cylindrical cab to house personnel as they travel from one part of the Yokohama to another. Three linear induction motors, mounted longitudinally on the cab's exterior, provide the force to move the cab. Electromagnetic conduits lining the shaft power the motors. The lift reaches an approximate maximum speed of ten meters per second under this system. Inertial dampeners mounted on the cab's base counteracts the acceleration effects. The interior display shows the ship's directory to assist in achieving the correct destination.
The lift is lined with brilliant tubes shining brighter than a hundred glows each, at least. The floor is thinly carpeted in a depressing industrial gray, and the walls are painted an unassuming tan. The doors are quite thick, and bear a small silver plate with the title 'Emergency procedures in case of Hull Breach…' but the rest makes little sense.
"That it is," agrees R'sner, after he's spent a moment or two collecting his thoughts. With N'sir beneath his shoulder, and his own arm wrapped securely around his shoulders, Res spends a moment contemplating the dragons before deciding, "They'll be fine," and heading with confidence toward a doorway. The doors slide open at their approach, and Res can't help but sneak a glance at N'sir to catch his face at /that/ bit of technology. It is a small… box for lack of a better word, with a console and a series of numbers and buttons. A moment of thought, and Res points to option '13'. "Press that."
N'sir presses the button for Floor: 13. There is a momentary pause as the lights flash at the entryway.
The doors to the lift come closed and after a momentary pause, waiting for everyone to take hold of the hand rails, the capsule bobs and then rockets to its next destination.
The lift comes to a halt at Floor: 13 and the doors open.
Yokohama - Recreation Deck
Tables line the walls of this place, each holding a variety of games for the leisure of the personnel and staff that resides within this station. Computers are set up upon the center in rows, offering a variety of games as well to those willing to tap away at the keys or handle the mice and joysticks attached for education and amusement not required for work. Books are also available here, too, both in the form of stories and reference materials for those wishing to take up a hobby or merely escape to somewhere else for a time while it's allowed between their long days and colder nights of duties here in the Yokohama. No matter where one would like to go, plenty of cushioned seating is here for rest and conversation.
Meanwhile, dominating the room is a large window that overlooks Pern, showing much of the planet as the station orbits overhead.
N'sir jumps when the doors slide open, his expression turning both startled and more then a little wary. When he notices R'sner looking at him, he immediately blushes scarlet and clears his throat as he's guided into the lift. Almost immediately, his confusion grows, his brows furrowing as he slants a glance from R'sner to the buttons and back. "Really?" Course, he knows R'sner wouldn't say it if he didn't mean it and tenatively reaches out to press the button. When the door closes, N'sir immediately tenses, every single bit of him on edge. "What…Rails…" He's clinging to R'sner and not those rails. Cling to what you know. It's only when the doors open that he breaths again and scrubs a hand over his face.
A brilliant smile is R'sner's reply to that blush, and while N'sir might not take hold of the rails, he will. One hand on the rail, the other arm wrapped around the weyrling's shoulders in a hold that clutches him close. But R'sner, at least, has been here/done that before, and is not nearly as surprised by the tech. Or the destination, of course. But it is still (literally) out of this world, and he can't help that he's been holding his breath the entire time the lift was in motion. It comes out as a rush as the lift stops and the doors open. While there are tables to sit at, and games to play, and likely people to talk with, those are clearly not why R'sner brought him here. No, that would be the view. "Take a peek," he offers, gently nudging N'sir forward, off the lift and firmly into the recreation space. "Look out the window," as if he could miss it. It's only Pern, as seen from space.
N'sir isn't sure he wants to move away from R'sner. When he's nudged out of the lift, though, he goes slowly, his gaze sweeping the room. The moment that dark eyes come rest on the window, however, N'sir goes absolutely still, a gasp coupled with one hand raising to cover his lips. For a few long moments he just stares before moving directly to the window to stare out at the space scape. "Oh…I…" And almost immediately, his gaze goes distant, allowing Elianneth to take in the view with him. By the time he finally blinks, there are tears on his cheeks, a result both of his own wonder and the excitement of his lifemate. "It's beautiful," he whispers as he brushes gloved fingers against the glass.
The view is definitely amazing, but it's N'sir that R'sner is watching. Eyes glued to his face until they step out of the lift, he trails along behind him with a ridiculous sort of expression threatening to utterly ruin that stoic thing he had going for him. But his hands find him as he stops at the window, arms sliding around from behind so that Res can bury his face against his neck and breathe in the scent of him as N'sir takes in the view of Pern and shares it with Elianneth. He's quiet and still, the only movement coming from the rise and fall of his chest as he breathes, and the quick flick of his gaze as he lets it drift toward the window. "I thought you'd like it," he murmurs after a long pause, a smile ghosting across his lips before he presses them against the soft skin behind N'sir's ear.
"It's.." There is nothing to compare with that. Nothing and it shows when N'sir leans back against R'sner's chest and draws in a slow breath. With one hand remaining resting lightly against the window, his other arm stretches back, his gloved palm resting against R'sner's hip. For a long moment, there are no words, just awestruck silence as he stares out at the vastness of space. When he can move, he turns slowly, his chin tilting up to allow him to catch R'sner's eyes. "You.. this the most amazing thing I have ever.." Trailing off, he steps in closer, doing his level best to worm his way into R'sner's jacket with him.
R'sner doesn't really need words, though he certainly enjoys hearing them when it is N'sir speaking. He nuzzles in gently against the side of his neck before lifting his head and straightening enough to allow that twist around in his arms. One hand draws back, and Res pauses only long enough to bite at the fingers of his gloves to pull them off, casting the article of clothing to the ground with little thought, so that it is a bare palm that finds N'sir's cheek. For a moment he just stands there, drinking in the sight of him in silence. He /ought/ to say something, but the words just do not come. At least, none that seem to be acceptable for the moment. And so Res lets the silence reign and simply draws N'sir as close as he can. It is only once his arms are firmly around him, and the second glove is tossed to the ground to be collected later, that he seems to find his voice. "I love you. I would give you anything and everything, if I could."
N'sir closes his eyes as he tilts his cheek into the warmth of R'sner's hand. When it moves, he sighs and tucks his face into the curve of his throat. "You gave me your heart and your trust," he reminds. "You gave me a dragon and the means to see her flourish. You've given me… the world," he points out before pressing his lips against R'sner's throat in a warm kiss. Blinking quietly, he draws in the scent of him, his hands smoothing over the small of R'sner's back. "I have everything I want right here."
Res has no verbal reply for that, though there is a firm tightening of his arms and a drop of his head, a press of his lips against the top of N'sir's head and a contented exhale breathed out. A squeeze of his eyes, a tightening of his jaw, though at least that brief, pained expression is hidden from view. It's quick; a flash of grief that is there and gone and easily drowned out by the overwhelmingly /positive/ things that Res has going right now. But he'll still hold N'sir tight against him, still keep his face buried against the top of his head, let himself get briefly lost in the scent of him and the smoothing of his hands. A hard swallow and a clearing of his throat comes before he murmurs a low, "Did you want to see the rest of the ship? Or stay here…?" Because really, nothing is going to top that view.
N'sir doesn't want to move. Not at all, not even a little bit. That much is clear when he tightens his arms at the suggestion, his face remaining firmly tucked into the curve of R'sner's throat. "Here," he whispers in breathy tones. Drawing in another slow breath, he lets his scent surround him in warmth and comfort, his fingers curling into a tighter press at the small of R'sner's back. If there are either people present, N'sir niether knows, nor cares. At the moment, everything he cares about is right here, or tucked neatly in the landing bay. It is only after a very long moment of remaining still and clinging, that he turns his head enough to be able to peek at the view from beneath R'sner's chin.
There are undoubtedly people on the recreation deck. But they either can't see, or don't care. Which is perfectly fine with R'sner, who has no intention or desire to move either. The tightening of N'sir's arms earns a shallow smile from the weyrlingmaster, a very faint amusement for the clear 'no' at the suggestion they relocate. "Alright," comes as a verbal acknowledgement, a nuzzle of his nose against the top of his head the physical one. And so here they stand, Res at an angle with which he can take advantage of the view but devoutly ignoring it in favor of the weyrling in his grasp. Deep, steady breathes and the occasional kiss. Until the turn of N'sir's head is drawing R'sner's attention and prompting a lift of his head so that he can glance, first down at him, and then up to the view. "Turn?" he offers, meaning to suggest that N'sir turn around in his arms so that he can look outside again. "Or we can sit…" And then, after a moment's consideration, "We can spend the rest of the afternoon here, if you'd like."
"I'd like that," N'sir decides in breathy tones. In the wake of the words, he turns in the circle of R'sner's arms, a sigh spilling past his lips as he settles back against the Weyrlingmaster's chest. "It's all so much bigger then we realize," he whispers as he smooths his hands over the arms holding him. "Awe-inspiring, but daunting…" So daunting in a beautiful, powerless sort of way. Knowing there is so much more world then you actually acknowledged despite knowing it in the abstract. Overwhelmed, N'sir lets the deeper thoughts go, leaving those for another time in favor of just basking in the beauty arrayed before them.
