Whiteriver Warren

Founded July 17, 1996

Earlier timelines have been lost. These events take place after the bombing of the hatching cavern by the Cult. November 1998 Day 6 [Funeral Night] *** Late Afternoon - Xanthia begins her shift in the med center Saul goes to see Shawnee wanting to be near his family for the funeral pyres Shawnee is ready to forgive him when Fawna wakes and begins crying. Saul comforts the child. Ashelle and Moira arrive to go to the funeral as a 'family' Cricket's 6th egg is lost They all give Barry a heartfelt tribute Tevel stays close to Ashelle Evening - Th'rin tells Ojean about Cill Ojean goes to sit with the girl Gwyna makes another move on Saul, making him feel guilty for rejecting her Saul begins to tell Shawnee about the night before But she stops him and takes him home to bed instead Tarv'renon gives Th'rin and Merissa a painting in friendship Merissa is amazed that Th'rin has become so friendly with the man Cill wakes up, but finds she can't hear anything Xanthia thinks it is temporary Xanthia works on presents of folded paper dragons Katla and Kanler skip the funeral and go meet Katla's informant Tevel and Ashelle go for a moonlight picnic as the funeral breaks up Tevel tells her of his ideals for Home and Family Oldreth sends invitations to Shawnee and Xanthia to chat Oldreth sends an invitation to Merissa for lunch the next day Xanthia goes to meet Oldreth, and they discuss Aradia Day 7 *** Morning - Xanthia gives a folded paper dragon to Saul for Fayloth and for Doshayne Shawnee runs into Gwyna in the dining hall Gwyna tells her about the night in the hay Doshayne flies to mate, Grunth is the winner Gwyna tries to tell Saul it's because Shawnee is in love with T'jellan Saul feels the need to get away and Ralengarde is his chosen retreat W'lam arrives from Iseme Warren Oldreth greets him and takes him to Trinale Gwyna moves Saul's things out of Shawnee's apartment with Dalton's help Derry and W'lam go see Lord Vaddon Afternoon - Saul is in the Traveler's Rest in Ralengarde He chats with lady Raine Calarais Xanthia continues passing out paper dragons to Truan, Merissa, Ashelle, Moira Shawnee tells T'jellan that she can never love him T'jellan heads home to drink himself painless Shawnee goes home to find all of Saul's things moved out of their apartment Shawnee runs to Merissa in tears Merissa has lunch with Oldreth Late Afternoon - Trinale has a birthday party for Xanthia Tevel and Ashelle go to Xanthia's party Th'rin asked Merissa how her day was Tarv gives Th'rin a gift for Xanthia Fawna and Sammy wreck Gwyna's apartment Ojean rescues them from getting caught Saul gives the folded paper dragons to Byrin for safe keeping Early Twilight - Sayli begins to investigate the bombing Saul and Fayloth offer to help Gwyna find her apartment trashed and thinks it was Shawnee's doing Dalton informs her he saw Ojean coming from her apartment Gwyna marches off to demand Trinale do something about it Evening - Keltian Vaddon rapes Raine calling her a warren whore for her meetings with Saul Raine soon finds her brother Pharen feels the same way Raine sneaks away, only to be caught and taken to Ralengard's premiere madam Day 8 (Coal poisoning) *** Afternoon - Katla, Kanler, and W'lam go to the Vaddon estates Late Afternoon/Evening - Katla'n'co go to leave, just as someone arrives with a message for Katla from Telven, requesting a meeting. Evening - Killaglen is attacked and Whiteriver goes to defend Moira joins the other newly joined to fill bags of coal for the battle The dragons begin to eat the tainted coal from Lord Fowler Several dragons and riders die Katla send Ojean to Lord Vaddon to ask for coal Oldreth runs away, depression overtaking him Wintermoon tells Chrysthal where she's taking him and begs for help Ashelle and Oaklah save Tevel's mother Vaddon offers enough coal to help fight the wraiths After taking Olivia to the med center Ashelle heads out with the wing again Ashelle and Oaklah crash into some trees Th'rin mixes herbs with meat to empty the sick dragons stomachs J'red sees a faithful servant, who came with the tainted coal J'red confronts the servant about the tainted coal, with Saul for backup Tevel begins to worry and is told she hasn't reported in yet Tevel begs his father to take him to go looking for her T'jellan agrees reluctantly Derry asks for volunteers to help find Ashelle Late Evening - Ashelle is found and brought back T'jellan admits to Derry that he knows he will never be back with the wing W'lam investigates the tainted coal wagon and horses Katla helps him by looking at the horses N'lin sends a letter to Trinale Night - Wintermoon stops at the place she told Chrysthal. Saul visits Fawna and Shaulyn at Tahsa's He tries to talk to Shawnee when she arrives to get the girls, she refuses Saul heads to Gwyna's and Shawnee heads home Xanthia goes to the monastery Saul and Sayli found She demands the attacks stop Lisha notices a lump in her breast and her dragon takes her to see Th'rin Th'rin decides he wants a biopsy and puts her on medical leave Late night - Merissa finds Oldreth and spends the night with him Day 9 (Chrysthal's mating flight) *** Morning - Th'rin finds Merissa missing, having never come home Trinale has already sent Derry to set up a search party Fawna runs into Saul on her way to confess to Trinale Saul under Gwyna's influence upsets the child Fawna tells Shawnee what happened Shawnee confronts Saul and warns him Lynnie isn't to be near Gwyna Shawnee goes to Killaglen to seek help from Celia Celia agrees to see what she can do Derry orders all riders to travel with partners at all times and general increase security. Derry sends Dalton off to find the queen riders Kanler and Katla go to find Raine Mid Morning - Dalton threatens Merissa Oldreth dispatches Dalton and send him back to the warren unconscious and naked He then tells Trinale about his night of passion with Merissa Xanthia overhears Celia runs into L'rian and offers her comfort Th'rin performs Lisha's surgery Oldreth goes home to bed and is joined by Merissa Afternoon - Lisha is furious with Th'rin for breaking his promise (and removing her breast) Th'rin has to drug her to calm her down Clarissa sends him home and calls Xanthia in early Gwyna tells Saul to take Celia back and then return He promises he will Ojean takes Fawna and Sammy to clean Gwyna's apartment Gwyna goes home and harasses them Gwyna slaps Fawna when she mouths off to her and drops a trinket causing it to shatter Ojean rescues Fawna and hears her story Raine tells Katla about what happened to her Raine begs Katla to take her back to the warren Moira speaks to Derry regarding her thoughts on the Cult of the Lady Th'rin hears that Merissa is back and goes to confront her in Oldreth's apartment Merissa does not have a chance to explain when Chrysthal rises to mate Newly returned Trefoil wins Th'rin heads to the falls to be alone Late Afternoon - Derry goes to see Trinale Katla and Raine join them Trinale listens and invites Raine to stay at the Warren T'jellan spills his story to Ashelle Ashelle has a seizure and is sent to Tinoble Th'rin and Tarv'renon have a heart to heart talk Ojean and Fawna tell Shawnee about Gwyna Moira and Truan find apartment and then go to the Weaver's in Killaglen Raine is give a "morning after pill" Evening - Shawnee finds and confronts Gwyna They get into a shoving match Shawnee falls and goes into labor Gwyna runs out, and when asked will claim that Shawnee was harassing her so she left Doshy calls for Fayloth, who has not returned yet She calls for Juniper to warn Clarissa and to gather Tahsa Shawnee struggles onto Doshayne's back and is taken to the med center. N'lin has a nightmare after the mating flight He wakes and tries to kill himself Merissa stops him Late Night - Moira goes to the med center and finds Xanthia busy busy busy! She goes to sit with N'lin Th'rin leaves Tarv and goes to be with Merissa Saul arrives just as Aarin is born Clarissa has to work to get Aarin to breath, as he turns blue Once he starts breathing he appears to be fine. Shawnee asks him if he's going to Mery's wedding He says yes they'll leave in the morning after she's released Ojean tells Trinale about Aarin's birth Moira gives Xanthia back her stone They go to talk about Oldreth Th'rin and Merissa make up Katla and Kanler go to see Aarin while Shawnee is asleep Day 10 *** Late Morning - Shawnee and Aarin are released and sent home Saul arrives for the wedding He's late as it took a while to get away from Gwyna He's looking pale and tired. He blames it on the early hour Shawnee accuses him of staying up to late with *her* Merissa tells Trinale that Oldreth has left for good Merissa head to the med center to check on N'lin Raine is surprised by an old friend, Merissa Elissa is assigned as temporary patrol partner to J'red while Derry is grounded with Levka They find a body on Fowler's lands and take the news to Derry and Trinale J'red asks Elissa to go with him to see his father that evening Elissa says yes! Noon - Wedding in Ralengarde, Very romantic Saul feels woozy and collapses nearly dropping his newborn son on the cement floor of the Traveler's Rest. Tevel speaks to Moira in the dining hall as he tries to decided whether to stay or to go J'red finds Moira for knife throwing lessons Evening - Elissa prepares for an evening with J'red Ralengarde healers determine the cause of Saul's collapse, confronting both Saul and Shawnee at the same time. They both know who gave the drugs Shawnee says she can't return to Whiteriver Saul agrees to a fresh start for his family Day 11 *** Morning - Saul returns to Whiteriver to attend to business He takes letters she's written to say good-bye to friends and loved ones He speaks to Tahsa first to tell her they're leaving Tahsa and Dontey decide to go with them Late Morning - Saul confronts Gwyna Katla joins him and points out Gwyna's birthmark, proving she's the one who slept with T'jellan in the med center He speaks to Trinale and Katla about leaving and gives then Shawnee's notes Afternoon - Saul speaks with Ojean and Fawna Ojean agrees to go with Saul and Shawnee Shawnee goes to the Vaddon Estate She sees Derry, Katla and Trinale there Merissa sees Saul and receives her note from Shawnee Merissa tells Th'rin that Saul and Shawnee are leaving J'red and Elissa return to the warren and Elissa hears the news of Saul's departure Elissa searches out Saul and gives him a piece of her mind Saul goes to see T'jellan and gives him Shawnee's note Olivia asks to see T'jellan Ojean gives notice to Trinale that he's leaving Ojean goes to say good-bye to Cill Olivia asked T'jellan to talk Tevel into staying in the warren Early Evening - Th'rin brings Cill her new glasses Kanler and Katla say good-bye to Saul and the kids before they head back to Ralengarde Dalton asks for and is granted a transfer from Whiteriver Dalton plots some more evil on his way out of the warren Saul takes Sammy and Fawna to Ralengarde then goes back to help Ojean collect some things Saul returns to Ralengarde to spend the evening with his family in the Barman home Late night - Dalton kills Gwyna, making it appear to be done by the Blind Lady Cult May 1999 Day 12 *** Morning - Saul picks up Tahsa, Dontey and Sammy and they all leave Whiteriver Sayli finds Gwyna's body Merissa, J'red, Elissa, Derry, Katla and Kanler meet in Trinale's office to discuss the dead man J'red and Elissa found Sayli breaks in with news of Gwyna's death Sayli is taken unconscious in the med-center after collapsing in delirium shortly after breaking the news of Gwynna's death. Rumors of suspects start .. Late Morning - L'rian suggests Saul's name as Gwyna's possible killer Chrysthal and Areena take advantage of Trefoil's fatherly devotion Xanthia wakes, and is limping She collapses and Tarv takes her to the med center Afternoon - Th'rin tells them she has an infection in her leg Tarv gets information out of Th'rin about the seriousness of her condition W'lam tells Moira of her gift. Dinner - Merissa has dinner with Raine Kanler and Chance visit Raine Kanler takes a present to Cill Xanthia's former teacher comes to WR to help the girl Day 13 (Plans to bring down the cult are laid) *** Early Morning - Corra and Th'rin wake in Th'rin's office They go to check on Xanthia Morning - Moira visits Xanthia Corra and Th'rin prepare for surgery on Xanthia's leg Afternoon - Moira is asked to use her skills on a few objects. She names Kel, and Jason and their cronies and goes into shock Th'rin does everything he can to help her N'lin sneaks in to see if he can help Moira Moira dreams of Barry and her Mother Kanler, Derry, Chance and Raine try to work out a plan to get confessions Katla and Raine come up with a plan A familiar Stranger comes to Whiteriver Merissa speaks to N'lin to get his help Analise receives a letter from an old friend Clyde Gingle makes plans Evening - Gingle's evil plans play out as a supply caravan is attacked. Katla's plans are laid with Raine and N'lin's help August 1999 Day 14 *** Early Morning - Jason seeks refuge at Lord Gingle's N'lin and Jael, on patrol, find the caravan and a single survivor They take her to the med center K'leev stakes out Racine Th'rin cares for the survivor Morning - Merissa and Analise recognize the survivor as a fellow Bard's daughter N'lin prepares for the days trip to Ralengarde Xanthia wakes up She calls telepathically to Oberon and he begins to shriek Mara brings Merissa and she is able to calm him down Tarv visits Th'rin to get information on Xanthia Merissa takes Oberon to see Xanthia. Th'rin promises only a peek with a visit tomorrow if he is good. Late Morning - J'red and Tarv head out in search of Elissa Saylie wakes and Th'rin tells him he's a suspect Moira wakes as well and tells Th'rin that Saylie is not the killer Afternoon - Raine and Katla head to meet Telven Katla leaves Raine with him Telven seduces Raine Katla and Kanler talk to Merissa Kanler goes to see Cill K'leev sees him go in Kanler takes her for a flight around the warren Corra takes Moira to see Xanthia J'red and Kanler decide to look for Elissa in Ralengarde They find her and J'red talks her into returning to WR Derry punishes her for leaving the warren alone Gingle suggests Jason see Kel and Pheran Early Evening - Raine plays her role, while N'lin watches from the other side of the room Th'rin releases Moira from the med center Evening - N'lin 'kidnaps' Raine and takes her to Keltian She is further abused by them all Day 15 *** Morning - Adeliannae wakes up and speaks to Th'rin Lisha asks for a new patrol partner Derry tells her not until she's recovered and back to her old self Xanthia resists her therapy Katla visits Xanthia Xanthia's braces arrive Late Morning - Moira spends some time embroidering Merissa takes Oberon to see Xanthia Merissa bumps into Tarv'renon and she realizes maybe he isn't all bad Afternoon - Adeliannae has a visitor Evening - Keltian and Pheran continue to humiliate Raine Hyacinth rises to mate and Onyx wins. Lisha apologizes for being deformed Sayli doesn't accept it, telling her she's beautiful Day 16 (Day of Trinale's Accident) *** Morning - Racine and the girls head to the park as normal Lisha wakes with Sayli and thanks him for the previous night Analise and Merissa discuss what to become of Adeliannae Xanthia tries walking with her crutches Tarv'renon accidentally knocks her over and she makes a scene Corra bring Adeliannae to meet Xanthia, and it quiets her down Tarv'renon apologizes to Xanthia and she forgives him Moira has a 'memory' of a place while at training Adeliannae takes a walk and comes upon naked men Looking for Trinale, Adeliannae runs into Merissa Jason arrives to where Keltian and Pharen have Raine J'red hears from N'lin that Jason is at Pharen's Kanler and J'red go to Kanler's fathers home for a short while Early afternoon - J'red (after their return) joins Tarv in the dining hall and recognizes the button Merissa and Th'rin have lunch and see J'red and Tarv'renon together Oberon dashes off and Racine and Mara give chase K'leev moves in to take Neril Cill stops him Th'rin is close by and moves to help Racine, Th'rin and Mara all recognize K'leev who is being held by two dragonriders Late afternoon - Kanler offers to take Racine and her family to Jasra where K'leev won't find them Mara asks to stay and live with Merissa and Th'rin Merissa gives her consent .. as does Racine Xanthia apologized to Adeliannae Evening - L'rian and Dandy take Catlin to her dragon Trinale tries to stop them and teleports also None of them return from teleport .. Elissa sees it from the peaks Xanthia seeks out Th'rin Pharen allows Raine and her father to get reacquainted N'lin hears of Cricket's death and feels the dragon's pain while at Pharen's party The other "party" guests hear 'Foil .. and panic Tarv'renon seeks out Merissa Merissa accepts his comfort then asks him to carry letters for her He agrees and helps her write them out and then he delivers them Late Night - Grief-stricken the dragonriders agree to do the raid now Hell breaks out at Pharen's and Raine's father escapes J'red kills his borther Jason and many other cult members are taken prisoner Tarv'renon returns to find Merissa still up September 1999 Day 1 - A New Warrenlady (Yes we're starting over!!) *** Early Morning - Ashlyn goes to work Analise goes to see Merissa Merissa decides on the memorial service details Merissa goes to see Th'rin and finds him and Xanthia asleep in his office Merissa runs into Tarv and asks him to help her run her errands for the morning Xanthia wakes with Th'rin in his office Th'rin gives her a brief exam, revealing no feeling in her injured leg Moira and Truan go to training J'red wakes in a daze and goes to the med center Moira is there to help him Kanler takes Racine to Jasra N'lin and Adeliannae run into each other Afternoon - Corra comforts Th'rin as he beats himself up over Xanthia Adeliannae visits Xanthia and meets Moira She asks him to considering spending more time with Xanthia Moira names one of her weaving patterns after Trinale Har'son goes searching Ashlyn is searched Late Afternoon- Th'rin tells Merissa he intends to spend more time helping Xanthia J'red goes to his family estates to confess to his father about killing his own brother Early Evening - Har'son takes Ashlyn to see Merissa Elissa goes to help them at the Quartermasters Kanler brings his sister (Lenasha) to see to Ashlyn Lenasha asks to have Ashlyn stay with her in her usual rooms Har'son and Elissa get left alone and she shows him to his apartment Dinner - Har'son asks her to dinner, and she accepts Th'rin takes Xanthia to dinner Evening - Saul and Shawnee arrive for the funeral Har'son and Elissa have a race Th'rin and Merissa have a little fight about Xanthia Saul and J'red and Shawnee run into Elissa before heading to the dining hall Elissa snaps at J'red and Saul and has Har'son take her home Day 2 (Trinale's Funeral) *** Early Morning - Th'rin leaves early to get Xanthia Morning - The memorial Merissa speaks, Saul speaks, Xanthia speaks and then asks if Th'rin will leave her too Th'rin promises he will never leave her Moira speaks Merissa ends the service Late Morning - Chrysthal lays her eggs Everyone gathers in the dining hall for a reception Har'son charms Xanthia Elissa puts on make up and goes to find Har'son Mid-day - Moira sketches, thinking about J'red J'rret arrives from Falagand Merissa welcomes him to Whiteriver J'red helps him get settled Th'rin confronts Tarv Eleanora asks Laria (Warrenlady of Telnor) for a Transfer Eleanora packs and runs into her parents N'lin, Saul, Kanler, Derry, Raine, Jael and Katla(and others)take the (cult) prisoners to the wastes They watch them get devoured by wraiths Evening - Eleanora says good-bye to Abby J'red and J'rret go out drinking Day 3 *** Mid-Morning - Moira gets Xanthia out to care for Maxima Eleanora leaves Telnor after an angry confrontation with Ben'sar Eleanora reports into Merissa Merissa asks Lisha to show her around Merissa finds out the prisoners are missing Lisha and Eleanora run into Derry .. then Tarv'renon .. then Xanthia, Moira and Adeliannae Late Morning - Th'rin comes upon a drenched Xanthia Lisha and Eleanora continue on their tour and meet Corra for an exam Lisha then introduces Eleanora to Th'rin Adeliannae has an encounter with Har'son and he asks her to dinner Lunch - Lisha takes Eleanora to Lunch Moira meets Har'son Dinner - Th'rin picks up Xanthia for dinner Th'rin and Merissa have a misunderstanding Merissa goes out and gets drunk and ends up in J'rret's arms Th'rin sees them and thinks something is going on He goes to see Tarv, looking for comfort Tarv'renon offers his comfort Day 4 *** Breakfast - Olivia ask T'jellan to take Tevel back to the warren Morning - Eleanora goes to meet Merissa March 2000 TIME JUMP Day 40 *** Early Morning - Moira, Truan and the new trainees go scouting and see something J'red and Kanler come to their aid and then go on patrol. The Something was Lord Calarais, who was hiding, but he was not seen. Kanler and J'red talk about Elissa Morning - Merissa prepares for the meeting with the Lords Eleanora assists in writing up the agendas and correcting the tithes lists. Adeliannae runs into Har'son at the waterfall, and after some flirtation, they plan to meet at lunchtime Tarv'renon wakes thinking of Merissa Xanthia runs into Tarv at Breakfast, they both run into Har'son Har'son's charms have an effect on Xanthia, much to Tarv's annoyance After breakfast Tarv goes to see if there's anything he can do for Merissa Moira is harassed by some soldiers Matten (Lord Fowler's man) rescues Moira from the un-named soldiers. Eleanora is harassed by visiting guards, and rescued by Jay Merissa assigns Tarv to implement a plan to take care of these harassers J'rret and R'han go on Patrol Xanthia has a break-through with an anti-bacterial cream Excitedly she kisses Th'rin Th'rin kisses her back, then breaks down and tells her his sob story Xanthia doesn't completely understand, but offers her support to Th'rin Eleanora sees the kiss and confronts Th'rin Mid-Morning - Tarv finds a moment to ask Th'rin to watch Xanthia and protect her from Har'son's sweet talking Elissa and Har'son share a morning's interlude Late Morning - Tarv'renon enlists help to implement the plan from J'red, Kanler and Jay Jay and Tarv go to post notices J'red and Kanler go to talk with the visiting Lords Midday - Har'son is late for lunch with Lia, he leaves Elissa sleeping Kanler informs Katla about guard-duty and she tells him that Satinka already informed her. Katla worries about Derry and Lorelei. Elissa wakes alone to find a daisy (from Har'son) on her pillow. She has patrol duty in the bazaar and is late. Adeliannae asks Xanthia if she can help her oil Maxima Eleanora joins them N'lin works in Trinale's Garden with 'Foil Merissa has lunch at home with Mara and Oberon Mara and Merissa discuss "love". Jay sits with N'lin for a late lunch Fourd carries Har'son and Lia to a place for a picnic Early Afternoon - N'lin works in Trinale's garden. Foil tells N'lin about Merissa's proclamation Mid-Afternoon - Xanthia asks Moira about kissing J'red Merissa has a chat with Eleanora about Th'rin, but Eleanora doesn't tell her what she saw Late Afternoon - Eleanora's brother, Leonidas arrives at the Warren Analise receives a letter from Cyrano, Master Bard (brought by Leonidas) Analise invites Eleanora (who brought her the letter) to dinner Lia agrees to help Eleanora with the paperwork. J'red speaks to his father about the guards, and about Moira and Elissa Kanler speaks to his father Jay chases some soldiers back off the bridge Dinner - Th'rin gives Xanthia back her dagger Moira holds Xanthia's dagger and sees more then she wants to Merissa decides to try again with Th'rin After a rocky start, they rekindle a bit of passion Evening - Raines father, Lord Calarais, blackmails Lord Gingle Areena and Foil help Chrysthal talk to her eggs Areena picks out her egg Foil talks Chrysthal into asking Merissa for N'lin to become the new trainer. Late Night - Foil tells N'lin he has bridge patrol the next afternoon and N'lin is not happy about it. Xanthia get's called to help a woman in labor On duty, J'red spots Maxima taking Xanthia into the unjoined district R'han falls asleep on his post Day 41 *** Wee Hours - Xanthia delivers a baby then decides to walk home She's met by an old tormenter from her childhood He tries to have his way with her, but she slips into the water, her crutch weighing her down Har'son and Fourd come to her rescue After making his point to Xanthia's attacker, Har'son takes him to the med center with Xanthia. Th'rin rushes out to see if Xanthia is okay, leaving Merissa in bed. Th'rin promises to keep Xanthia safe Morning - Analise cryptically invites Merissa to dinner with Eleanora Analise sends Adeliannae on a shopping trip to the bazaar. Adeliannae has a run in with soldiers, Gerry and Leonidas run to her rescue Adeliannae and Gerry seek shelter in Gerry's parents' bakery. Prince Reolden Almaren arrives to see Merissa J'rret and Moira have some knife throwing training Lunch - Merissa and the prince have lunch in the dining hall J'red also goes to the dining hall for lunch Afternoon - Abbien and Ben'sar arrive from Telnor Eleanora's dragon (Cara) rises to mate and Ben'sar's dragon wins her Leonidas is worried about his sister (Eleanora), but Abbien assures him things will be okay Raine and N'lin 'confront' what happened between them N'lin uses his "gift" to help Raine heal from her ordeal. Mara sees N'lin and Raine together while watching Oberon and is jealous. Abbien meets Th'rin and offers her services, he accepts Eleanora asks for help going through supplies in the med center Th'rin agrees to help Ben'sar meets Leonidas and gets walloped J'red and Kanler go on patrol of Calarais' land and find Wraiths Rushing back to the warren to sound the alarm, Raine tells them to let the wraiths burn Calarais Estates to the ground Katla and Derry insist on helping the innocent people there. The Wing flies wraiths. Most scatter and injuries are minor. J'rret gets wraith burned and nearly falls when R'han veers out of formation Har'son save him, but reopens his own wound Katla meets with Ganedin Lovaran, manager of Calarais' stable to discuss the situation and damage. A question of inheritance of the Estates is raised. Har'son flirts with Xanthia in the med center Xanthia doesn't fall into his 'trap' Th'rin does .. as he let's Har'son's words get to him Chrysthal and Areena spend time with the eggs Mara and Oberon pass through and Areena lets them get close to 'her' egg Chrysthal is very upset, especially when Mara touches it Chrysthal notes that her eggs are hardening and will be hatching soon. Dinner - Eleanora gets ready for dinner Adeliannae, Merissa, Eleanora and Analise all have dinner at Analise's apartment Merissa's mother gives Merissa a letter stating she is now a "Master Bard" After much "celebrating" and imbibing, Merissa, Eleanora and Analise give Adeliannae a lesson on the facts of life Day 42 *** Morning - Eleanora wakes with a hangover. Eleanora's brother decides to stay in the warren for a while He gives Eleanora some willow tea. Merissa wakes with a hangover. Th'rin asks Mara to take Oberon to see Xanthia Adeliannae wakes in a good mood Raine tells Lord Kanen she will sign her lands over to his daughter, Lenasha Eleanora takes Lord Fowler to breakfast Ben'sar catches up with her at the dining hall Eleanora takes Ben'sar to Derry's office. Eleanora and Adeliannae go shopping and meet Gerry Gerry invites Lia out for dinner, she accepts J'rret decides it's time to go home after his injury, but Th'rin holds him Mara takes Oberon to Xanthia Late Morning - The meetings with the Lords begin Lord Fowler goes first Tithing is discussed as is the poisoned coal. Some from warren blame the Fowlers for Trinale and her Family's "teleportation accidents". Lunch - Terau, the bard, returns to Whiteriver and surprises Merissa in her office Th'rin joins Oberon and Xanthia for lunch Th'rin asks Xanthia about Har'son's flirting J'rret confronts R'han in the dining hall Xanthia steps in and accidentally knocks R'han out cold Xanthia freaks when she sees R'han laid out and goes catatonic Afternoon - Adeliannae (Lia) takes a walk and meets Lenasha in the garden. Lenasha shares her song for Trinale with Lia. Lia plays with her Eleanora & Ben'sar share an afternoon together Merissa asks some riders to bring Lords Gingle and Calarais to the meetings Kanler escorts Lord Kanen to the meeting. Leonidas notes Eleanora's absence from the meetings Merissa addresses the concerns about low tithing. Lord Kanen speaks Late Afternoon - Katla and Derry escort the Lord and Lady Vaddon to the meeting. Merissa discusses tithing. Lord Vaddon speaks Some members of the warren are still angry about Kel's involvement with the Cult. Lia runs into Elissa, and Elissa shares her new about her new 'beau', Har'son Th'rin stays with Xanthia trying everything to bring her back She comes out of her catatonic state, and an overjoyed Th'rin kisses her They end up naked .. Dinner - Adeliannae runs into Har'son and is cold to him Gerry joins them and wonders what's going on Horatio and Telaran talk about Terau in the dining hall Telaran goes off and is getting into trouble with some other boys Leonidas offers to help find Telaran Lord Kanen is murdered while talking to Merissa about Raine Sheldon Gingle tells his father to run while he keeps an eye on what people are doing After 'hearing' Chrysthal speak, Sheldon is sure dragons are demons Lia leaves Gerry after dinner and goes to be alone with her thoughts Ben'sar, on his way to meet Eleanora (Ellie), sees Lia .. and in the dark kisses her Ellie sees the kiss and sparks fly .. Ben'sar finds himself alone .. with another blackening eye .. Evening - Lia after running from Ellie and Ben'sar stumbles upon a collapsed figure With N'lin's help she gets him to the med center Two of the dragonets chat about hatching soon Day 43 *** Very Early Morning - Merissa crawls in bed with Th'rin barely hearing him mumble 'Tarv ..' Morning - A second day of talks begin Late Morning - Moira has another 'episode' after touching the murder weapon and she falls into a coma Afternoon - Merissa asks Eleanora to bring Sheldon to face the other lords in his fathers stead Merissa grants him a day to look over the charges and goes to the Med center to see Th'rin Late Afternoon - Eleanora runs into Lia, and invites her to dinner to make up for the night before Dinner - Eleanora and Lia have dinner and agree to only talk about fun .. not MEN! Day 44 *** Morning - Merissa meets Cybele, the acrobatic dancer, who arrives with Eleanora's mother, Liandra Afternoon - Sheldon Gingle is brought back before the Lords Truan and Thralenkier (Tinker) speak for Windtide Lia speaks as well Sheldon says the charges are all lies Late Afternoon - Merissa goes to see Chrysthal and is surprised by Areena and 'Foil hovering over the eggs as well Dinner - Merissa invites Ellie's mother, Liandra, to dinner However while bathing .. her roast burns, filling the apartment with smoke They have dinner with Liandra in the noisy dining hall July 2000 Day 45 / Day 1 *** Morning - The Eggs begin to hatch 'Foil watches excitedly and gets snooty with Areena Mara is the first to join to Melodaria Mara says some embarrassing things to N'lin who brings meat for her hungry dragon Lia joins to the new queen, Nephrititi Cybele joins to Feronia Raine joins to Calia The last egg seems to be stuck and the new little queen pokes at it. Chrysthal goes to see what is taking the last egg so long. Tinker rushes over to protect the egg from Chrysthal, thinking she might hurt it Finally it hatches Narshada, a female who joins to young Thralenkier (Tinker) Eleanora goes with her mother, Liandra, to say congratulations to Lia Her mother blurts out the secret of their relationship (Lia is Eleanora's cousin) Eleanora's mother also asks about a sister that Lia knows nothing about Sarah, the new school teacher, arrives in the warren. Mid morning Brunch - Merissa and Reolden discuss the removal of Lord Gingle before heading to brunch Xanthia gets news of a treatment for her legs in Tinobal She loudly accuses Th'rin of sending her away so Merissa won't find out Th'rin runs smack into Merissa just as Corra pulls Xanthia away Corra takes Xanthia to her room to rest and pack Tinker and Narshada discover her nose for metals Liandra tries to get information out of Merissa's mother Th'rin meets Merissa at home, and they argue Merissa runs into Jay while trying to take flight with Chrysthal He asks to come with her, she agrees Afternoon- Corra speaks to Th'rin about Xanthia, Th'rin confesses all to Corra Jay helps cheer Merissa up, assuring her none of the problems are her fault Tinker finds a 'den of pleasure' behind the waterfall, and is shocked Late Afternoon - Merissa visits the new riders and their trainer, N'lin She chats with Mara, Lia and Raine as well as Cybelle She also stops to talk to Tinker last Sarah speaks with Merissa. Merissa goes to her office and Eleanora and her mother find her there Liandra asks her to send a message to Keldarra for information Leonidas plys Terau with wine to get information from him Evening - Hatching party Merissa does her duty in introducing the new riders and then slips away Eleanora spots Ben'sar and he gives her the cold shoulder Zara tries to hide her disappointment at not having joined Th'rin says goodbye to Xanthia, she kisses him T'jellan speaks to Merissa Tarv sees the kiss and confronts Th'rin Tinker and Eleanora run into each other in a corner. J'rret checks R'han's breath before allowing him to (escort) fly with Xanthia Xanthia arrives in Tinobal and immediately wants to go home. Eleanora has her dragon hear for her .. Cara then has to see Abby for a headache. Tinker has a "bright" idea when Eleanora has difficulty reading lips in the dark. (He dreams up the gas lamps) Merissa sees Th'rin and Tarv together and ducks away from them Th'rin and Merissa have a big blow up and Th'rin tells her he's moving out Tarv tries to ease the situation for his friend, when it doesn't work he goes to find Merissa Merissa has been imbibing a bit too much wine. She asks Tarv to dance with her. Tarv takes Merissa home and puts her to bed before going home himself Ben'sar checks on Eleanora and then takes her home Day 2 *** Early Morning - J'red and Kanler go on patrol. Acton Calaris's body is found along with false documents saying he killed himself. Morning - 'Tonio leaves for Whiteriver Trainees meet for training. Tinker takes notes. N'lin discusses mating flights with the trainees. Tinker gets an answer and flees. Merissa wakes with a major headache and can't remember what happened the night before Eleanora get up to meet her mother, telling Ben'sar to meet for breakfast and discuss moving in At breakfast Merissa talks to Sarah about Oberon and his lack of speech. Merissa goes to her office to prepare for the last meeting. She meets T'jellan and Eleanora there. T'jellan brings up the formation of a new wing and makes suggestions. In Tinobal, Xanthia has surgery. Mid-Morning- Final meeting with Prince Reolden begins Raine gives control of her lands to her cousins Xanthia meets with the mind healer (Latnem) in Tinobal N'lin has training for the new riders and they discuss mating flights Ben'sar talks with Eleanora's mother. It goes better than expected. Corra takes Oberon to see Th'rin and suggests they start the boy in school. Late Morning - The meeting takes a recess awaiting Sheldon Gingle's arrival. 'Tonio arrives in Whiteriver and Merissa calls Pav'lo to help him get settled in. Merissa asks Lia to introduce 'Tonio to Pav'lo and to help him get settled. Sheldon Gingle is assigned to the warren for 'community service' He is terrified Eleanora takes him to his room Lunch- J'red and Kanler return with the news of Calaris's death Galvin Silverflame sets off from Falagand to find 'Tonio to right a wrong Eriu sets off to warn 'Tonio Eleanora has lunch with Lia and 'Tonio After Lunch - Tinker gets to work on the forge and the creation of his gas lamps Late afternoon - Merissa asks Kanler to head a second wing. They also discuss Kanler's sister, Lenasha. Merissa suggests Analise help with wedding plans. Analise wants the girls (Lia and Eleanora) to run some errands for her. Analise finds Eleanora in the garden with Ben'sar. Ben'sar asks Abby to help him out. Corra comes to take Oberon for the night. Evening - Wingleader Party & Surprise Wedding Merissa opens the festivities and introduces the two new wingleaders for the newly formed Beta Wing. Kanler's acceptance speech turns into his sister Lenasha's wedding. Th'rin sees that Merissa looks happy and leaves, followed by Tarv'renon. Eleanora's mother, Liandra, and Ben'sar's sister, Abby, have a heart-to-heart. In Tinobal, Xanthia is recovering. She has session with mind healer, Latnem Troppus (read that backwards!) Late Night - 'Tonio finds secret tunnels .. one that leads to Merissa's bathroom He offers her his help as a Knight of Passion Merissa "learns a lesson" from 'Tonio, then goes in search of Tarv'renon. Tarv leaves Th'rin sleeping in bed to answer the door and finds Merissa Th'rin wakes to find Tarv and Merissa in an awkward position It doesn't take long for the three to confess their love and find a mutually satisfying compromise Day 3 *** Morning - Eriu, 'Tonio's "partner" arrives at Whiteriver. 'Tonio and Eriu run into Th'rin / Tarv'renon / Merissa Merissa chats with Eleanora, then goes to say goodbye to the Prince Leonidas leaves with Prince Reolden Merissa also says goodbye to several other Lords Corra and Th'rin take Oberon to school Th'rin asks about Xanthia's family Oberon settles down and makes friends at school. Sarah is pleased. 'Tonio tells Eriu she should be his cousin. In Tinobal, Xanthia gets some unexpected and disturbing news (that she is pregnant) Afternoon - J'red and Kanler address Beta wing Late Afternoon - Merissa goes to pick up Oberon from Corra and he talks to her about his day Merissa takes time to go and thank the new teacher Sarah runs into Eleanora during a late lunch Analise goes to see the new smith Dinner - Th'rin and Tarv'renon both join Merissa for dinner Sarah stops to see Tinker and the new smithy and invites him for dinner March 2001 Time Jump Day 35 *** Morning - Xanthia leave with her mind healer for Whiteriver Afternoon - The epidemic of illness becomes apparent Eriu becomes sick also Merissa goes to see Th'rin about it, and runs into Xanthia Xanthia, now noticeably pregnant, is waiting in Th'rin's office 'Tonio overhears Xanthia's revelation about her baby to Merissa Th'rin after a brief slap from Merissa and a mistaken assumption about Latnem, discovers he is the father of Xanthia's baby as well 'Tonio runs into Merissa as she leaves Th'rin's office Th'rin goes to see Tarv when Xanthia leaves Xanthia runs into 'Tonio Dinner - N'lin 'runs into' Latnem and recognizes him. Xanthia laughingly tell everyone within ear reach about Th'rin being the father of her baby Tinker makes a request of Eleanora Sarah visits Tinker in the forge Har'son and some searchlings getting into fisticuffs and land in the clink Day 36 *** Early morning - Merissa assembles a party to help rescue Har'son A mob in Windtide gather to hang Har'son J'red leads the party to Windtide Patinari, Elissa's dragon, rises to mate Fourd, Har'son's dragon, wins Har'son and Elissa make a run for a barn Effinky rescues Har'son and Elissa from the burning barn Har'son and Elissa move their activities to the jail cell Early morning - Narshada and Tinker are sent back with word about wraiths attacking Windtide Xanthia and Latnem head for the med center Beta Wing assembles All available hands help with coal, including Zara Battle over Windtide takes a scary turn Tarv'renon and Murkash are injured Late morning - Har'son and Elissa discover that they weren't alone The new searchlings get an eyefull Elissa runs out and is rescued by an old woman, called Nanny She does not return to Whiteriver Late afternoon - The wing returns from the wraith battle Day 37 / Day 1 *** Early Morning - Daetyn flies to Whiteriver and A'Rillia has her pause along the way. Merissa wakes from a nightmare to find her bed empty. She and Th'rin discuss Oberon, and the other sick individuals at Whiteriver and decide to send a message to Tinobal. Morning - Har'son is awoken by the searchlings and takes them to the dining hall for breakfast Sarah confronts Analise about her "teaching" methods with Telaran and his friends Xanthia goes to see Th'rin and Merissa about Tarv'renon Latnem helps out in the med center when Corra falls ill Latnem goes to get breakfast and runs into Har'son and the kids. Latnem asks Zara for some chocolate for Xanthia Mid Morning - Harson runs into Eleanora in the offices and thinks she is Lia. One of the searchlings feels sick -- then a few more. Harson takes the searchlings to the med center. Merissa goes to see Tar'vrenon. Xanthia and Th'rin examine Oberon. Xanthia tells Oberon about his "brother". Latnem brings Xanthia some chocolate from Zara's parents' bakery. Merissa chats with Latnem about her feelings. Daetyn, the new junior queen, arrives and rises to mate. Trefoil, N'lin's dragon, wins. Merissa goes to warn Latnem about N'lin's reactions to mating flights. On the way, she runs into Xanthia and Oberon and is not happy. Late Morning - Merissa goes to her office and gives Eleanora the message to take to Tinobal. She has Chrysthal pass a message to the dragons asking for volunteers to help in caring for Trinale's garden. She is interrupted by Har'son and the kids (searchlings). After sending the new searchlings to go explore, Harson is "reprimanded" by Merissa and given a challenge to bring in more searchlings. (In Marrid -- healers discuss the condition of a wounded rider named Tel'Thar) Noon - 'Tonio and DeMarco are on patrol and see the flag of one Galvin Silverflame. Sarah stops in to see Merissa -- to discuss Analise. They go to the dining hall. Afterwards, Sarah goes and visits Tinker in the smithy... more than the forge is aflame. Afternoon - 'Tonio stops Merissa on her way out of the dining hall. He tells her about whom he spotted while on patrol. Latnem finds N'lin and Arri together and offers his "help". N'lin decks Latnem for his efforts. A'rillia tries to protect N'lin and practically strangles Latnem. Finally peace is restored, and Latnem and the orderly leave N'lin and Arri alone. Arri discovers what she and N'lin... did. She is not happy. A strange dragon lands in Whiteriver. Talos calls out for help for his rider. Xanthia stops eating her chocolate cake to answer the call. Th'rin and Merissa come to see the injured rider in the med center. Late Afternoon - Tel'Thar, Talos's rider, awakens and describes the situation at Marrid. Eleanora returns from Tinobal with suggested tests to do. Xanthia suggests testing Corra as Eleanora suggested and goes to do so. While at the med center Merissa looks in on the other injured riders. Merissa talks to Katla about Kanler. They talk about Kanler going to Tinobal. A familiar Platinum Queen, Wintermoon, lands on the Green. Xanthia is overjoyed to hear of Oldreth's arrival and directs Maxima to take her to him. Zara is on the Green and meets the newly arrived queenrider. After collecting the samples, Xanthia returns to the med center with Oldreth. Xanthia and Th'rin test Corra's blood. They discover that mercury is the culprit! Tarv'renon wakes from a nightmare. Merissa soothes and comforts Tarv. Oldreth runs into Merissa. Th'rin experiences his first time feeling Xanthia's and his baby move. Th'rin and Xanthia prepare to test the warren inhabitants for mercury poisoning. After talking, crying, etc., N'lin makes breakfast for dinner for Arri, followed by a nap. Dinner Time- No-Name girl gets a meal and sees two women conversing in sign language and is drawn towards them. Merissa worries about long term affects of the Mercury, fearing for Xanthia's baby and then rebuking herself for doing so. Th'rin enters Merissa's office, then suggests dinner away from the dining hall... a surprise. Th'rin takes Merissa to the outskirts of Marketa and the two enjoy a romantic evening. August 2001 DAY 2 **** Early Morning - Chrysthal takes an early morning flight and surveys the warren -- and catching up on dragon gossip prior to Merissa's awakening. Xanthia examines Tarv, declares him physically fit but is hesitant to release him until she consults with Latnem over his mental state. Tarv reacts with anger, choking Xanthia, who releases him in order to save herself. (Latnem is *not* consulted.) Xanthia wastes no time fleeing Tarv's room. Xanthia is intercepted by a concerned Oldreth. Xanthia and Oldreth notice Tarv leaving the med. center, and Oldreth puts two and two together. Xanthia makes him promise not to kill him. Morning - 'Tonio showers and discusses his plans with DeMarco. Tarv'renon surprises Merissa while she is getting dressed. He reassures Merissa that Xanthia did release him. Tarv makes toast and coffee, and seeths quietly when Merissa is preoccupied and then leaves quickly to go oil Chrysthal. He decides to go paint. J'red runs into Zara, *literally*, as she is clearing a table of breakfast dishes. Zara flees in tears, embarrassed. Mid Morning - J'red chases after Zara, coming to her aid with a towel and an apology. 'Tonio visits his "cousin" Eriu and hears about the mercury poisoning. 'Tonio notices a new person at the med center and introduces himself to the injured rider, Tel'Thar. J'red meets with Merissa who offers him the Temporary Wingleader position. They discuss the potential riders and decide on a Wingsecond. They also discuss the mercury contamination and Merissa decides to call a general meeting. 'Tonio joins Latnem for breakfast and the conversation turns to Xanthia. Xanthia and Oldreth pass 'Tonio and Latnem before eating breakfast. Latnem notices Xanthia's neck and states he'd like to talk to her later. Xanthia tells Oldreth about her leg. Late Morning - Merissa promotes J'red to Beta wingleader. J'red and Merissa decide who will be wingsecond and discuss the mercury situation. J'red is charged with organizing a meeting to find the cause of the mercury poisoning as well as informing the warren population of the problem. Ben and Eleanora talk, and share a kiss. Noon - In the dining hall, 'Tonio joins a girl sitting alone at a table. Oldreth sees Tarv leaving Merissa's quarters and decides to teach him a lesson. Th'rin shows up and defends Tarv. Early Afternoon - 'Tonio is summoned to Merrissa's office. He is promoted to Beta Wingsecond. After the meeting, 'Tonio goes to the dining hall and talks with Zara about a bottle of wine for later in the evening. 'Tonio suggests he'd like Zara herself to bring the bottle to him in his apartment this evening, if she wishes. After the meeting, 'Tonio meets up with Lisha on the Green. Lisha shows 'Tonio the letter about her reconstructive treatment. He encourages her. Tarv'renon comes on to Th'rin in the med center. They are interrupted by Xanthia. Th'rin examines Xanthia's neck. Xanthia tells Th'rin to ask Tarv about the bruises. Late Afternoon - Galvin and company near the Warren. 'Tonio asks Eleanora to help him out by difusing a dangerous situation. Merissa decides to take some precautions and asks J'red and Firefly to take a few riders airborne to monitor the situation. Eleanora talks Galvin into not killing 'Tonio. A bit later- 'Tonio throws the duel, taking a hit from Galvin's sword harder than he intended. Early Evening - There is a general meeting called in the Dining Hall for persons to voice their suggestions concerning the mercury contamination. Merissa steps up to the dais in the dining hall to annouce the mercury situation, and ask for suggestions for finding the root cause. Sarah and the new queenrider A'Rillia offer plausible explanations as to where the mercury is coming from. J'red suggests patrols scan for mining activities and dragons check out warm water pools. Merissa orders that all Lords of the Domain be told of the threat, and bans all consumption of fish. Glynda, Ybini and Zara discuss the ban on fish. The meeting breaks up. Evening - Merissa finds Eleanora watching 'Tonio in the med center and tells her to get something to eat. Xanthia comes in to examine 'Tonio and he wakes up. Merissa chastises 'Tonio. 'Tonio asks Merissa to tell Zara what happened, and invite her to visit in the med center. After finishing the conversation with 'Tonio, Merissa goes to the dining hall for dinner and sees Zara. Late Night/Early Morning - Har'son and J'red close up the Tavern. They end their night of gambling with a bet on which dragon will get back to the warren first. Fourd enjoys losing. Day 3 *** Morning - Maxima wakes up Xanthia. Both are distracted by their bellies... Maxima's is empty, Xanthia's is about to pop. Har'son "pays off" his bet by arriving at the dining hall in his underwear. Xanthia and Latnem witness Har'son's arrival. Xanthia is unable to keep the mirth of seeing Har'son in his state of undress and burst into gales of laughter. Merissa appears and tries to hide her amusement while telling Har'son that he needs to do his laundry and not show up to breakfast in his briefs. J'red calls for Beta-wing Patrol Partners to assemble on the green. He tells them their assignment is to search for mining sites along the upper White River. Late Morning - Some of J'red and 'Tonio's wing visit Yount's Mining site. They become suspicious while talking to Jasper Henry AKA "Bear". Latnem pays a visit to Trinale's garden and finds A'Rillia tending it. Tel'Thar meets with Merissa and asks to stay at Whiteriver. Pav'lo gives Tel'Thar a "haunted" apartment and helps him move in. Eleanora brings Tel'Thar supplies and makes tea. They share ghost stories. Early Afternoon - 'Tonio returns to find Katla and Derry waiting to talk with him. 'Tonio advises Katla to take Kanler to Tinobel for treatment. 'Tonio hears about Trinale and Cricket from Derry and remembers meeting someone that looked like them in Falagand. Derry decides he has to check out the story. Derry tells Merissa he is leaving. Eleanora suggests Tel'Thar for the newly vacated position of Alpha Wingleader. Mid Afternoon - Xanthia has a "Check-Up" by Corra. Latnem, Th'rin and Merissa are there. Xanthia is told to take time off until the baby comes. Xanthia reluctantly agrees and decides to go out of the warren in search of herbs. Latnem and Corra suggest that Xanthia take Merissa and A'Rillia (Arri) with her when she searches for the herbs. Early Evening - (At Fowler Estates) Lord Fowler hosts one of he famous "searchling parties" and invites some dragonriders, and especially Har'son to attend. (At Fowler Estates) Among the hopefuls and Lord Fowler's party are Rosie and Daisy Wood. (At Fowler Estates) Har'son talks to the twins, but even though he invites the two girls, only Rose accepts the invitation. (At Fowler Estates) Daisy and Rosie say their tearful fare-wells and Rose takes off for Whiteriver with Har'son. Evening - (Outside the Warren) After gathering herbs and having a generally nice time, Xanthia complains of a stomach ache and back ache that "come in waves". (Outside the Warren) Arri checks Xanthia and discovers that the baby has decided "now" to be born. (Outside the Warren) Merissa and Arri assist Xanthia, and Alina is born and the miracle of birth binds the three women together. When Xanthia is ready, they return to the warren. Th'rin is greatly upset that they took Xanthia to her apartment and not the medical center. But is overjoyed to hold his daughter in his arms. The Beta wing patrol partners returned, all but Elissa and Ben'sar. J'red and 'Tonio worry. While J'red goes to tell Merissa, 'Tonio takes off in search of the missing riders. Late Evening - (Outside the Warren) DeMarco spots Patinari. (Outside the Warren) Elissa was injured when Patinari teleported too close to the ground and crashed. (Outside the Warren) 'Tonio hears from DeMarco about Ben'sar's accidental teleport and they fear the worst. 'Tonio brings Elissa back to WR. Tarv'renon learns about Alina's birth, and is not pleased with Th'rin and Merissa's interest in Xanthia and her new baby. Latnem visits Xanthia and talks Th'rin into having her moved to the med center for observations. Day 4 *** Morning - 'Tonio and DeMarco discuss who might be responsible for the mercury poisoning. Merissa asks Tel'Thar to meet her for breakfast and asks him to become Alpha Wingleader. Late Morning - Tel'Thar and J'red tour the warren together and talk strategy. As they are discussing the assembling of the wing and training for the following morning, Alpha wing assembles on the green behind Tel'Thar. J'red points out that Tel'Thar might want to address his wing, and Tel'Thar makes a very brief speech. 'Tonio meets Latnem in the medical center and asks him about the type of person that might be responsible for the poisoning. Eriu is recovering and seems anxious to get "on the road." Mid Afternoon - 'Tonio stops by at Eleanora's apartment. Eleanora is worried about Ben'sar and fears the worst. Rosie finds the small lake and claims it as her own. She reminisces about her sister Daisy Late Afternoon - 'Tonio returns to visit Xanthia and is amazed at how Xanthia is caring for her baby. He wonders if Alina is telepathic. Evening - Rosie loses track of time at the lake and realizes she's hungry. She spots J'red and the two of them go to the dining hall for dinner. Eleanora and Merissa decide to "escape" and head to Ralengarde Late Evening - Arriving late for dinner, 'Tonio spots J'red conversing with a striking blonde woman. J'red introduces 'Tonio and Rosie and explains about her sister Daisy's not coming to Whiteriver. 'Tonio gallantly offers to try and persuade Daisy to come to WR. Har'son overhears this conversation and is distressed. Har'son confronts J'red and accuses him of not trusting him to do his job as Head Searcher, stating that Daisy made a poor candidate because of her fear of dragons. (In Ralengarde) Eleanora and Merissa join a Bard (Mahti) in a bar in Ralengarde. (In Ralengarde) Prince Reolden hears from his dragon, Trendal, that the Warrenlady from Whiteriver and her Courier are in town. Later Evening - 'Tonio arrives at Fowler Estates and is greeted by Lord Fowler and his daughter Lady Jennifer. (At Fowler Estates) Jennifer is none-too-pleased by the appearance of the dragonrider at such a late hour, but his charm manages to ease her distress. (At Fowler Estates) Lord Fowler notes that Daisy is still a house guest but was planning on returning home in the morning. (At Fowler Estates) 'Tonio asks to speak with Daisy, and the young woman is summoned. (At Fowler Estates) Daisy fears that her sister Rose has been injured. When she finds out that is not the case, she is so relieved, but also realizes that dragons or no dragons, she can't stand being separated from her sister. (In Ralengarde) Chrysthal rises to mate. Trendal gives chase, and with Cara's help, catches Chrysthal. Day 5 *** Early Morning - (In Ralengarde) Leonidas goes in search of a bard that hasn't reported in from the previous night. (In Ralengarde) Eleanora wakes up in the arms of the bard, not recalling his name. They are rudely interrupted by the appearance of her brother. (In Ralengarde) The noise in the next room wakes Merissa and Reolden. They find Leo and Mahti fighting. Reolden joins the fray and Merissa and Eleanora escape -- grabbing their clothes on the way out. Cara and Chrysthal return to Whiteriver with their riders. Morning - Rosie finds her favorite spot at the lake and thinks again about her sister Daisy. She doesn't even realize that she is having what should be an impossible telepathic conversation with her sister, (since their telepathy is only good over short distances). Daisy finally can't take it any more and tells Rosie to turn around, shocking her, so that Rosie falls into the lake. Daisy tells Rosie she came to WR with 'Tonio. J'red meets Tel'Thar and they discuss patrols and rosters. Late Morning - 'Tonio is working out on the green. He discovers he's being watched by one of the twins, but doesn't know which one. While Rosie is meeting with some other searchlings, Daisy unpacks and then goes out onto the green. Rosie is returning from her meeting and stops to watch 'Tonio. She tells him that she is Daisy -- and he believes her until the real Daisy shows up. Evening - Merissa and J'red "talk" to 'Tonio about his risky behavior. Th'rin and Merissa have dinner alone in her office. Tarv'renon finishes Merissa's portrait and goes to her apartment. Xanthia and Alina are alone in Merissa's apartment. Tarv'renon is infuriated by Xanthia's (and Alina's) being in Merissa's apartment and determines that he should rid them of Alina. He attempts to suffocate the baby. Xanthia is alerted by Alina's fear, and comes in with a butcher's knife, which she throws at Tarv'renon. Xanthia flees through the tunnels and winds up in 'Tonio's apartment just as 'Tonio is coming in. 'Tonio is furious and goes in search of Tarv'renon. Tarv is in the tunnels searching for Xanthia and gets lost. 'Tonio finds him and starts to pummel him. Tel'Thar hears the commotion and comes to break up the fight. Th'rin and Merissa find the men in the tunnels and are shocked by the scene. They go after 'Tonio and add to his injuries. (At Fowler Estates) Jennifer is celebrating her 16th birthday. Lorelei is disappointed that no one recalled her 16th birthday and decides to leave the estate and possibly return to the warren. On the road, she is picked up by a tithing caravan. The men of the caravan have a bit of "fun" with Lorelei, repeatedly and brutally. February 2002, Titles of posts added in parentheses. Day 6 *** Early Morning - Xanthia wakes up early after a restless night. She decides to visit 'Tonio. She meets Th'rin in the common room and tells him. (The morning after) Th'rin doesn't have the energy to argue with Xanthia after the previous evening's shock about finding Tarv'renon trying to murder his daughter. (You are not who I thought you were ...) 'Tonio wakes early and showers. Knowing he's confined to his apartment, he dresses only in a pair of pants. He comes out and finds Xanthia in his common room. She examines his wounds and, seeing a tatoo, she recalls a book she'd read about a secret society of knights. (A Knight Confined) 'Tonio neither confirms nor denies that he is a member of the Knights of Passion. (A Knight in Knight's Clothing / Fiction or Fact?) Latnem wakes and muses about the various queenriders. (Taking Care of Business) Merissa discovers that Xanthia has gone to 'Tonio's and worries about her mental state. (Look and Listen) Morning - Oberon is sent by Merissa and Th'rin to bring Latnem to their apartment. (Taking Care of Business / Look and Listen) Merissa and Th'rin share a moment of proud parenthood watching Oberon go on his important mission. (You are not who I thought you were ...) Xanthia returns to the apartment to find Th'rin, Merissa and Latnem waiting to talk with her about the previous night's events. (Look and Listen / Taking Care of Business) Late Morning - Latnem runs into Eleanora and asks her opinion on teaching Xanthia to sign. (Taking Care of Business) Eleanora agrees to help teach Xanthia, Merissa and Th'rin (Signs of Progress) Merissa goes to her office to ponder what must be done with Tarv'renon and 'Tonio. (Look and Listen) The twins pay a visit to 'Tonio in his apartment. (Visiting the Prisoner) After searching all night, J'red and Horatio return to Whiteriver, where J'red goes to tell Merissa of Lorelei's disappearance. (Look and Listen) Lunch Time - Daisy gets tired of Rosie's incessant chatter about dragons. Latnem joins the two beautiful twins for lunch. (Taking Care of Business / Living Warren Life) Rosie is uncomfortable once she discovers Latnem's occupation [of mind healer] at the Warren. (Living Warren Life) Early Afternoon - Latnem goes to the medical center to check on Tarv'renon who is still unconscious. Instead Latnem talks with Arri who is helping out in the medical center while Xanthia is on "leave". (A Matter of Perspective) After leaving the medical center, Latnem goes over to see Oldreth in his office to discuss his relationship with Xanthia. (Taking Care of Business) Overcome with strong emotions, Th'rin decides to barricade himself in his office and study old patient charts. (You are not who I thought you were ...) Afternoon - Th'rin works in the medical center, but finds himself distracted with angry thoughts of Tarv'renon. He assigns Corra to take care of him. (You are not who I thought you were ...) Th'rin also ponders about the new junior queenrider A'Rillia, and decides to keep his distance, fearing that he'd become over-protective of her, like he is/was of Xanthia. (You are not who I thought you were ...) Late Afternoon - Latnem visits 'Tonio. (Taking Care of Business / A Bit of the Past) Evening - Merissa visits 'Tonio and releases him from his incarceration.(A Bit of the Past) Day 7 *** Morning - Chrysthal is feeling heavy from her eggs and instinctively knows she'll need to get the sands ready for her eggs to be laid. Finding Daetyn there ahead of her, Chrysthal is slightly upset. Feeling guilty for snapping at the younger queen, Chrysthal helps her heat the sands for her eggs which will be laid first. (Life's Lessons) Daetyn is distressed over her rider's seeming indifference to her eggs and loathing of her. She gets frustrated trying to heat the sands evenly. Finally, she breaks down, keening her despair. (Surviving the aftermath...) Xanthia and Merissa share a morning cup of coffee and Xanthia confesses to being worried about Oldreth. (What a tangled web...) Lorelei awakens, tied up inside a trunk in a wagon, which has stopped somewhere. She hears dragons and so she tries rocking and making noise to get someone's attention. (Growing Up Quickly) 'Tonio is freed from his apartment, but is still grounded. He decides to stroll about the warren. He comes upon the tithing train and hears a noise in a supposedly empty wagon. (Out and About Again) 'Tonio enters the wagon and follows the thumping noise to a trunk. He unlocks it and finds a battered and naked girl inside. He carries her out of the wagon and deposits her a short distance away to find out what had happened. (Out and About Again) Lorelei sees an opportunity and grabs 'Tonio's knife while he is preoccupied with carrying her to safety. As soon as he put her down, she sprints back to the tithing caravan and finds the ring-leader of the men who abused her. Before anyone can stop her, she's plunged her knife into his back, killing him. (Fighting Back) J'red is looking for 'Tonio in his apartment, but finds him already gone. DeMarco informs Firefly that 'Tonio is at the tithing caravan and has found "someone." J'red immediately hopes that it is the missing Lorelei. He takes off on Fire for the caravan. (Payback and Redemption) When Fire is circling to land, they spy a naked girls running toward the men at the caravan. When they land, J'red is greeted by the sight of a dead man, and Lorelei with her hand covered with his blood. He gives the abused girl his cloak and summons Beta Wing. (Payback and Redemption) Th'rin arrive with Beta Wing and takes Lorelei to the medical center. (Payback and Redemption) J'red and 'Tonio report to Merissa. (Payback and Redemption) 'Tonio recounts the morning's events to Merissa. (Washing One's Hands) Th'rin examines Lorelei and treats her. He gives her some tea with a mild sedative in it to make her calm down. (You are not who I thought you were ...) Late Morning - Latnem comes out of a patient's room to find Merissa in the hallway (What a tangled web...) Merissa talks with Latnem outside Lorelei's door in the medical center. (Payback and Redemption) Latnem ventures in to talk with Lorelei. (What a tangled web...) Mid-day. - 'Tonio spots the twins in the dining hall and offers them a tour. (Out and About Again) Afternoon - Xanthia comes in to find Th'rin, Merissa and Latnem waiting for her. They explain that Eleanora will begin to teach them all sign language -- to help Xanthia when she is unable to appropriately communicate verbally. Xanthia also congratulated Merissa on Chrysthal's being with eggs. (What a tangled web...) Th'rin appeared none too happy to learn that Merissa "forgot" to mention that Chrysthal had a mating flight in Ralengarde and woke up next to Prince Reolden. Merissa is relieved that it was a mating flight that caused her to act the way she did and not that she'd simply been drunk. (Life's Lessons) Merissa is surprised that Th'rin is able to forgive her "lapse" in mentioning the mating flight or her sleeping with Reolden. Dreamily he talks about their growing family and the possible addition of more... (Another side of the medicine man) Dinner - Latnem convinces Xanthia to go to the dining hall to "get out". They run into 'Tonio. Xanthia gives 'Tonio an exuberant kiss and Latnem excuses himself to talk to someone else. (What a tangled web...) Latnem moves toward Sarah and A'Rillia at their table. Arri excuses herself and runs from the hall. Latnem talks to Sarah and they discuss how worried they are over Arri. (Surviving the aftermath...) Xanthia and 'Tonio chat, mainly about Eleanora and her teaching Xanthia sign language, however, Xanthia brings up the "Knights of Passion" and asks if 'Tonio has a white horse. He admitted to having one named Laroxes. (Tread Carefully) Evening - 'Tonio visits Eleanora's apartment to talk. (Out and About Again) Eleanora is unable to stop herself from telling 'Tonio everything that happened in her visit to Ralengarde with Merissa. (Heard a Rumor...) 'Tonio offers to take Eleanora for a bite to eat and a cup of tea. (Heard a Rumor...) Arri visits Lorelei in the med center to offer her sympathy. Lorelei is either asleep or doesn't want to be bothered, and doesn't respond. (Surviving the aftermath...) Th'rin gives Arri the brush-off. (Surviving the aftermath...) Sarah is bereaved over the disappearance of Tinker -- who sadly did not return from the Wraith Battle of Windtide -- and keeps watch at his empty forge. (Surviving the aftermath...) 'Tonio is near the forge when he is aware that someone is in there. Hearing sniffling, he calls out and waits for an answer. (Hellos) Sarah's brittle emotions cause her to snap at 'Tonio when he offers help, and then she flees. (Conversations) Day 8 *** Early Morning - 'Tonio recalls the previous evening with Eleanora. They had chatted about Eleanora's family life and 'Tonio was certain that she'd recover swiftly from her loss of Ben'sar. (Tread Carefully) 'Tonio heads to the dining hall for breakfast. (Tread Carefully) Morning - A'Rillia is woken by Daetyn telling her that Merissa needs her. (Surviving the aftermath...) 'Tonio sees Eriu coming across the green. She has heard a rumor near the mines about someone called the "Snake" who seems to be involved with the mercury problem. Though she didn't know the identity of the Snake, she did learn that he had two brothers, Juris and Hardy Thorpe. (A Snake in the Mines) 'Tonio asks Eriu to check on his horse and she cautions him about revealing too much. (A Snake in the Mines). 'Tonio informs Merissa about the rumor about Snake. He suggests that he and Latnem investigate further, and Merissa suggests that he wear something less conspicuous. (A Snake in the Mines) Latnem and Xanthia have their conversation interrupted by 'Tonio. Much to Xanthia's disappointment 'Tonio wishes to speak to Latnem, not Xanthia. (Did Someone Say Adventure) Corra catches Xanthia eavesdropping on 'Tonio and Latnem's conversation. Xanthia ignores Corra's warning and decides to follow the two riders. (Did Someone Say Adventure) Merissa has a long meeting with her "healthy" Junior Queenriders. She expresses concern over J'red and his possible reaction to the events surrounding Lorelei's abduction. (Life's Lessons) Arri is amused that she is finally going to be trusted by her Warrenlady to help out with the daily task of running the warren.. her former Warrenlady apparently hadn't wanted to relinquish any of the responsibilities. And that her one reason for leaving Marrid was that she would never mate... which she has also done at WR. (Surviving the aftermath...) Arri and Merissa discuss the case against the men who raped Lorelei -- they agree that they would have no jurisdiction over them and would have to turn them over for Landbound justice. (Surviving the aftermath...) Late Morning - While watching unobserved in some bushes Xanthia spies on the two riders, Latnem and 'Tonio, who are spying on the miners. They observe the miners extracting two distinct loads -- one of coal the other of cinnabar. (Did Someone Say Adventure) Up near the mines, Xanthia exclaims at their discovery and then the ground suddenly shakes. (Did Someone Say Adventure) 'Tonio and Latnem discover Xanthia and decide that the miners are blasting. (Into the Mines). 'Tonio convinces Xanthia to return to the warren to give Merissa the news. He and Latnem decide to do more investigating and join the "work gang" going down into the mine. (Into the Mines). Xanthia arrives back at Whiteriver and barges into a meeting of the three queenriders. She tells Merissa, Oldreth and A'Rillia about the mines and the cinnabar that she saw. She makes a connection between the color of the ore and that it is used to make certain paint colors -- such as the one used to paint her color hair, or the streak of red in Merissa's hair. (And Away She Goes!) After a few minutes of speculative discussion the queenriders finally learn from Xanthia that Latnem and 'Tonio also need rescuing from the miners. (Life's Lessons) A nurse from the medical center bursts into the meeting and announces to everyone's horror that Tarv'renon has escaped. (Complications) Latnem and 'Tonio fear their ruse is up, but then they are sent to join another group. They discover that the cinnabar is being dumped into the river that feeds down to the White River. (And Away She Goes!) The dragons had assembled on the green after Maxima's urgent cries for help, however, Merissa suggested to Tel'Thar that he only take a small group of riders to investigate the mines, instead. (Life's Lessons) Talos and his contingent teleport in with a roar over the mines. 'Tonio and Latnem take the opportunity to escape on DeMarco. (A Day on the Job) Lunchtime (just before noon)- Xanthia goes back to the apartment and is greeted by an upset Corra, curious Oberon, and very hungry Alina. Oberon wonders why his Momma did not breastfeed him and in the telepathic discussion with Xanthia he learns about his birth mother Aradia. (Complications) Corra rushes to Th'rin's office where she finds the healer and his mate, Merissa. Corra tells them about Xanthia's telling Oberon about Aradia. (Complications) Murkash and Tarv'renon land near the bank of a river -- attracted by the orange ore they see there. Unfortunately they did not notice the dragonriders nearby... and Tarv is caught. (Complications) Afternoon - 'Tonio visits the hatching cavern to see how the queens are making out. He finds the twins, Daisy and Rosie, are already there. The girls are discussing the imminent laying of the dragon eggs. (A Day on the Job) / (Living Warren Life) Tarv'renon is locked up at WR warren. When he asks why he's told he'd have to wait for the warrenlady to explain. (Even more complications) Th'rin goes to the lockup and tells Tarv'renon exactly what Th'rin thinks of him after Tarv's attempt on Alina's life. (Another side of the medicine man) Xanthia wakes from a nap and readies to take Oberon and Alina outside. (Even more complications) On her way to take Oberon to class Xanthia spies 'Tonio by the sands and comes over to say "hi"... and is introduced to the Woods Twins, Rosie and Daisy. (Even more complications) 'Tonio senses Xanthia's displeasure at finding him already occupied by the Woods Twins. He makes amends by inviting her to visit his charger Laroxes near his old home. (Care to Make a Visit?) After dropping Oberon at class, Xanthia with Alina strapped on, rides Maxima over to the medical center. Merissa catches her and insists that they "talk". (Even more complications) Xanthia comes into Th'rin's office for their talk. Merissa voices her concerns about Oberon, and expresses her displeasure at learning that Xanthia had told him about Aradia. Th'rin tried to be the peacemaker. (Strong Emotions) / (Another side of the medicine man) Early Evening - Merissa confronts Oldreth as he readies to leave the warren and then saddened, she returns to her apartment and to the comfort of Th'rin's arms. He convinces her to rest. (Strong Emotions) Rosie was determined to stay and wait for the dragons to lay... but Daisy made her go home. Rosie and Daisy half talk, half telepathically discuss the "excitement" of joining -- Daisy couldn't care less, and Rosie can't talk enough about it. (Dreams vs. Reality) Just before dinner, Daisy goes to the dining hall alone, leaving Rosie to change. She is delighted to learn that she is more than welcome to work in the kitchens... as they are short on hands. (Dreams vs. Reality) Evening - While visiting the medical center, 'Tonio stops by to see Lorelei. (A Day on the Job) Late Evening - 'Tonio stops in for a chat with Merissa at her office and learns that one of the junior queenriders, Oldreth, has abandoned his position - again. (A Day on the Job) Xanthia has an urge to visit Oldreth. Th'rin stops her and tells her that Oldreth has once again left Whiteriver. Using her newly learned sign language skills, Xanthia manages to express to Th'rin her emotions when she is unable to do so verbally. (Even more complications) Th'rin comforts Xanthia, assuring her that she would never be alone. (Another side of the medicine man) After spending all afternoon watching the queens prepare the sands, Rosie finally realizes she's hungry and heads for the dining hall, only to be stopped by a rider who tells her the dining hall is no longer serving dinner. J'red then invites the girl who has introduced herself as "Daisy" to join him at the Tavern. They enjoy a delightful evening together, and J'red brings "Daisy" back to the warren. (A Rose By Any Other Name) Day 9 *** Morning - Daisy has to get up early to help in the kitchens. She is greeted by a young man who thinks he knows her from the previous evening. J'red is bewildered when Daisy doesn't at first seem to recall. (Adding to the confusion). Mid Morning - Latnem takes care of Alina for Xanthia. He is distracted from his duties as babysitter when Merissa knocks at his door, seeking a sympathetic ear. Latnem hits the nail right on the head, as he points out Merissa's jealousy over the relationship that Oldreth and Xanthia shared. (The mind healer is in) Nerika, rider of Lyraene, arrives from Jasra Warren. (Nerika Arrives!) Late Morning - Tonio and DeMarco meet Maxima outside of the Warrenlady's apartment, and wait for Xanthia. (Care to Make a Visit?) Xanthia rushes, despite DeMarco's telling her she did not need to, and meets them on the green -- carrying lunch! (A nice day for a ride) 'Tonio and Xanthia arrive at the stable, where Xanthia is introduced to Laroxes. (A nice day for a ride) Latnem requests A'Rillia to join him in his office in the Medical Center to talk. (The mind healer is in) / (Soul Healing) Arri is suspicious when all Latnem seems to want to talk about are the trivial matters of the day to day. However, Latnem is good at his "trade" and Arri breaks down and begins to let it all out... the mating flight, her dragon, her self-loathing... the works. (Surviving the aftermath...) Latnem takes Arri on a "field trip" to the hatching cavern to mend the rift between rider and dragon. (Soul Healing / Conversations). A'Rillia and Daetyn confirm their bond and begin to heal their pain. (Conversations) Early Afternoon - Lorelei awakens at the Med Center and is ready to begin again. She dresses and is surprised as the door opens. Th'rin is glad to see that Lorelei is awake when he enters her room. Lorelei asks to live in her parents' old apartment. She leaves the med center for Trinale's garden. (Recovering) Merissa searches for Lorelei (Consequences) Lorelei is joined by Daisy and as they work on pulling weeds, they chat about their sisters. They are joined by Merissa. (Friends in the Garden) Merissa and Lorelei go to Merissa's apartment to chat. They discuss Lord Fowler's handling of the incident involving the murder of the caravan driver. (Consequences) Afternoon - After a very nice lunch, Xanthia and 'Tonio decide to go for a ride -- on horseback. 'Tonio rides Laroxes and Xanthia gets Alustriel. Xanthia throws out a challenge, as she throws off her blouse, and races off on Alustriel. (A nice day for a ride) Maxima roars out a challenge, and DeMarco follows in pursuit. (A nice day for a ride) After an exhilarating chase, DeMarco wins Maxima (Race to the Finish!) Merissa sends Eleanora to Lord Fowler with a note. She insists that Eleanora not travel alone. Barsel agrees to act as an escort. At Lord Fowler's they swipe a bottle of wine and are invited to stay for tea.(Afternoon Delight) Late Afternoon - After leaving Lord Fowler's, Eleanora and Barsel decide not to return immediately to the warren, but instead enjoy themselves on a beautiful mountain top. (Afternoon Delight) 'Tonio wakes from a nap after the mating flight and wonders about the future. (Race to the Finish!) Xanthia wakes and asks 'Tonio to make love to her again. (After the afterglow) DeMarco and Maxima (and their riders) land on the green. (After the afterglow) Merissa asks Xanthia where she'd been and was startled to hear that she was with 'Tonio. Xanthia also explained how Maxima rose to mate and that DeMarco had won the flight. (After the afterglow) Th'rin shows signs of jealousy at Xanthia's delighted rendering of her mating flight. (A rough night) Early Evening - Eleanora and Barsel return to Whiteriver (Afternoon Delights) Merissa meets Eleanora in her office, notices something is different about Eleanora, and receives Lord Fowler's answer. But, rather than read it right away she and Eleanora decide to eat some dinner in the Tavern. (Afternoon Delights). Xanthia is distressed with thoughts she can't understand. Her pacing irritates Corra who takes Alina after Xanthia finishes nursing her. As Th'rin and Merissa look on, Corra insists that Xanthia go out and deal with her questions. (In Search of Answers) Xanthia's wanderings bring her to A'Rillia's apartment, where a startled Arri greets the healer. Their discussion floats from mating flights, to breast feeding, and from breast feeding to telepathic communication, and that especially with Oberon. (In Search of Answers) Evening - Merissa notices a pair of brown eyes, belonging to Barsel, watching her and Eleanora. She realizes that they've been talking a long time and decides to walk home -- leaving Eleanora to Barsel. (Afternoon Delights). Arri is able to help Xanthia understand the dynamics between her and Merissa and Th'rin, and using sign language as an illustration, shows Xanthia how uncomfortable it can be to know someone is communicating but not being able to understand or participate. (Conversations) Without getting all her questions answered, Xanthia decides to seek out 'Tonio. (In Search of Answers). 'Tonio is tidying his apartment when he hears noises coming from the front and calls out a hello. (Hellos) 'Tonio tells Xanthia that his door is always open to her. (Open Doors) 'Tonio makes them a snack. Xanthia opens up to 'Tonio. (Matters of the Heart) Xanthia's and 'Tonio's kiss is interrupted by an unexpected visitor. A Knight of Passion, Vastil, has some urgent news to give 'Tonio. (An Important Interruption). When 'Tonio returns from his conversation, Xanthia has removed herself to the bath. (Make yourself at home) 'Tonio finds Xanthia and joins her in the bath -- but only after he makes her swear to take care of her child and tend to her role as a healer, and then she will be always welcome at his apartment. (Bathtub Bargain) Th'rin takes over childcare duties from Corra so that Corra can go attend to her duties at the med center. Merissa is called away, and Th'rin is left alone with the two children. Th'rin's sister, Mara, arrives and is amused to find the apartment strewn with toys, Oberon asleep on the floor, Alina wailing, and Th'rin beside himself. Mara helps out with Alina. However, her mentioning her reaction to 'Tonio puts Th'rin over the edge, and his loud voice awakens Alina again. (A rough night) Merissa comes home and is amazed by the sight of her living room, broken vase and scattered with toys -- but the children are all quiet. Laughing, she offers to help Th'rin clean up. (Help! I'm having ... an Egg?) Day 10 **** Afternoon - Daisy attends Lorelei's hearing and sits next to Eleanora and the two become friends. (Making New Friends and Supporting Others) Arri asks Merissa if she can share with Lord Fowler the thoughts and feelings she experienced when comforting Lorelei. Merissa agrees and Lord Fowler consents. He is shocked and horrified by what he learns from Arri's shared memories. (The truth, the whole truth, and...) Late Afternoon - Lord Fowler pronounces judgment after reliving Lorelei's memories through A'Rillia's gift. Lorelei is remanded to the Warren, and the men who raped her get a shocking punishment. (Dealing with Glad and Sad News) Evening - As Merissa leaves the dining hall, she is introduced to a stranger, who turns out to be a former dragonrider from Marrid who had made a gruesome discovery -- the Queendragon Aura has died. (Dealing with Glad and Sad News) Latnem learns that he has relatives at the warren... Daisy and Rosie... and they know/knew his father, who is their uncle. Making them all cousins. (Sisters and Cousins... and Fathers!) Late Evening - J'red visits with his father and sister. (Dealing with Glad and Sad News) Merissa and Eleanora head to the Tavern to talk.(Dealing with Glad and Sad News) Day 11 *** Afternoon - Zeleniek leaves Whiteriver to search for Waylene. (Departures and Arrivals) **** TIME JUMP **** Day 40 *** Morning - Merissa and Chrysthal are feeling anxious and restless. (Anticipating the Worst) Xanthia takes the children out to play and meets up with Latnem. Xanthia is not pleased when Arri joins them. Arri and Latnem discuss Latnem's father, whom Arri knew in Marrid. She'd last seen him when he'd been flown to the Healer's Hall in Tinobal. (Unnerved) Issabol wakes at her home in a distant part of the Domain. (Departures and Arrivals) Afternoon - Daisy and Rosie go to look at the eggs. Daisy stumbles and accidentally touches an egg. (Watching and Waiting and... Touching!) Merissa and A'Rillia discuss what to do about Daisy's accidental touching of an egg.(Anticipating the Worst) Issabol is told by her father that she and her sister will be going with the caravan to Whiteriver Warren. (Departures and Arrivals) Evening - J'red has dinner with Rosie, whom he still thinks is Daisy, while the real Daisy cries herself to sleep. J'red teases 'Daisy' and Rosie uses his compassion to possibly get herself a different room for the night.(Anticipating the Worst) Merissa and Arri have dinner in the Dining Hall. They are joined by Latnem. They discuss the accidental touching of the egg by Daisy... but for some reason this upsets Latnem. (Unnerved) Merissa, Arri and Latnem have a brief discussion on what might have happened when Daisy touched the dragon-egg... and after Merissa leaves, Arri and Latnem are surprised by their confessions. (Forbidden Touch) Day 41 *** Morning - Issabol and her sister Polly leave home with the caravan going to Whiteriver Warren. (Departures and Arrivals) Xanthia has breakfast with Latnem and Arri -- Latnem is a bit... troubled. (Sorry, but I have to go... or do I?) They witness Sheldon being scorned by a group of riders when he sits at a table and Latnem leaves to talk to Sheldon and discovers that Sheldon hears voices. (Sorry, but I have to go... or do I?) Late Morning - Latnem goes in search of Daisy. (Sorry, but I have to go... or do I?) Sheldon mucks out the stalls -- serving his sentence for his participation with the Cult. He tries to block out the voices he keeps hearing in his head, and wonders if he is going insane. (Is it Time?) Late Afternoon - Arri runs into Daisy in the Rose Garden. Arri discovers that Daisy is hearing a voice in her head. (Two's a Crowd) Issabol and her sister Polly arrive with the caravan at Whiteriver Warren. (Departures and Arrivals) Arri takes Daisy to the hatching sands where Daisy confesses hearing Daetyn's voice -- and another. Arri teaches Daisy a trick to help block out the voice. (Two's a Crowd) Early Evening - Tevel, T'jellan's son, joins the candidates on the sands. Shortly after being told "Sh" he decides to sit and wait. (It's about time!) The Roar of the Dragons... The eggs are hatching! Sheldon joins with a yellow dragon named Panzeree -- on the bridge after being banned from attending the hatching by J'red and some other dragonriders. (Is it Time) Eleanora gives it to Barsel and J'red for being mean to Sheldon.. and then when Sheldon joins, she makes sure that they are the ones responsible for getting the new hatchling and rider to the barracks. (Face Off) Issabol and Polly wander among the booths set up by vendors in anticipation of the crowd for the hatching. They are drawn to the hatching sands along with the crowd as the dragons' roars announce the event has started. (So many questions from a young girl) Polly and Issy attend the first hatching. (Perfect timing) The voice in Latnem's head is beginning to get to him. (Sorry, but I have to go... or do I?) Lorelei joins to a hunter green, male dragon, named Cicadia, who appears to have Cricket's memories. (The Past Comes Back) Late Evening - All of Chrysthal's eggs but one have hatched. A dark egg hidden under Chrysthal's leg remains. Kythycor likes the dark, or so he tells Tevel. Finally he hatches. (It's about time!) Day 42/Day 1 *** Morning - Latnem awakens with the "voice" talking to him. (Sorry, but I have to go... or do I?) Eleanora gives Latnem a message from Tinobal. He heads to Merissa's office to talk to the Warrenlady. He informs her that he is to return to Healer's Hall as soon as the hatching is over. (Sorry, but I have to go... or do I?) Evening - Around sunset: Daetyn drags Arri out of a moment of panicky obsession about her new feelings for Latnem to point out that she's missing the show -- her eggs are hatching. ( [tap tap] Excuse me...?) After hiding out near the waterfall... Daisy FINALLY finds Zhoadian... with a little help from her friends. And Sarah finally gets a chance to talk about her loss. (Accepting the inevitable, gracefully or not.) Polly and Issy attend the second hatching.... only this time Bellisente hatches and joins with Issabol. (Perfect timing) Latnem joins to Caradoc (aka Doc) much to his surprise. Arri is upset when she finds out that Latnem had been planning on leaving for Healer's Hall, in Tinobal, and hadn't told her. (Sorry, but I have to go... or do I?) Late Evening - There is a celebration in the dining hall. Uncle Kro'arsh is in attendance and is greeted by Daisy and Rosie. (Sorry, but I have to go... or do I?) Eleanora attends the hatching party. She watches Rosie, who seems "too cheerful". (Catching Up) Day 2 *** Morning - Tatiana leaves Geode for Whiteriver. (Warmer Climes) Issabol and Sheldon become friends. (The Task) Early Afternoon - Tatiana arrives at Whiteriver and meets with Merissa. Wanting to remain useful, she asks Merissa to give her something to do. Hearing her background, Merissa suggests her becoming the Head trainer. Tatiana is then made welcome and shown an apartment by the Quartermaster Pav'lo. (New riders aren't as young as they used to be.) Eleanora slips away with Barsel, (Catching Up) Late Afternoon - After being late for training, Issabol and Sheldon are selected to run an errand for Pav'lo. While gathering supplies for a new rider, they realize they don't know where to take them, and Sheldon tries out communicating with Zenia. He and Issabol are amazed when she answers him and directs them to Tatiana's apartment. (The Task) Tatiana makes herself at home. Sheldon and Issabol arrive to help get her settled. (Getting Settled) Tatiana is interrupted by the arrival of Sheldon and Issabol with the "stuff" that Pav'lo sent them to collect. They assist the new rider in setting up her apartment and learn a few things about her -- like not to underestimate her, and that she's going to be their trainer. (May I Help You?) Early Evening - Merissa has a second visitor; a young man whom Eleanora states she and Barsel "found" while out exploring. The man comes with a dragon. (New riders aren't as young as they used to be.) William of Shelby finishes telling Merissa and Eleanora quite a story. (The Closest Warren to the River) Flash back -- part of the story -- (The Wanderers) Eleanora wonders if she could send the story to her parents -- feeling that they'd enjoy making a song about it. (Catching Up) Evening - Eleanora checks on Tatiana and visits for a while, then shows her to the Dining Hall for dinner. (Signs of Friendship) Emery arrives from Falagand. He meets Lisha who shows him to Merissa's office, and introduces his dragon Tahuti to Hyacinth and some other friends. (Relocation and Retribution) Lisha brings Emery to Merissa's office to introduce the newly transferred rider from Falagand. Merissa suggests Lisha accompany him to meet Pav'lo and take him to the dining hall. (Another Welcome Addition) Lisha and Emery enjoy dinner in the Dining Hall, and then Emery gets his room assignment from Pav'lo. Since the room is not ready for occupation, he is asked to spend the first night in "guest quarters". (Good Impressions) Tevel is not pleased to find out that Sheldon [Gingle] has joined to a dragon. Tevel learns about Kythycor's strange sleeping habits. (Sleep is for Sissies!) Day 3 *** Morning - Refreshed from a goodnight's sleep, Tatiana awakes in her new home. After "suiting up" she finds an invitation to breakfast from Pav'lo. (May I Help You?) Pav'lo is delighted when Tatiana joins him in the Dining Hall for breakfast. They discuss their day's plans. (Plans Over Breakfast) Th'rin and Corra are talking about Th'rin's family when Issabol overhears part of the conversation -- the part about Merissa having a baby. (Congratulations are in order! Aren't they?? (JP)) Mid Morning - Meredwyn hustles the trainees out of the barracks. (The Thrill of Victory, and the Agony of Defeat) Tevel feels as if he had just crawled into bed when he is woken as the trainees prepare for training. Falling back to sleep, he is startled to hear someone telling him that he'll be late. Kythycor sleeps on, undisturbed by the noise around him. (Sleep is for Sissies!) The trainees assemble on the training green while Tatiana and Meredwyn converse. Tatiana decides to begin their lessons by explaining about mating flights. (The Thrill of Victory, and the Agony of Defeat) Issabol goes to Merissa's office to begin her training on being a queenrider. She congratulates Merissa on her pregnancy, which Merissa assures her is not true. (Congratulations are in order! Aren't they?? (JP)) Issabol's training is interrupted by Merissa's mother Analise, who barges in, accusing Merissa of being pregnant -- without telling her. (I'm Only Saying This Once.) After assuring her mother that she is not pregnant, Merissa leaves for lunch with Eleanora. While there, she is congratulated by several riders on her pregnancy... which she, of course, denies. (I'm Only Saying This Once.) Early Afternoon - Leaving lunch early, Merissa heads to the Med Center to confront Th'rin. (I'm Only Saying This Once.) Tevel attempts to stay awake, but his body gives in to exhaustion and he falls asleep during training. (Sleep is for Sissies!) Tatiana offers to train William in DragonLands fighting styles. (Two Points) Th'rin and Merissa have a heated argument about her having a baby. (Yes baby? No baby!) Xanthia comes in to comfort Th'rin after Merissa leaves. (Yes baby? No baby!) Xanthia offers to have Th'rin's baby -- another one -- since Merissa doesn't want one. (Dragon gossip) Tatiana begins afternoon training with a treasure hunt. Then she and Pav'lo take a tour of the village and end it in a room in the tavern. (Afternoon Delight (JP)) As soon as Tatiana is done with her lecture, Tevel goes back to the barracks to continue his sleep. (Baby offerings!) While searching for a missing dagger, Latnem finds out from Doc that Merissa is not having a baby but that Xanthia wanted to have a baby. Worried, Latnem goes to see Merissa. (Dragon gossip) Late Afternoon - Th'rin's and Xanthia's continued discussion about having a baby results in their trying to produce one. (Baby offerings!) Merissa gets some shocking news about Th'rin and Xanthia. She breaks down in tears and is comforted by Eleanora. After her talk with Eleanora, she decides to take a picnic dinner basket... leaving word with Areena, through Chrysthal, that she'd be at one of Th'rin's and her favorite spots. (The Dragon Grapevine. (JP)) Th'rin and Areena join Merissa and Chrysthal for the picnic and some fun in the sun. Merissa seriously considers her earlier doubts about having a baby and receives confirmation that Xanthia offered to have Th'rin's baby. (Baby offerings!) Day 4 *** Very Early Morning - Tatiana has a fall while working out. (Age Before Beauty) Tevel comes to Tatiana's rescue. Th'rin is called in to assist. (The night owl to the rescue) Tatiana refuses to go with Th'rin to the Med Center. Th'rin instead sends Tevel back to her apartment with her and goes to get some special "tea" that will help her pain. (Head to Head (jp)) Morning - Merissa wakes and finds Th'rin gone. When he returns he tells her that Tatiana had fallen and couldn't get up. ("Dr Roberts") Xanthia is awakened by Oberon. She has a conversation with the boy, reminding him to speak aloud, and wonders if maybe she may be already pregnant. (Boy, oh boy!) Nerika meets with Merissa, who tries to convince her to give up on being a Bard and concentrate on being a dragonrider. (Open Mouth - Insert Foot!) Gob talks to Pav'lo to get a cart for meat and loses control in the hatchling barracks. He spends the morning cleaning it up. (Little Troubles) The trainees get ready for the morning and Tatiana's training session. The newly joined dragons and riders compete in a coal-passing relay race. (In Training.) Rina befriends Sheldon, participates in training, learns how to work better with Terebinthia, eats lunch with Issabol and Sheldon, decides to go exploring the lakes and rivers, and invites Moralik. (meeting new folks) Late Morning - After training, Merissa goes to speak to the trainer and tried to convince her to let Th'rin help her. Tatiana agrees to his making a house-call, but not going to the medical center. ("Dr Roberts") During recess, Oberon inadvertently wounds a classmate and then heals her! He wanders off away from his classmates to the sound of what turns out to be lyre music and meets the newest bard in the warren, Nerika, and her dragon. Out of character, perhaps feeling comfortable with her because of the music, he becomes quite the chatterbox as he informs her of his family history. (Boy, oh boy!) Midday - The trainees break for lunch. Sheldon's feelings of guilt cause him to give up an apple to Aaron, leaving Issabol wondering. (In Training.) Issabol and Rina resolve to try to bring Sheldon out of his shell. (A young man with a shell) & (swimming fun) Afternoon - Emery searches for J'red and finds him in the training cavern. J'red challenges the new rider from Falagand to a game of Flats. (Flat Beds, Hot Heads, and Cold Steel) Abbien is treating an injured dragon when she gets an urgent summons from Jasra. (A call for a dragonhealer) Kay and Sabbith arrive at Whiteriver searching for Abbien the dragonhealer. After stating his business to the warrenlady, Merissa informs him and Abby that Chrysthal insists that she go and help Sadennetta. So, with her blessing and a letter for Tara, Merissa wishes Abby a safe journey and success. (Safe Journey and Success.) Rina, Issabol and Sheldon go swimming and get to know each other better. (swimming fun) Gob meets with the other trainees at the swim hole. (Little Troubles) Barsel takes Eleanora to a cave he's heard about in the Nomadlands. They chase a tornado. Teleport home over the lake and take a plunge. (Riders on the Storm (JP)) Emery and Tahuti join the others at the swimming hole. (Flat Beds, Hot Heads, and Cold Steel) A splashing and drenching party ensues at the swimming hole. (A whole lot of Splashing) While cleaning Doc, Latnem watches the youngsters having fun. Doc, convinced, that Latnem needs some fun, sends him rolling down a hill to the lake, injuring his wrist. (The Reluctant Rider) Rina makes Latnem feel at ease, then plays with him in the water, rejoins the others on the banks, and they all go to dinner. (the LAST of Rina's swiming hole time) Sheldon lightens up at the swimming hole. (Are Things Finally Looking Up?) Late Afternoon - Returning from the lake, Latnem comes across Nerika and Oberon in the garden. Concerned about Latnem's wrist, Oberon touches is and heals it. (The Reluctant Rider) Nerika watches Oberon heal Latnem's wrist, just prior to Merissa's arrival. (Don't Quit Your Day Job!) J'red asks Merissa about having Emery take over the position of wingsecond. She agrees. Then Merissa joins Latnem, Nerika, Lyraene and Oberon in Trinale's Garden. (Are Things Finally Looking Up?) Day 5 *** Morning - J'red meets with Emery and asks him to become his wingsecond. (Are Things Finally Looking Up?) After her class with the young children, Analise is stopped by Nerika who performs a "song" for the bard. Analise doesn't have the heart to tell her what she really thinks, but does manage to tell her that the lyrics were wrong, because Merissa was not expecting a baby. (A Voice of an Angel -- NOT!) Analise tries to counsel Nerika on her choice of career. (Don't Quit Your Day Job!) March 2003 TIME JUMP Time jump to Day 20... nice round number. The young dragons will be 3 weeks old and should be able to carry their riders now... though of course they'll need a lot of practice! Also during this time jump the Junior Queen, Daetyn and her rider A'Rillia (aka Arri) return to Marrid Warren. Summaries: Rina goes through a tough time trying to teach Terebinthia some concepts, but then Issabol and Sheldon wind up helping her out a lot. Rina gets much closer with Issabol and Sheldon seems to be warming up to Rina also. At times Rina is so exhausted she almost oversleeps, but then is woken up by the starving Terebinthia. Sometime during these two weeks it would be cool if Rina ran into Th'rin and he recognized her for her healing abilities for dragons, and she started learning more about it. Meanwhile, Rina will go exploring on foot with Terebinthia much, learning the lay of the land, meeting many interesting animals, and falling asleep in weird places. Rina feels very at home now, and still loves to meet and get to know people. (the LAST of Rina's swiming hole time) Upcoming Weather Forecast: Day 22 humidity up through the day Day 23 Afternoon lighting and thunder Day 24 Dark clouds and scattered showers lighting and thunder (possible fire in the woods) Day 25 Overcast, showers, thunder Day 26 Steady rain through the day, high humidity Day 27 more rain causing people to worry about the level of the river Day 28 more rain, the river begins to rise dangerously high Day 29 more rain, water levels overflow the river Day 30 light rains, scattered clouds Day 31 partly cloudy, brief rain, high humidity Day 32 Clear skies Day 20 *** Early Morning - Begins with sunshine and the air filled with the dragons of the Warren. (To Reach The Sky) Merissa wakes up feeling nauseous. Needing air, she takes a ride on Chrysthal up to the top of the waterfall. (Sick in the Morning) Xanthia wakes up in an unusually good mood and is feeling domestic. Th'rin notes something different about her. Xanthia complains about tight fitting clothes. (Oh what a beautiful day!) Chrysthal, concerned for her rider, summons Areena and Th'rin. (Sick in the Morning) Over breakfast, Th'rin and Xanthia discuss waiting to try for a baby since Merissa wants to try to have one. Areena tells Th'rin that Chrysthal is worried about Merissa. Th'rin leaves to find her. (Could it be?) Rina and Terebinthia discover the joys of flight, help Gob and Nightwind into the air, go exploring with Sheldon and Panzaree, and visit Th'rin in the medical center. (Flight, soreness and ointment) Gob goes flying and spoils the maneuvers of the Alpha wing (Flying and Exploding Cakes) Late Morning - In the medical center, Th'rin examines Merissa and wonders if she could be pregnant. He asks her for a sample to find out. (Could it be?) Gob tries to make a cake for Nightwind ending up with a cake that explodes and having to clean it up. (Flying and Exploding Cakes) Lunch time - Latnem meets up with Nerika for lunch. (Changes and a confrontation) Xanthia bumps into Latnem as he is leaving the dining hall. He notices some changes in her -- something "extra" and heads to the medical center to find Th'rin. (Changes and a confrontation) Afternoon - Meeting up with Bryan and going for an afternoon flight trying to practice the maneuvers of the day. One bad move nearly knocks Daklar out of the sky but Nightwind and Gob managed to keep them from getting hurt. Emery and Pav'lo have a talk about how it would be nice if someone could take Gob under their wing and mentor the lad. (Flying and Exploding Cakes) Latnem confronts a confused Th'rin in the medical center lab about Xanthia. (Changes and confrontation) Tevel is concerned about his dragon, who seems to want to sleep through training. Zenia manages to rouse him for a half-hearted attempt at flight, but then Kythycor goes right back to sleeping. (Some things are meant to be) Issabol and Bellisente participate in flight training, and comment on the other dragons. (Some things are meant to be) Latnem sheds light on Xanthia's condition, much to Th'rin's consternation, and suggests that Th'rin bring Xanthia in for an examination to be sure. (Some things are meant to be). Maxima tells Xanthia that there is an emergency and to come to the medical center. Xanthia runs to tell Merissa that Corra would be watching the children while she goes to help Th'rin out with the emergency. Concerned, Merissa decides to go with Xanthia to find out what the emergency is. Th'rin is surprised when both women show up. Assuring Merissa that there is no emergency, just that he needed to examine Xanthia -- who assumes it is a post-partum -- Th'rin tries to make Merissa leave. Merissa decides to wait outside instead. After the exam, Xanthia burst out with her "Great News". (Emergency in Exam Room 1) Late Afternoon - Merissa learns the news about Xanthia's pregnancy. Surprising herself, she is actually happy for Xanthia, but very confused about her feelings for Th'rin. In short -- Xanthia is exuberant, Merissa is nauseated, Th'rin is in BIG trouble. (Sisters?) Xanthia is slow to realize that she's overstepped her bounds in telling Merissa of her pregnancy. Hurt and confused at Th'rin's dismissal so that he and Merissa could talk, Xanthia leaves the med center in tears. (Regrets and a blast from the past) Th'rin asks Xanthia to go home while he tries to smooth things over with Merissa. (Fighting for my family) Evening - Xanthia is full of self-recriminations while talking to Th'rin while fixing dinner and has thoughts about leaving -- before bringing Merissa her tea. (Regrets and a blast from the past) Th'rin consoles Xanthia and assures her that he loves all of the members of their "family". Xanthia, feeling better, resolves to try and make Merissa feel better, too. (Fighting for my family) Escaping to her room, Merissa is visited by Xanthia, who brings her some tea to ease her "morning" sickness. The two women share a moment of togetherness. (Sisters?) Encouraged, Th'rin approaches Merissa's room when he hears the two women laughing. Xanthia is delighted and tries to help Merissa see that they can all be a family. (Fighting for my family) Merissa tells Xanthia that she is unsure if she can forgive Th'rin, because she doesn't understand what he has done and why. (Shocks and Surprises) DAY 21 *** Morning - Emery wakes from a dream where a boy resembling Gob -- or is it himself as a boy? -- gets into trouble. Emery wonders how his life would have turned out differently if he hadn't had his family. He vows to take Gob under his wing. (Meeting the Troops) Tatiana muses as she waits for the trainees to assemble for Sword Training (Learning to Fight) Latnem complains that he is not a fighter, and is given the first lesson (I'm not a fighter) Gob trains in sword class and has a moment with the trainer Tatiana. (Talons from On High) Tatiana gives Gob advice on growing up. (Informal Lessons) Lunch time - Rina catches up with Latnem and compliments him on his fight. Latnem asks her to join him for lunch (I'm not a fighter) Rina joins and flirts with Latnem for lunch. (From one danger to another) Early Afternoon - Eleanora worries about Merissa's health. Merissa gets a visit from Analise who is upset about finding out (again) from the gossip that Merissa is pregnant [for real this time]. (Shocks and Surprises) Early Evening - Th'rin is confronted by an irate Analise who blasts him for getting both Merissa and Xanthia pregnant. (Don't you just love In-laws ..) Evening - Rina and Terebinthia go for a walk, Rina falls asleep and has a nightmare, the two begin to return to the Warren and get chased up the river. They finally decide to take to the river as a rescuer appears, and now they face the danger of the rapids. (From one danger to another) While resting Merissa is startled by the call from Chrysthal summoning the Wings for a wraith attack. Getting up too quickly, Merissa faints. (Shocks and Surprises) While preparing the med center for the wraith attack, Th'rin is informed by Areena that Chrysthal is frantic about Merissa, who has fallen. Th'rin rushed to the offices and finds Merissa on the floor but realizes she has only fainted. (Don't you just love In-laws ..) Late Evening - The Wings are assembled to fight the wraiths. Emery finds that J'red is a capable Wingleader. Ordering the wing split, J'red takes command of one half and gives Emery the other half. (Meeting the Troops) Gob flies to the rescue of Rina and Terebinthia though he was ordered to stay behind. (Talons from On High) Emery notes that Gob acquits himself well during combat. (Meeting the Troops) When they return to the green, Gob and Rina are greeted by Tatiana, Pav'lo, Zenia and Punkin, all of whom had expressions both of relief for their safety, and agitation at their being in such a dangerous situation to begin with. (Informal Lessons) Rina and Terebinthia fly back with Gob and Nightwind. Terbinthia has messed up her wings and Rina's head is messed up. Upon landing, Rina has a mental breakdown with flashbacks of abuse. (Broken by Monsters) Tatiana offers comfort and advice to Rina (Broken Wings) After Gob is sent off, Tatiana reveals a secret about herself... some protective power that was passed down from mother to daughter. Tatiana transfers it on to Rina. (Passing the Baton) Gob heads to the med center to help with Terebinthia (Bravery Comes in Small Packages) Xanthia is sent to work on the dragons after the wraith attack. (Regrets and a blast from the past) Tevel goes to get some coffee and talks to Ybini about his dragon's sleeping habits. Ybini suggest that there might be something the matter with Kythycor and that a healer should take a look at him. (Training continues) DAY 22 *** Morning - Oldreth and Wintermoon find themselves close to Whiteriver and wonder about their old home and friends. (Unexpected) Gob overhears Tatiana and Pav'lo discussing the humidity and change in weather. Wishing to avoid being assigned to some chore, Gob slips by without their notice. (Bravery Comes in Small Packages) Pav'lo and Tatiana are talking about the humid weather, when they see Gob trying to avoid them. They let him go this time. (Shocks and Surprises) Mid Morning - Wintermoon lands at Whiteriver. (Unexpected) On his way to meet up with Nightwind, Gob sees the Silvery Queen landing on the green, and the "Giant" that is riding her. Intrigued, Gob approaches and introduces himself. Nightwind, wisely, stays back. (Bravery Comes in Small Packages) An excited Xanthia rushes to meet up with the returning male queenrider, Oldreth, interrupting Gob's introduction to the Bear Nomad. She is accompanied by her baby Alina, young Oberon (now school age), and the ever protective mind-healer Latnem. Latnem has Doc send word to Chrysthal and Areena so their riders know the situation. She unceremoniously announces her pregnancy to the barbarian in front of all present. (Regrets and a blast from the past) Th'rin is in the medical center doctoring up a wraith-burned patient when he gets the news that Oldreth has returned. Rushing to the green, he is unhappy to find that Xanthia has beaten him there. He is also not happy to have Oldreth back in the warren. (Fighting for my family) Oldreth greets Gob and Xanthia. Th'rin arrives and interrupts the conversation. Acting protectively over Xanthia, Oldreth pieces together the connections, and also discovers, through Chrysthal, that Merissa is also pregnant. Oldreth and Th'rin exchange words. Oldreth heads off to Merissa's office. (Meet and Greet) Xanthia runs off to tell Corra the good news of Oldreth's return. Th'rin fears for his own safety at the hands of the barbarian, though Areena assures him that Wintermoon would never let Oldreth harm him. (Training continues) Oldreth goes to the Warren Offices, thinking evil thoughts toward Th'rin. Wintermoon chides him. (A riot of interaction.) Afternoon - In the Warren Offices -- Rina, while practicing with the sword and daydreaming of future leadership, comes pretty dang close to hitting Oldreth with her blade. (How does Rina strike you?) and (A riot of interaction.) Issabol is learning the duties of a queenrider from Merissa when she learns of Wintermoon's arrival from Bellisente. Issabol finds Oldreth exceedingly attractive and becomes flustered. Excusing herself upon his entrance, Issabol goes to watch the other new riders at their sword practice, until Merissa should need her again. (Training continues) Oldreth and Merissa begin to talk about what has been going on between Merissa, Xanthia and Th'rin. (Shocks and Surprises) & (A riot of interaction.) Emery watches the trainees afternoon sword lessons and offers to assist. (Meeting the Troops) Gobiath arrives late for sword practice on a humid and overcast day. (Young minds and great dreams) Rina fights Emery, is bested by his swordplay but pulls a fast dagger move at the end. She confronts Tatiana with questions about her future and growth, then proceeds to go practice her sword. Terebinthia goes to cuddle with Nightwind. (Rina steps up) Gob is caught day dreaming and is then stopped by Tatiana from "charging into battle" to save Rina, from Emery. (Young minds and great dreams) After Rina's and Emery's exchange, Tatiana squares off to face the Wingsecond as a demonstration for the young riders. (Experience Counts) During sword training, partners are switched and Sheldon is paired with Gob. After Gob [accidentally?] stabs him, Sheldon gets serious. Nightwind drops in to protect his rider. (Shocks and Surprises) Gob laughs when Nightwind comes to protect him causing the rest of the class to laugh. (Mischief Comes to Town) Th'rin can't get Oldreth out of his mind and worries about his being with Merissa. Following his feelings he heads to her office and finds Oldreth and Merissa were just leaving together. (Don't you just love In-laws ..) As Merissa and Oldreth leave her office, Th'rin confronts them. (Conversations, Questions and a Gift. (JP)) Merissa and Oldreth leave behind a bewildered Th'rin, as Merissa insists on accompanying Oldreth to his apartment. She leaves him there, and Oldreth drifts off to sleep. (A riot of interaction.) Th'rin is confronted by his past demons, personified by the voice of his father, as he wonders how to fight to save his family. (Burning Fires Everywhere) Early Evening - Gob Meets up with Pav'lo for a conversations asking about how humans have babies and being told to ask his trainer. Pav'lo suggest Gob buy a gift for Merissa and Xanthia. Rina and Sheldon are found in the hall and offer to join Gob on the trip to town. (Mischief Comes to Town) Day 23 *** Morning - Gob plays in the washroom causing a bit of a mess and arrives late to join his friends. (Mischief Comes to Town) Corra tells Merissa that she must take better care of herself. Draith arrives from Keldarra in answer to Merissa's inquiry. (Another Day Another Rider) Issabol is working on some reports for Merissa in the Junior Queenrider's office when she gets word that Merissa is on her way to see her. Merissa introduces Issabol to Draith. (Burning Fires Everywhere) Mid Morning - (In Marketta) Gob, Rina and Sheldon go to town, Gob gets into trouble and almost loses a hand. Sheldon saves Gob and Rina restores peace. Gob gets separated from Rina and Sheldon and meets Shedith (Shed) a soldier who has fallen on ill times. Shed sends Gob to the merchant Chris. Gob gives Shed a gold coin to hold for him. (Mischief Comes to Town) (In Marketta) Rina gets a chance to dance with and meet a tough woman named Maude. Terebinthia gets a pair of beads and now thinks she's Princess Miss Thang. (Dancers of the Maude Squad, Princesses with Wings, and Confrontations in the Dark) Afternoon - Draith tells Merissa and Issabol that Bellisente will definitely be larger than the Empress in his opinion. (Burning Fires Everywhere) Draith goes to Pav'lo's office and asks for a room assignment while staying at Whiteriver. Then he goes to the swimming hole where he contemplates "many things". (Intro of Draith) Analise shows up in the late afternoon, looking for help with a headache. She's not happy that Xanthia is the only one to help her and rather than let the redheaded healer do her job, she storms off, but not before slinging some stinging remarks. (Varied reactions) Th'rin returns to the med center to find Xanthia in tears. He demands to know what's wrong, and Xanthia reluctantly tells him she had a run in with Analise. (Varied reactions) Th'rin is irate that Analise would insult Xanthia. Xanthia, however, for peace's sake, asks Th'rin not to confront Analise. Th'rin tells Xanthia to go home and rest. He silently vows to face Analise if she ever hurt Xanthia again. (Burning Fires Everywhere) Merissa is surprised by Xanthia's early return home. Merissa invites Xanthia to tell her about what happened with Analise and Xanthia tells her the whole story. (Varied reactions) Xanthia and Merissa share a moment while discussing Xanthia's run in with Analise. (A Moment, Memory and Message) Evening - Draith, having sat at the lake most of the afternoon, thinks that he might like to stay at Whiteriver. He suddenly realizes that it is getting late, so returns to his room to unpack. It takes him so long to unpack, that when he goes out to meet people, he finds no one about, so returns to his room to sleep. (Intro of Draith) (In Marketta) Maude seeks Bill out to bargain for a message, goes to work, goes home with Jallene for some wild fun. (Shake your groove thang) Gob, Rina and Sheldon return from town before dinner. After dinner, Rina demands real information from Sheldon about his past. (Dancers of the Maude Squad, Princesses with Wings, and Confrontations in the Dark) After dinner Sheldon and Rina take a walk, share a kiss, and talk. Sheldon reveals a bit about his father, the cult and his past. (Nocturnal Disclosures) While Merissa relaxes and drinks an herbal tea that Xanthia made for her, Gob arrives bringing gifts for her and Xanthia. (Conversations, Questions and a Gift. (JP)) Xanthia is accosted by an exuberant Gob outside her bedroom. He holds one hand over her face and guides her to the front room, so as to have a bigger surprise when she sees the present he brought her. (Varied reactions) Gob presents presents to Xanthia then later takes a night stroll up to his favorite thinking spot and finds Oldreth there and chats with the giant looking for words of wisdom to help him get over his dilemma. (Troubling Thoughts) Gob slips away from Merissa and Xanthia after the gifts before they can get too mushy. Gob chats with Oldreth, the two share a blood pack and Oldreth gives Gob a knife saying it was from Gob's father. (Yet to be said) Late Evening - Merissa feels a sense of loss while staring at the empty half of her bed. (A Moment, Memory and Message) Day 24 Overcast Skies. Distant Thunder. *** Early Morning - During her early morning walk, Merissa is interrupted by Tatiana. They stop for a chat in the gardens by the fish pond. They discuss the formation of a special combat riders "wing" to attack or hunt down wraiths, as well as the Cult of the Blindfolded lady, among other topics. (Circumspect Conversations) Morning - After her walk, Merissa hears the news from Chrysthal that Wintermoon and Oldreth have AGAIN left the warren. Worried about Xanthia's reaction, she seeks Latnem's council. (Another Day Another Rider) Nerika is at her morning lessons with Analise. Analise again tries to dissuade Nerika from pursuing her chosen career as a bard. Nerika is reminded about her Wing Training by Lyraene and leaves, much to Analise's relief. (Circumspect Conversations) (In Marketta) Maude quits her job, passes leadership of the Maude Squad to Miranda. (Shake your groove thang) Late Morning - The wingleaders & wingseconds assemble in Merissa's office to discuss the placement of their newest riders into their wings. (Another Day Another Rider) Noon(ish) - Merissa and Tatiana have lunch delivered to Merissa's office. (Another Day Another Rider) They discuss the trainees and especially Rina. Tatiana tells Merissa that she believes that Rina has the makings of a wingleader in her. (Coming Home) Afternoon == Raining/Thunder/Lightening. A wagon drover in a tithing train brings a message to the warren offices. Merissa learns the message is for Sheldon, Rina and Gob and they are summoned. Giving bribes and a threat, Sheldon gets the messenger to give them the message... an invitation to hear "Stompin Strawberries" play at the Red Hen Inn in Marketta. (A Moment, Memory and Message) After he learns of his trip to a bar, Gob asks Bootstrap to say hello to his friend the beggar soldier. (Yet to be said) East of Whiteriver Warren, Farm of Dewly -- Celin is taking care of her baby brother as a fire is started by a lightening strike. (Dreams Up in Flames) Maxima stretches her wings and takes a solo flight east of Whiteriver. She sees a farmhouse on fire and hears a baby crying within. Maxima teleports back to Whiteriver, sending a call out for help. (Eager to Help) Oberon, playing on the green and enjoying the weather, answers the call, grabbing two buckets and some rope, he strings the rope through the pail handles and, deciding he is going to ride Maxima, he urges her to help him drag the buckets through the lake to fill them, then they fly off to the fire. (Eager to Help) The Beta Wing assembles in response to the urgent summons from Maxima. Some members of the wing do not show up on time. (Another Day Another Rider) Latnem is in the Med. Center helping Th'rin deal with a frightened Xanthia, who doesn't like thunder and lightning, when he hears the call about the fire. He leaves Xanthia in Th'rin's care, encouraging the use of a mild sedative if necessary, to go join the wing and go off to fight the fire. (Eager to Help) Th'rin tries to distract Xanthia by talking about the baby that they are expecting. (Burning Fires Everywhere) Tatiana and Zenia respond to the call to action. They help in creating a firebreak in the forest and turning back the blaze. (Coming Home) Gob hears about the fire, after arguing a bit with Pav'lo he teleports to the fire. Deciding to help the farmers he has Nightwind use water from the well to spit upon the fire. (The Little Fire Chief) Tevel manages to rouse Kyth since it is dark outside and storming. (Burning Fires Everywhere) Mara and Melodaria, after waiting in the rain for their partners, finally spot Lyraene. They teleport to the fire. (Burning Fires Everywhere) Nerika shows up late at the wing formation, then links up with Mara and Melodaria over the green. They teleport to the fire, where they spot Maxima and Oberon. They then encounter J'red and Firefly, just before Nerika dives to rescue the child. (Being Fashionably Late) Oberon starts to fall from Maxima. Nerika and Lyranae dive under the black and red dragon and urge Oberon to drop down onto Lyranae's back. (Brave Acts or Foolhardy Choices?) [CROSS POST] Mara is frantic when she realizes that Oberon is riding Maxima. [This post has Maxima land and Oberon run into a farmhouse to rescue a baby. Mara and Nerika go in after him.] (Burning Fires Everywhere) [FIX] Nerika catches Oberon and urges Lyranae to land. Maxima and Melodaria follow them down. Upon landing, Oberon takes off into the building. Nerika and Mara follow him in. Oberon finds a girl holding a baby who is not breathing. After calling out to Nerika and Mara that he had found the baby, Oberon covers the baby's mouth and nose with his own mouth, recalling what he'd seen his Aunt Xan do. (XPOST FIX (READ CAREFULLY): Brave Acts or Foolhardy Choices? vs. Burning fires everywhere) Safely delivered home, Xanthia and Merissa chastise Oberon for his actions and explain to him the gravity of risking another rider's dragon's life. (Brave Acts or Foolhardy Choices?) T'miini and Synthiia are heading for their new warren. As the two argue about their new home, they come across the fire. Without any hesitation, they decide to help. At first, T'miini isn't sure what to do, even when the other dragons arrive and eventually Synthiia decides for him, doing a dangerous maneuver in order to grab a tub of some sort. During the hazardous trick, T'miini nearly falls off when one of his riding gear's straps snaps. He manages to stay on and after realizing that he tied his gear wrong, he replaces the missing band with his own belt. Using the tub and teleportation, the two start to put out the fire in the settlement and after a long and tiresome battle, with the joined efforts of all the dragons the managed to destroy the fire. Synthiia wants to show off to the other dragons even more, but T'miini decides to fly away unnoticed. They argue some more and eventually go to sleep in the woods. T'miini thinks over what they did and feels bad about it, realizing that he shouldn't have let Synthiia do that tub trick in the first place. As he falls asleep, he hopes dearly that his new warren doesn't find out about their wild actions, knowing that they would be in trouble for it and doesn't realize that the dragons that they came across were actually from Whiteriver. (Expect the unexpected) Early Evening - The riders return from battling the fire to congregate in the dining hall. Th'rin treating minor burns and injuries in the hall. Rina brings wine and Tatiana toasts to their success. (Coming Home) Nightwind talks to Toshi as Gob tells the story of what happened to him at the fire. Toshi teases Nightwind about putting his head in a hole. Gob tries to encourage everyone to come to the Red Hen. Nightwind complains about being left behind. While flying Gob inquires if Sasori and Toshi are coming and if any others are coming. Then ask if Night can keep guard over any others coming. Nightwind teases Gob about sounding all high and mighty. (Nightwind Presents His Majesty) Sheldon meets Gob and Rina to go to the Red Hen Inn. (Another Day Another Rider) Rina, Sheldon, and Gob get their message and fly through the rain to see the Stompin' Strawberries. (Shake your groove thang) Evening - (In Marketta) Red Hen Inn, Marketta: Sheldon imbibes quite a bit of the "Tavern Special" while Maude and Rina discuss dragons. They dance and have a great time. (Another Day Another Rider) (In Marketta) They have a lot of dancing and food and drink. Maude and Gob go exercise some chickens. (Shake your groove thang) (In Marketta) Gob shows Betsy the Nightwind Shuffle and drags everyone else into the fun. Then feeling homesick he sleeps with Nightwind. (The Little Gigalo) Late Evening - (In Marketta) Sheldon and Rina are shown a room at the Inn where they can spend the night. (Another Day Another Rider) Day 25 *** Early Morning - T'miini and Synthiia arrive at Whiteriver and find a small (temporary) apartment. Synthiia shows off and meets some of the dragons. Someone arrives at T'miini's apartment to take him to see the warrenlady. (Welcome to the new reality) Morning - Xanthia awakens Oberon. She and Merissa inform the boy of Oldreth's departure and tell him he's to work at the stables to make up for his transgression the day prior. (Brave Acts or Foolhardy Choices?) (At a Research Settlement) Arideregh (Ari) starts off her day with the research settlement not knowing that today will change her life. (A new Beginning) (In Marketta) Having spent the night, Rina, Sheldon and Gob prepare to return to Whiteriver. Panzeree discovers Maude's dragon affinity. (Shake your groove thang) (In Marketta) Panzaree and Gob both note something "special" about Maude, and the dragonriders bring her with them to the warren. Gob takes Maude to see Pav'lo and Merissa. (Another Day Another Rider) Merissa asks Gob to show Maude and a new rider, T'miini, around the warren. (Another Day Another Rider) Gob and Maude go in search of T'miini, who seems to have ended up in the wrong quarters. Gob wonders if T'miini is a pirate. Gob shows Maude and T'miini around the warren and they end in Pav'lo's office (Our Little Host) Merissa has Gob escort Oberon to the stables and informs Faylen that the boy is to do penance. Oberon takes off in anger. Gob and Faylen chase the boy down through the woods and finally find him fleeing into a cave. On following the boy into the cave, they make the discovery that a wild dragon's been slain. They find three eggs in the cave. Unwilling to leave the eggs to die, Faylen sends the boys off to the stable to get a wheelbarrow and some hay to line it with. The three bring back the eggs only to be faced by Merissa and J'red waiting on them. Faylen hurries to explain the odd situation. (Brave Acts or Foolhardy Choices?) Gob sends Nightwind to fetch the wheel barrow to help with carrying the rescued eggs. The dragon takes it from Pav'lo. (Our Little Host) Sheldon and Rina go on patrol with Nerika and Mara. (Another Day Another Rider) Afternoon - Mara contemplates her assignment, doubling on patrol with Nerika and two new wingmates, Sheldon and Rina. She isn't sure how she feels about Sheldon, and recalls the bombing of the cavern that injured her sister, Cill. (Burning Fires Everywhere). (At a Research Settlement) Ari is later discovered by some dragonriders while swimming with wild baby dragons and an attempted rescue is made. Ari, however, rescues Barsel instead and takes the group of dragonriders back to the settlement. She stitches up Barsel who had been attacked by a young dragon fearing for Ari. There she is told by her parents that she needs to go with the dragon-riders to find her own path, and to learn with Azhy. (A new Beginning) (At a Research Settlement) Sasori and Latnem accompany Barsel on a delivery run to a research settlement. They discover a girl and her dragon. Barsel remains behind to help Arideregh and Azghre practice teleporting before bringing them back to Whiteriver. (Another Day Another Rider) Dalmar arrives from Telnor in search of Abbien, the dragonhealer, whom he was supposed to finish his field work with to qualify as a dragonhealer, only to find out that Abbien has gone to Jasra. Merissa invites him to stay on at Whiteriver. (A Day Late and a Warren Short) Late Afternoon - Raining (At a Research Settlement) Ari is taught by Barsel how to teleport so they may make their way to the Warren. Aedris refuses to speak to Azhy, but does speak to Ari. They make the teleport to the warren successfully, Ari loves what she sees, and they arrive just as the storm begins again. Several people are there waiting to meet the 2 wild ones. (The 2 Wild Ones) Gob greets Ari and offers to be her guide. (Yet to be said) Ari is met by Gob and he offers to take her to meet the Warrenlady Merissa. Ari feels abandoned for a brief moment when Azhy takes off with Nightwind to go enjoy feeding. Barsel catches up with them and the trio walks to the office. Gob tells Ari that Merissa is pregnant and walks into the office with ease, waves to Eleanora and heads into Merissa�s office. (JP Ari's New Home) Barsel comes along, with Gob and Ari to the warrenlady's office -- to flirt with Eleanora. Merissa interviews Ari and welcomes her to Whiteriver. (Another Day Another Rider) Ari answers Merissa's questions. Merissa learns how Ari found Azhy and how the joining happened. She learns that Ari is a healer and knows Dragon healing as well. She is astonished to learn that Azhy has never been in a mating flight and decided she will speak to Ari about it on a later day since she is tired. Looks at both Gob and Ari sitting in front of her and wonders about them and where and what she is to do with them. (Ari's Interview) Ari is told of the dead female wild dragon and her 3 eggs. She is welcomed into the Warren by Merissa and sent to Pav�lo�s Office to get her housing and assignments. Ari talks Gob into taking her to the Hatching cave first. Ari spends some time with the eggs. Gob, Ari and Azhy sing to the eggs, and then Azhy talks with them. They spend the night there. (The Request) Day 26 -- Steady Rain *** Early Morning - Next morning very early Ari wakes up and asks Gob to take her to the cave where the dragon had been slain. Gob does, and Ari takes a few samples, looks things over, then she and Azhy make the cave her pyre and show her homage. The Night Patrol reports them leaving and a patrol shows up while they are standing in the worsening rain. (The Request) Wingleader and Trainer track down Gob as others wait just outside. (Our Little Host). J'red confronts Gob and Ari about the burning of the dead wilder queen. He fears that they have destroyed valuable evidence that might point to the killer/s. (Temper Temper!) Ari confronts J'red after he yells at Gob. Heated words get spoken, Azhy comforts Ari. Tatiana tries to slip in a welcome and after a second heated confrontation J'red orders everyone back to the warren to sort this mess out. (J'red meets Ari) Gob is upset with J'red's behavior then at Nightwind's lack of loyalty. Gob shows J'red a spear with unusual metal and markings and decides not to toss his dirty shirts into J'red's room. He then leads Ari to Pav'lo who can't talk to Gob because he is so angry at him. (Where does the Laundry Go?) Merissa stops in and talks with Issabol. (Temper Temper!) Sheldon and Rina are assigned to R'han and Jay for the day's patrol. (Temper Temper!) Mid-Morning - Ari is taken to Pav'lo's office to get her apartment and supplies. Gob arrives dripping wet and pulls Ari out the door to show her his great find. He takes her to her new apartment and shows her all the special things about it. Ari loves it and gives Gob a kiss to show her thanks. Gob then takes her on a mini tour, and has lunch with her and leaves her back at the new place. Ari sends word to her parents, and Azhy leaves in the storm with her requests. Ari is left alone to begin her settling in. (Ari settles in) Early Afternoon - Ari works out what she needs to set up her place and then makes her way to the Medical Center where she meets Th'rin. He offers her a place to make her lab and leaves to find Dalmar to introduce them. (Ari Builds a Nest) Afternoon - Azhy returns to the Med Center with the supplies from her parents and hints at news. She takes what is brought and returns with some of the samples and paperwork to her new lab. Azhy goes for a snack. (Ari Builds a Nest) Ari meets Dalmar and he is shocked to find out she is an uncertified dragon healer and one who was raised among the wilders. (Ari Builds a Nest) Early Evening - Gob finishes his chores and as night falls discovers the hatching sands getting flooded. He is met by Maude and Oberon. Gob calls on the warren to pitch in and help. Oberon knows of a place in the old guest quarters that are falling apart. Oberon leads the dragons to there as Gob sends out the locations of wheel barrows to help bring sand to the temporary hatching room. (The Littlest Construction Worker) Chrysthal and Firefly respond to the all call alarum that Gob has initiated. Chrysthal watches over the unhatched eggs while keeping an eye on Oberon. She also gently chastises Gob for initiating the alarum without going through proper chain of command. (Alarm and Alarums) When the call comes from Gob, Azhy and Ari, Dalmar and Th'rin rush to the hatching cave to see the rescue attempt of the wilder eggs. Ari meets and introduces herself to Chrysthal and checks on the eggs. Then Ari begins to work on a plan to get the eggs moved to safety. (Ari Builds a Nest) Ari sees Gob and kisses his cheek for being a hero. (Ari Builds a Nest) When Gob arrives upstairs he finds several people at work. Two floors missing to make room for the dragons and several people working to make sure the ceiling supports are in place as well as people on the upper floors making sure there are no leaks. Sand is being brought up by wheelbarrow and heated by dragon breath. Gob leaves when he sees them bringing wagons filled with sand. (The Littlest Construction Worker) Ari and Azhy gather heating stones to warm the eggs and Ari makes her way back to wait for Th'rin and Dalmar to return from the medical center with warmed blankets. (Ari Builds a Nest) Dalmar and Th'rin heat blankets, then go to work with Ari to wrap the eggs and transport them to their new hatching chamber. Dalmar talks to Azhgre, then is called back to help. (Eggs Over Easy!) Gob discusses the need of healing for dragons in the warren with Azhgre. Gob ask Nightwind if wild dragons know more and is given the cold shoulder by him. (The Littlest Construction Worker) January 2004 Day 27 -- more rain causing people to worry about the level of the river *** Early Morning - Xanthia, who has spent the last day or two lamenting Oldreth's last departure, awakens to realize that she's feeling her baby move. She rushes out to share the experience with Merissa and Th'rin, but only Merissa is there. (Cresting Waters) Merissa feels Xanthia's baby move and worried about her own. (Another Rainy Day.) Morning - Xanthia walks Oberon to the stables to finish his penance for "borrowing" Maxima and fighting that fire. On the walk she notices the water has crested. Oberon comments that it would be better if they were dragons who could just fly to higher ground. (Cresting Waters) Maxima meets Xanthia at the stables where she dropped off Oberon. They fly over to the warren offices. (Cresting Waters) J'red stops by Merissa's office to talk about partners and wing assignments. They are interrupted by Xanthia who mentions that the river is rising quickly. (Another Rainy Day.) Mid-Morning - Xanthia pops into Merissa's office and informs her of the dangerous levels of the river and lake. She suggests sandbagging the river. (Cresting Waters) Merissa asks J'red to have Emery oversee sandbagging. (Another Rainy Day.) J'red informs Emery he must head the plans to build sandbag barrier along the river. (Plans for sandbagging, and sandbagged plans) Late Morning - J'red asks Rina and Terebinthia for a lift over to the old guest quarters to find Ari, because Firefly is too comfortably cuddling. (Another Rainy Day.) Xanthia goes to see the newly found eggs. She gets to meet Ari and Dalmar.(Cresting Waters) Dalmar talks with Xanthia and Ari about telepathy and dragon healing at the new hatching chamber. (Eggs Over Easy!) Beta Wing is called out to sandbag against the rising river. Progress is slow until Emery proposes a challenge: One side of the river against the other. Loser serves the winner drinks. Rina's team takes the lead, until Gob shows up later to turn the tides. (Plans for sandbagging, and sandbagged plans) Early Afternoon - Ari, Dalmar and Xanthia talk about dragons and their experiences with them. J'red interrupts the conversation that Ari is having with Dalmar. J'red is already frustrated and angry that Ari did not show up for her first training session. Ari is irritated at seeing the man who yelled at her the previous morning. Dalmar introduces himself and J'red learns that Ari is also a dragon healer. Ari and J'red have cross words, and even yell at one another. Both are confused at the way the other makes them feel. J'red stomps away with the last words which is an order for Ari and Azhy to appear on the Green in one hour. Ari screams back her defiance and refuses to go. Dalmar offers to speak with Ari to try to help her understand just who J'red is. (Drowned Rat or Wet Hen?) Mid-Afternoon - Har'son and Fourd return from the "pub" via the scenic route -- chosen by Fourd, to show his rider how unhappy he was to have been left out in the rain. (Way to make an entrance) Xanthia goes to the med center. Th'rin offers her a warm blanket and wraps her up in it. She tells him of the baby moving that morn and how she regrets his not being there. (Cresting Waters) Gob discovers a wonderful water slide created by the rain and gets Azhy to bring Ari over to play. Ari learns that she is to be Gob's partner and still is unsure as to why she needs to practice flying when she already knows how to. Gob and Ari talk about J'red and before practice Gob decides J'red is too serious and needs to learn to have fun produces water bladder balloons to share with J'red. They arrive at the Green for practice and J'red is given the bladder balloons. (The Little Rain Man) While waiting for Ari and Gob to show for practice, J'red is unexpectedly drenched from above. Trying hard to be mad, J'red is won over by Gob's and Ari's infectious laughter. Getting down to business, J'red devises a "game" for their first training together as partners. A game of Leapfrog on dragonback. (A Game of Leap -- Dragon?) Ari and Gob are given their first training session. J'red has them playing leap-frog to help Ari learn the ropes. After a few attempts Ari gets it right. J'red worries about Ari and her progress, and wonders how long it will take to train both her and Gob. (Child's Play) Late Afternoon - After the training Gob leaves to go back to his water slide, Ari returns home to dry off and takes a nap snuggles with Azhy. (Child's Play) Merissa, Tatiana and Pav'lo are enjoying some tea, when Tatiana gets a feeling that wraiths are nearby. She and Pav'lo are going to investigate. Merissa tells them to have J'red join them. After flying for a while, they come upon the wraiths near a farm and send for "backup". Tatiana and Zenia see a group of wraiths that have broken away from the swarm and are headed to the farmhouse. They attack and get injured. J'red and Pav'lo insist that the trainer and her dragon return to the warren. (Too Old to Rock and Roll, Too Young to Die) Sheldon comes up with a plan to speed up the sandbagging, helping to give Rina's team an edge. After a while, he becomes weary, and one overly "enthusiastic" tossing of a sandbag unbalances him and sends Sheldon into the river. (Down by the River) Eleanora catches Jael sandbagging Sheldon into the river and let's him have it, but is interrupted by an announcement of wraiths attacking. Merissa arrives and after a short discussion, they let Alpha Wing have the fun of sandbagging and head for the office. (Not Nearly as Good a Return as Darren's....) As Har'son and Fourd return, Fourd spots Sheldon in the water and dives in to rescue him. Har'son then offers to help with the sandbagging effort. (Way to make an entrance) Gob joins the fun at the sandbags, leaps to help save Sheldon but is stopped by Emery. As a member of Beta Wing he gets the call to help fight the wraiths but Nightwind and Azhy try to talk him out of it. When J'red spies him, he is not very happy. (The Littlest Construction Worker Goes to War) Latnem reflects on the fact that he doesn't really fit in as he sandbags with the others when suddenly a wraith attack is announced. (Deep thoughts, fears, and regrets (rewrite)) Wraiths attack. The Beta Wing is called to battle. (Plans for sandbagging, and sandbagged plans) Eleanora tells Merissa about Jael's behavior at the river. (You Have a Friend In Me.) Ari is awakened by Azhy telling her she was needed to mend a wounded dragon. Ari meets Merissa on the green and is instructed by Chrysthal where she needed to go to mend the Dragon Zenia. Ari checks her over and notices the burns she has never seen before. Azhy admits they are from the Wraiths and reminds what she needs to use to treat them. Ari also notices that Zenia has slight swelling in her joints in her wings and treats her to a gentle massage with a special salve. (The Beginning of Illumination) Tatiana and Zenia come back injured and Merissa brings Tatiana to her office. (You Have a Friend In Me.) Eleanora has robes, towels and hot tea waiting for Merissa and Tatiana -- and they talk. Eleanora then goes to help out at the Med Center. (You Have a Friend In Me.) Emery brings the Beta Wing to battle the wraiths. The initial attack takes out the center of the wraiths and breaks them up into smaller groups. (A Sea of Gray) Ari finishes and leaves Chrysthal and Zenia to chat, and she begins around to the front of the medical center where she notices another dragon and rider landing and realizes she will be having a long night. She asks Azhy to call Dalmar to come and help her. (The Beginning of Illumination) Latnem goes into battle reluctantly, then panics at the confusion and pulls out. He tells J'red he's going to go to the med center and leaves for there before getting a response. (Deep thoughts, fears, and regrets) Panzeree is injured and he and Sheldon teleport back home. Dalmar runs to help the injured dragon. Eleanora arrives and assists, with Cara to help Panzeree stay calm. (Muddy Brilliant) Gob and Nightwind join the fight. The wraiths seem to be smart and manage to break up the group of dragons. Several small battles erupt and Elissa falls from her dragon due to a busted strap possibly a close call from a wraith. But Gob thinks quickly and remembers the leap frog practice and manages to reach her and save her. Rina musters the younger dragons and a few veterans. The rain starts to come down strong and the wraiths begin to break off, a large group of wraiths stays together and heads to the forest. (The Littlest Warrior) At the med center, Latnem is overwhelmed by the injuries. As a result, he feels guilt for his actions. (Deep thoughts, fears, and regrets (rewrite)) Early Evening - Sensing that the end of the battle with the wraiths is at hand, the dragons converge on the remaining wraiths. J'red sees the danger and tries to warn them off by flying over the center of the wraiths. The wraiths, being attacked from the perimeter swarm to the center, with nowhere to go but up -- right into Firefly and J'red. Injured, they teleport behind Nightwind. (Burned and Bewildered.) Gob is sent back to the warren though he makes sure J'red knows he is to keep the others safe while he is gone. He chat's with Ari about the fight and then heads off to the dinning hall (Return of the Little Warrior) J'red and Firefly stay to see the end of the battle, before returning to the warren for treatment of their injuries. (Burned and Bewildered.) Returning to the warren, Firefly heads directly to the medical center, finally admitting to J'red that he is badly injured and needs help. Ari is available and comes to work on Firefly. She and J'red exchange some heated words, but her soothing ministrations to Firefly help to ease the tension. (Burned and Bewildered.) Evening - J'red then goes into the medical center for treatment of his own wounds. He runs into Jay and Sheldon and the three head over to the dining hall for some drinks and to join with the other riders assembling there. (Burned and Bewildered.) Xanthia suggests that Latnem go out and celebrate with Beta Wing, but Latnem doesn't feel deserving to celebrate with the others. She tells him that others from Beta have been asking about him, but still he insists he'd be better not going. (Deep thoughts, fears, and regrets (rewrite)) Gob invites Ari to the Celebration in the Dining Hall. She finishes up with her chores and duties and spends extra time cleaning. She wrestles with her feelings and her memories of the day. Ari is horrified at what she remembers. (Anger and Awakening) Emery brings out his "beverages" and admits that Rina's team won the sandbagging challenge, and the serious drinking ensues. (Rhymes without reason) Emery and Effinky (Alpha's wingsecond) get into a game of one-up-manship and end up challenging each other to a duel of words. The other riders join in the fun. (Rhymes without reason) After Barsel cleans up, he goes in search of Eleanora at the med center. He is joined by Jael. Eleanora is not happy to see Jael, and takes out her anger on Barsel on the way to the Dining Hall. Finding Merissa and Sheldon, Eleanora asks Sheldon about what happened during the day. Sheldon exonerates Barsel, but admits that Jael may have purposefully knocked him into the river. Barsel defends his friend Jael, and leaves. Eleanora goes to an unoccupied corner to think. (A Difference of Opinion) J'red rethinks his position about Ari and realizes he needs to make an apology and thank her for helping Firefly. She notices she is not at the celebration. He finds out from Gob that she is still working. He goes to look for her. (Anger and Awakening) When the new challenges move on to wrestling, Emery decides to pass. He notices Eleanora sitting alone and goes to join her. (Rhymes without reason) Outside the dining hall, J'red sees Ari collapse in anguish over the days events. He finds himself comforting Ari. When Ari calms down there is an awkward moment between them and then a slow peace. He offers to go to the celebration with her and she begs off and says goodnight. Ari accidentally leaves with J'red's cloak still wrapped around her. (Anger and Awakening) Har'son and Fourd are injured in the wraith attack. Fourd insists on pain killers for himself. Har'son sneaks out of the med center to join the party.. There he meets a girl named Kendra from the tithing caravan. He dances with her and then takes her to his bed. (Party time) J'red and Nerika bump into one another at the party, where they argue about Nerika's career choices. J'red gets to read some cool poetry -- written by Nerika. (Bardic Blues (JP) Day 28 -- more rain the river begins to rise dangerously high *** Morning - While sandbagging efforts continue, Latnem and Barsel patrol the river. They see a body along side the river bank, Latnem sends Barsel to fetch a healer to investigate. Xanthia comes to the rescue. Worst fears are confirmed, the woman on the river bank is dead. When Latnem goes to lift the woman to take her back to the warren, the two are attacked by an 8' tall man dressed in a bear skin. The man takes notice of Xanthia's condition and pauses long enough for Latnem to recover and knock the man out by chucking a river rock at his temple. Xanthia identifies the strangers as Bear nomads, much to the amazement of Latnem, and displays her knowledge of Bear nomads which she garnered from her sister Aradia's journal. Xanthia surmises that the strangers were attacked by a dragon. (Found!) Gob points out some interesting points in class, about how the Wraiths seemed to have a mind and listening into their orders. (Confronting Large Obstacles) Ari is awakened to find she needs to be at practice and she is late. She hurries to get there and grabs J'red's cloak to return it to him. She does so in front of the entire wing and with her tumbled words manages to leave J'red speechless. Tatiana arrives and is very disappointed in their lack of discipline. (The Morning After) Azhy and Firefly have a short discussion of Ari being kept out too late. They are told to pay attention by Zenia and Azhy nuzzles with Ari to show the love he feels for her. (The Morning After) Mid Morning - Latnem arrives late to practice. He's properly chastised by Tatiana, and he tells her of his and Xanthia's find of the Bear Nomads, who appeared to have been attacked by a dragon. (The Truth Confirmed) Ari takes a bath after practice then writes a letter to her parents and gives it to Az to take to deliver. (A letter home) Late Morning - The dead woman and the unconscious man are brought back to the warren via wagon. At the med center, Th'rin dismisses Latnem and works with Xanthia on tending to the barbarian. Merissa shows up to find out about this couple. Xanthia tells her he should be awakening any time. (Found!) Dru'Kar remembers the most important parts of his life in dreams after being knocked out by the river. Upon waking he finds out his wife is dead. He then mistakes Xanthia for Aradia, his tribes priestess and Oberon as his friend/charge, the tribes future Chieftain. His mind fought with itself to reason the young Chieftain's reversal of age, not knowing that Oberon is actually Pa'gan's son. (WHAT....WHERE....ARRRRGGGGHHHH!) After Dru'Kar breaks down, Xanthia insists on staying with him despite Th'rin's protests that she should go with Merissa, Corra, and Oberon. A nurse brings in Alina. Once Xanthia calms the babe, she gives her into Corra's care. Xanthia explains to a confused Dru'Kar that she is not Aradia, but Aradia and Pa'gan's half-sister, and that Oberon is the child of Pa'gan and Aradia. Merissa, Corra, Oberon, and Alina leave. (When the world turns upside down) Th'rin berates the thoughtless nurse [Elsa] for bringing Alina into an examination room. (Where has the time gone Part One) Once alone with Dru'Kar, Xanthia explains the circumstances of her birth to him. (When the world turns upside down) Dru'Kar, in shock from hearing Xanthia's story, realized who she is. When asked what he's talking about, he told Xanthia a very different story about her beginnings than what Corra told her. The fact that Corra lied is confirmed by the fact that he knows that it's her birthday today. (What a day!) Xanthia passes out from the shock. Dru'Kar catches her and lays her down before running into the med center in a panic where he fetches Ari to help. Ari tends to Xanthia, wafting a highly scented mixture by her face while Dru'Kar examins the dead body of his mate Henda and mourns her and their twins. When Xanthia comes to, she is as calm as if it had never happened, though she remembers everything. Not the reaction Dru'Kar was expecting. (What a day!) Ari goes to the med center and treats Firefly and Fourd for their injuries. (A letter Home) Lunch - Both Xanthia's and Dru'Kar's stomachs rumble from hunger. Xanthia gets Latnem to cover for her in the med center and takes Dru'Kar to the dining hall before beginning the grand tour. (The Grand Tour) Xanthia called Maxima to take them to the dining hall. Dru'Kar was shocked at the incoming dragon and was ready to kill Maxima to defend Xanthia. Maxima was ready to fight Dru'Kar in return, to defend Xanthia. Xanthia then realizes her error, and has Maxima land a distance away while she worked to calm the Bear Nomad explaining that she's joined and that there was no danger. Likewise, she explained to Maxima that Dru'Kar was defending her. (What a day!) In the dining hall, Dru'Kar spotted Corra and eyes her with suspicion. He also met Eleanora, and invited her to talk later so she can tell him more about herself and how she learned to speak without hearing. (What a day) At the dining hall, Dru'Kar meets Eleanora, who had been signing her concern across the room to Xanthia. Xanthia takes it upon herself to explain Dru'Kar's connection to herself and Oberon. Then Dru'Kar and Xanthia join Har'son and Tatiana for lunch. Har'son notes Dru'Kar's extreme levels of dragon affinity. Xanthia is at first excited until it occurs to her how old Dru'Kar is. She then asks how old the oldest person was to join (The Grand Tour) Eleanora responds to Dru'Kar with a lot of self-control despite her fear. (Whew! Am I Caught Up Yet?) Xanthia gawked in amazement at the quantities of meat that Dru'Kar selected to eat. During the meal, Dru'Kar forces back revulsion at the thought that he could even possibly join with a dragon. (What a day!) Early Afternoon - Xanthia and Dru'Kar arrive at the warren offices. Xanthia informs Dru'Kar that she, Merissa, Th'rin, and the children live in the queenrider apartment above the Warrenlady's office. Dru'Kar wants to live with them. That not being feasible, Xanthia is inspired to move him into Oldreth's old apartment. They go to the Quartermaster's office where they are greeted by Gob, who fetch's Pav'lo for them. Xanthia assures Pav'lo that she's sure Merissa won't have a problem with the living arrangement, so Pav'lo sends Gob to go help them move Dru'Kar into the queenrider apartment. (The Grand Tour) At Pav'lo's office, Dru'Kar asked if there were connecting doors directly between the two apartments. When told no, and with his mind on some renovations to correct this, Dru'Kar requested a hammer - a big hammer. Gob fetched a 30 lb. sledge hammer with great difficulty. Dru'Kar hefted it with ease and then asks for another - for the other hand. Gob found that amusing until the look from Dru'Kar told him he was serious. (What a day!) Gob helps Pav'lo and meets the new comer Dru'Kar, seeing the markings on the giant he runs off to the armory. (Confronting Large Obstacles) On the way to the armory Gob runs right into Emery nearly knocking himself to the ground in his efforts. Emery explains that he had put Gob to bed the night before. Then questions him about where he is running off too. (Confronting Large Obstacles) Afternoon - At the armory Gob matches the marking on the spear to that of the nomad, he drags the spear to the male queenrider's old room and confronts the giant. (Confronting Large Obstacles) After getting the hammers, Dru'Kar goes to his new quarters and begins his "redecorating". The boy Gob comes in with his spear and lays down a challenge [in Dru'Kar's eyes]) as to the death of a dragon. Dru'Kar...."explains" it to him, running with the boy in hand to the med center to show him what the dragon did. (Haunted yet again....) Ari hears and witnesses a Giant hauling Gob under his arm forcing himself into a room. Ari fearful for Gob follows and comes into the room and witnesses the telling of a tragic heart wrenching tale. Ari is moved deeply by the words of the Giant and steps forward when Gob speaks her name to tell him of the way of Dragons. Ari also notices that this man is similar to her in some ways, and this puzzles her. (JP - Gob and Ari tell all) Dru'Kar and Ari discuss the dead dragon and the fact that the dragon was burned on a funeral pyre. Ari tells him of the samples she took. Something troubles him about the sample of sand. He decides to think on it more after he gathers the rest of his things. Gob offers to help transport the large man and his belongings. He tells Oberon to tend to his studies and his chores, with the promise that they'll talk when he gets back. (Too much...JUST TOO MUCH!!!) Someone comes into the warren with the tithing caravan with only one purpose in mind, to kill the Warrenlady, and thus the Queen. An informant has told him the whereabouts of her apartment and he has been supplied with a "special" tea to substitute for the one she normally drinks, which he does. (It Wasn't Meant To Be.) Late Afternoon - Dru'Kar and Gob gather the things at the camp site. Gob gets to see the softer side of the Bear Nomad as he tears up over one of his deceased children's baby rattles. When Nightwind informs Gob that he would be too taxed to transport all the stuff and both Gob and Dru'Kar, Dru'Kar suggests two trips, one which would leave him at the warren, sending Gob and Nightwind back on a second trip. Dru'Kar asks his things be brought to the med center. (Too much...JUST TOO MUCH!!!) Early Evening - After taking dinner at the dining hall, Dru'Kar returns to the med center, and waits with Xanthia for the delivery of his belongings. (Too much...JUST TOO MUCH!!!) Evening - Merissa comes home alone, and makes her tea and draws a bath. When she begins to fall asleep in the tub, she heads for her bedroom, but she is feeling very strangely. Frightened that she might be ill, she tries to call to Chrysthal to get help, but is unable to do so. In her room, she is greeted by a very unwelcome visitor, and she collapses. (It Wasn't Meant To Be.) Chrysthal, sensing that something is not right, calls for help for her rider. (It Wasn't Meant To Be.) The stranger, who had been waiting for Merissa, fulfills his mission by raping her. When he hears people coming, he commits suicide, believing that Merissa has ingested enough poison and will be dead soon, as well. (It Wasn't Meant To Be.) Gob and Nightwind return to the warren after helping Dru'Kar retrieve the last of his things. The dragon's whisper annoyingly, "Don't tell Gob." Gob is panicked to find his room "destroyed" and is relieved to find all his treasures still intact. He changes clothes and straps on a dagger, then goes to talk to Pav'lo to find out what's going on. Pav'lo, who is sad about Merissa's attack, explains about Elissa *cleaning* Gob's room and Merissa getting him the leathers he now wore. Pav'lo tries Gob as he's about to run to thank Merissa, but isn't fast enough. (Pains of the Young) Areena informs Th'rin of trouble at home, and he races from the med center at top speed [we have to assume here that he flew Areena over otherwise Xanthia would have beat him]. He arrives only seconds ahead of others who came at the queen's summons. He is greeted by the sight of Merissa lying under the dead body of a large man. Corra and Latnem arrive and help Th'rin. (Where has the time gone Part One) Th'rin realizes that Merissa has lost the baby. Merissa overhears and it is enough to stimulate a reaction. Fearing for Xanthia and her baby, she warns Th'rin about the poisoned tea. (It Wasn't Meant To Be.) Xanthia leaves Dru'Kar on getting an urgent call from Chrysthal that Merissa's in trouble. Xanthia arrives to find a crowd of people in front of the Warrenlady's apartment. She meets up with Oberon and Latnem. (When the world turns upside down) Th'rin gives Latnem the poisoned tea to take to Xanthia to find out what the poison is. (Where has the time gone Part One) Latnem will not let Oberon or Xanthia enter the apartment. He sends Oberon off to oil Doc for him, then takes Xanthia down to the green just outside the warren offices to explain to her about Merissa's rape and poisoning. Xanthia is overwhelmed by grief and survivor guilt after learning that Merissa also lost the baby, and feeling her own baby move inside her only adds to it. Latnem asks her to work with Ari to find the poison and the antidote. (When the world turns upside down) After hearing Xanthia exclaim that something's wrong with Merissa and seeing her take off on Maxima, Dru'Kar runs through the mud and the rain to the Warrenlady's quarters. He gets there in time to see Xanthia head up the stairs, and then he sees Oberon run down the stairs. (Too much...JUST TOO MUCH!!!) With hesitancy, Dru'Kar approaches Caradoc and Oberon. He notes how pet-like the dragon is behaving. He captures Oberon's attention as he begins to tell him about Pa'gan, his father, and of his own breeding and training for the royal guard. Oberon thus learns that he is now the Chieftain. (Too much...JUST TOO MUCH!!!) Late Evening - Ari is met at the med center by Xanthia who explains the situation with their warren lady Merissa. (Antidote) Back at the med center lab, upon opening the jar of tea leaves, both Ari and Xanthia agree it smells like hemlock has been added. (When the world turns upside down) They learn that she was poisoned by Hemlock, and Ari discovers they also used Nightshade. Ari pulls all that she needs and she and Xanthia head for Merissa's apt. (Antidote) Gob winds his way through the hallways, noting crying women. Emery explains to him that the warrenlady was attacked, and that the attacker took his own life. Ari appears as she and Xanthia are on their way to go help the warrenlady, and she reassures Gob. (Pains of the Young) Ari reassures Gob and they head up and are greeted by many who have stayed behind to help keep the vigil. Ari meets Latnem and explains what she knows and how to treat Merissa. Ari asks if while they treat Merissa she can burn a special mixture to help aid with the healing. (Antidote) Gob watches as Ari goes to help the warrenlady. He wishes he could go there, too. He mourns and feels he should have done more, that he let Merissa down somehow. (Pains of the Young) Ari and Xanthia return to the queenrider apartment and begin the treatment. (Crisis!) Ari meets Latnem and explains what she knows and how to treat Merissa. Ari asks if while they treat Merissa she can burn a special mixture to help aid with the healing. (Antidote) Eleanora battles with her emotions as she hears the news about Merissa's poisoning. She goes to the apartment and helps Ari prepare medicinals. (Whew! Am I Caught Up Yet?) Xanthia and Th'rin keep Merissa warm - Xanthia strips to provide body heat and gets into bed with her.(Crisis) Xanthia, Ari and Th'rin administer the herbals to Merissa and help her to purge the poisons, while Latnem and Eleanora bring draughts of herbals and coffee (and towels?) -- various posts cover this one. After all is done, Th'rin cleans Merissa up, and he and Xanthia hold her to keep her warm. (Where has the time gone; Part One) Xanthia feels the strain of the day. Corra brings Alina to Xanthia. Corra begins to rub her wrong, in light of her lies. Xanthia reaches out to Oberon who is [still] with Dru'Kar and Doc. (Crisis!) Oberon interrupts Dru'Kar, with regret, telling the Bear Nomad [that Xanthia contacted him], thus, Dru'Kar learns that Oberon and Xanthia are telepathic. Dru'Kar and Oberon return to the apartment. (Too much...JUST TOO MUCH!!!) Latnem pops his head in and tells Th'rin and Xanthia that Oberon is there and wants to see his mamma. (Where has the time gone; Part One) Xanthia tells Corra to give Alina to Dru'Kar and when Corra refuses to hand Alina over to Dru'Kar, Xanthia looses it and reveals all that Dru'Kar told her that day about the lies that Corra told, and how costly they were. The only think keeping Dru'Kar from losing control is Oberon. (Crisis!) Corra is persuaded to turn over the baby and leave the apartment for the good of all. (Where has the time gone; Part One A) Corra then turns over Alina to Ari and leaves, ashamed even more as she realizes she even forgot it was Xanthia's birthday. Oberon presents Dru'Kar with an interesting twist of logic. (Crisis!) Dru'Kar struggles with his own rage as he listens to Xanthia's outburst. He is more incensed when he hears Oberon's reasoning, fearing that Corra's twisted his mind around. (Too much...JUST TOO MUCH!!!) As Dru'Kar fights to get his rage under control, Ari calls out his name and hands him the baby Alina. He is brought to tears at the sight of the redheaded tot. He vows that Corra's lies shall not touch this child. (Too much...JUST TOO MUCH!!!) Very Late Evening - Oberon yawns several times and Th'rin states that the boy should go to bed. When Th'rin asks whether he should come tuck him in Oberon asks if Dru'Kar can do it instead. Ari convinces Th'rin to rest, and Thr'in asks Dru'kar for Alina. (Where has the time gone; Part One) Latnem asks Eleanora to keep an eye on Xanthia, then chases down Corra. (The Truth Confirmed) At the Med Center, Latnem hears Corra's side. She confirms the story, her motive being her selfish desire not to give up Xanthia after raising her for six months. She confesses that she really gave no thought to the consequences of what she did. He suggests that maybe a period of absence would help heal matters. Corra agrees to at least think it over during her shift and sends him off to return to Xanthia. (The Truth Confirmed) Dru'Kar guards over Oberon while holding the sleeping babe. (Too much...JUST TOO MUCH!!!) Latnem returns to the apartment but leaves when things calm down. Eleanora and Ari continue to work keeping the herbals, coffee and incense going. (Too much...JUST TOO MUCH!!!) Day 29 - more rain water levels overflow the river (Possible rescues needed downstream on Day 29!) *** Early Morning (Pre-dawn)- Dru'Kar admires Ari's female form as she drops her clothes to clean up a spill. Dru'Kar fights to keep from chuckling as Eleanora reminds Ari to have some modesty in front of Dru'Kar. Once she has a robe on, Ari offers to put Alina in her crib. (Too much...JUST TOO MUCH!!!) Dawn - J'red is out walking around the warren, contemplating the events in Merissa's apartment of the previous evening, when he is startled by the sound of dragons. But the dragons are not calling out in mourning, but in happiness for the eggs are hatching. ("Happy" Hatching!) Chrysthal calls out that they eggs are hatching, and wonders to whom they will join. She wonders also about the new young queen. ("Happy" Hatching!) The worst of the crisis past, Xanthia has just dozed off, then the dragons announce the hatching. Oberon eagerly greets Dru'Kar and informs him the eggs are hatching. (Crisis!) After he sets Alina in her crib himself, Dru'Kar is greeted by Oberon. The dragons trumpet and Oberon, after announcing the eggs are hatching, is off like a flash. Dru'Kar goes to seek out Oberon. (Too much...JUST TOO MUCH!!!) The temporary hatching cave fills up with eager candidates and onlookers. The first egg to hatch reveals a blue-green dragon named Trebble, who joins with Gerry Streudel. The other two eggs also hatch. ("Happy" Hatching!) Faylen has doubts about whether or not she'll join, though that doesn't diminish her excitement. She's surprised when she joins with the second of the new hatchlings, the small queen dragon named Shyla. (Dawn brings many surprises) After pushing his way through the crowd to find Oberon, and watching the first two eggs hatch, Dru'Kar is surprised to hear a voice in his head calling him "Daddy". Dru'Kar at first thinks someone is playing a joke on him, then realizes the voice is from the egg. He rushes to kill the hatchling within, but overwhelmed by grief and the love of the hatchling, he collapses crying on the sands. When his strength returns, he grabs the hatchling, Ursa, and raises her high in anger. He stops, stunned when he sees the bright red bear paw print on the sky blue hatchling's chest. He is suddenly overcome with love for the hatchling. Oberon brings forth a pail of meat for the hatchling. Dru'Kar feeds Ursa and joins in her feast. (Too much...JUST TOO MUCH!!!) Ari finishes up at Merissa's place with her new friend Eleanora. She remembers back earlier in the evening when they both dropped a batch and made a mess. Ari stripped down and began to clean the mess with her clothes, the newcomer DruKar witnessed it and Eleanora counseled Ari on how she should be more careful around others. (Open mouth insert .. .. .. ..) Morning - Ari checks on everything, notices that everyone is gone, leaves Eleanora there to watch over the sleeping family and heads back to lab. On the way over Firefly interrupts her thoughts and tells her of J'red and how he is making himself sick. Ari works up and plan with a little help from Firefly. She heads to her apartment instead, bathes, changes, and gathers some things. (Open mouth insert .. .. .. ..) In the dining hall, an impromptu hatching party begins. Analise storms in and confronts Gerry, angry over his having joined to Trebble as he will no longer be able to attend Bard's school. Nerika points out that Gerry isn't really alone, as he has not only Analise, but also Merissa and herself to help him. ("Happy" Hatching!) At the dining hall, Faylen is congratulated by J'red and Gob. She hears a commotion and senses fear, and goes to break up a fight. She finds Jael picking on Sheldon, accusing him of being an informant. When Jael punches Sheldon, Faylen responds with her own fist into Jael's jaw. (Dawn brings many surprises) As the commotion erupts, Dru'Kar intervenes before Jael can hit Faylen back. Accusations continue to fly until Dru'Kar shocks everyone by announcing that he's concluded that it was the prodigal queenrider who was the informant, responsible for the attack on Merissa as well as poisoning the dead wilder with Mandrake. He tells of the mandrake and maps he found in his quarters. (Too much...JUST TOO MUCH!!!) Gob goes to the dining hall after the hatching, on hearing about the accusations and he steps up to defend his friend. (Standing up for a Friend) Lorelei throws a fit about Dru'Kar's accusations, then leaves the dining hall abruptly. (The Silent Speak) Later, unable to forget the pain of the loss of her family, Lorelei and Cicadia write a note to Merissa and leave Whiteriver. (Goodbye) Ari stops at the dining hall and finds herself in and among the crowd of those celebrating the hatchings. She witnesses all of the confusion. Ari unnerved by such behavior slips away to her apartment to seek the sanctuary she needs to ponder on many things. After deciding what to do with J'red and what she needs to say she makes her away to find him. (Ari's Quest) Dru'Kar points out that if he is wrong about the mandrake and the maps, then that means that there is still one among them who is guilty of being the informant. (Guilt......or doubt?) Gob listens to Dru'Kar's explanation, offers Jael a hand up. Pav'lo enters and Gob turns everyone back to the celebration. (A beginning of an Adventure) Once the celebration is under way Gob slips out and rides off with Nightwind to see if they can find and prove his friend is innocent. He leaves Azhy a message of where they are going. Though Azhy thinks Gob is playing. (A beginning of an Adventure) After things have settled, Latnem offers his congratulations to Dru'Kar and tells him he believes he is telling the truth. J'red overhears and debates this in front of Dru'Kar. Latnem offers a voice of reason that truth and conclusions are not always the same thing. He offers some other options. During the discussion, Oberon shows up wanting reassurance. (The truth is not always as it seems) Late Morning - J'red is upset that the dragonriders of Beta Wing had not all shown up for practice and patrols. The Wingleaders and their seconds meet in the Warren Offices to discuss security and other problems. ("Happy" Hatching!) Ari heads over to J'red to tell him she is sorry for missing morning patrol. She finds him in the middle of the meeting and interrupts. She makes a mess of her explanations to the other dragon-riders she does not know. J'red dismisses her and she returns with his warm clothes and towel and offers to take special care of him later. She leaves feeling she has made things better for J'red. (Open mouth insert.. .. .. ..) Xanthia awakens to find that Eleanora has been taking care of things. Maxima fills her in on the morning's happenings. Xanthia thanks Eleanora and sends her to get some rest before getting Alina some lunch. (Show & Tell) Early Afternoon - After her meeting with J'red, she makes her way to the med center and to her lab to check on some supplies, and write down her findings on certain tests. Ari drafts a report to her parents, and begins to gather her things so she can get back to the Warren Lady's house and take over for Eleanora. (Ari's Quest) While oiling Melodia [Melly] on the green, Mara stops her brother Th'rin as he leaves to go to the medical center and asks after Merissa. (Mara? Who's that?) Xanthia walks in on a sleeping Dru'Kar and Ursa. She invites him to come see Pa'gan and Aradia's things. Ari joins them shows all the things, including a volume that she wrote herself,detailing all she knows about the Cult. (Show & Tell) Ari gets back to the apartment to find Eleanora gone, but invited to see XAnthia's treasured from her trunk. While sharing her treasures with Dru'kar, Ari watches them both excitedly sharing memories. (Ari's Quest) On seeing her own journal about the Cult, Xanthia becomes physically ill. (Show & Tell) When Xanthia pulls 2 books from the chest, just one of them sends her fleeing into the other room, emptying the contents of her stomach. Ari follows to make sure all is well and they talk hesitantly about the book. (Ari's Quest) Xanthia tells Ari to read it, and she will answer any of her questions. Ari muses on these things, while checking on Merissa, making a rich stew for her to eat when she awakens and getting things in order to help the healing process along. (Ari's Quest) Ari decides she will read the book later in the evening and learn what she can. (Ari's Quest) While going through the chest of Pa'gan and Aradia's belongings, Dru'Kar places the circlet upon Xanthia's head, calling her by her tribal name Yashina, and informing her that she is now the priestess. (The past....where it belongs.) Xanthia responds with shock and disbelief when she is told she is the Bear Nomad's priestess now. She recites a list of reasons why she isn't worthy, why she doesn't measure up to Aradia. When Xanthia grows weak at the knees from the shock, Ari suggests that she lay down but Xanthia feels her place is with Merissa. A compromise is reached, and Dru'Kar carries her to Merissa's bedroom. Xanthia explains the origin of Merissa's red streak is because of Aradia's healing by touch, something Oberon can do but not her. Ari decides that Xanthia should eat something and goes to the kitchen to get her some stew. (Unworthy) Afternoon - While Ari is checking on the baby Alina, Latnem enters the apartment having been summoned by Xanthia. Ari and Latnem have a small chat over some tea about the dangers of Gob being gone and what it means. Latnem then goes into see Xanthia and check on her condition. (A Day of Mis-adventures) (Out of the Warren) Gob discovers a family in need of help when Nightwind picks up the scent of a bear. He manages to talk the dragon out of eating it in respect of the bear nomads. With Azhy's help the get them out of their home and to safety. Gob finds he is effected strangely by the one called Sarah. (Gobs Little Adventure) Late afternoon - Ari takes care of Alina, feeding her and bathing her and then playing with her for a time. While she is watching the baby play she ponders on a few things from this morning, and thinks she has figured out what tests she needs to run later at her lab. She is happy to have solved another riddle and quietly hums a strange tune that has always calmed her and soothed her. (A Day of Mis-adventures) Merissa awakens to find herself in her bed with Xanthia... and two men in her bedroom. Terrified, she begins to scream until one of the men reveals himself to be Latnem, the mindhealer. Once calmed down, Merissa discovers that she's lost the baby, but is unable to recall how. (Was it a nightmare?) Areena alerts Th'rin that Merissa is awake and screaming. He rushes to their apartment and he and Xanthia comfort Merissa. (Time Together) (Out of the Warren) Gob chats with Sarah as they ride toward their retreat. Once at the retreat he gets in a fight with John Henry who doesn't seem to like him. Feeling embarrassed Gob flys off to rescue more people. (Gobs Little Adventure) Early Evening - Ari is at her lab and speaks to Azhy for a short while, and he tells her of their adventure and that they are fine. Ari works on some new tests to see if she can find out who killed the wilder queen and armed with what Dru'Kar has said earlier she tests some theories. (JP House Call) Evening - Ari gets a call from Firefly who tells her of J'red and how ill he is. Ari agrees to go to J'red to help him. Firefly takes her to their apartment so she can begin to heal Jred. Firefly does not bother to mention to J'red that Ari is waiting at the apartment. There is an awkward moment between Ari and Jred as he strips out of his wet clothes and finds Ari in his bathing chamber getting his bath ready. After a rough start, some wine is poured and soon they are chatting and sharing parts of their past with each other. Both wishing for a truce, a peace to be made between them. The evening progresses and Ari begins the massage for J'red. He falls asleep and dreams of things he deeply wishes. Ari is also tired and falls asleep as well. She curls up next to J'red and dreams of sweet things as well. (JP House Call) Gob returns on his last trip with John Henry's father and joins the Crotchets for dinner and to stay the night. (Gobs Little Adventure) Late Evening - Feeling lonely and somewhat an outsider, Xanthia ponders about her relationship with Th'rin and Merissa and her own sense of self. (New Beginnings) (Out of the Warren) Gob and the family eat and talk about warren life, Sarah learns of Ari and becomes jealous thinking she is Gobs girl friend. (Gobs Little Adventure) Day 2 (Old Day 30) - light rains, scattered clouds Before Dawn - Dru'Kar awakes before dawn and begins going through his bundle from the ill fated camp. He takes inventory of things he will need for this day and also recovers a dress worn by Henda and some herbs and oils needed for the preparation of her body. He asks Ursa to mentally contact Xanthia and ask her to meet him at the med center. He then goes to the med center to get things ready. (What a morning!) Sunrise - Xanthia arises and prepares for the day. Asking Areena for the mental pictures, she fixes both her and Oberon's hair as Aradia and Pa'gan once wore theirs and she adorns herself with the circlet which was once her sister's. (New Beginnings) In the med center Dru'Kar has a very brief encounter with Corra and then meets a dragon healer named Dalmar. Dalmar helps him gather some herbs that Dru'Kar was missing.(What a morning! and One Post, Medium-Rare, and Don't Hold The Catch-Up!!) Morning - Merissa feels better when she awakens in Th'rin's arms. Th'rin offers to make her breakfast. He comforts Merissa and tells her when she is stronger he will discuss what has happened to her. (Time Together) Th'rin is surprised by Xanthia's appearance. They have a discussion before she leaves for the med center with both Oberon and Alina.(New Beginnings) Th'rin offers to keep Alina at the apartment with him and Merissa, but Xanthia refuses. He then suggests Corra instead of the nurses at the med center and is surprised by her anger. (Mara? Who's that?) At the med center, Xanthia has a confrontation with Corra, who puts her down harshly. Latnem hears part of the discussion and is shocked by Corra's behavior, especially since she appears to be speaking the truth about her feelings. He resolves to discuss the matter of Corra later with Th'rin and Merissa. After leaving the toddler Alina in one of the nurse's care, Xanthia and Oberon find Dru'Kar. (New Beginnings) In the Med Center Dru'Kar meets Xanthia and Oberon and sends Oberon to take care of Ursa during the day.(What a morning!) Dru'Kar then teaches Xanthia the Bear nomad traditional preparation of a deceased person.(What a morning!) Dalmar talks to Areena about the apparent problem with his bedside manner. Areena is more than glad to help (One Post, Medium-Rare, and Don't Hold The Catch-Up!! and There's always work for eager minds) (Out of the Warren) After eating breakfast Gob heads out of the camp but is first stopped by John Henry who thanks him for saving his father. (Gobs Little Adventure) Late Morning- Dru'Kar sends Xanthia to the dinning hall to eat and goes to talk to Pav'lo about some things he needs. (What a morning!) At the dining hall, Xanthia continues the work she started earlier telepathically by visiting the tables of several of the riders and filling them in on the festivities of the evening. Not seeing Ari or J'red, Xanthia asks Maxima for more information on where to find them and is told they are "cuddling". (New Beginnings) As Elsa is leaving, Pav'lo is visited by Dru'Kar who requests some tarps, poles ... and dry wood or coal. Pav'lo gives the tarps and poles, and sends Dru'Kar to the smithy where he might ask if G'Orgun has any coal. (Something to Burn!) Dru'Kar is on the way to the Whiteriver Tavern to arrange for drinks for the evening's feast, when he is stopped by a drill Sergeant of a woman. (What a morning!) Oberon stops Dru'Kar on the green after Tatiana leaves. He is going to get food from the dining hall for Ursa. He helps Dru'Kar out by asking the dragons to gather and dry wood for the funeral pyre, and offers to ask Ybini and Glynda about food for the celebration, and asks Xanthia aka Yashina to talk to the Tavern Owner about drinks, so Dru'Kar can prepare for his cleansing.(To kill love...) Finally awake, Eleanora hears some juicy dragon gossip and goes to have some girl-time alone with Merissa, sending Th'rin to eat and recharge.(Hah! I Know I'm Caught Up NOW - Aren't I?) Xanthia agrees to see about the drinks for the ceremony.(Getting it all arranged) J'red awakens feeling better than he has in ages, to find Ari in his bed and in his arms. Trying to recall the previous night, he blunders through the conversation. Ari seems to confirm his fears, but before it can be all sorted out, Emery arrives. (Oh! What A Beautiful Morning) Emery goes to see J'red about Gob missing and finds the wingleader with Ari. Ari leaves. (A Return to Abnormality) Eleanora comes to visit Merissa and fills her in on the goings on around the warren. Merissa compares herself to a helpless baby when she spills some water, bringing on a flood of unexpected emotions as Eleanora describes what a baby does, and that Merissa is not one , with the loss of her own baby coming unexpectedly to mind. (What's Gossip between Friends?) Xanthia returns to the med center to feed Alina, then leaves the child still in the care of the nurses as she goes to meet up with Dru'Kar. (New Beginnings) Noon - Dru'Kar finds a spot on the green and begins to battle his shadows. (To kill love...) On her way out of the med center, Xanthia is questioned by Th'rin about Corra. Xanthia fills him in on Corra's lies and the way she spoke to her that morning. Th'rin responds with disbelief. ("Getting it all arranged" and "No easy answers") As Xanthia leaves the med center, she sees the dragons gathering and drying wood, Maxima among them. She asks the dragons to please also stack the wood as is proper for a funeral pyre.(Getting it all arranged) Ari gets dropped off at Merissa apartment and finds everything quiet. She gets another message from Azhy and learns he is not on his way home. She reflects on her night with J'red and can't understand the range of emotions she is feeling. (If it's not one thing it is another) Xanthia returns to the apartment to change clothes. She comes out of her room to find Ari. She tells her of the Celebration of Life to happen at Sunset.(New Beginnings) Early Afternoon - As Maxima flies Xanthia over the green, she sees Dru'Kar fighting with no opponent. Oberon mentally tells her that Dru'Kar is practicing. Xanthia goes to the tavern and speak to Olaf the tavern master, who agrees to supply 3 kegs of mead as well as lager, ale, and drinking horns. Xanthia then follows up on Oberon's visit to the dining hall kitchen and speaks to Ybini and Glynda, who assure her that all is in order there. (Getting it all arranged) The dragons attempt to dry some wood. Sunflower and Panzeree discover a way to dry without burning it. Then they help construct a pyre. The sun comes out and the dragons go off to enjoy the sunshine. (Something to Burn!) Xanthia leaves the dining hall and sees Dru'Kar still fighting an unseen foe. A crowd has gathered nearby, Th'rin and Latnem among them. They explain he's been at it for hours and won't respond. Xanthia decides to try. Dru'Kar responds to Xanthia's voice. She allays his fears about time and shows him that the dragons have seen to building the pyre. (To kill love...) and (Getting it all arranged) Th'rin takes note as he hears Dru'Kar mention the need to speak to Merissa, and then cautiously agrees. (Pyre Time and No easy answers.) Emery decides to wait for J'red at his office. (A Return to Abnormality) J'red heads to his office where he is bombarded with news of Gob's disappearance. J'red, Tatiana and Emery send out search parties. Hearing that Gob and Nightwind had left with Azhy, J'red calls in Ari. With mixed emotions he confronts her with the facts as he knows them, and he is disappointed with her answers. (Where to Look?) After some discussion J'red, Emery and Tatiana send out search parties. Emery joins a party pairing himself with Nerika. (A Return To Abnormality) Ari gets a summons to J'red Office and she goes there with dread. (If it's not one thing it is another) Afternoon - (Out of the Warren) Gob enjoys the hunt with Nightwind and Azhy as they take down a new beast he had never seen before. (Gobs Little Adventure) (Out of the Warren) Azhy reflects and remembers his better times with Ari. He travels with Gob and Nightwind and experiences new animals and can feel the faint feelings of Ari making him long for her and home. (An Aching Heart) Nerika gets impatient, leaving on the search before Emery can join them. She links up with Barsel and Elissa, and together they spot some herdsmen and cattle in need of rescuing from floodwaters. Their efforts are less than successful, and they wait for Emery and Tahuti to join them. (Just Singin' In The Rain (JP) ) Dru'Kar speaks to Gol the blacksmith and invites him to the Celebration of Life (Pyre Time) Tatiana comes and relieves Eleanora at Merissa's bedside. When Merissa awakens again, they talk about old friends that have passed on before them, and about finding the reason behind the attacks against the warren. Merissa sends for some journals of past attacks to read to Tatiana. (Old Dogs) After the meeting with J'red Ari makes her way to her lab to check on her new tests and discovers it has been smashed and destroyed. She stumbles in the dark and hurts herself. As she begins to treat herself a woman shows up asking if everything is alright. She introduces herself as Elsa and helps Ari clean up. (If it's not one thing it is another) Ari realizes why her lab was destroyed. She makes her way home and is afraid. She goes home and relaxes in a bath. (If it's not one thing it is another) Eleanora comes to visit Ari to see how things are going for her and curious of the gossip that surrounded her and J'red. Arriving she finds Ari in tears, huddled on the bed wrapped in a towel... After closer inspections noticed the bruising and cut marks on her and questions her. After a time Ari begins to trust and blurts out all the trouble she is in, and her confusion in why everyone is so upset with her. Ari shares about her night with J'red and also her hear of her destroyed lab. (Hah! I Know I'm Caught Up NOW - Aren't I?) /(JP No use Crying over Spilt Milk) Eleanora comforts and talks Ari to go with her to the Dining Hall to eat and hopefully find someone to tell about her lab. (JP No use Crying over Spilt Milk) Eleanora brings Ari to the Dining Hall to get her to eat something and try to relax after her long day. They see Pavlo and Eleanora waves him over. They talk about Gob and Ari tries to explain why she did not say anything. Eleanora signs to Pavlo about Ari and he begins to ask about her injuries. Tatiana overhears part of the conversation and interjects and questions Ari. There is a small standoff, but Ari shares what she knows. Tatiana promises they have nothing to fear; she will find those responsible and exact a payment. (JP Tatiana and Ari: The Stand Off) After talking with Ari and Eleanora, Pav'lo takes Tatiana to meet with the leader of the tithing caravan that had arrived the day of Merissa's attack. They learn that a couple and a young man joined the caravan along their way. (More Pieces of the Puzzle.) Issabol pays a visit to Merissa. (No easy answers.) Dru'Kar pays a visit to Merissa and states his allegiance and his oath to protect not just Merissa, but the warren itself. After Merissa accepts his offer, he invites all there to join with the Celebration of Life (Pyre Time and No easy answers.) After Dru'Kar leaves, Merissa and Th'rin discuss relationships and events and try to sort out where things stand. (No easy answers.) Xanthia arrives as Dru'Kar is leaving the queenrider apartment. She hears part of the conversation between Th'rin and Merissa that upsets her. After bathing and changing, she goes into Merissa's room to set the record straight, then leaves for the funeral pyre when Oberon sends word that it's time. (Strained Relations) Evening - [Out of the Warren]) Gob finds a cave and explores it. One area he feels uncomfortable and retreats back to the main room. (Gobs Little Adventure) Dru'Kar cuts off his little finger off his left hand. After bandaging it, he carries Henda out to the green and places her and the severed digit on the pyre. He lights the pyre, then toasts the dead with a horn of mead, thus beginning the Celebration of Life. (Pyre Time) Eleanora scolds J'red about his treatment of Ari and expresses concern for his stress level - complete with an offered solution. (Stress Relief - Don't We Wish!) Sheldon returns from search and rescue. He goes to have dinner and meets up with Issabol. They discuss the celebration and both not wanting to go alone, so decide to go together. (Live and Fight Another Day.) Issabol, delighted that she was no longer going to the celebration alone, found her thoughts drifting to various possibilities for her future. (Out of an 'Orange Colored Sky') At the celebration, Sheldon is harassed by three drunk dragonriders who hold a grudge. He is defended by Issabol and then Ari. Their ire deferred to later, the three go drink some more. While Sheldon is dancing with Issy, Jael cuts in, and the other two, Barsel and R'han take Sheldon down, and then Jael joins the fray. Issy is tossed aside in the excitement. J'red arrives to stop the fight, and believes Issabol over Jael, Barsel and R'han, who end up grounded. Sheldon is treated by Ari and then sent to the medical center. Issabol accompanies him to make sure he goes. (Live and Fight Another Day.) Th'rin, who had spent most of his day napping and taking care of Merissa, goes to the medical center to check on things and perhaps chat with Corra. He is there when Sheldon is brought in. Issabol stays with Sheldon while Th'rin examines him and concludes he has a minor concussion. Issy offers to take Sheldon home, but Sheldon is afraid of what others might think of her. After assuring him that she really couldn't care less what others think, Sheldon is happy to have Issy accompany him home. (Out of an 'Orange Colored Sky') After the pyre and some celebrating, Xanthia sees Dru'Kar wander off with Ari. She takes that as her cue to send Oberon home before the atmosphere becomes too adult. She wishes it was her with Dru'Kar and wonders if she should follow her urges and go join the pair or wait for someone else to approach her. (Strained Relations) Gol works past his fear of people enough to venture out to the Celebration of life. After standing at a distance, he moves to bask in the fire, hoping for some human contact. (Outsider) Faylen recognizes Gol from his work shoeing horses and goes to talk to him. Then she sees J'red leaving and follows him. (Soul Bearing and Sharing) Late Evening - Faylen stops J'red as he is leaving the celebration. Convincing him to relax, they find a quiet spot to dance. Then he invites her up to his apartment. (Caring, Concern, Conniving & Confrontation.) [Out of the Warren] Gob awakes from a dream of a former queenrider and his dragon fighting with people dressed as a fur covered beast. A woman with no eyes lays her hands on the rider's head as though sucking the very thoughts from him. He watches as a portal opens allowing the rider and dragon to escape. . (Gobs Little Adventure) After finishing up on some paperwork, Th'rin heads home and crawls into bed besides a sleeping Merissa, wondering how long she'll allow him to be there. (Out of an 'Orange Colored Sky') Day 3 (old Day 31) - partly cloudy brief rain high humidity Before Dawn - J'red awakens next to Faylen, but can't go back to sleep. He goes out onto the ledge and thinks about the events of the previous day. He decides he needs to give a speech to Beta Wing. (Caring, Concern, Conniving & Confrontation.) Early Morning - [Out of the Warren] Gob wakes up for real and finds a dagger and a dragon scale and decides to go home. Nightwind and Azhy teleport him home. (Gobs Little Adventure) Oberon and Xanthia bring Merissa breakfast in bed. Th'rin takes Oberon to school, leaving Xanthia and Merissa alone together for the first time since Merissa woke up. (Breakfast in Bed (JP)) Xanthia and Merissa have a heart to heart talk. (Soul Bearing and Sharing) Xanthia and Merissa share a sweet, healing moment. (And... Conversations) Issy wakes up in Sheldon's arms, and then offers to make him breakfast. Sheldon searches his kitchen for anything suitable to eat, but doesn't find anything. However, any breakfast plans are waylaid by his being summoned to the wingleader's office. (Out of an 'Orange Colored Sky') Morning - Issabol goes by the offices before heading home to her own apartment to shower and change. She talks to J'red but finds that he had already decided not to hold Sheldon responsible for the brawl. (Out of an 'Orange Colored Sky') J'red summons the brawling parties to his office. First Barsel, Jael and R'han arrive. They argue with J'red and end up with extra duties as punishment. Second Sheldon and Ari arrive. To the former J'red apologizes, and to the latter, he offers thanks. (Dragonrider Discipline) Sheldon is stunned by J'red's apology. Issy meets him after the meeting and they go to the dining hall for breakfast. (Out of an 'Orange Colored Sky') Mid-Morning - J'red gives a inspirational speech to the dragonriders in his Wing.(Dragonrider Discipline) Two years after being injured, former wingleader, T'jellan [with his dragon Grunth], return to full active duty. (Where are they now?) Tevel, T'jellan's son, and his "night-owl" dragon return from a night-patrol and report for practice, but Kythycor is already drifting off to sleep. (Where are they now?) Late Morning - Gob, Nightwind, and Azhy arrive home to a welcoming party of sorts. (Gobs Little Adventure) Gob returns to the warren and confronts his teachers and friends. That come to find out where he has been. Gob tries to tell them who he was looking for but finds his mind can not recall. The ask him to come speak in the dinning hall to tell them about his adventures. But Gob is stopped once more by Faylen who wants to know where her squirrel is. Gob gives her the squirrel and calls him Tethers. (Home Sweet Home or Is It) Beta Wing begins practice when Gob returns to the warren. After everyone is sure that he is all right, Pav'lo and J'red take him to the dining hall for a little "chat". (Dragonrider Discipline) Dru'Kar, Xanthia and Faylen go to Merissa to tell her that Gob has returned. Merissa asks Faylen to stay and have some tea. (Soul Bearing and Sharing) Xanthia returns to the apartment with Dru'Kar and Faylen and tell Merissa that Gob is back. Faylen stays for tea and a chat with Merissa, who tells her the joys and responsibilities of being a queenrider. As Merissa falls asleep, Faylen leaves with a new purpose. (And... Conversations) Ari awakens in a strange place and sits and reflects all that she remembered. She goes back to her place to soak and clean up. She sees her injuries from the day before are healing. Azhy announces they are almost home. She hurries to the Green and with others watches as they return home. Ari runs to Azhy and hugs him and he notices there is a change in her. They talk for a bit, and Ari goes back over to say hello to Gob and finds that everyone seems to be staring at her. (Reunion) After practice, Elissa asks Tevel if he'd like to join her for lunch, but Tevel is tired and heads to bed. Elissa thinks about her relationship with Har'son and how he makes her feel. A dragonrider that she finds attractive, but doesn't know well, asks her what she is doing and she ends up inviting him to her apartment. (Where are they now?) Noon - Xanthia and Dru'Kar have lunch in Trinale's Garden. (Soul Bearing and Sharing) Afternoon - Analise and Nerika are strolling through the garden when they spot Xanthia doing some odd gardening with milk and honey. (Soul Bearing and Sharing) Ari goes to her lab thinking of the speech J'red had given the Wing and while she is busy she is interrupted by Jael who has been ordered to report to the med center to clean as part of his discipline. The share some cross and hurtful words. Jael scares Ari and she flees. Ari ends up in the Dining Hall to take a spot of tea and think over the harsh words to Jael. She is interrupted by R'han who also verbally attacks her. His venom is not quite as harsh, but nevertheless Ari slips out to find sanctuary. (JP - Fright to Delight ) Jael complains to Elsa about his unfair treatment and then storms off to confront J'red. He spots an obviously happy Ari coming from the warren offices and becomes angry as he firmly believes it is her fault that he is being put on stable duty. Jael gets no satisfaction in confronting J'red and goes away pondering what he can do, while J'red wonders how he can reach Jael and make him understand. (Caring, Concern, Conniving & Confrontation.) Early Afternoon - Th'rin is interrupted by Elsa who explains her actions from the previous day, blaming Xanthia for scaring her as the reason for her bringing Alina to Dru'Kar's room. (Out of an 'Orange Colored Sky') Mid Afternoon - Ari is found by Elsa who tells her of someone who is injured in the Stable. Ari volunteers to go and Azhy takes her. She enters the dark room and sees a man lying on the ground. She goes to him and discovers Barsel. They talk and although Barsel speaks heated words, they are not as hurtful as the others. Ari talks him into returning to the medical center and tells him she takes ALL responsibility for going against Jed's orders. Ari, Aedris and Azhy get Barsel back to the med center. Where Jael is and he confronts her again, and she leaves.(JP - Fright to Delight) Late Afternoon - Ari arrives at J'red's office and is told he is waiting for her. They talk and work out some of their misunderstandings and after stumbling through her explanations, J'red understands more of the story. Ari asks J'red for a boon, and when she tells him what it is he grants it. Feeling bolder she asks him for a lunch and swim date for the next day. He accepts and she leaves happy and is caught by a few people dancing down the hall. (JP - Fright to Delight) Ari leaves J�red office and slips into the Garden to keep from being seen by Jael. She encounters both Xanthia and Dru�Kar. Ari greets them, and asks a favor from Xanthia and they chat for a time, watching the beginning of the sunset. (A Garden of Ideas) J'red finishes up the patrol rosters, and while posting them sees Eleanora with more work for the queenriders. He offers to help. Eleanora at first refuses until J'red admits to her that he's planned a lunch/swimming date with Ari for the next day. (The Rest of the Story) J'red goes to the medical center to check on Barsel. They talk about Barsel's injuries and he admits that he got them trying to rescue Ari, who didn't need rescuing. During their conversation, J'red gives Barsel some things to think about.(The Rest of the Story) After talking with Barsel, J'red goes to check on Ari who said she'd be in her lab. She was not there, but J'red discovers that her lab has been trashed... again. He asks Elsa to find someone to clean it up. (The Rest of the Story) Returning to the offices, J'red finds Eleanora with Issabol and Faylen going over the paperwork that has been piling up during Merissa's illness. He offers suggestions of people in the warren who could handle some of the work. Soon they have managed to delegate a large share of the tasks. (The Rest of the Story) With J'red's help, Issabol and Faylen assign tasks while Eleanora reads them out.(Out of an 'Orange Colored Sky') Twilight/Dinner Hour - Ari goes to the dining hall to ask a favor of Zara and Ybini. She meets up with Gob and he shares his new duty and asks her to join him in the morning to give the new hatchlings a check up and she agrees and also suggests perhaps Dalmar could join them and maybe learn a thing or two. Ari leaves and she and Azhy head back to their place to spend some quiet time alone and catch up on their adventures while separated. Azhy still can feel Ari�s fear, but does not know from what or why. (A Garden of Ideas) J'red and the queenriders finish up the paperwork and head to the dining hall. Faylen and J'red go first followed by Issabol who is met by Sheldon. The four have a late dinner. As Ybini, the cook, leaves she spots J'red and tells him that everything is ready for his lunch date the next day. (Would You Take Advice from a Dragon?) Sheldon pulls Issabol away from her work and out of her office and takes her to dinner at the dining hall. After J'red leaves, Issy and Faylen talk about the waiting paperwork -- and tease Sheldon. (Out of an 'Orange Colored Sky') Evening - Th'rin returns to the apartment to find Merissa reading a book. After checking her over and making sure she is recovering well, they sit and discuss Th'rin's encounter with Elsa, and her accusations of Xanthia. Both are bothered by Elsa's actions and accusations, but can't put a finger on why. (Out of an 'Orange Colored Sky') Gob talks to Punkin about women and being so small. He tells Punkin that he can't stay he needs to see Sarah again and doesn't know what to do. (Mushy or not to be Mushy Growing up is hard to do) Gob asks Punkin for advice. Punkin suggests he talk to Emery about tagging along on a patrol run near the mountain where Sarah's family is sheltering. (Would You Take Advice from a Dragon?) Late Evening - Firefly gives a nervous J'red advice about romancing Ari, suggesting that J'red leave it all to him. (Would You Take Advice from a Dragon?) Day 4 (old Day 32) - Clear Skies Morning - A Royal Courier arrives at WhiteRiver to bring an announcement of the Prince who is coming in a fortnight. There is also a second message that is for only Merissa and MUST be hand-delivered personally. Everyone who hears the joyous news is excited and begins to plan for the fun event. (THE ROYAL PROCLAMATION) Eleanora leads the couriers to Merissa's apartment, where they deliver the "to-her-hands-only" message and leave. Merissa reads the heart-imprinted note to discover the Prince is looking forward - a LOT - to seeing her and that Mahti sent Eleanora an equally flowery note. They reminisce about the mating flight and meeting with Mahti to much amusement and then contemplate the reasons for the Prince coming to the Warren. At length, Eleanora insists the tired Merissa return to bed, to prepare for being well enough to properly receive the Prince in two weeks time. (Valentines) Gob meets with Dru'Kar and Gerry to start their instructions. He then leads them the med center so that Ari and Dalmar can instruct them in the way to care for their dragons. (Mushy or not to be Mushy Growing up is hard to do) Ari and Dalmar greet the hatchlings and their new bond-mates. Dalmar starts the lesson with a detailed description of his implements and tools. All are nervous and slightly scared of them. Gob enjoys the demonstration. Ari takes over and goes over each dragon hatchling and chats with them, and then tells each of the riders what she has learned. She hums her little tune, and also offers the hatchlings Azhy�s knowledge of the Wilder ways. Gob dismisses them until the next day, Ari remembers she has a lunch and swim date with J�red and hurries off to prepare for that. Dalmar and Gob are left chatting. (Open Wide . . . .) Noon - Ari goes to J�red�s office to meet up with him and go on their planned outing. J�red takes them to a remote lake that he used to go to. They enjoy their picnic. (Fun in the Sun) Afternoon - Gob notices that with all the excitement the days from the last hatching have not been changed on the board in the dining hall, so he decides to change them. (Falling Numbers and the Little Tumbler) Eleanora visits Barsel in the hospital and brings him some flowers. They talk, each with their own private and hidden agenda. (Heartburn) Late Afternoon - Ari takes the list of tasks J�red has given her and goes about her business to get them completed for him. She meets with Sheldon in the Dining Hall and there with Jr. Queen-rider Issabol they help her with ideas and Sheldon accepts the offer to teach dance and etiquette. (Checking the List) Early Evening - Ari then meets the famous bard Analise. Analise thinks she has met Ari, but is only interested in the new of the Prince. She agrees to perform HER prince and Ari offers the services of Gerry and Nerika as well. (Checking the List) Ari finishes what she needed to do, and heads back to J�red�s office to give him her report. (Checking the List) Ari finds J'red still in his office and reports about her progress. Analise barges in and after some caustic comments, she leaves, partially placated by J'red, though leaving J'red and Ari reeling. (Confessions by Candlelight) Evening - At The Tavern, J'red and Ari are greeted by Olaf [the Tavern Keeper] and share a late "supper" and a bottle of wine. J'red tells Ari about his family, and invites her to dine at the Fowler Estate. He explains how his sister Jennifer still hates him and blames him for death of their brother Jason. He also tells Ari that he was the one who killed Sheldon's elder brother Clyde. (Confessions by Candlelight) Late Evening - Ari and J'red don't want their day to end, and head to J'red's apartment [after Ari admits she never sleeps in her bed at her apartment]. After a "relaxing" bath, they curl up in front of the fire and Ari admits to J'red about her fears and he pieces together that it is Jael that she fears most. They also discuss the likelihood that there still is a "spy" in the warren. (Confessions by Candlelight) Very Late Evening - J'red leads Ari to bed, and they fall asleep in each other's arms. (Confessions by Candlelight) Day 5 (Old Day 33) - Bright and Sunny! Morning - T'jellan and Grunth rejoin the wing for practice, for the first time in a long time. He sees his son T'vel and his dragon Kyth looking tired. (Where are they now?) Ari is at morning practice and gets lost in her thoughts. She is told by J'red that she has a letter awaiting her in the Courier�s Office. Ari picks up the letter and chats with Eleanora. (Letter from Home) Ari goes to the Courier�s office to gather a letter from home. She gets the letter from Eleanora and hints she would like to speak with her about �things�. Eleanora picks up on the hint and the 2 go for a chat in the garden. (Girl Talk) Gob wakes up hurt and sore from the previous day sword practice with Emery. Pav�lo meets him and tells him when he meets with Eleanora to be on his best behavior. Gob meets with the Trainees and teaches them how to see images sent by their dragons. (A New Assignment) Mid-Morning - Ari confesses she has never worn a dress and Eleanora agrees to help her find one and help her practice walking in one so she won�t make any mistakes. They agree to go shopping the next day and Ari goes to read her letter and Eleanora returns to her office. (Girl Talk) Ari finds a retreat with Azhy to read her letter. She finds within news poignant and startling. Azhy volunteers to return home with a message and to pick up the reports. Ari calls to Firefly to help her �hide in plain sight.� (Letter from Home) Late Morning- J'red calls an end to practice. Tevel is greeted by Elissa who asks him to join her for lunch. He declines. Elissa accepts another man's advances instead. (Where are they now?) J'red goes to see Merissa about the conclusions he�d drawn about Gob and Ari. Merissa agrees with his assessments and assures him that he is doing a great job as Wing-Leader and she trusts his decisions. Merissa says that she wishes to talk to Ari herself before making any official changes. (A Little �Hands On� Never Hurt) Noon- Afraid of being harassed after Azhy leaves, Ari asks Firefly if she can give him a massage on the Green. Firefly is delighted and enjoys his massage, flooding J'red with the pleasurable sensations. Chrysthal tries to contact Azhy and discovers he had left the warren without notifying anyone. She finds Firefly and Ari on the Green and asks Ari about Azhy�s disappearance and then tells that Merissa wants to see her. Ari goes to Merissa�s apartment. Merissa thanks her for saving her life and then asks her to stay for lunch. Ari offers to prepare lunch, and Merissa realizes that Ari did a lot more for her when she was ill. She also offers Ari a choice of where she feels her talents could be best utilized and where she�d be the happiest. Ari is then assigned to the medical center as a healer of dragons and humans. (A Little �Hands On� Never Hurt) Gob then reports to Eleanora the two of them decide to send Gob off to do a damage survey. (A New Assignment) Afternoon- Gob heads off to do his Survey per Eleanor's orders. Finds that making a report on dragon back very difficult he decides to go to Marketa and meet up with his old friend Shed. (A little Survey) Mid-Afternoon � J'red calls Sheldon to his office and informs him about his assignment for the evening: escorting Issabol to Keldarra for dinner. Then he and Sheldon go to the dining hall to begin the dance lessons. (Telling Tales) Ari arrives for the first dance lesson, and watches J�red as he enters and makes the announcement. Sheldon picks her for his partner and the lesson begins. Everyone enjoys themselves and agrees to begin to meet every afternoon to learn all the dances. (One, Two, Step) Late-Afternoon - After the lesson Ari and Sheldon have a little chat and both leave to go their separate ways to enjoy their dinner plans. (One, Two, Step) Ari takes a bath in preparation for her dinner with J'red at the Fowler Estates. J'red searches for her when Azhy tells him she is not ready, and is momentarily frightened when he finds her asleep in the bathtub. (Telling Tales) At the Fowler Estates, Lord Fowler happily welcomes back his son and greets J'red's friend, Ari. He takes Ari on a tour of the Estate House, and Stables, but lets J'red have her back for the tour of the gardens. Jennifer spots J'red and Ari. J'red takes Ari to his favorite spot in the garden and tells her a tale about his first encounter with Merissa at that very place. (Telling Tales) Meriwen reflects on the journey to the warren and her stay with the others at Lord Fowler's Estates. She reflects on the sights she witnessed there, and also where life has placed her now. She looks forward to being and giving her best to the Prince. Upon arrival Meriwen heads to the Quarter Master's Office to announce their arrival and ask for suitable quarters for the group, and to tell them what the Prince will require on his stay at the Warren. (Royal Caravan) While in Marketa Gob finds that Shed now has a job and it seems Pav'lo had some help in that after their last visit. With damage report in hand Gob heads back and leaves his report along with some taffy on Eleanora's desk. While there he finds rocks on the papers and removes them and leaves via the (open) window. (A little Survey) Sheldon arrives to escort Issabol to dinner in Keldarra, but finds her not ready to go. He gives her a few suggestions and as they talk, she reveals that she is afraid that Belle may grow to be as large or larger than the Empress and that she would have to move to Keldarra. (Dinner and a Journal) Early Evening At the Fowler Estates, J'red escorts Ari to the family dining room, where they are met by Lady Jennifer and Lord Fowler. The dinner conversation has some starts and stops but overall isn't too unpleasant. (Telling Tales) While Nightwind and Gob are on their way to Gob's place, Firefly sends a message to Gob to return to Eleanor's office. He finds her office in a mess and tries to clean it up and uses peanut-butter to get the taffy off. When all done he leaves again not seeing that the office is messed up when he leaves once more. (A little Survey) Mid Evening After dinner the girls retire to the drawing room while the men go to Lord Fowler's study. J'red asks his father what he knows and is surprised to hear the tale of Ari's family. In the drawing room, Jennifer baits Ari and is rewarded with a surprising battle. As the men return, they overhear Jennifer and Ari arguing. Ari is ashamed and runs from the main house. (Telling Tales) Ari flees the house after the spat with Jennifer; she winds up wandering the garden and ends up in the special spot J'red had shared with her earlier. J'red rushes to stop Ari from leaving and is given a pie from the kitchen staff. He asks them to wait, while he fetches Ari. J'red learns Ari is lost and finds her. She confesses her part in the spat. J'red invites her back to the kitchen for pie. She goes and they spend the rest of the evening laughing and enjoying warm company. They leave to return to the Warren, and Ari discovers J'red and his father heard the whole spat. They laugh and return to the warren. (Wall of Shame) DAY 6 Morning- Ari awakens, and lingers awhile with Azhy. She makes her way to Eleanora, so they can go across the river to the merchants and stalls and do a bit of shopping. Eleanora teaches Ari about material and skirts and dresses. The girls enjoy having an impromptu try on session, enjoy a nice meal and make their way home. Before leaving, Eleanora is asked to bring Ari for tea with Merissa. (To Skirt and Issue) Afternoon- Zara delivers teacakes to Merissa's apartment. While there she helps set up and lets Meriwen in as Merissa 'freshens up'. After Zara hears a bit of "gossip" about Ari, she leaves. Eleanora and Ari arrive for tea. J'red tries to NOT concentrate on Ari, when Firefly interrupts with some gossip concerning her. J'red realizes he never told Ari about his father's revelation of her being related to the Prince. Firefly says that's what the gossip is all about. (Tongues Shall Wag) Ari and Eleanora get invited to Merissa's for tea and to meet a guest. Her name is Meriwen and she is the Royal Housekeeper for the Prince. She explains why the Prince is coming, which shocks all of them, Ari especially. The 3 women learn they are also to be given dresses, and arrangements made to them to begin fittings. After Meriwen leaves, Ari slips out while Merissa and Eleanora chat. Both are worried for Ari and vow to speak to someone to help her through this. (Tempest in a Teapot) Pondering the issues Meriwen brought up, Eleanora discovers that Gob has left his usual calling card and storms into J'red's office to have it out with him over the problem of what to do about Gob. (A New Job for Gob) Late Afternoon- Sheldon gets ready for the dance lessons and is surprised when Issabol arrives, offering herself as a substitute for Ari as his dance partner. Sheldon is thrilled to dance with Issy. As the lessons end, Sheldon finds himself worried about Ari and Issy tells him to go find her. He tracks her down without knowing how he does, at the bridge over the White River. (Tongues Shall Wag) After discussing making Gob a searcher, Eleanora and J'red begin to discuss Ari when J'red learns of her distress and rushes out. (A New Job for Gob) Ari is discovered at the bridge struggling with whether to stay or go. Sheldon talks with her, and figures out what is bothering her. She shares what she has just learned and Sheldon counsels her and Ari learns what it really means to be a Dragon-rider. Excited with what she looks as freedom, she hugs and then innocently kisses Sheldon in happiness and thanks. J'red sees them share a kiss and then dance on the bridge (A Place to Call Home) After attempting an explanation, Sheldon leaves, and J'red offers to walk Ari back to his office and for dinner later. They walk back and Ari helps with some of the paper work. (A Place to Call Home) Early Evening- Ari delivers the papers she and J'red had been working on. She happily chats with Faylen not aware that her heart is breaking over J'red. After Ari and J'red leave she cries and Eleanora walks in and questions her. (Paperwork and Heartache) Faylen confides in Eleanora her crush on J'red and Eleanora sympathizes, but Faylen is too hurting to accept the truth. (Much Ado About J'red) As Ari and J'red leave to go to dinner at the dining hall, Firefly takes them to a remote place where He and Azhy have created with the help of Gob a romantic tryst. (A Place to Call Home) Late Evening- J'red and Ari profess their love for one another. And then return to the warren. (A Place to Call Home) Coming on duty, Elsa checks on things in Barsel's room. Barsel is complaining and anxious to get out of the medical center. Elsa tells him that she will check with Th'rin. Instead she asks Corra a very non-direct question and the healer gives her a very general answer, which Elsa relates to Barsel. Barsel takes it as permission to leave the medical center. (The Truth Shall Set You Free.) Searching for Eleanora, Barsel goes to the offices. He overhears part of a conversation between Faylen and Eleanora and learns that Faylen and J'red have slept together, and that Faylen is heartbroken. He leaves before they see him. (The Truth Shall Set You Free.) After taking Eleanora's advice and drying her tears first, Faylen runs to the hatchling barracks where she bathes Shyla another time to deal with her frustrations. (Two much) DAY 7 Early Morning- Ari arises and J'red escorts her to her meeting with Meriwen. They spend a short time together and J'red offers his services so her preparations will go smoothly for the arrival of the Prince. J'red leaves to attend his duties and invites Ari to dinner. (Addressing the Issues) Ari and Meriwen chat and learn a few things about each other. Ari picks out the material she wishes and Meriwen talks her into have her dress made for the ball. (Addressing the Issues) Meriwen realizes that with Ari's wild ways, she will have a lot to do to get her ready for the Prince. (Addressing the Issues) Corra and Elsa meet and Corra in fear given Elsa the stolen journal from Latnem. Corra goes to the Dining Hall to try to relax and not worry about the theft. She sees her "grandson" but overhears he is told to ignore and shun her. (Lost!) Morning- Ari leaves the meeting with Meriwen and ponders on all she has learned since the day before. She is told to meet with Latnem in the Dining Hall for an impromptu meeting. They meet and he asks her to tell him what is wrong. Ari tries, but finds it hard to put her feelings into words that make any sense. Ari then notices Latnem's special locket he always wears is gone. (Addressing the Issues) Ari meets up with Latnem at the Dining Hall, they share breakfast and talk. Ari notices his locket is missing. Latnem discovers his journal is missing as well. They go in search for them in his office, and then begin a search of Th'rin's office. They find the missing locket, broken and Th'rin walks in and is confronted. (Lost!) Faylen takes care of the requisitions and gives them to Pav'lo, then she has training with the other new riders. (Two much) Th'rin and Latnem exchange words about the missing journal and broken locket. During the discussion Elsa and Corra's names come up, and Th'rin resolves to talk to Corra and to get to the bottom of it. (Dinner and a Journal) Late Morning- Meriwen cleans up from the morning tea and heads to Eleanora's office to begin the fittings and measurements. She runs into a little opposition from Eleanora, but moves past it to be successful and then have Eleanora help her get Merissa to comply. (Tis SEW Fitting) Barsel wakes up late. He goes to the dining hall for "brunch". R'han tries to talk to him, but he waves him away. (The Truth Shall Set You Free.) Noonish- Ari is looking for Barsel in the medical center for his therapy, but finds him gone. She asks Th'rin about him which starts a search. (The Truth Shall Set You Free.) Aedris tells Barsel that J'red wants to see him in his office. Barsel thinks it has to do with R'han, but is shocked to find out that he was not officially discharged from the medical center. Unable to recall Elsa's name, Barsel has a hard time convincing J'red he's telling the truth. When J'red calls him on this, Barsel almost lets slip that he knows about Faylen. (The Truth Shall Set You Free.) Early Afternoon- J'red reassigns Barsel to wing duty. Barsel goes to tell Eleanora, but finds she's not yet returned from Merissa's. He helps Faylen carry a stack of papers into Eleanora's office. (The Truth Shall Set You Free.) Meriwen makes her way to Merissa with Eleanora after receiving missives from the Prince. Meriwen and Merissa have a chat and she too sees the wisdom and counsel behind Meriwen's words and relents to having her measurements taken. (Tis SEW Fitting) Xanthia and Ari chat as they work on making more wraith burn healing ointment. Xanthia is hurt when she finds out Merissa will be getting a dress but not her, but Ari encourages her to ask Th'rin for a dress, confident that Meriwen could make her one. They also discuss the loss of Latnem's journal. (Of Dresses, Journals, and Friendship) As Ari and Xanthia leave to take tea on the green, they run into Th'rin. Xanthia bursts forth with her eager request for a dress, telling him "it's only fair" since the Prince is supplying Merissa's. (Of Dresses, Journals, and Friendship) Th'rin is on his way to speak to Corra when he runs into Ari and Xanthia and they talk about Xanthia getting a new dress. Th'rin agrees she should get one, but then afterwards wonders if they were expecting him to come up with the money to pay for one. (Dresses don't grow on trees) Th'rin questions Corra, who tells him curtly that he won't find the journal there and to feel free to search. (I shouldn't have said that!) Corra quickly turned the conversation away from the journal and the strange events that were taking place at the med center. (Life is like Ping Pong (Part 1)) Early Afternoon- Xanthia and Ari take tea on the green. Ari asks about the money issue Th'rin brought up and Xanthia explains about how money is by and large not needed in the warren, so most people don't have huge amounts unless they were born to it. Still, Xanthia's excited to be getting a dress. (I shouldn't have said that!) Early afternoon-late afternoon Faylen decides to go for a ride. When she gets to the stables, She discovers that they haven't been properly tended to. She chews out Jael and then teaches him properly - she hopes - only he watches while she Does all the work. (Two much) Sunset- Just outside of Whiteriver Warren, Darude is contacted by Chrysthal as he waits while his rider thinks about Sel'n. Chrysthal invites him to come to the warren, where Grad is shown to the guest quarters. (Transferring Trouble) Early Evening- The hard work having given her some perspective, Faylen decides to tell J'red she's in love with him. She enters his office and is surprised and chagrinned to find him having an intimate dinner with Ari. Instead, she raves about the state of the stables. J'red chuckles in amusement and tells her to write a report and he'll tend to it in the morning. Insulted, she leaves in a huff. She goes to her office and makes sure to let J'red know that she was the one who cleaned up the stables by herself while Jael watched. (Two much) Gob over hears Pav'lo and Tatiana talking about Gob becoming a searcher, but they are not sure he has that gifts to make that work. (The Little Searcher that Could) Evening- Deciding to prove him self, Gob takes a night flight down into the city where he finds some farmers celebrating and discovers Jilly. (The Little Searcher that Could) Jilly meets Gob at the gathering after market day, is convinced he's pulling her leg about being a dragonrider, but follows him away from the gathering where she meets Nightwind. Agreeing to a ride, Nightwind takes them up above the town and teleports her straight to Whiteriver where Jilly panics and starts whacking Gob upside the head in fear. (Little boys bring big trouble) Gob brings Jilly to Whiteriver and introduces her to the astonishment of everyone. (Little Searcher and the Stranger) Jilly is lost and confused about what's happened and thinks that Pav'lo and J'red are accusing her of taking something called 'infinity' from them. (Infinity) J'red leaves Ari and a nice intimate dinner when Gob returns from a country market with a girl whom he claims has dragon affinity. Finding out that Gob has taken her without explaining the reason, J'red invites Jilly to the dining hall and tells her about what it means to have dragon affinity and what it is like to be a dragonrider. He then takes her back to the market and meets her Da, Henry. (To Infinity and...) Gob is given a lecture by Pav'lo, but is interrupted by Har'son who wants to test Gob's ability. He is suitably impressed that Gob can see dragon affinity and says so. (To Infinity and...) Late Evening- Xanthia comes home from her shift at the med center and eagerly tells Merissa about the dress, inadvertently spilling the beans about the Prince's buying Merissa's dress. Th'rin obviously was uninformed till that point and, sensing tension, Xanthia goes to check on the children. (I shouldn't have said that!) Oberon is distressed to hear what sounds like arguing and Alina awakens. Dru'Kar comes to see what is going on, and invites the children and Xanthia to spend the night. The children sleep on a pallet of furs in the spare bedroom while Xanthia sleeps in Dru'Kar's bed, her head on his chest, falling asleep from exhaustion after telling the Bear Nomad about the events surrounding the dress she wishes made. (I shouldn't have said that!) Day 8 Early Morning- Up with the birds, Faylen's first duty after tending to Shyla is to see the report on the stables is left on J'red's desk. After softly knocking, she enters the office and places the report conspicuously on his desk. (Two much) Morning- Dru'Kar escorts Xanthia and the children home, and presents Th'rin with a bundle of fur to use to barter for Xanthia's dress. He then kisses Xanthia on the hand and tells her she's welcome in his bed anytime before leaving to tend to Ursa, who now sleeps in the hatching barracks due to her size and inability yet to fly. (I shouldn't have said that!) Th'rin attempts to hide his jealousy over Xanthia spending the night with Dru'Kar's bed. (Life is like Ping Pong (Part 1)) Merissa goes into her office for the first time since her attack. She waits for Grad to arrive and then welcomes him to Whiteriver. She wonders if he will be a troublemaker. (Transferring Trouble) Pav'lo shows Grad some apartments and after he has chosen one, sends him to the dining hall to await Gob who will show him around the warren. (Transferring Trouble) Mid Morning- Ari is on her way to the Medical Center and stops to watch the training when a distress call is made from a pair of Wilders. They are spotted over the warren and the wing readies itself. Ari learns one is wounded and a clutch-mate of Azhy's and begs J'red to allow her to tend to them. Sheldon offers to go with her and they see that one has been wounded by a cross-bow bolt. Ari calls Dalmar to help and he is brought by Areena to help. (The Arrival of the Wild Ones) Dalmar gives the injured dragon a shot for her pain, despite some misgivings from both Ari and Areena (not to mention the wild dragons). He then begins the process of bandaging the injured wing. (A Shot In The Arm...Er, Wing!) Grad and Eleanora observe the commotion of the wilder dragons, then agree to eat lunch together. (Welcome Lunch) While watching the Wing practice, Firefly tells J'red about two Wilder dragons in the warren. With mixed emotions, J'red watches as Ari and Dalmar work on one of them that is injured. After the crisis is over, Ari almost faints and Sheldon is there to catch her. (Watching You.) Hearing about the arrival of the wild dragons, Xanthia runs off excitedly, leaving Th'rin with the children. Dru'Kar stops her and lays down the law, stay away from the wild dragons. After being set back down, Xanthia goes to work in what she now considers to be her garden. (Guard Duty (JP)) Faylen goes to see the wild dragons. When she sees Ari collapse and J'red become attentive, she suffers hurt feelings and leaves in tears. (Not Your Typical Queenrider) In her office Merissa thinks about the previous day's events and ponders about the dresses. She resolves to have dresses made for the two queenriders by the local tailors and talks to Eleanora about it. (Fittings, Fiascos, Formality, & Finesse) Late Morning- J'red goes to the stables to confront Jael about the report that Faylen wrote. Jael denies any wrong doing. The blacksmith, Gol, arrives to shoe a horse and J'red decides to ask him to oversee Jael's work. (Watching You.) Faylen works on paperwork with Merissa in the office when Latnem arrives. The two assess each other in their own unique way. Latnem notes the girl's unique perception for his emotional state, and he asks Merissa about the journal. Being the first she heard of it, she and Faylen listen as Latnem tells his tale. Faylen suggests something strange going on at the med center, and tells of the confusion over Barsel's release from the med center. (Not Your Typical Queenrider) While doing paperwork with Faylen, Latnem interrupts and asks Merissa about his journal. They talk about some of the strange happenings at the medical center and Merissa concludes that if Th'rin had been paying more attention, none of it would have happened. (Fittings, Fiascos, Formality, & Finesse) Ari begins to set up a small camp, knowing she will be up all night with the wounded female [wild dragon]. She leaves them resting with Azhy as makes her way to take care of a few things, and picks up a few supplies. Gob promises to help her later when he is done and join her. (An Unexpected Development) Lunch time- Grad and Eleanora have lunch; Grad talks abut his newbie anxiety, then goes off looking for Gob. (Welcome Lunch) Faylen is stopped by Barsel, who is looking for Eleanora. Barsel is disappointed to hear that Eleanora has already left for lunch, so Faylen asks Barsel if he would like to join her for lunch and then sword practice afterwards. (Not Your Typical Queenrider) Barsel has lunch with Faylen and has his eyes opened. He begins to appreciate Faylen for whom she is and enjoys her company. During the conversation he begins to see J'red and Jael from a different perspective. (New Perspective) Early Afternoon- After gathering supplies, Ari makes it back to camp and checks over the female wilder who is in pain. She discoveries that she is carrying eggs, and in her weakened condition might not be able to make it to the nesting grounds. Ari speaks to Chrysthal of the matter and she agrees to come to speak with them. Ari then shares the news with Firefly. Ari and Azhy nestle together and talk of the events. (An Unexpected Development) Chrysthal goes to talk to the wild dragons, especially the wounded female, who is heavy with eggs. She sees that the female is close to clutching and offers the use of her hatching sands. (Fittings, Fiascos, Formality, & Finesse) The Queen pays a visit and extends her welcome and the use of her sands should the need arise. After she leaves Ari and Azhy chat a bit about it and chuckle about the irony of it. (-JP - The Camp Out) Mid-Afternoon- At the med center, Xanthia emerges from the lab with cup of coffee in hand and is promptly run into by Gob, who is showing Grad around. She is okay, but the coffee cup is broken. She frets about the mug and Gob worries about Xanthia, and fears Dru'Kar's wrath. (Guard Duty (JP)) Late Afternoon- Faylen leaves the sword practice area and meets up with Gob who introduces her to Grad. Surprised at her appearance, Grad is assured by Faylen that she is not your typical queenrider. (Not Your Typical Queenrider) J'red arrives bearing sacks and surprises Ari with bedding and a meal and offers to join her for the meal, and to spend the evening with her chatting and talking about the days events. (-JP - The Camp Out) Early Evening- Merissa just awake from an afternoon nap, is greeted by an exuberant Oberon who tells her after much prodding that Dru'Kar wants them to meet for dinner in the dining hall. (Fittings, Fiascos, Formality, & Finesse) Dinner- Th'rin relieves Xanthia for dinner. Xanthia meets Dru'Kar at the dining hall, where Merissa and the children are also at the table. Dru'Kar explains calmly the reason for his decree and explains further about the duties of his position as Guard. (Guard Duty (JP)) In the dining hall, Dru'Kar's announcement is met with some resistance from Merissa, who reminds Oberon that going near wilders is not a good idea period, and that his Mamma said he is not to go near them. She is also concerned for Xanthia and asks her why she had wanted to go near them. (Fittings, Fiascos, Formality, & Finesse) Dru'Kar and Xanthia have a strong and loud rebuttal for Merissa in the dining hall, drawing the attention of other diners. (Attitudes (JP)) Gob is up on a cliff reflecting over the last few days, when he hears a sound in the darkness and is pulled away into a tunnel while Nightwind sounds an alarm. Pav'lo and Tatiana are the first on the scene and talk Nightwind back as they try to find Gob only to find a cloth with a flying Unicorn and Gob's dagger. But it's a trap and they barely escape the cave in. (Caving In) Hearing the news of Gob's being taken, Merissa rushes the family back to the apartment, fearing for their safety. (Beginning the Search.) Th'rin comes home after hearing about Gob to check on Merissa and the family. Merissa tells him that he is spending too much energy worrying about her and the others, and not spending enough time taking care of business at the Medical Center. (Life is like Ping Pong (Part 1)) Evening- Ari and J'red share a quiet moment, where Ari shares some of her fears and her growing feelings for J'red. They are interrupted by the alarm that Gob had been taken. (-JP - The Camp Out) J'red arrives as the cave collapses. He is relieved when he sees Tatiana and Pav'lo emerge, but is distressed when Tatiana declares it was a trap. (Beginning the Search.) Late Evening - Nightwind finally joins Ari and Azhy in the field and she spends time comforting him and trying to help him relax. After she gets Nightwind settled down she tries to find rest, but is kept awake with her thoughts, feelings and her questions. (-JP - The Camp Out) J'red sends the wing to search the surrounding country side for any sign of movement -- and for Gob. (Beginning the Search.) Midnight - Ari works on the female off and on all night and finally slips off to sleep just ahead of the dawn. (-JP - The Camp Out) DAY 9 Early Morning- Miss Meri reflects on past dealings with Ari's mother and wonders how he is doing since Ari did not show up at her scheduled appointment for their morning tea. Ari arrives and fills her in on all the news, from the arrival of the wild ones to the disappearance of Gob. Meriwen promised Ari that she will go to Xanthia at her place and begin the fittings, so she too can have a dress. (Meriwen's Report) Morning- After the visit, Meriwen checks on the progress of the dresses, and prepares to visit Xanthia. Before she goes, she sits down and writes a report for the Prince, so he will know Ari better and Meriwen hopes that perhaps the 2 will meet and fall in love. (Meriwen's Report) Xanthia awakens in Dru'Kar's arms after he guarded her and the children through the night. Concern is expressed about Xanthia's wan appearance. She agrees to take the day off. When they return to Merissa and Th'rin's apartment for a change of clothes for Xanthia and the children, she concedes to let Th'rin examine her before he goes to work. He finds nothing amiss and just tells her to rest and eat more protein. Dru'Kar tells Th'rin he will watch over Xanthia and the children. (Holding On and Letting Go (JP)) During the exam, Th'rin inquirers about what is going on between Merissa and Dru'Kar, but Xanthia evades his questions. He tells Xanthia to rest. (Life is like Ping Pong (Part 1)) Early Afternoon- At Dru'Kar's apartment, Meriwen shows up for Xanthia's dress fitting. After cloth selections are made, Meriwen and Dru'Kar notice Xanthia's sudden physical distress. Xanthia is put to bed and Ari is summoned, though Xanthia wants no one else to know or worry. Ari draws blood and does her best to help her friend, though both Ari and Xanthia fear the worst. Ari gives Xanthia tea and another herbal preparation to help her. Meriwen watches the children while Dru'Kar and Ari stay by Xanthia's side as she slips into a drugged sleep. (Holding On and Letting Go (JP)) Afternoon - After practicing all morning Barsel helps Ari and others in the medical center. (New Perspective) Late Afternoon - Merissa comes home to find Meriwen with Oberon and Alina and is told that Ari and Dru'Kar are with Xanthia. She goes to Dru'Kar's bedroom and finds out that her fears are realized -- Xanthia has miscarried. (Thoughts of Aradia) Early Evening- Ari cleans up after the struggle to save the babe, and is interrupted by Merissa's return home. Ari shares with her all that went on and with Merissa there, Dru'Kar takes a bundle and slips out. Ari finishes up with what she is doing and also slips out to run the tests. (Losing Ground) Xanthia awakens to see Dru'Kar and Merissa's sad faces, and Knows she lost the baby. She is told Ari is running blood tests in the lab and Th'rin is waiting to see her. Xanthia tells Merissa and Dru'Kar that she doesn't wish to see Th'rin, feeling she let him down and not wanting to see the sadness on his face. (Holding On and Letting Go (JP)) Areena tells her rider about the loss of his and Xanthia's baby. She refuses to take him home but comforts him. (Life is like Ping Pong (Part 2)) Th'rin comes home and Merissa tells him about Xanthia and the baby. They are joined by Oberon for a family embrace as they mourn the loss. Oberon is comforted that Xanthia is not "sick" like Merissa was. Merissa and Th'rin go to Dru'Kar's apartment to check on Xanthia. Th'rin waits outside as Merissa goes in to see how she is doing. Xanthia awakens when Dru'Kar and Merissa start to talk. Xanthia states that she doesn't want to see Th'rin, but drifts back to sleep. Merissa stands to leave, but is lightheaded. Dru'Kar supports her, just as Th'rin pokes his head into the room. (Thoughts of Aradia) When Merissa is about to collapse Dru'Kar helps Merissa to her bed and tells Th'rin to stay with her and take care of her. He asks Miss Meri to look after Alina and watch over Xanthia before taking Oberon with him to take care of a Bear Nomad tradition. (too great for this world.) Th'rin and Merissa exchange some painful words. Th'rin storms off and flies away on Areena. (Life is like Ping Pong (Part 2)) Evening- Dru'Kar and Oberon build a pyre for Xanthia's unborn baby and Dru'Kar explains the nomad belief why some babies never go full term. (too great for this world) Xanthia awakes to the keening/howling of the dragons and finds Miss Meri there with her and Alina. Xanthia explains sleepily that the dragons are mourning her baby. (Awakenings) [Note: this puts the occurrence of the pyre slightly earlier in the evening than the previous post, but since Keeper's wasn't as specific, I adjusted the timing.] Midnight - In Ari's lab: Ari runs the tests and finds the answers. She repacks her satchel and prepares for the long night ahead with the wilder female. Ari returns to the campsite. Ari spends the rest of the night checking on both Nightwind and the female. (Losing Ground) JANUARY, 2005 Day 10 After Midnight - Dru'Kar returns with a sleeping Oberon to the apartment. He checks on the family and then retires to the ledge to sleep with Ursa. (too great for this world) Pre-dawn - Ari gets up again and prepares the camp for the up and coming day. She makes sure the female has fresh water and heads out to let Th'rin what she found. (Losing Ground) Early Morning - Th'rin returns home after spending the night with his dragon, Areena. He slips into the apartment to start the coffee, when Ari arrives. (Life is like Ping Pong (Part 2)) Ari tell Th'rin what she knows and grieves for a moment outside looking at the beauty around her. Ari sends out a call and then runs back to the female. Nightwind offers to call for help, and Ari and Azhy settle in for the long haul; for the eggs are ready, and they are coming. (Losing Ground) Morning - Xanthia awakens fully at last and realizes that some time while she was in her drugged sleep she was put in a clean nightgown and clean sheets put on the bed. There is a vase of roses beside the bed. She takes a rose from the vase and talks with Maxima before going out to investigate the smells coming from the kitchen. In the kitchen she finds Meriwen cooking breakfast and watching over Alina. When Meriwen tells her that Dru'Kar is on the ledge with Ursa, Xanthia goes out there and has a heart to heart with Ursa while watching Dru'Kar sleep. Just before going to breakfast, she decides to lay the rose on his chest. Dru'Kar awakens with a start, clutching Xanthia's wrist in his hand while she hastily reassures him that it's just her. (Awakenings) Dru'Kar is awakened from a nightmare and nearly attacks Xanthia, but Xanthia inadvertently lets slip a hint to her feeling for the man. Ursa lets loose the bombshell of Xanthia's feelings for Dru'Kar and then does her first attempt of flying/gliding with a bit of a crash landing. (Always something....) Oberon expresses his desire to be chieftain of the Bear Nomads to Th'rin, who inadvertently brushes the boy off since he's running late. Since Merissa is running late and Th'rin is already at the med center, Latnem offers to take Oberon to school for her. As they walk, Oberon confesses his desire to be chieftain to Latnem, and his dislike of the arguing between his parents and Dru'Kar. (Bringing it all together) Th'rin humors Oberon, but begins to wonder if Oberon even needed him. Then Th'rin begins to think about his own mother who died when he was only 12. (Life is like Ping Pong (Part 2)) Barsel and Aedris go on patrol with Mara and Melodaria over Tilharnon. They spot a circus near a small town and investigate it, hoping to learn something about the missing rider, Gob. (New Perspective) Mid-Morning - Before tackling the Oberon situation, Latnem visits the new arrivals - first Jilly and then Grad - to see how they are settling in. He suggests working in the stables to Jilly. (Bringing it all together) Late Morning - Latnem pays a visit to Dru'Kar first to find out if he instigated the conversation he had with Oberon earlier that morning. He's satisfied to find that Dru'Kar had no clue that the boy was going to talk with him about his desires. (Bringing it all together) Noonish - Latnem goes from Dru'Kar's to the med center to talk with Th'rin, who is very rushed. Irritated by Th'rin's demeanor, Latnem calls an end to the meeting. He confesses his feelings for Merissa to Caradoc as he rides off to the warrenlady's office. (Bringing it all together) Th'rin thinks Latnem's timing is really awful, since he is dealing with the death of his second child. Th'rin thinks that Latnem blames him for the mess his family is in and everything else. He begins to wonder if he's become everyone's scapegoat. (Life is like Ping Pong (Part 2)) Early afternoon - Latnem is met by Oberon as he is about to enter Merissa's office. He ends up taking the boy into the meeting with him. After sending him off to check in with Dru'Kar, Latnem warns Merissa of the import of how she reacts to what Oberon is about to say, and assures her that Dru'Kar had nothing to do with this. Once Oberon arrives again, the boy expresses his feelings and desires to Merissa with Latnem's help, stating that he wants to be chieftain and that he wants Merissa and Dru'Kar to get along and be one happy family/tribe. (Bringing it all together) Dru'Kar cleans and explains a small bit of reality to Oberon that becoming Chieftain is not all fun and games. He then decides to go for a cool dip and will be there until late afternoon both swimming and stretching out and feeling the sun. (Always something....) Afternoon - Returning from Patrol, Barsel hears (through Aedris) that the wilder female dragon is laying eggs and goes to see. He sees Faylen and calls out to her. She waits for him to join her. (New Perspective) Mid Afternoon - Dalmar rushes to Ari's side and they ponder over and work through the dilemma of how best to help the wounded female who needs to get to the sands immediately. With the help of Dalmar and his medicine bag, and the aid of 3 large male dragons they manage to get the wounded female to the sands. (Get ME to the Sands on Time) Late Afternoon THROUGH Evening - Dalmar and Ari perform surgery on the wilder female, extracting the eggs which do not appear to have survived. (A Disastrous Delivery) Late Evening - Ari helps Dalmar to get some rest while she helps with clean up and ponders on many things. (Two Miracles in One Night) Day 11 Around Midnight - Gob hears voices, one is the whispering voice the other is someone important from town. The man from town leaves and the whispering voice escorts Gob to a chamber where a trapped Dragon is. After talking to the Dragon Gob learns it is wild and its name is Windfree. Gob frees the dragon and they escape [to White River]. The whispering voice meets up with a shadowy form that is like a shadow of a unicorn. (Voices In The Dark) Ari gets the call that Gob has returned and he brought with him a wounded injured Wilder. Ari rushes to them and after a slow start she steps in and begins the long process of tending him. Azhy contacts Firefly to tell his rider that Ari is alone on the Green with the wilder. (Two Miracles in One Night) Faylen is told of Gob's return, arriving on a wild dragon who has been abused. She goes to see if she can help Ari. (In the still of the night) Xanthia wakes up and goes out to the kitchen to find something to eat. She's surprised by Th'rin finding her there. They talk and she finds out that he never thought of her as his mate at all. (In the still of the night) Ari continues her work on the wounded and injured wilder named WindFree. J'red, Pav'lo and Tatiana show up, all wishing to check up on Gob and talk with him to find out what happened. (No Rest for the Weary) As Ari is working Barsel spots Faylen too close to danger and leads her back out of the way. She explains she is there to help and Barsel suggests going to help the Queen. Faylen spots J'red and sees him paying attention to Ari, Barsel watches her watching him and tries to lead her away so he can enjoy her attention. He promises to tell her his adventure with Ari and the wilders. (No Rest for the Weary) Gob finally gets off WindFree and goes with J'red, Pav'lo and Tatiana so he can tell them what happened and what he learned. (No Rest for the Weary) Pav'lo, Tatiana and J'red take the recently returned Gob to the dining hall, where they ask him about his ordeal. He relates what he can remember. Latnem arrives to deal with Gob's emotional state and J'red leaves to look for Ari. (Recent Returns) Latnem is awakened by Caradoc, who tells him of Gob's return and of Xanthia's upset. Latnem decides to go see to Gob, but tells Caradoc to keep an open ear to Xanthia in case she gets worse. (In the still of the night) Gob talks to Latnem (Boy's and their Pets) Ari takes Windfree to the campsite of the previous night and Azhy is waiting there to sit with him. Ari then makes her way to check one more time on the female and eggs and head to bed for a bit of sleep. (No Rest for the Weary) Pre-Dawn - Merissa wakes from a nightmare filled with sorrow and hears Xanthia crying. Merissa cannot get back to sleep. She goes out to the hatching sands to be with Chrysthal. Seeing the broken eggs she is overwhelmed. Ari returns and is overcome during her discussion with Merissa and also begins to weep. The dragons begin mourning. Chrysthal calms them all. (To Everything There is a Season) Dawn - Merissa invites Ari in for some tea. They talk about what might have caused the destruction of the clutch. Merissa tells Ari to go and rest as Ari leaves. Chrysthal notes that Ari intends on resting there at the hatching sands and sends for Firefly and his rider to take charge. (To Everything There is a Season) Ari is convinced to go back with J'red and have a bath and freshen up. She falls asleep in J'red's bathtub while J'red goes to her apartment for some bath salts and a change of clothing. He awakens her and then helps her get "clean". (In the Arms of Destiny) Early Morning - Xanthia awakens after having cried herself to sleep. Not wanting to be alone she and Alina head over to Dru'Kar's. (In the still of the night) Xanthia arrives at Dru'Kar's and tries to act proud despite her conversation the night before with Th'rin. She tells him of Th'rin's true feelings and shares her heartbreak with him. He encourages her to give herself time before making any decisions. (A time for living again) Afternoon - Ari awakens in J'red's bed and hears voices. Meriwen arrives to talk to J'red about Ari's destiny and his place in it. She asks him to help her to take her place in court -- which she points out is not J'red's place. Overhearing this, Ari comes out to confront them, but too late, as J'red and Meriwen have already left. Meriwen returns from her visit with J'red and takes a tour of the workroom to oversee the progress of Bryre and the girls with the numerous outfits for Lady Ari and the coming of the Prince. (A Flurry of Activity) Late Afternoon - Ari runs her tests in her lab and discovers the wild female had been poisoned. She ponders who to tell, and remembers the Warren Lady's interest. (A Detour on the Path of Destiny) Nerika tries to persuade Analise, who is practicing in the dining hall, into letting her sing a solo for the prince's arrival. (With A Song In Her Heart...) Early Evening - Ari returns to the campsite that she had set up and tends to the wilder known as Windfree. She sets things up and returns to check on the female and the eggs. She asks more questions and learns that her parents and the research settlement might be in danger. (A Detour on the Path of Destiny) Evening - Ari returns to the campsite to settle in for the night. She crawls into Azhy's forearms and tries to sleep. The wilder male comes to Azhy asking about his bond mate and the 3 male wilders chat and talk of things. Azhy laments that he can not bring comfort to his beloved heart and wishes he were human so he could. (A Detour on the Path of Destiny) Day 12 Early Morning - Ari works through her feelings and decided to tell Miss Meri how she feels. After almost being distracted she tells her in no uncertain terms she is staying at Whiteriver and storms out. (Ari's Way) Xanthia decides she's had enough of the apartments and wants out before she goes stir crazy. She misses contact with people. She breakfasts on Dru'Kar's side, where Oberon has already joined the large man for breakfast. (A time for living again) Morning - On a mountain not too far from WhiteRiver Warren, a man, an ill dragon and a large mountain lion look with hope and fear upon the warren. Finally reaching a decision, they make their way there, unsure of their welcome, but knowing it is their only choice if the dragon is to live. (On a mountain perch) Xanthia, accompanied by Dru'Kar and the children, visits the site of her lost baby's pyre so she can say goodbye. She scoops up some of the ash and places in a vial which she hangs about her neck. (A time for living again) Mid-Morning - J'red is pondering his conversation with Meriwen when Firefly tells him about a dragon and rider that have arrived. J'red comes to greet the new arrivals and sees Ari is already there examining the female. J'red is surprised to recognize the rider, Ash'chenon. (Recent Returns) While dressing for the day, Ari is told there is an ill dragon on the Green and goes to meet her. (Ari's Way) Ash arrives, feels threatened, but meets with Ari and J'red. He asks about Trinale, thinking that she is still Warrenlady of Whiteriver. (Prodigal Son) Ari greets the newcomers and gives her word of their safety. She then makes a quick general exam, massaging and trying to relax Wyn while she gathers some simple samples. She wonders if she will be allowed to take more samples to further their tests to discover what is truly wrong. (Waste Not, Want Not) Eleanora leaves her office in a good mood (yes, she really DOES like paperwork) intent on a picnic for Ari when she spots Ash on the Green and is overwhelmed by memories. (I Remember It Well) Wyndamenth goes for her initial checkup, while Ash meets with Merissa, Dalmar (?) and Eleanora. (Prodigal Son II) Ralengarde - Reginald, Earl of Ravencroft leaves the side of the King after being given his instructions to make his way to WhiteRiver. He contemplates his options and muses over many things. He sets out to WhiteRiver. (A Storm Approaches) Late Morning - Dalmar and Ari examine Wyndamenth, then have Wyn stay at the dragon clinic to rest until Ash needs her. (Holistic Healing) Noonish - Ari is in her lab running tests on what she was able to gather from the new dragon. She ran tests and compared the samples with the wounded female wilder and with her results, heads to share this information with Merissa and the Queen. (Waste Not, Want Not) Merissa welcomes Ash'chenon to Whiteriver, with a warning. She introduces him to Pav'lo, the quartermaster, so that he can get assigned a room. Gob appears at Pav'lo's request to help Ash bring supplies to Ash's new quarters. (The Arrival of the Infamous and Famous) & (Boy's and their Pets) Ash discusses rooms with Pav'lo and is surprised that Pav'lo unwittingly suggests his old rooms. He decides to take them. Ash also meets Gob. (Settling in) Tatiana hears of the arrival of an old nemesis and vows to get revenge on him. (Old Wounds) Ash attempts to dissuade Tatiana from attacking him. (Settling in) Tatiana goes after Ash, but is stopped by Merissa. (Hit the Road, Jack, and Don't Ya Come Back No More) Ash explains to Gob about what happened before Gob shows Ash around. (To everything there is a season...) Ari is visited by Tatiana and given her edict and demands. Ari is not happy with the conditions she is left with. She then decides she needs to speak with Ash, and try to see what can be done with Wyn. (-JP - Demands, Edicts and Questions) Early Afternoon - Xanthia and Alina are joined by Oberon and Dru'Kar in the garden where Dru'Kar teaches them Bear Nomad things while Xanthia tends the plants. They encounter Ash'chenon and Gob as Gob shows the new rider around, and introductions and awkward explanations are made. Xanthia tells Gob of her loss of the baby. (A time for living again) & (Boy's and their Pets) Ash adds a few words of condolences to Xanthia's admission. (To everything there is a season...) Eleanora swallows her fears and lets Ash sit with her, opening with an old standard. (The Smallest of Talk) Ash meets with Eleanora; they start with a very awkward beginning, but leave on friendly terms. (The Smallest of Talks II) Ari goes to Ash's apartment to ask about Wyndamenth's illness and Ash's history. After much discussion, they discover some common ground; he offers to coach her in the social graces, to help Ari avoid being used by the royal family. (A Discussion of Dragons and the Past (JP) (Repost)) Late Afternoon- Ari ends up at her place and begins to practice the art of walking in a dress. She finds this much harder than she ever thought possible. (Coming Undone at the Seams) In his apartment, Ash remembers and dreams about Solaris and the change in Wyn. (Memories) Early Evening - J'red leaves his office and longs to talk with Ari to find out why she was avoiding him, but is reluctant to. Firefly has other ideas and takes him to Ari, where he walks in on her attempts of practicing. She sees him goes to move closer to him and trips on the skirt and tumbles to the ground. The dress tears leaving Ari visibly upset and J'red tries to comfort her. (Coming Undone at the Seams) J'red and Ari are interrupted by a call for Ari to meet with Merissa and Th'rin. Ari leaves and J'red gets an idea and disappears with her torn dress. (Coming Undone at the Seams) Merissa and Th'rin's meeting with Ari is interrupted by Eleanora announcing the arrival of the Prince. They rush out to greet him. (The Arrival of the Infamous and Famous) Nerika returns to Analise with her request, and gets Analise angry just as Merissa and the prince arrive. (With A Song In Her Heart...) Merissa and company escort the Prince to the dining hall for supper, where Ari slips away, after noticing that J'red is missing, and during an interesting scene between Analise and Nerika. Shamed, Analise wishes to fade away, but undaunted Nerika offers to sing for Prince Reolden. The Prince, noticing that Ari is missing, asks Merissa about her, and learns that Ari is a dragonhealer -- and joined to a male dragon. (The Arrival of the Infamous and Famous) Xanthia is excited to hear of the prince's early arrival. She dresses in deep violet and Dru'Kar helps her with her hair and her circlet. (A time for living again) Eleanora and Mahti slip apart from the Prince's entourage to...renew old acquaintance. (The Gaslight Effect) Ari sneaks away from the crowd as they attempt to get into the dining hall so see what is going on. Ari runs and makes her way to the campsite where WindFree is resting. They have a talk and he gives her some advice. She is then told that her cousin the Prince wishes to speak with her and she goes. (Counseling Session) Dinner - Dru'Kar and Xanthia and Alina join Merissa, Th'rin, and Prince Reolden at their table. Introductions are made. Xanthia whispers in Merissa's ear and asks for time spent together so they can talk over tea. (A time for living again) Gob comes to dinner with Tethers, the squirrel gets free and Gob tries to recapture him to the dismay of all the eating people. (Boy's and their Pets) Tethers causes a scene when Pav'lo tries to remove him and Gob from the dining hall. After biting Pav'lo, the squirrel is flung into the air, and lands on Analise's head. Analise, after showing her repertoire also includes some colorful curse words, is rescued by Mahti and Tethers is rescued by Barsel, who turns Tethers over to Faylen. (Dinner Entertainment) J'red has dinner with his father at the Fowler Estates. Over dessert the topic of conversation turns back to Ari and her gown. J'red explains how Ari had torn it when he'd startled her, and that was why he'd brought it to their seamstress to mend it. (If it were only so easy to mend a heart.) Evening - J'red returns to the warren and returns the dress to Ari's apartment. When she is not there, Firefly finds out that she is with Prince Reolden. J'red is surprised that the prince has already arrived, and that Ari is already in his company. He fears that he has already lost her. (If it were only so easy to mend a heart.) Late Evening - Reolden and his staff head to the VIP quarters to retire for the evening, however, Reolden sends word through Trendal that he wishes to speak to his cousin, Ari. He leaves Merissa with a request that they should spend some time together, and Merissa promises to make the time to spend with him. (Dinner Entertainment) Reolden has a quick meeting with Meriwen before Ari arrives. Once Ari is there, he dismisses his staff and the two cousins begin their getting to know each other. They talk until the wee hours of the morning, and Ari is offered a place to sleep and she declines and leaves. A pair of eyes watches from the shadows. (Getting To Know You) After being dismissed from the service of the prince, Mahti seeks Eleanora's company. Unable to climb to her apartment, he begins to serenade her before belatedly realizing she would not hear him. Cara, however, can, and the dragon takes it upon herself to fetch him and surprise her rider. Eleanora is surprised, but not perhaps in a bad way. Trying to set the record straight with Mahti, Eleanora again admits her lack of recollection of their one night together. However, Mahti misunderstands and attempts to remind her. His attempt appears to work. (It's All Coming Back to Me Now (JP)) Very Late Evening - Ash finishes his cleaning, visits the dining hall looking for Ari, then meets with Prince Reolden later that evening. They argue Ari's fate, then part with a kind of stalemate. (A late meeting) Day 13 Early Morning - Ari wakes up early and reflects on her problem. She vows to find a way to stay in the Warren. She soaks and contemplates her options and then once she has it squared in her mind she dresses and begins her day with her patients. (Drawing Up a Battle Plan) Morning - Ash and Ari go out to harvest plants, and at the same time, Ash begins to teach Ari the guild art of Sirado and of courtly ways. (Early Morning Lesson- JP) Afternoon - The leaders of the warren escort Prince Reolden on a review of the wings as the dragons and riders assemble on the Green. (Raindrops Keep Falling on my Head. - JP) Lyraene tries to convince her rider, Nerika, to attend the review, but Nerika stubbornly insists that her music is more important than some silly review. Instead Nerika decides to practice in the garden. Distraught, Lyraene wanders, and bumps into Azhy near the swimming hole. They ask Chrysthal's advice and she assures them that nothing should get in the way of a rider and her dragon. They talk about how to get Nerika's rider's attention and Azhy suggests splashing her with water. Firefly joins them at Azhy's request. (Raindrops Keep Falling on my Head. - JP) After the review, the royal party and leaders of the warren go to the garden for afternoon tea. Nerika, hearing voices and becoming annoyed, ventures into their midst. Realizing an opportunity, she asks if she may play her flute for them. (Raindrops Keep Falling on my Head. - JP) Lyraene is not being too successful with splashing, and Azhy and Firefly join her for a little help. They send a few waves of water onto Nerika, and then entire party at the tea. Most of those in attendance are horrified, but Ari begins to laugh, and Reolden joins her, putting everyone at ease - all except Nerika, who has been castigated by J'red. (Raindrops Keep Falling on my Head. - JP) Azhy and Firefly determine to cheer up Lyraene and take her hunting. Reolden escorts Merissa home, and requests that J'red escort Ari, and the rest of the party breaks up, leaving Nerika alone in the garden. (Raindrops Keep Falling on my Head. - JP) Day 14 Pre-Dawn - Ari ponders things while she tries to find work clothes among all the new clothes and outfits that are in the room she now resides in at the Prince's Suite. (Chance Meeting) Ari leaves early in the morning, chatting with Azhy on her way to the lab to check up on the herbs she and Ash had gathered the day before. She runs into Elsa and a young man, who looks familiar, but Ari can't place him. She and Elsa have a nice little chat, and she goes on her way to her lab to begin her day. (Chance Meeting) Elsa and the stranger continue the harsh words and plot what their next move is. Elsa is given her orders and the stranger leaves. (Chance Meeting) Early Morning - Ari makes her way to the wilder pair and checks on the female and then checks in on WindFree. She finally makes her to Wyndamenth and begins her treatment. Ash'chenon comes in to watch and then the 2 go to begin Ari's second lesson. (Learning the Ropes) Morning - Jennifer Fowler is unhappy with her gowns and threatens not to go to Whiteriver. Her father, perplexed, isn't too understanding, but doesn't give her an option to remain behind. (Pretty is as Pretty Does?) Mid Morning - After getting Ari ready for the warren tour, Meriwen finds Xanthia at the Med Center and has her try on her dress, which is perfect in every way. Xanthia is pleased beyond belief. (Ohs and Ahs and Uh Ohs!) Meriwen hurries to do the final fitting for Xanthia and ponders many things. Finding her, they try on the dress, it fits to perfection. Meriwen offers to take the dress to her place before returning to her other duties. (A Perfit Fit) Ari joins the others in front of the offices to begin the tour that she has been asked to accompany the prince on. They take the tour of the Medical Center and Dragon care center. Th'rin appears to be missing, and Elsa tells everyone she does not know where he is. (Learning the Ropes) After the fitting, Xanthia heads to her workroom only to open the door and be greeted by Ari and a whole room full of people, including the prince. Her nerves rattled, she ends up knocking down not one, but two jars of putrid smelling herbs. She cuts her hand, adding to her dismay. (Ohs and Ahs and Uh Ohs!) The Fowlers arrive in Whiteriver, amid more complaints from Jennifer. They walk across the warren to the dining hall to meet up with the royal party and warren officials for lunch. (Pretty is as Pretty Does?) Early Afternoon (Lunch)- The party is greeted by Lord Fowler and his daughter Jennifer and introductions are made and the group heads to the table to begin a fun and merry lunch. (Learning the Ropes) Xanthia returns to the apartment for a bath. Dru'Kar insists on stitching and re-bandaging her hand, and on bathing her himself. (Ohs and Ahs and Uh Ohs!) Ari slips away from the lunch gathering when she feels it is proper and goes to help Xanthia in the lab. She busies herself with inventory and ponders over the missing herbs, and hopes that Xanthia hand is okay. Ari finishes and hurries back to enjoy tea with her cousin. (A Perfit Fit) Afternoon - Xanthia revels in the memory of the bath when Merissa comes in and asks Xanthia if she knows where Th'rin is. (Ohs and Ahs and Uh Ohs!) Merissa returns to the apartment in search of Th'rin but finds Xanthia alone. Merissa is concerned since he wasn't around for Prince Reolden's tour. Xanthia states that she thought Th'rin was in the medical center, leaving more questions in Merissa's mind. (There's a Time for Talking.) Late-Afternoon - Reginald arrives in WhiteRiver and is not over impressed with what he sees and his accommodations. He thinks about what is his due and makes his plans to how this will come about. (A Perfit Fit) Early Evening - Reginald catches his first glimpse of his intended bride. He is intrigued that she resembles the portraits in the gallery at court, although not exactly, but he is stunned to see an old enemy he thought long dead and gone escorting the woman he came to marry. He ponders the meaning behind the new events and plans on enjoying the bid for power. (A Perfit Fit) Ash joins Ari at the Dining hall, sees Reginald, and realizes why the man is there; Ash vows to stop both Reginald's and the king's plans for Ari. (An Old Friend) Reginald waits for a meeting with Reolden in the garden to discuss why Reginald is here in WhiteRiver. Their discussion gets a little heated. Ash'chenon over hears and makes his presence known after Reginald has left. (Lines Drawn) Evening - Reolden and Ash discuss the earlier conversation between Reolden and Reginald; Ash reveals that he will oppose the new groom. (Words in the Dark) Day 15 Mid Morning - Reolden ponders the conversation with Reginald from the night before while awaiting his arrival at the Green. They stand and watch Ari treating a dragon. J'red arrives and offers his praise of her and further infuriates Reginald, who had not been aware of his "bride's" talents. (A Low Blow) After heated words, that even J'red takes as a possible threat to his Prince, Reginald storms off and the Prince decides to have lunch and invites J'red. (A Low Blow) Ari aware of the 3 men watching her ponders what it is all about. When she is done with Wyndamenth's treatment, she is comforted and nuzzled by Azhy. This is witnessed by Reginald and he is stunned to learn not only is she joined to a dragon, but a male dragon. He informs Ari of her going to court and storms off. He vows to make Ari his bride, and contemplates his life with everything according to his plans. (A Low Blow) Late Morning - J'red and Reolden leave Reginald stewing on the green and have a quick breakfast before heading to the warren offices, where Reolden is to hold an informal court. J'red goes to work on requisitions with Faylen. (Uneasy Footing) Sheldon arrives and during his conversation with Reolden discovers that his father may have lied to him on another issue. His mother may not have died when he was a little boy, but might in fact still be alive. Distressed, Sheldon runs to his dragon. Ari senses his distress and watches as Sheldon and Panzeree fly off. (Uneasy Footing) Jennifer storms out of her father's apartment. Glumly she envisions everyone searching for her and is so enthralled by her own daydreaming that she almost collides with Reginald, Earl of Ravencroft. After a brief exchange in which Jennifer reveals some knowledge of Ari, the Earl invites her to lunch. Over lunch he smoothly ingratiates himself and gleans some information concerning Ari... and J'red. Escorting Jennifer back to her father, he extends an invitation to dinner to Lord Fowler, who is unable to decline. (She's Under My Thumb (JP)) Noon - Faylen worries over Shyla as she works on requisitions with J'red. J'red does his best to allay her fears. Meanwhile, Shyla suns by Ursa on the green as Ursa gets a bath. When Ursa decides to take her first flight, she teases the small queen, who hesitates because of a combination of fear and wanting to wait until Faylen is there. She succumbs to the pressure, and Oberon rushes to the warren offices to inform Faylen. Faylen and J'red go out to see. Caught up in the moment, J'red sweeps Faylen off her feet. (Peer pressure) After watching Shyla fly, J'red promises Faylen that he would personally oversee their flight training. (Uneasy Footing) Afternoon - Ash'chenon meets Reginald as he heads back to his quarters; they argue over Ari's fate. (Under the Dead Tree) Ash and Ari fly off to the southern deserts to do the next lesson, the as-en blades; it is a milestone in her training. He offers to meet her later that night, to talk. (Balancing Act) Early Evening - While getting ready for the dinner with Earl Reginald, Jennifer Fowler pouts about her not being invited to a "private" dinner party that Prince Reolden is having that same evening. (There's a Time for Talking.) Merissa gets ready for the dinner with Prince Reolden and has a conversation with Xanthia. (There's a Time for Talking.) Merissa's mention of Th'rin makes Xanthia twinge, in trying to talk to her Merissa inadvertently scares Xanthia. She takes some time before leaving for her dinner party to talk with Xanthia and find out what's going on. Xanthia then tells her of the night after she lost the baby, how Th'rin grabbed and scared her and then how he confessed his lack of love for her. (Girl Talk) Xanthia and Merissa talk about the inconsistencies of Th'rin's emotions and feelings toward the two of them, and then discuss Dru'Kar's new found place in their family. (Uneasy Footing) Evening - The Prince invited a few people to dinner in his quarters. They talk, laugh and enjoy and relax. The Prince notices that Ari is unusually quiet and he teases her and leads her to the sitting room, and then asks her to tell a story. (A Dinner Tale) Merissa enjoys the prince's dinner party and Ari's story telling. J'red tries not to stare at Ari, thinking that he has no right to show his continued interest in her, but he realizes that Reolden caught him looking. (There's a Time for Talking.) Reginald arrives with a carriage to take Lord Fowler and Jennifer to dinner at the dining hall. They are met at the entrance by a delighted Faylen. Faylen invites them to dine with her, and before Reginald can make a comment, Lord Fowler accepts the junior queenrider's invitation. Jennifer and Faylen exchange some cross words over J'red, and Jennifer more than hints that J'red and Ari are sleeping together, much to Reginald's dismay. Faylen rises to the barb, drawing looks from all around them. (Who is the 'Lady' Here? (JP)) Late Evening - As the dinner party breaks up, Reolden offers to walk with Merissa, but asks J'red to remain with Ari while he is gone. (There's a Time for Talking.) Prince Reolden asks J'red to remain behind and keep his cousin, Ari, company. Ari and J'red both try to act polite and ignore their warring emotions. Firefly and Azhy both try to encourage their riders to talk about their true feelings. J'red tries to put the best spin on Ari's leaving to go to court, but Ari, unable to take it anymore, releases a tirade before regaining control. With her emotions barely under control, Ari excuses herself and goes to her room, leaving J'red shaken and confused. Unable to face the prince, J'red steals away, but not before he hears Ari crying. (Polite Conversation (JP)) Reolden and Merissa walk through Trinale's Garden and talk about recent events, including Merissa's poisoning. Merissa stops Reolden from declaring his feelings, but he kisses her instead. (There's a Time for Talking.) Day 16 After Midnight / Early AM - Reolden escorts Merissa home and is observed by Reginald. Reginald waits for Reolden to return and confronts him in the garden where J'red happens to be pondering his problem with Ari. Reginald's threats against Ari and Reolden spur J'red to action and he draws his sword in the Prince's defense. The Prince dismisses Reginald and invites J'red to his suite for brandy. Over their drinks, Reolden explains some of Ari's "history" and potential future, then Reolden confronts J'red about his feelings and intensions concerning Ari. J'red admits his true feelings, and is relieved that Ari's future might not involve the court and marriage to another man. (Battle Lines (JP)) Ari comes to meet with Ash'chenon. He gives her hints about her family and past, and they discuss what he thinks Reginald will do in the next few days... (Midnight Rendezvous (JP)) Early Morning - Ari leaves Ash after their talk and with all that she had learned. Ari decides to spend some quiet time in her lab. Before she gets there, she stumbled upon Sheldon and Elsa arguing about her lab. Elsa explains, and leaves hurt and angry and Ari not wishing to talk to anyone else, ducks into her lab, dragging Sheldon with her. (Final Preparations) Morning - Xanthia awakens on the ledge where she'd fallen asleep while meditating the night before. She greets the day with a new attitude and determination and enjoys breakfast at the dining hall with Merissa, Dru'Kar, Oberon, and Alina. Th'rin's absence at the breakfast table causes an uncomfortable moment or two for Xanthia and Merissa. After breakfast, she goes to work at the med center, working morning shift to pick up the slack. She runs into Ari at the med center and the two observe Elsa and Corra leaving together. Xanthia mentions looking forward to that night's upcoming ball. (A Brand New Day) As they leave to start their day, Merissa reminds Xanthia that the dining hall will be closed and that there will be a luncheon in the garden. (Luncheon on the Lawn) After her talk with Sheldon Ari and Xanthia run into Corra and Elsa and the pair look suspicious. Shrugging it off, the two head to the lab to do their morning chores and talk about the up and coming Ball. (Final Preparations) After Ari is done with her chores, and Xanthia heads to the office for paperwork, Ari takes a detour home and gathers a few things, including her torn dress and cries over the loss of J'red and gets a hint into some understanding of her mother. (Final Preparations) Ari gathers her things and walks back to the suite to begin to get ready for the special Luncheon and decided to enjoy the beauty that is around her. (Final Preparations) Dalmar stops off at the hatching cavern to get some advice from Chrysthal on why dragons don't like having him work on them. The queen agrees to let him examine her to see the problem for herself, but soon regrets it. (Good Advice, Bad Listeners (JP)) J'red calls a meeting of the wingriders, but despite Lyraene's urgings Nerika declines to attend because she needs to finish working on her music. Lyraene encounters Firefly, who suggests that they go to see Chrysthal to ask her advice. (Good Advice, Bad Listeners (JP)) J'red finishes his lecture and finds Mara standing alone without a partner. He realizes Nerika is missing and hopes she is already on the green. Firefly warns Lyraene. Lyraene, afraid of being in trouble, goes to find her rider. (Singin' The Blues (JP)) At the hatching cavern, Chrysthal tries to give advice to both Lyraene and Dalmar simultaneously, with the result that both of them hear more but understand less than she had intended. (Good Advice, Bad Listeners (JP)) Ash has a meeting with Merissa, and warns her that something may happen later that day. (Midnight Rendezvous (JP)) Merissa and Ash discuss Ari's coming of age party, and the potential problems, including the three suitors that have arrived to claim her hand. (Uneasy Footing) After being unceremoniously "kidnapped" by her dragon, Nerika finds herself in a precarious situation. Her attempts to explain why she was not at the assembly and the wing's practice only put her into further hot water with J'red. Lyraene "escorts" her rider to the warren offices. Merissa lectures Nerika on the importance of her responsibilities as dragonrider but allows Nerika to practice her music just until after the Prince leaves. (Singin' The Blues (JP)) In Corra's apartment, tension builds between Corra and Elsa. Elsa makes Corra some tea. After Corra passes out, the aide opens Latnem's journal and slips it under the old healer's head. (No Show) *Out of the Warren* Reolden braves the wilds of the settlement area and Ari's mother, his aunt, the dreaded Lady Cicely. They exchange cross words as Reolden attempts to share with them Ari's possible fate, and tell them of her coming out ball. (Let's Make a Deal) Cicely denies her cooperation, permission and approval, where as Ari's father, Edric gives his consent, and comes back with the Prince to speak with the young man who wishes Ari's hand, and to spend time with his daughter. (Let's Make a Deal) Matt finally escapes from prison, dodging most guards but not all, and having to fight his way through some groups. He manages to get out of the city, stocking up in an farmhouse in which the family has left for the day. As he camps that night, he feels great loss over the separating from the young woman who acted as an older sister for the better part of the past seven years of his life in the harsh prison life. (The Great Beyond) Gob goes to meet Sarah and take her to watch the party. (Fire and Water) Late Morning - Th'rin receives word through Areena about the luncheon and decides to go see Merissa in her office. He begins to apologize about the mix-up with the tour of the medical center, and learns about Xanthia's accident and her cut hand. Merissa thinks he looks jealous when she mentions Dru'Kar's helping Xanthia with her cut. The warrenlady and head healer return to their apartment to get ready for the luncheon. (Luncheon on the Lawn) Around Noon - Ari reflects on her thoughts and feelings as Bryre helps her dress and prepare for the Luncheon in the Garden. Once she is ready she realizes she is alone, with no escort and wonders what the protocol is. Just as she is wondering what to do, Sheldon arrives and offers to be her escort. (Garden Party) Again, sensing something is wrong, Sheldon finds himself drawn to Ari's location, only to end up escorting her to the luncheon. (To the Rescue) Afternoon - Ash appears at the luncheon, dressed formally and apparently unarmed, and strikes up a conversation with Analise. (Well Met) Analise spars verbally with Ash, warning him not to cause any trouble. (Play a Little Song for Me) Ash does a little verbal sparring with Analise, and states again that he is at Whiteriver for his dragon. (At the fringes of the party) J'red is observing the various people at the luncheon. He greets the Vaddons, nods to the junior queenriders and then he sees his sister arrive with Reginald. After that shock, he is confronted with Ari arriving with Sheldon, rather than the prince and finds himself feeling jealous. (To the Rescue) The Prince arrives with a guest, which delights Ari, and upsets some of the other "guests" at the luncheon. The head table is seated: Ari, Reolden, Edric, the queenriders and Th'rin. J'red and Sheldon are surprised at being included. (Stepping Up To the Plate (JP)) Later, Ash sees Ari with her father, and decides to watch them from a distance. (At the fringes of the party) As the meal begins, Analise takes the stage and begins her part of the recital. She is annoyed by the heat and a reflection. (Play a Little Song for Me) The luncheon on the garden lawn: Analise has the warren musicians ready to perform on a dais that was set up. She realizes that wearing a burgundy velvet dress, while quite attractive, might not have been the best choice in the noon-day sun. (Luncheon on the Lawn) As dessert is being served, Analise begins to perform. Merissa turns to watch her mother and notices a reflecting light bothering her. Merissa looks around for the source of the bright reflection. She doesn't find the source, but she does catch a wink from the prince. (Stepping Up To the Plate (JP)) Gob "spies a fire" and swoops down on Nightwind, taking water that quenches all around. (Fire and Water) As Analise performs, her dress mysteriously catches on fire. Seeing the flames, Th'rin tackles her and begins to beat the flames down in an attempt to extinguish them. Merissa, coming to rescue her mother from her mate, sees the fire and also begins to hit at them, while telling her mother that she is on fire. As the flames are extinguished and things calm down, Gob arrives with Nightwind and drenches everyone. Analise's attempt at impressing the prince are dashed. (Up in Smoke) Nerika steps up to take Analise's place on the dais. Her performance is technically flawless, but both she and her listeners know that it lacks the feeling and depth of Analise's performance. She determines to redouble her efforts to improve, at any cost. (Form Without Substance) Dalmar approaches Latnem, and voices his concern that Nerika may be obsessed with her music to the point where she could endanger the bond between herself and her dragon. He asks Latnem if he is willing to take a "referral." (Form Without Substance) Latnem sits down with Nerika to find out where her head is while they drink some mead at the party. Faylen surprises everyone by getting on stage and singing beautifully. She joins Nerika and Latnem, and explains the facts of a dragon/rider bond to Nerika and her feelings on destiny. (Of Destiny and Choice) Latnem and Faylen talk to Nerika during the luncheon, where they discuss singing and dragonriding. (Taking One's Destiny In One's Own Hands) Late Afternoon - *Outside the Warren* Elsa flees the Warren in fear of discovery and makes her way to the Pig and Whistle where she knows her son is waiting. She tells him why she has left and all the news. He is not pleased with her appearance and takes matters into his own hands. (JP - Happy Mother's Day) Evening - Corra fails to show up for work so Xanthia is late to the party [ball]. Merissa offers to send someone with Xanthia to check on Corra. (No Show) Merissa asks Tatiana to accompany Xanthia to Corra's apartment just to make sure everything is all right. (It's Just Not Like Her (JP)) Xanthia and Tatiana arrive at Corra's apartment to discover the older healer lying dead across her desk. The book on the desk turns out to be Latnem's journal. Tatiana explains that an autopsy needs done and sends Xanthia back to the ball to inform Merissa even though she's already had Zenia contact Chrysthal. (Time to Investigate) Later: A shocked Xanthia, her mind and emotions reeling, returns to report that Corra is dead. (No Show) Faylen arrives at Corra's and tells Tatiana that Merissa sent her to help investigate. (Time to Investigate) Everyone gathers and begins the feast and awaits the Prince and Ari. The introductions are made..and a surprise guest appears and Ari is given the chance to swear her loyalty to the Dragon lady and is welcomed officially as a Dragonrider and healer to WhiteRiver warren. (JP Stepping from the Shadows) Several are surprised at the turn of events..and Reginald realizing he had been duped leaves the event cross but appearing as if he does not care. He recognizes the challenge given to him by Ash and decides it would be better to just leave. (JP Stepping from the Shadows) Ash attends the announcement party, where he learns of Ari's choice, locks horns with Reginald for a moment, then shares a dance with Christalla. (Watching from the Shadows) Faylen and Tatiana are joined by Barsel at Corra's apartment. The three investigate and then take the body to the morgue and the evidence to the lab. They return to the ball in a disheveled state and the first people they run into are Nerika, Analise, and the royal bard. (Taking care of business) Barsel escorts Faylen back to the dining hall after taking Corra's body to the medical center. After a little bantering with the bards and Latnem, Barsel asks Faylen for a dance. As they dance, Jael makes a threatening motion toward Barsel, who becomes upset and leaves to the dance floor to get a tankard of ale. Faylen's support gives Barsel confidence and they return to the dance floor, which unfortunately has become too crowded. Faylen leads the way out of the hall and they end up running to the garden; arriving out of breath and laughing. While they are recovering, Barsel kisses Faylen. (Jumping to Conclusions (JP)) Late Evening - Reginald stews in indignation and contempt for the wrongs he feels that has been placed upon him. He sends for backup and plots his ambush to take what he feels is his. (Change of Plans) Faylen responds to Barsel's kiss with surprise. When she is flooded with his emotions, she apologizes and tells him she only sees him as a friend. She screams J'red's name as she sees J'red and Ari accosted by Reginald and rushes to their defense, only to discover that this night she's unarmed. (Of Destiny and Choice) Reginald confronts J'red and Ari, attempting to snatch her away. Sheldon steps up to stand with J'red as Reginald slanders the name of Ari and all the women in the Warren. J'red asks him to leave and Reginald challenges him to a duel. (JP - Getting the Point Across) Behind the scenes, Ash deals with Reginald's henchmen and leave them as a grisly warning for him not to return. (Re: [DL-W] - JP - Getting the Point Across [NOTE THIS IS A SEPARATE POST WITHOUT ITS OWN TITLE]) Firefly sounds the alarm, the dragons and many of the warren show up...Reginald and his henchmen are chased off and the festivities resume. (JP - Getting the Point Across) Night - Reginald rides through the night mulling over what has happened at the Warren. He formulates his plans, and meets up with a mysterious courier and sends on a coded message. Reginald then awaits another who will also help him in his bid for power and control (A Time and Place) After years of use and change, Ash's empathy finally matures to a rough telepathy. The news is disconcerting to Wyndamenth, who realizes that she may not be bonded to Ash after all. Unable to handle the sudden onslaught of new thoughts, Ash collapses in his room. (Maturity) OCTOBER 2005 Day 17 Very Early Morning - Xanthia awakens with Dru'Kar the two exercise and then get ready to go out to the woods with the children. Dru'Kar has a gift of tribal clothing he himself made for Xanthia and Alina. (Realizations (JP)) Early Morning � Ari is awoken from her dream by Azhy reminding her she is late. She gets up, leaves a note and slips out to begin her day. Makes her quick rounds and heads to Ash�s place for her lesson to find him gone. (Holding On and Letting Go) Ash'chenon wakes and takes off with Wyndamenth to overcome the effects of telepathy; after a day of practice, they return. (Finding the Center) Morning - Nerika goes to the dining hall, where she sees Latnem and asks him if he can use his mindhealing talent to awaken her Bardic "gift" (Taking One's Destiny In One's Own Hands) Latnem has another chat with Nerika and tries to help her see the reality of her situation. (Facing Facts) Nerika, on Latnem's advice, opens her mind to Lyraene. Lyraene excitedly shows Nerika the type of life the two of them can have together. But instead of being delighted, Nerika is horrified by what she sees and momentarily becomes so desperate she wants to kill herself. She blocks Lyraene out and reasserts control, but tells Latnem that she suspects she will have need of his help again. (Through A Glass, and Darkly...Very Darkly) *Outside the Warren* Matt wakes up the next day, and tries to clean himself at a nearby creek only to have to fight a mountain lion barehanded. He does not let panic take over, and is able to scare the cat away with some quick thinking. He then continues on his journey, trudging down the road away from Marketa, and closer to Whiteriver Warren, though his does not know this. (What a Way to Start the Day) *Outside the Warren* Aeryth and Oriana wake up in the small campsite they stayed in after leaving their old Warren a bit earlier than they were supposed to. (New Arrivals) Mid Morning - Matt finally reaches the trail leading up to Whiteriver Warren and meets up with a traveling carnival that is going to perform tonight for the gathered nobles and dragon riders in the Warren. When he meets up with his new foreman, Bubba, his instinctively knows evil when he sees it. Just the same, Bubba recognizes Matt for what he is, a seasoned traveler and fighter who will not be easy to fool, but perhaps can be included in Bubba's plans if approached the right way. The two strike up a guarded relationship that could prove to be...interesting. (Yin and Yang) After some lessons in plants and their uses, and some foraging, Xanthia, Dru'Kar, Oberon, and Alina investigate a cave. Oberon is "attacked" by a bear cub. When Dru'Kar goes into the cave, he finds that the mother bear is recently deceased after being shot repeatedly with arrows by city dwelling hunters. Dru'Kar decides they should do what should have been done, and they take the bear back to the warren to be dealt with as well as the bear cub which is now bonded to Oberon and the arrows with which the mother bear was shot. Dru'Kar swears to find out who is responsible. (Realizations (JP)) Late Morning - After Aeryth gets herself together, they head to Whiteriver, where Aeryth hopes to find someone to point her in the direction of the Warrenlady or someone in a position of authority. (New Arrivals) Merissa and Tatiana discuss the murder of Corra and a way to set a trap for the murderer. (Undercover Agent) Ari is informed of her engagements with both her cousin and J�red. She goes to the guest quarters and says her goodbyes. Reolden gifts her with a ring from their great-grandmother. (Holding On and Letting Go) Noon � Ari makes her way to J�red�s office for their lunch date, they enjoy some quiet time alone before their busy afternoon begins. (Holding On and Letting Go) Early Afternoon - As the Bear Nomads arrive back at the warren, they run into a new arrival. Oberon makes introductions and offers to take Aeryth to Merissa's office. Dru'Kar reminds them of what they must do and has Xanthia escort Aeryth instead. (Realizations (JP)) After waiting around for awhile, Aeryth and Oriana are met by Dru'Kar, Xanthia, Oberon and his sister. She is shocked and intimidated by Dru'Kar, so much so that she has a hard time introducing herself. Eventually Dru'Kar and Oberon head off with their dead bear and live bear cub, leaving the ladies to go meet Merissa. (Are all the men here that big?) Xanthia answers Aeryth's question about Dru'Kar's size and explains that Dru'Kar is special, then tells her that her nephew Oberon is only 6 years old and confirms that the warrenlady is Oberon's mother. Aeryth also asks about Xanthia's resemblance to her sister. (Words of confusion) When they arrive at the warrenlady's office, Xanthia and Aeryth find Merissa talking with an older woman (Tatiana), who she tells to go to the med center as soon as possible. After Tatiana leaves, Merissa carefully answers Xanthia's questions of concern by explaining that *Corra* is gravely ill. Xanthia is at first confused, but then understands the trap that is being set up. Xanthia introduces Aeryth. Aeryth tells Merissa that she's looking for the warrenlady, and Merissa answers that she's the warrenlady. (Words of confusion) Xanthia takes Aeryth to Merissa's office, where Aeryth tells the warrenlady that she's been transferred from Keldarra Warren and gives her a letter from the warrenlady there. While she waits for Merissa to read the letter, she starts thinking about music and sort-of zones out. (Confusion Continues) After reading the letter sent by the warrenlord, (yes D'Neor is a "he" in Keldarra), Merissa chats with Aeryth while taking her to see Pav'lo, the quartermaster. Pav'lo shows Aeryth a map of the warren from which she can choose her apartment. (Getting Settled, A Set Up and Setting up Camp) Aeryth meets with Pav'lo and selects an apartment. She even tries to make a joke! Then she heads to her new home to get settled in while Oriana goes to meet the other dragons of the Warren. She is also waiting for whoever is going to show her around to arrive. (Settling In) Merissa returns to her office and talks with Xanthia about the plan to catch Corra's murderer and about the arrows that were used to kill the bear. (Getting Settled, A Set Up and Setting up Camp) Merrissa and Xanthia chat about the killed bear. Xanthia voices the possibilities that already crossed Merissa's mind when she's told that it's the Fowler's markings on the arrow. After Xanthia tells Merissa how it outraged Dru'Kar, Merissa works to convince Xanthia not to tell Dru'Kar until they know for certain, reminding Xanthia of the tendency of Bear Nomads to have a penchant for brutal vengeance. (Don't Name Names) Jael is assigned the task of meeting with the master of the carnival to ascertain whether they need any supplies, and to offer the dining hall as a sanctuary in case of a wraith attack. The master is busy and asks Matt to show Jael to his foreman, Bubba, who might better answer the question of supplies. (Getting Settled, A Set Up and Setting up Camp) Jael inquires whether or not the carnival owner needs any supplies, and is directed to the headman Bubba, by route of Matt, who just happens to be passing by. Very quickly Jael alienates Matt with his arrogant attitude, and Matt very nearly decides to teach this young upstart some manners. They meet up with Bubba, who hits if off with Jael right away. At this point, he opens the proverbial door for Matt, inviting him to stay and talk with the two, but Matt refuses, saying there is more work to do. And the plot thickens.... (Getting the Feet Wet in Muddy Water-JP) Faylen goes to go check on the carnival herself, passing Xanthia and a new rider [Aeryth] as she leaves. She sees a young man [Matt] run into Shyla, and then searches him out to apologize and check on him as well as to check on the carnival. The young man tells her she needs to see Bubba and she asks him to take her to him. (Taking care of business) Faylen and the young man who ran into Shyla, Matt, talk about what it's like to be a dragonrider. Matt asks about the communication with dragons, and explains about a voice in his head. He's shocked when Shyla says "Hello" to him and asks him to be her friend. Faylen reminds him to take her to see Bubba. (And the Light Turns On (JP)) Dru'Kar teaches Oberon about the nature of life and the honor of the nomads' way of life, at least part of the nomads' ways. He is also surprised by the honor already in the boy. Much bonding was done between the two of them. (Lessons - honor and nature) Latnem is finishing his rounds when he sees Th'rin come out Room A13 at the end of the hall. Hearing him call the patient in the room "Corra," Latnem is convinced that Th'rin's delusional. Curious, he goes into the room to see who the patient really is. He's surprised to be accosted by Tatiana when he tries to take her pulse. (Facing Facts) Mid-Afternoon As Faylen heads back to the office, she hears Ursa keening. Shyla joins in, and tells her rider that Ursa's sad because a bear died. Shyla cuddles and comforts Ursa. (Taking care of business) Aeryth and Oriana go to the green to find out what the keening is all about, (What in the World is Going on?) Gob watches the Carnival then heads off to meet the new person and drops an egg on her head instead. (Look Out Below!) Aeryth has to wash the egg out of her hair and invites Gob to her apartment to wait for her. (Nice Entrance) Gob shows Aeryth the bath house and asks her if she can keep a secret. (Can you Keep A Secret) Aeryth gets cleaned up and goes of with Gob on a tour. He tells her she's small enough, which confuses her, and asks if she can keep a secret. (Small Enough for What?) Gob explains where he's taking Aeryth...and why he commented on her size. (Where in the World are we Going?) Gob leads Aeryth into the tunnels of Whiteriver. (The Hidden Spring) Gob takes Aeryth through the hidden passage and shows her the hot spring it leads to. He also tells her where the other branches in the passage lead. (How *Did* You Find This Place?) Faylen enters the warrenlady's office to find J'red and Merissa talking about a bear that was shot and left for dead. When she recognized the symbol on the shaft of the arrow which was one of the ones used to kill the bear, she assumes it was his arrow and kicks him in the crotch. (Taking care of business) After Faylen's surprise assault, J'red tells her and Merissa that he was not the owner of the arrows that killed the bear, but that he will look into finding out whose they were. (Grin and Bear It.) Late Afternoon - Jilly tries to sneak a peek at the carnival, and gets more than she bargains for. She runs from the scene to find Merissa and get her to put a stop to the animal abuse. (A stolen glimpse) Dru'Kar and Oberon arrive back to the green about 4:30 - 5:00 in the afternoon. (Lessons - honor and nature) Faylen leaves a confused Merissa with the news that Dru'Kar wanted a spit to cook the dead bear. As Merissa worried about the safety of the bear meat, she is interrupted by Jilly who tells her about another bear -- this one in the carnival which is being beaten. Merissa asks Chrysthal to talk to Ophar, Jael's dragon, and find out what Jael knows about the bear. Ophar tells Chrysthal that Jael is talking to the carnival's foreman and will look into the wellbeing of the bear. (Grin and Bear It.) Faylen goes to meet Dru'Kar and Oberon to help with the bear cub. She is happy to announce the bear cub is a healthy male and she teaches Oberon how to mix up a goat milk formula for the bear cub, which he tells her is his. Oberon names the cub Argan, after Aradia and Pa'gan. (Taking care of business) As J'red and Ari are saying their farewells after lunch, Jilly comes out of Merissa's office. J'red asks her what is wrong, and she tells him about the carnival bear. He vows to go and check on it himself. (Bearing Up) The royal guests, the Dragon Lady, and Eleanora bid farewell and leave Whiteriver. (So Long, Farewell, Auf Wiedersehn, Goodbye!) Ari and J�red join in on Reolden�s departure and speak with him privately for a moment before he leaves. After he is gone J�red asks Ari if he could escort her to the Carnival and she agrees, having never been to one. (Holding On and Letting Go) Ari and J�red head to the field where the carnival is to check on a report of a ill and mistreated bear. They are approached by Jael and the overseer Bubba. They are led to the bear and Ari binds and treats the wounded paw. She leaves instructions of its care with another and they leave to get ready for the big show. (Bearing Down) Matt is ordered to set up the main tent for the show that night. He is curious and goes to see what Bubba is up to. He sees the meeting between Jael and Bubba and chooses to follow them. He is privy to a conversation concerning Ari and J�red as they arrive to check up on a report of an injured bear. (Behind the Scenes) Aeryth realizes that it has gotten rather late and decides to let Gob get back to his duties. He tells her about the carnival and goes on his way. On her way across the Green, Aeryth is so busy talking to Oriana and debating about going to the carnival that she doesn't realize she's heading directly for Jael, who is standing with his back to her, until she runs into him. (Easy Departures and Abrupt Meetings) Dru'Kar has a serious discussion with both Ursa and Oberon about what his being a Guardian means. (Anybody hungry) Returning from the carnival, Jael is run into by a young woman who introduces herself as Aeryth, a transfer newly arrived from Keldarra. Jael tells her about the carnival and invites her to attend. (Oh, What a Night. (JP)) Early Evening - Matt slips away undetected and finishes up his chores as he see the couple leave. He sneaks a robe and heads towards the Warren. (Behind the Scenes) Dru'Kar for the first time expresses his true feeling for Xanthia. (Anybody hungry) Latnem sees Dru'Kar tending a spit outside the dining hall. he arrives just in time to see Dru'Kar kiss Xanthia passionately and declare his love for Xanthia, and Xanthia return the sentiment. He puts his own feelings aside to congratulate the happy couple before making an awkward exit into the dining hall. (Facing Facts) The bear is cooked and some of the nomad traditions and beliefs are shared. (Anybody hungry) Merissa goes to the dining hall with the intention of getting some food to take to her office. She sees Dru'Kar tending a spit with the roasting bear meat, and is "honored" to try the first piece. When she gets her food, she finds herself surrounded by warrenfolk and ends up eating her meal in the dining hall. (Bearing Up) The bear meat is shared with all that want to try some. (Anybody hungry) Jael, on Ophar, comes to Aeryth's apartment to collect her and escort her to the carnival. They enjoy the side shows and shopping at some of the booths, where Jael purchases Aeryth a flute. Embarrassed by her flustered behavior in the merchant's booth, Aeryth suggests going somewhere quieter so she can explain. (Oh, What a Night. (JP)) Misinterpreting her intentions, Jael takes Aeryth to the tent he'd been in earlier with Bubba, and attempts to kiss her. To his surprise, Aeryth smacks him on the cheek. But since Oriana tells Ophar that Aeryth really likes Jael, instead of being angry, Jael finds the situation amusing and offers Aeryth the flute as a peace offering. It works, and Aeryth agrees to go to the "big top" to see the show. (Oh, What a Night. (JP)) Evening - Ari gets ready and J�red comes to pick her up. They arrive at the carnival, and Ari gets to enjoy her very first carnival. They see many fun things and she enjoys the show. The simple fireworks display at the end winds up their fun evening and they head for home. (Show Time) Jael and Aeryth get front row "seats" to see the show, (when some other warrenfolk move out of the way at Jael's threatening glance). Aeryth enjoys the show. (Oh, What a Night. (JP)) Faylen leaves Dru'Kar's little par ty in the dining hall and heads for the carnival. On the way, she is joined by Barsel. When they get there, Merissa introduces them to Bubba. Upon meeting the man, Faylen becomes quite unsettled for reasons she can't quite explain at that moment. She blames her discomfort on the crowds. (Drawing a Blank) After the show Aeryth invites Jael back to her apartment to "watch the fireworks" from the ledge. Jael is pleased that the evening appears to be going his way and accompanies her back. They watch the fireworks and then go inside to make some of their own. (Oh, What a Night. (JP)) January, 2006 DAY 18 Early Morning - Ari finds Ash and consoles him; Wyndamenth goes into a mating flight, which Azhy wins. (Recovery and Mating) Ash and Aridergh wake to the news from the Queen that the eggs are hatching. (Recovery and Mating) Sheldon awakens from a nightmare triggered by the telepathic flood from Ash. In a daze, he becomes aware that Ari needs him -- though he still doesn't really recognize their connection -- and goes to find her. As he reaches Ash's apartment, Wyndamenth rises to mate, chased closely by Azhy and then Panzeree. Azhy fights off Panzeree and the yellow dragon is slightly injured. (Flooded Feelings and Flight.) J'red awakens to the mild feelings of dragon-lust as Firefly gives a half-hearted chase. He reaches for Ari, and finds her place in bed is empty. Firefly informs him that Azhy has won the flight and that Ari is with Wyndamenth's rider, Ash. J'red tries to come to terms with this, but has he doubts, especially when he sees Ari come to the hatching cavern with Ash, and sees Sheldon watching Ari, as well. (Flooded Feelings and Flight.) Morning - Matt goes for a swim and some mildly dangerous dives off the waterfall. He is then interested in something that is going on and attracting the attention of what seems to be everyone in the warren. He watches one birth and has the whole process of joining explained to him, but it seems little better then the ramblings of a crazy old man. (Some People are Just Crazier then Others) At the hatching, Jilly watches as a hatchling and searchling join, but does not get a dragon of her own. Ashamed she runs and hides, thinking she'll sneak out of the warren after dark. (the voice in your head.) Ash attends the Hatching, notices Jilly, and tries to follow her after she runs away. (Following the Rejected) At the hatching, Faylen and Merissa see their new scribe Navra join up with the first of the hatchlings. After Merissa and Chrysthal head out to find the rider that matches up to the second hatchling, Faylen grabs a bucket of meat for the hatching and goes up to congratulate Navra. (Drawing a Blank) Everyone watches as the last of the two dragons leaves the hatching sand, apparently unjoined. Chrysthal, however, informs Merissa that Ialir has chosen a rider, but that he can't find him. Merissa sends Gob and Sheldon (on Panzeree) to search for the missing rider. Panzeree spots a likely candidate, and Chrysthal takes Merissa there to confront him. (Ialir's Errant Rider) Matt gets 'ambushed' by the warren and is forced to use his brain. (Duh) Merissa sends out search parties around the green to see the dragon sensitive whom the baby dragon might be searching for, finding Matt as he walks back the carnival tents. What follows is a tense situation as Matt almost views Merissa as a threat. He is quickly swept off his feet and thrown into the deep end when he finally bonds with little Ialir, but not before realizing the position of power he now has over Bubba. (One Step Back, Two Jumps Forward (JP)) Navra joins to Zalyth as she'd hoped she would, and realizes she was so caught up in hoping to join she didn't bother to find out what she needed to do afterwards. She asks Faylen for help. (Overwhelming joy? Not really.) Late Morning - At the dining hall, a celebration has begun. Faylen stops to talk to Dalmar and asks him to check on Shyla's growth, thinking she's finally starting to catch up with a late growth spurt. As they talk, Bubba comes up behind her and mentions how crowded the dining hall is. (Drawing a Blank) Faylen joins Merissa and Latnem for breakfast where she explains the reason she's so upset, that she cannot sense any emotions off of Bubba at all. (Drawing a Blank) After the hatching party, Dalmar and Faylen measure Shyla to see if she has grown, as Faylen thinks. Dalmar determines that she has, but notes that they may need to take more detailed measurements to determine if the queen has gained any weight. (Measuring Up) Merissa leaves the hatching party to go talk to Th'rin in the medical center about Tatiana, who is still posing as Corra. After exchanging a few heated words, Th'rin begins to see the truth of the situation. He and Merissa go to Elsa's apartment to ask her about Corra, and find her missing, too. Merissa realizes they are in over their heads and decides to talk to Ash'chenon and see if he can help. (Talking starts it all) Early Afternoon - Ash is on the green, smoking his pipe, looking at the mountains, when Merissa finds him. He tells her that Wyndamenth hasn't returned from her mating flight. Merissa tells him that she needs his help. They talk about Corra and Elsa, and that Tatiana is posing as Corra in the medical center. Merissa mentions that Bubba has been asking about Elsa, who appears to be missing. Ash agrees to help and tells her that he will take Avid around the warren to "sniff" for clues. (Help for a Mystery (JP)) DAY 19 Morning - Beta Wing begins their morning practice drills. J'red is happy to see that all of the riders have arrived on time, (including Nerika and Lyraene), considering the previous night's events with the carnival. He is annoyed with Nerika's lack of 'enthusiasm' and puts the wing through difficult maneuvers. Several dragons and riders cannot complete the difficult commands, but surprisingly, Nerika and Lyraene manage to make it through. J'red calls them to task, wondering why they aren't performing to their full potential. They are interrupted by Barsel, whom J'red had summoned because he was the first to wash out. (Prisoner of Her Own Mind (JP)) Nerika, smitten with Barsel, proposes to J'red a new experimental four-dragon fighting formation that she hopes will allow her to spend time training with him. J'red tentatively agrees, and the two dragon-rider pairs return to their practice where Nerika tries out an unusual maneuver. Finishing, they go to J'red's office to discuss Nerika's idea. (Head In The Clouds (JP)) J'red discusses Nerika's formation idea, (which she really got from Jerram at Jasra), and gives Nerika and Barsel the task of finding volunteers and organizing some training exercises. (How Did This Happen? (JP)) Matt can't sleep, so gets up. Ialir promptly demands more food, so the two head off in search of the dining hall. Once there, they join Merissa without asking and Matt unloads. They have 'idle' conversation, and Matt walks out, leaving behind more questions then answers. (Feed Me! (JP)) Chrysthal comes to the dragonhealers' cavern to rouse Dalmar for a look at the new hatchlings, with the result that neither of them ends up feeling very well. (Shaken, Not Stirred (JP)) Navra wakes up the day after joining with Zalyth not sure if it had happened, only to be reassured that there's still a very hungry, very demanding dragon that needs taking care of. She sets off to find food for Zalyth- still uncertain of her way around. (Did that really happen?) Dalmar encounters Navra and Zalyth, and goes along to help feed the little dragon. They get more food than they bargained for, and Dalmar suspects he's going to be examining a very full little dragon before all is said and done. (Two Is Better Than One!) Afternoon - **Out of the Warren** Jason Fowler reports in to "Lord" Hubert Gingle about the goings on at Whiteriver. (Reporting In.) ***** TIME JUMP = FLUID TIME ~ 1 Month ***** *** Day 0 *** Morning - J'red gets ready for his day and thinks about how peaceful things have been for the past month, yet has a sense of foreboding, that something evil is about to change it all. (A Month in a Warren) Barsel is woken up after a long night with a bit of a hangover, by his dragon who reminds him that he is to meet Nerika for some early morning flying. Nerika is a bit too enthusiastic for Barsel, but he gamely goes along. Nerika in her attempt to impress Barsel, pushes herself and her dragon to do more than they normally would. Aedris, wanting to get even with Barsel for sharing his headache, goes along with Lyraene's suggestions and they do some impressive maneuvers, (which cause Barsel to lose his wineskin). Finding the wineskin when they land, Aedris teases his rider with it. Much to his satisfaction, Nerika takes it and finishes the wine inside. Barsel invites Nerika up to his apartment for a celebratory drink, which she agrees to, but after they tend to their dragons. The dragons, happy that their riders both seem to finally be acting responsibly, congratulate each other and plan on celebrating with a swim in the lake. (Making an Impression (JP)) Ash ponders over his lack of success in the last month, punctuated by increasing abdominal troubles, then learns that Wyndamenth is about to lay eggs. (Wild Eggs) Raelian had woken early, a month after arriving in the Warren. Waking early was something of a habit with her. As she wandered around the Warren, she began thinking back on the day of the carnival when she arrived and never left. She had met Gob that day, a seemingly young boy, small for his age and a Searcher. She soon realized that her life was changing, yet again. And now here she was, a month later, sitting in the dining hall of the White River Warren, waiting eagerly for eggs to be laid then hatch. She wonders what her parents might say if they knew where she was and what she was doing. (Looking Back A Month) Mid Morning - Ari and Azhy reflect on some things in the past cycle of the moon while she picked herbs. Azhy received a call about Wyn and her eggs...they rush to her side. (A Cycle of the Moon) Matt and Ialir wander quite a bit, going to the highest point of the Warren. They bicker and irritate each other just like brothers, even the point of girls. Finally Ialir loses his temper and makes his opinion very clear to Matt, eliciting unpleasant feelings as well as understanding and acceptance, finally. Then they head down and Ialir continues his flying training, his muscles almost strong enough to lift him. (Brothers in Spirit) Wyndamenth, having spent a long time in the wilderness, was about to lay eggs from her mating flight with Azhy. After some tension with the Queen [Wyndamenth being a little out of her mind], she laid eggs in the hatching cavern. (Two is quite enough) Afternoon - During afternoon tea, Merissa and Tatiana discuss the formation of a 'first response team' and Merissa asks Tatiana to train and lead it. (Old Dog, Old Tricks (JP)) Tatiana tells Pav'lo about her being asked to train and lead the new advanced team.(I Just Want to Celebrate! (JP)) ***** TIME JUMP = 3 Days ***** *** Day 4 *** Morning - After climbing to peak once again to further Ialir in his training, Matt notices a dark cloud drifting across the sky. Moments later he realizes what is wrong with the cloud, and at the same time Ialir recognizes the cloud for what it is. After warning all dragons within range about the impending wraith attack, Ialir grabs his rider and plunges down the side of the mountain towards the landing green. Though he can fly on his own, he is still not big enough to fly and hold his rider at the same time, and the two begin to fall. They hit the ground hard and fast, and Ialir is the only one able to get up afterwards. (Attack!) Raelian had just finished cleaning her side of the Searchling Barracks and was heading over to the Med Center for her morning chores, when the alarm went up about a Wraith attack, and then as she was about to gather medical supplies as was her duty to the Warren during any attacks, just in case they were needed, she spotted a young dragonet, not old enough yet to fly his rider, spiraling toward the ground with his rider. The next thing she new she was gathering bandages, then heading to her barracks to get the Anestheal salve that she had brought with her to the Warren. A Salve that numbs, while it starts to heal, which could also be used on dragons, should the need arise. She next found herself kneeling next to a young boy, about her age, and dressing his wounds, while trying to speak gently to him, although he was unconscious. And then she was asking the milling crowd to go get the Healer, while taking care not to move the boy due to not wanting to cause him more injuries. She had surveyed his dragon with her eyes to be sure he wasn't in need of immediate medical attention. Aside from a couple of missing scales and a limp, he'd be fine until a Healer could get to him. (Help Is On It's Way!) The tithing caravan in which Melinae is traveling is attacked by wraiths as it nears Whiteriver Warren. (On the Run) The newly formed advanced-combat wings immediately respond to the alarm of the wraith attack. (Response) Caravan is attacked and saved, they request to gather their things before they go to the warren. (The rescue) Melinae and the caravan regroup and Melinae seeks the protocol for approaching the warren, afternoon, Melinae unpacks and introduces herself to Raelian. (Moving in) J'red and Melinae talk after she's recovered from her fright. He invites her to come back to the warren, on Firefly, so she can meet with Merissa and get settled in. (What a welcome) Melinae gets a ride with J'red and realizes his noble birth. She is delivered to the warren lady.(New girl in the warren) Merissa greets J'red and Melinae and escorts them to the warren offices. Merissa introduces Melinae to Navra and suggests Navra takes her around the warren, then invites Melinae into her office. (Interview with Merissa) Melinae starts her interview with Merissa after a little confusion about her identity. (More Mel) Late Morning - After doing what she could with her Anestheal salve, Raelian returned to her barracks to ponder on the morning's attack. Then returned a short time later to the Med Center to restock shelves as was part of her chores. After briefly looking in on the young man she had helped, she made a mental note of the shelves within the room needing to be restocked, and decided to let him rest awhile, before returning to restock them, leaving that room to be her last. She closed the door gently and returned to the other restocking that needed her attention. (A Quiet Evening...After A Morning's Attack) Tatiana returns and gives her report on the battle to Merissa. (The Secret of the Tea - JP) Early Afternoon - Making several trips to the Medical Storage Facility, she finally restocked everything except the shelves in the young man's room. Gathering the items she believed she needed, she returned to his room, to find his door standing ajar, which told her that someone had been in there some time before she had returned. She could see the patient lying in his bed, though he appeared to be asleep. She knocked softly, and spoke softly, saying why she was there, just to be polite, then entered and started restocking the shelves. (A Quiet Evening...After A Morning's Attack) With her back to the patient, she gave a start when she heard him speak, saying he remembered her. She turned looking at him with surprise, "You do?" she asked him. Wondering how he could, since he was starting to slip into unconsciousness as she came to his side and spoke to him that her salve would help. But then she thought that maybe he had seen her just as she came up to him to help, seeing as she was the only one who was acting quick enough, while others stood around either watching him or the sky. (A Quiet Evening...After A Morning's Attack) As Raelian returned to the Searchling Barracks to relax after doing some chores. She found herself lost in her lost in her thoughts. Then a voice brought her from her thoughts, and the awkward introductions started. (The Space Is Soon Filled) Melinae is unpacking and trying to bond with Realian. (New girl in the warren) After Raelian is joined by a new Searchling, whom will be sharing a Barrack with, they soon are making friends. Raelian helps Melinae put away her clothes, as they talk and get to know each other. (Making Friends) Then Melinae talks of being like sisters, and Raelian agrees. Soon after Raelian is trying on an outfit that Melinae has offered for her to try on, to see how it looks on her. (Making Friends) Afternoon - Melinae is getting to know Realian better and dressing up. (More Mel) Earl Evening - Gob and Bryan decide to go meet some of the new riders and but find no one home, out of curiosity they investigate the girls barracks and find many boxes. Hoping to find the secret of what is so mysterious about women the guys open the boxes. Letting Nightwind smell the dresses the dragon sneezes and the boys are caught red handed as they try to fix what they started. (Who's Dress Anyway) J'red goes by to see the injured riders, including Matt. He tells Matt that he and Ialir will have some special training sessions with him following the "stunt" they pulled at the old watch tower, once he and his dragon are healed. (What Were You Thinking? (JP)) J'red goes to see Dalmar to see how the injured dragons are doing. Dalmar says that a few of the dragons will be grounded for a while, but none were injured too badly. They talk about Ialir and then about the mystery girl who helped Matt. (What Were You Thinking? (JP)) Evening - Raelian headed for the Dining Hall, but decided the place had been to crowded for her liking and grabbed a tray of food and drink, then headed back out to the nearly deserted bench seats and tables, just outside the Dining Hall. She chose a table well away from others, near the wall, and started to eat. (A Quiet Evening...After A Morning's Attack) As she had started eating her meat and potatoes, she noticed a rider, a Wingleader she thought, start toward the entrance to the Dining Hall, but as he spotted her, he turned and headed over to her, asking if he could join her. (A Quiet Evening...After A Morning's Attack) She indicated that he could, but when he didn't speak or explain why at first, she did the asking instead. She first asked who he was, since she had only met a few here so far and he sure wasn't one of them, though she did know him to be a Wingleader, that much she knew, just not his name. Then asked why he came to it with her, when most other would pass her by unnoticed. (A Quiet Evening...After A Morning's Attack) As Raelian and Melinae sat, eating and conversing at the Dining Hall, their barracks were being ransacked by Gob and Bryan, unbeknownst by the two Searchlings. (Returning To Barracks, What The...?) Raelian and Melinae then headed back to the barracks, stopping outside the door, listening as Raelian heard the two boys inside, talking and rummaging through boxes. (Returning To Barracks, What The...?) Raelian slams open the door, startling the two, then questioning them, while coming to her own conclusion on what really happened. Raelian seemed slightly disturbed by the fact that boys were in the girls barracks, rummaging through their private things. (Returning To Barracks, What The...?) Returning to the barracks, Melinae gives the boys a choice of either going to the Warrenlady, or getting a make over. (Payback is pretty) All hell breaks lose when Realian tries to put a dress on Gob. (Dresses are Evil) As Raelian waited for her questions to be answered, Melinae on the other hand did not and preceded to small trunk and take out some ribbons and makeup, then turned on Bryon, going to work on making him pretty. (Call Of The Warren?) Raelian then advanced on Gob with a green dress, while he called out mentally for help. After some struggling, she managed to get the green dress on him, shortly after footsteps were heard, as a dragon's head popped through the window. (Call Of The Warren?) Three others entered the girl's half of the barracks. To Raelian's surprise, the WarrenLady Merissa was among those three. Merissa questioned Gob first, as Raelian remained quiet. Then as Raelian looked toward her bed, and noticed a piece of material sticking out from the edge of her mattress, she started moving toward the bed, just as Merissa questioned her and Melinae. (Call Of The Warren?) Melinae turned back to the woman, spoke, and during her own speech, she pulled out the dress from beneath her mattress, knowing well that she had not put it there, and knowing that it had not been there before she and Melinae had left for dinner. She held up the half scorched dress as evidence...as well as stating why boys would be in the girls half of the barracks, rummaging through girl 'things'. (Call Of The Warren?) Merissa arrives at the barracks to find one of the rooms a complete disaster and in the middle of it all... Gob. She listens to the explanations from Gob and Bryan, and then the accusations by Melinae and Raelian, before making a judgment. She decides the punishment should be for the two boys, still wearing the dresses, to go to the dining hall and serve the riders their desserts. (Just Desserts) Raelian watches along with the others as Gob tries to plead his way out of their punishment, then realizes it wasn't going to work, and started to run off, but falls on his face. Raelian, having a bit of second thoughts, nearly goes to him to be sure he hasn't injured himself, but sees Bryan return, help him to his feet and sees that only the boys' pride is hurt and nothing else. (Returning For Desert....And A Little Peek!!!) After the boys leave, Raelian has a few words with the WarrenLady, then laughs, unable to hold back any longer, then she and Melinae quickly cleans up, which only takes a few moments with the two of the working together. Then Raelian suggests they all go over for some dessert, and maybe a little peek. With all in agreement, they head over to the Dining Hall.(Returning For Desert....And A Little Peek!!!) Gob and Bryan are sent to the dinning hall in dresses as punishment for being racking the girls room. Ari meets them in the hall and turns the punishment into something more fun and exciting. In all their excitement Gobs dress comes undone and he slips causing a pastry and pie fight as the two boys slip away. (Dealing with Just Desserts) As they all arrive at the Dining Hall, they walk into a scene unlike anything they've seen before. Raelian felt the urge to ask Merissa if this was the punishment she had in mind, but never got the chance to, as she turned back at the hush of the crowd and was suddenly covered in pies and pastries. Looking at Gob with mock anger, just as he turned his back on her, she dishes out her own revenge on him...and then lets out a laughter that she had been doing her best to hold in all this time. (Returning For Desert....And A Little Peek!!!) Merissa stops Pav'lo from going after the boys who sneak out of the Dining Hall after creating a huge food fight, but Pav'lo vows that the boys will be awoken bright and early for clean-up duty. (Desserts and Disasters) J'red isn't amused by the food fight, though manages a few moments of levity with Ari, before he remembers the strain in their relationship. He leaves the Dining Hall and her behind, claiming an early morning practice. (Desserts and Disasters) Mel deals with her losses and cleans up in the room. She talked to Realian a bit, sharing some of her past, then enters the food fight. She escapes and meets Gob and Bryan out in the hallway. Melinae starts her search for a bath and asks for an apology. (Some like it dirty) Ari slips out from the Dining Hall after feeling suddenly snubbed and unsure why. She returns to her place. to clean off and work through conflicting feelings and trying to understand where she is. (Ponderings) *** Day 5 *** Early Morning - OUTSIDE WARREN: On A Small Farm Near WhiteRiver Warren. As Kavin and Zyrah finish their morning meal and head outside to begin their morning chores, they are attacked, by a new and frightening creature. One they had never seen or heard of before. After Zyrah receives a few cuts and bruises, Zyrah is shoved back inside where she spots one of the creatures, standing over what is left of her parents. After Kavin sustains a severe head wound, blacks out for a few moments, he is brought to by Zyrah's frightened scream, causing him to burst into the home to find what was left of his parents. Kavin started a fire that would burn their home, sustaining severe burns on his hands, he grabbed Zyrah and escaped into the woods. Zyrah's frightened scream was the last sound to come from her mouth. (Attack and Rescue!) OUTSIDE WARREN: Sarah rides Astarte to Whiteriver. (Dust, duty, dinner and dreams) Zara wakes Gob and Bryan and drag them into the dining hall to face Glynda. Glynda is waiting with buckets and rags to get the boys started in cleaning up from the food fight. Tatiana and Pav'lo arrive... To get breakfast, and to make sure that Gob and Bryan don't slack. (Mixed Emotions) Gob and Bryan clean the Mess hall in True Goblin form. (Moping Up as Only a young Dragon Rider Can) Morning - Ari awakens and begins her day. She and Azhy chat as she works on some secret tests for her father at the research settlement. She sends Azhy off and sneaks into her lab and cleans up the mess she knows is there waiting for her. She ponders things as she cleans up. She then heads to the Dragon Center to begin her shift. (Taking Care of Business) Raelian had woken early, and made her way to the Medical Center to start her morning chores. As she moved from room to room, Ari had slipped in, unnoticed by her...and again slipped out. (A Meeting Of Chance) Sheldon thinks about leaving, again, but as he does, his 'mysterious' link to Ari kicks in and he begins to worry about her. He is scheduled for patrol and finds out that he has been paired with Ash. When Ash rescues to injured people, Sheldon and Panzeree try to find out what happened and discovers a burnt farmhouse and slaughtered sheep, adding more mystery. (If Wishes Were Dragons...) Upon her return, Sarah finds her apartment needs quite a bit of cleaning. (Dust, duty, dinner and dreams) Navra takes Melinae on a tour of the warren. (Warren Tour) Late Morning - Ursa arrives to the ledge of Dru'Kar's apartment with a wraith-burned unconscious Dru'Kar on her back after having holed up in a cave somewhere for the night. Ursa successfully argues to keep Dru'Kar on the ledge with her. (A time for healing) Chrysthal tells Merissa that Dru'Kar and Ursa have returned to the warren with Dru'Kar injured. Merissa isn't too concerned when she hears that Xanthia is caring for him at their home rather than at the Medical Center. (If Wishes Were Dragons...) After Oberon arrives in a panic looking for Dru'Kar, Xanthia explains to him what's going on and asks for his help to move Dru'Kar to a pallet she'd made up. Despite being told not to, Oberon heals Dru'Kar by touching him. When Xanthia finds him lying unconscious and bearing the wraith burns that were on Dru'Kar, Xanthia calls out to Chrysthal to have her send for Merissa. (A time for healing) Noon - Chrysthal interrupts Merissa again, but this time with concern about Oberon. At a run, Merissa heads home, just in time to see the final stages of Oberon's healing Dru'Kar's wraith burns. Oberon appears to have suffered no lasting ill-effects, however, Dru'Kar does not awaken. (If Wishes Were Dragons...) Merissa arrives just as Oberon is coming to and the last of the wounds are resolving and demands answers. Xanthia and Oberon explain. (A time for healing) Afternoon - Kavin collapsed beside his sister as she fell asleep in a cave, only to wake hours later to find wolves that were seemingly docile. After waking Zyrah, he went outside, spotted two Dragonriders and tried waving them down for help. (Attack and Rescue!) Kavin wakes hours later, to find his sister curled up with a small, black wolf cub, while other, larger wolves surrounded them. As Kavin heads outside, he spots a couple of riders in the sky, and waves frantically for their help. One banks and lands. Kavin quickly tells him that he and his sister may need help. They go into the cave for his sister, who refuses to leave the wolf cub behind. Then the rider picks Zyrah and cub up in his arms, and turned to leave. They mounted the dragon, and headed for Whiteriver Warren. (A Rescue From A New Threat - JP) Kavin and Zyrah was taken the Whiteriver's Medical Center, and questioning along with examinations were under way, with Kavin being bandaged up. (Arrival In Confusion) Ash sends a courier for Wingleader J'red, as he waited while the twins were being examined. When J'red arrives in a rush, he speaks in hushed tones to Ash, then heads over to Kavin...and the questioning begins again, with Kavin struggling to remember. (Arrival In Confusion) Hearing about the rescue, J'red comes to the Medical Center to talk with the brother and sister who have been brought in. He is frustrated by Kavin's inability to remember, and also discusses Zyrah's condition with Th'rin and Ash. (Desserts and Disasters) When afternoon came, Raelian had debated on whether she should go for her afternoon meal or go into the Dragon Center. She quickly decided to go into the Dragon Center, and then preceded to re-stock a few of the bays there...feeling a bit downhearted for not being able to do anything to help the few dragons there...due to not knowing what exactly ailed them. (A Meeting Of Chance) In the last Bay, Raelian found the Healer that she had wanted so badly to talk to...but as she spoke...the woman seemed to be lost in her thoughts and seemed to be not listening to her or realize she was even there...then Raelian realized she hadn't introduced herself yet...and decided to start again. (A Meeting Of Chance) Ari is greeted by a young woman who introduced herself and tells Ari she would like to be a healer like her. Ari flustered at first suggests they go and sit and chat in the dining hall. (A Request) As Raelian and Ari briefly talked at the Dragon Center, Ari suggested they head over to the Dining Hall, where they could have some tea. Raelian agreed, since she hadn't eaten since early that morning. (Tea And Getting Acquainted) Firefly, in an attempt to help his rider get back together with Ari, goes in search of Ari for "healing" and finds himself under Dalmar's care. (Mixed Emotions) As Raelian and Ari entered the Dining Hall, Raelian spoke to the cook about getting a tray of various food. When Ari got her own tray, the two headed to the back of the Dining Hall, where they could talk without being disturbed. Raelian then asked her first question...while thinking about the Anestheal salve in her pouch around her waist...and how she has plans to reveal its' existence to Ari...after they talked some. (Tea And Getting Acquainted) As Raelian sat in the Dining Hall with Ari, eating their lunch and discussing the life of a healer, herbs, plants and medicines, as well as Raelian's Anestheal. A man approached them, speaking on his dragon being injured. Ari and Raelian both quickly stood with questions of their own. (A Dragon In Need? Lunch Is Convened!) J'red, responding to Firefly's "pain" finds Ari in the dining hall with a searchling, Raelian. Telling her that Firefly needs her, she hurries out, followed by Raelian and J'red. (Mixed Emotions) Moments later they were hurrying out of the Dining Hall and back to the Dragon Center. Raelian followed Ari through the center to the bay where this dragon waited for them. Raelian had no idea what was actually wrong...yet with the dragon, since the man didn't give them much explanation on his dragon...so she would have to wait and see what exactly was ailing the dragon. (A Dragon In Need? Lunch Is Convened!) Ari is asked to help Firefly. She reflects on her deep feelings for J'red and introduces Raelian to Dalmar and begins to tend to firefly. (A Healers Heart) Dalmar convinces Firefly to at least let him examine his injuries. J'red, Ari, and Raelian arrive, and he shows Raelian some of his medical implements. (A Healer At Work) Ari introduces Raelian to a man trying to coax a large dragon....she soon realized he was Dalmar...the very man Ari spoke of earlier. (Observing And Learning) As Ari went to tend to the dragon, Dalmar and Raelian discussed the healing field, his contraptions, Ari's healing techniques and why Ari and himself became healers, then about why Raelian was so interested in the healing field. (Observing And Learning) Raelian then soon explained about the first salve she had made...and finding that it numbed while it healed. She explained what plant she had used, the procedure she did as she made the salve and what she added to the mixture to make the salve. She then handed him the container that held the salve within, for him to examine. (Observing And Learning) Evening - Matt wakes up the day after his crash, broken and bruised but still alive. He meets the silent twin and her canine companion, and they keep their silent record going. They follow Matt as he goes outside to be reunited with Ialir, who acts like a hyper puppy until he is sure of his rider's condition. The two enjoy a sunset together, finally letting go of a dark cloud that hovered over them since the joining. All the while, little Zyrah stares at the spectacle, unseeing but not sightless. Hungry, Matt decides to take the mime-in- training to the chow hall and get some food into her. (Welcome Back to the Land of the Living) Zyrah had followed the young man who she had just met at the Medical Center, to the Dining Hall, where their conversation was merely one sided, with her only nodding, shaking her head, and smiling. She had left Rysa asleep with K'vin, while she sat in the Dining Hall. (A Brief Meeting Of Silence!) As they ate, a woman approached them, speaking first to Matt, then to Zyrah who remained quiet. The woman looked back at Matt who explained that he had only just met Zyrah and that she had not spoken a word since they met. (A Brief Meeting Of Silence!) Then as the woman turned back to Zyrah, with a couple of questions, Zyrah gave a nod of her head, and a smile. As if on cue of the woman speaking of her brother and then her wolf cub, Rysa came bounding in and over to them. (A Brief Meeting Of Silence!) Finished with her cleaning, Sarah goes to the Dining Hall to eat. (Dust, duty, dinner and dreams) Merissa takes Oberon to the Dining Hall for dinner. She runs into several people, such as Matt and Zyrah, Melinae and Navra, and also including the former school teacher, Sarah. She invites Sarah to join her and Oberon for dinner. Oberon does not appear to be too thrilled at seeing Sarah, but wants to rush home to be with Yashina [aka Xanthia] and Dru'kar. (Mixed Emotions) Sarah goes to find food and gets called aside by Merissa. Oberon isn't in the mood for conversation, so Sarah pushes back a bit when he gets cheeky. The Warrenlady catches the teacher up on her recent close call and asks her to be careful for her safety. (The lessons of the young....) Mel and Navra end the tour in the dining hall (Warren Tour) *** Day 6 *** Morning - Having received a notice of a meeting being hosted in Tinobel to discuss the findings of a well-respected healer who'd spent the last year with a team of experts studying the lost lands with their mysterious pockets of dragon magic, leaving his staff in charge, Th'rin decides to leave WhiteRiver to attend the conference. (Is there more then work?) *** AUGUST, 2007 TIME JUMP *** Day 9 (back post) Evening - OUT OF THE WARREN: Nyjel steals a picnic basket and is chased through the city of Tilharnon. He escapes by hiding aboard a riverboat, where he falls asleep. (Smarter Than the Average Bear) *** Day 10 *** OUT OF THE WARREN: On the day Th'rin was due to return to WhiteRiver, a short note from him to Merissa and Xanthia, telling them he's staying in Tinobel for a week or so... (Is there more then work?) Early Morning - Over breakfast, Merissa tries to convince Xanthia to get help for Dru'Kar to keep Xanthia from becoming too exhausted. (Help is On the Way.) Sarah goes to retrieve some instruments for the children which were stored Music Room (A Thief ...at the crack of dawn?) Aeryth wakes and decides to try to become more actively involved in Warren Life, (Best Laid Plans) Morning - Merissa receives a messenger from Tinobel with a letter which upsets her. (Help is On the Way.) Analise starts her day. On her way in to teach her first lessons she runs into a thief in the hallway and, frightened due to the strange happenings in the warren, she runs out and calls for help. Gerry, who was approaching for his lessons, comes to her aid. They are surprised to find it is Sarah, but Analise insists on taking her to face the warrenlady and Tatiana. (Early Bird-song) Sarah is caught by Analise as she is borrowing some instruments for the children (Oh not YOU again....) Analise and Sarah discuss the instruments Sarah wishes to borrow, and Analise amazes herself by agreeing she can borrow them. Nerika arrives, intent on sharing her new 'love ballad' with Analise. After singing it through, Analise is rather less enthusiastic about it, but Gerry enthusiastically proclaims he will perform it with Nerika and invites Analise and Sarah to come here their performance. (Seeing Reason Not Red) Latnem and J'lile show up at Merissa's request to look at Dru'Kar. Latnem, concerned about Xanthia to the point of distraction, asks her to leave and Xanthia heads to the med center.(Letting others help and helping others.) Mid-morning - Aeryth goes late to breakfast and while there looks for Jael, but her search is interrupted by a commotion at the lake. (Best Laid Plans) Sayli and Onyx reappear over Whiteriver in a violent and visually spectacular way! ("Going Down In A Blaze Of Glory") OUTSIDE WARREN: In Dunsbro blind Shakara witnesses Sayli's return and foresees it as an omen of global destruction! ("It's The End Of The World As We Know It") Flashback to explain where Sayli and Onyx have been and what they've been up to...and how they suddenly appeared above the Warren! (Catch Me I'm Falling) Deciding to get some fresh air, Merissa is startled by a large light, sound and then rain from the sky, as Onyx with Sayli crashes into the lower lake. J'red tries to take charge in organizing a rescue. (Help is On the Way.) Dalmar arrives at the lake as J'red and Merissa are coordinating the rescue of Sayli and Onyx. He uses his telepathy to try and get through to Onyx, hoping the dragon can revive and try to assist his rider.(A Healer At Work) Ari and Azhy are picking herbs when they experience the shock wave and discover a large dragon floating listlessly in the lake. Ari jumps in to help and begins to help the dragons to move the body towards shore. (Underwater Rescue) Mel is on her way to work when she is dragged out to the lake to help. She starts to direct the boat crews and they recover the drowning rider. She then directs her boat over to help Azhy. (In the Eye of the Storm) Azhy helps Ari and worries over her..until he can not longer sense her. He cries out and alerts the others to her missing. Sheldon rushes to the rescue as J'red is given the message. (Mind's Eye) Azhy suddenly loses contact with Ari.(Underwater Rescue) Aeryth volunteers to help in the rescue. (Best Laid Plans) Just finishing up her morning duties, and about to head over to the Med Center, in hopes to see Dalmar again, to see what more she could learn. Rael notices the warrenfolk and dragons gathering around the lake, looking up and pointing to the sky. As she looked up, her eyes widened in horror. (And From The Sky...Fell A Dream) Rael hurried over to the lake, squeezing her way through the crowd, her only instinct was to help in any way that she could. She stole her way onto one of the smaller fishing boats headed out one rescue...and soon found herself face to face with a dream. (And From The Sky...Fell A Dream) Onyx and Sayli are safely rescued by the brave Whiteriver Warren folks and riders. Sayli is taken to the med center, followed by his admiring rescuer. (It's Raining Men!) Sheldon senses that Ari is in trouble, and realizes that he can feel Ari's existence in his mind. Following his instincts, he is drawn to her location in the lake. J'red, fearful for Ari, follows, and aids in her rescue. He pulls Ari up on Firefly's back, and following a suggestion from Azhy, gets Ari to start breathing again, to J'red's relief, and also that of Azhy and Sheldon. (A flicker in the dark) Ari regains her consciousness although not for long. J'red realizes she has been hurt and with Sheldon they take her to the medical center. (Pulled from the Depths) Matt and Ialir stand back as the rescue operation gets underway, then get into a stupid argument as the teen dragon bugs his rider about flying practice for the thousandth time. (But I Wanna Go!) As Xanthia arrives at the med center, a cart is trundled in with a wet dragonrider who she discovers is Sayli. Xanthia tends to Sayli and asks Raelian for help, and asks her to tell her what happened. (Letting others help and helping others.) Onyx responds to the dragon healers mind with a slight flicker, giving the healer hope to rescue him. ("Wind Beneath My Wings") Sayli moved to the Med Center in Rael's care, and Xanthia's expert healing discovers his broken arm and blinded eye. ("Wind Beneath My Wings") Rael stands nearby, preparing to oversee all that the healer does, until she is asked to help. As the healers strip the man, then removes the blond hair from his face, Rael lets a gasp escape accidentally. She then runs a finger along an old scar upon his chest. (And Her Fallen Dream Awakens) Rael soon learns her fallen dream's name: Sayli. She then helps dress the wounds, and then was asked to sit with him. (And Her Fallen Dream Awakens) OUTSIDE WARREN: Nyjel wakes up aboard the river trader's boat, only to find that it has left the city while he slept. (Getting Pissed) Late Morning - Xanthia goes to check on her friend Ari, realizing that she has indeed been single sighted and neglecting not just her duties but her friends during the ordeal with Dru'Kar.(Letting others help and helping others.) Afternoon - Shortly after Zyrah returned from her noon meal, Kavin woke fully for the first time the past ten days. He begins screaming in terror, as a Healer comes to his side. (Remembering A Horror) Kavin the recounts all that had happened, what the creatures looked like...and how Zyrah came to now have her wolf cub.(Remembering A Horror) Late Afternoon - Ari's father Edrick greets Gob on his way to deliver the invitations to the celebration. Edrick approaches his wife Lady Cicely with the news they are attending.they quarrel and then plan for the trip...sharing their worries and concerns of the still battle between her cousin the King and his toady.Lord Reginald 17th Earl of Ravencroft over Ari. (Battle of Wills) OUT OF THE WARREN: Shakara and the children are attacked by a demon beast on the road from Dunsbro (Somebody's Watching Me) Merissa asks Navra to help her finish invitations to be sent to the nobility inviting them to the Warren's Festival of Remembrance and Celebration. (Looking Forward) Evening - Merissa returns home and talks to Oberon about his day. Oberon enthusiastically tells him about Miss Sarah's instruments and learning how to play the drum. (Looking Forward) Xanthia spends time with the children at the Warrenlady's apartment. When Merissa comes home and Oberon asks to take the drum home that Miss Sarah brought in to school, Xanthia tries to find the best solution to keep both Oberon and Merissa happy. She tells Oberon of other nomadic tribal instruments and suggests that Oberon make his own. (Letting others help and helping others.) Merissa is delighted with Xanthia's idea of "pipes" for Oberon and offers to find supplies to help make them in her office. She suggests they go to eat at the dining hall so as to save as much time for pipe-making as possible. (Ready, Set... Go?) Xanthia, Merissa, Oberon, and Alina go to the dining hall and meet up with Miss Sarah to work on making a pan pipe. (From the heart) As Xanthia's thoughts drift to Dru'Kar and his state of unconsciousness, she saddens. Since they need corks to finish the pan pipes, Xanthia volunteers to go to the kitchen to get some so that she have a moment to compose herself. As she's about to reach the kitchen, Navra sees that Xanthia's upset and stops her to see if there's anything she can do to help. After getting the corks for Xanthia, the two talk and Xanthia invites her new friend to join them at their table. (From the heart) Oberon plays the pan pipes for the first time, and doing so from the heart does so amazingly beautifully.(From the heart) OUTSIDE WARREN: Nyjel climbs out of his hiding spot on the boat to find that it had docked at the Farway Inn. Quilled monsters spot the boy on the boat, and start to attack. To save his life, Nyjel cuts the boat free from the dock. The boat is carried a short way back down the Dragon river by the current while Nyjel gets drunk. (Getting Pissed) Later Evening - Warrenlady's Apartment: Xanthia and Merissa put the children to bed, and Oberon decides to sleep in Alina's room to guard her. (From the heart) Xanthia and Merissa have tea together after the children are in bed. While getting ready for bed themselves, Xanthia asks Merissa if she can have a drum circle around the bon fire at the end of the festival of remembrance. (From the heart) Xanthia ends her night sleeping at Dru'kar's side, guarding him. (From the heart) Late Evening - Faraway Inn: Shakara gives a brief history/theological lesson and asks for help getting her and her children to Whiteriver (Thriller) Tatiana is at Faraway Inn and offers to guide Shakara to Whiteriver. (Huntress) *** July,13 2008 Day 11 *** Early Morning - OUTSIDE WARREN: Nyjel wakes up to find that his boat has hit a rock and shipwrecked him on the west bank of the Dragon river. He gathers up some supplies and decides to explore the area. (Of Frying Pans and Fires) Rael never leaves Sayli's side throughout the previous day and night, only eating when a tray of food was brought to her, and even then she only ate the fruit. She dozed a bit in the night, waking before first light, and leaving his side just barely long enough to freshen up and return quickly to his side. When he awakens, she informs a healer that he had awaken. (And Her Fallen Dream Awakens) OUTSIDE WARREN: Early Morning: Shakara, the children, and Tatiana leave Farway Inn and head toward the Alchemist's Tower to retrieve a mysterious object. ("On The Road Again") Morning - Ari is checked over and found to be ok. J'red comes to visit her bringing her a letter from home. She reads it and they talk about the news of her parents coming to the celebration. Ari asks some questions about it...Sheldon comes to visit as well...J'red leaves to take care of his duties...Sheldon tells Ari about his secret and she realizes she too has the same one. (A letter from Home) After getting breakfast, Aeryth decides to practice out on the edge of the green. (Music, Sweet Music) Nerika hears Aeryth's playing, and goes to investigate. She is unable to resist joining in the music. (A Harmonious Arrival) J'red leaves Ari and goes to visit other injured riders and stops by to see Sayli. He is surprised to find Rael there. (Ready, Set... Go?) Aeryth discovers that she has some company in the world of music in the person of Nerika. She is pleased and hopes to make a new friend. (Changes) Nerika talks to Aeryth on the green, while Lyraene watches J'red and Firefly hold practice for water rescues at the lake. Nerika asks Aeryth if she'd like to perform at the Memorial/Harvest celebration just a the practice dummy gets flung right in their direction. (Look Out...Dummy!!) Aeryth and Nerika's music discussion is brought to a screeching halt when Nerika sees what she assumes is a man hurtling through the air. When Aeryth notices, she assumes the same thing. They both head across the green to where the dragons will land, Lyraene having caught what both dragons know to be a dummy. (Incoming!!) Dalmar confronts J'red over his lack of action to save the poor "man" he saw sailing through the air over the lake, then goes to check on Firefly. The dummy that J'red's wing had lost during its practice session miraculously returns. (Mistaken Identity (JP)) Sky above the lake: Aeryth and Nerika stage their own little game of "Catch the Dummy" without letting anyone else know, trying to prove a point to J'red. However, he doesn't seem to notice, but the other riders do and their attempts to "save the falling man" manage to foul up the ladies' plan. (Catch That Dummy!! JP) Sayli and Rael visit the dragon ward to check on Onyx--with no change in condition. At lunch, Sayli realizes what an angel Rael really is.("Is This Love That I'm Feeling?") Rael had helped to freshly bathe and dress Sayli, then plaited his long blond hair, before heading over to the Dragon Ward. As the two entered, they were greeted by Dalmar. Dalmar gave them a medical update on Onyx, while Rael remained quiet, then helped Sayli to stand, to touch the black dragon and try to contact the beast's mind. After the failed attempt, the two left to head for the Dining Hall. (A Strange New Feeling) OUTSIDE WARREN: Nyjel comes across a road, while trying to decide which direction he should head, spots Shakara's wagon approaching. He decides to follow the wagon from the cover of the forest, figuring that they know where they're going. (Of Frying Pans and Fires) Afternoon - Rael wheeled Sayli over to the Dining Hall, where she settled him at a nearby table, and went to retrieve their trays. When she returned, he thanked her, and then she noticed him studying her, causing her cheeks to become heated. She then began to notice the strange feeling she had been having, but stronger this time and wondered what it meant for her...as well as what it meant for Sayli and herself. (A Strange New Feeling) Jael is scheduled for Patrol. He goes to the Green to meet his partner and finds only his dragon waiting. After some frustration on Jael's part, and amusement on Ophar's, the dragon tells him that he has a new partner, and they must wait for her to come. (Ready, Set... Go?) Aeryth is asked to serve as transportation for some of the settlers when the time comes to bring them in for the upcoming festivities. She's also told that her patrol partner has changed and is amused to find a very confused Jael when she reaches the green. (Changes) Jael is delighted with the change in patrol partners, but not so pleased to learn that instead of patrol they will be transporting visitors to the warren, including a "lady". He is less pleased to find out that their escort is Azhy, Ari's dragon, and that they are going to the settlement where Ari resided. (Do We Look Like Mules?) Azhy leads the small escort party to the Settlement to pick up the Lady Cicely and others so they can join the celebration. Azhy enjoys the Dragon Song and notices the similarities in the song he was raised with and the Warren Dragons song. (Song Sung True) Ash'chenon comes to Merissa to discuss the attack by the new predators in Whiteriver. (Coming Together for the Pow-Wow) Merissa and Ash discuss the creature that attacked the twins. Merissa asks for suggestions on how to kill it. (Creatures in the Night (JP)) Wyn and Ash make plans for hunting skruntts after leaving Merissa's office.(On the Hunt?) OUT OF THE WARREN: After getting beaten up by the scenery, Nyjel gets jumped by Tatiana, who brings him back to the wagon. (Of Frying Pans and Fires) Sayli and Rael share lunch and conversation about spiritual connections ("(I've Been)Waiting For A Girl Like You") Sayli and Rael sat in the Dining Hall, Rael's food barely touched as Sayli spoke of the connection he felt between them. She is slightly confused as to how her own mind could have called out to him while he was in the lost lands, without her even knowing. Suddenly, someone bursts in...calling their names and informing them that Onyx had awakened...just as Sayli has the mental connection between him and his great beast. (Dazed From The Fall? Or Her Own Confusion?) Sayli senses Onyx is awake just as Ari (?) bursts in with the good news. ("(I've Been)Waiting For A Girl Like You") Rael rushes Sayli over to the Dragon Wards, knowing that he would be unable to keep still long enough to wait another moment. She felt it was right to speak to the dragon, though she spoke aloud, those same words were spoken within her mind. She hadn't a clue if Onyx would understand or hear her...but to her it didn't matter...it felt right to her to do so. She remained close to Sayli's side, give him help...should he had need of it. (Dazed From The Fall? Or Her Own Confusion?) Late Afternoon - Ari sits with others as they begin to prepare for the rite of remembrance as the warren gears up for the up and coming Rite of Remembrance. Azhy meets J'red and two other riders on the Green for an assignment. (Offerings of Remembrance) Jael and Aeryth arrive at the Research Settlement. After Ophar explains to Jael about the honor of the greeting of the wild dragons, he goes on to explain the fascination between the researchers and the wilders. Jael and Aeryth go to greet the leaders of the settlement. (Taking off and Landing) Early Evening - After being given the 'strong' suggestion by J'red that some night flying might be in order, Barsel talks Nerika into an evening away from the warren. Their romantic rendezvous is interrupted by some strange creatures in the darkness, and then a wagon full of people -- and Tatiana and Zenia. (Creatures in the Night (JP)) Nyjel and Shakara's party arrive at the Alchemists' Tower, only to be attacked by a large pack of skrunts. (Of Frying Pans and Fires) Tatiana kills a skrunt on her way to the tower, then meets up with Barsel, Nerika and about thirty uninvited guests. (More Than Meets The Eye) Lady Cicely and her entourage arrive at the warren..and all get a closer look at the famous lady of the land. They are welcomed and taken to their quarters. (A Royal Reception) Evening - Nerika and Barsel attempt to draw off the skrunts while Shakara and her brood hole up in the alchemists tower. Barsel insists that the warren needed to be warned, and eventually abandons Nerika to do that. (Run, Don't Hide! (JP)) Nyjel and Atana hide on the second floor of the tower. (Lifeline) J'red sends out a rescue squad to assist those a the old Alchemists Tower. (Taking off and Landing) Aaron and Rojer respond to J'red's summons, and join the rescue at the old Alchemists' Tower. J'red assigns Aaron and Linda to evacuate the civilians while the rest of the dragons and riders hold off the skrunts. (Highway To The Danger Zone) Linda rushes from her apartment as she gets the summoning report from her dragon. Heads to the Supply Cavern, retrieves things she may need, then heads for the Green. Soon after, she and Aaron heads for the Alchemist's Tower to rescue those trapped there. Realizing both dragons would not have room enough to get all of them out at once and in time before those creatures got through to them, she and Shameer launch into the sky once more, circle the tower and finding another way in. As those on the main floor are rescued, she and Shameer perch on the tower wall, Linda shimmying down the rope, soon find two of the children on the second floor of the tower. (Rescue At The Tower Of Danger) Kavin and Zyrah are ordered to lead the frightened children to the Med Center, but have a difficult time getting the children to follow...that is until Linda arrives with the last two. It was with her help they were able to get them to the Med Center to be examined for injuries. Zyrah sits on the floor with Rysa, just as the youngest of the children comes to play with the black wolf cub...holding the child's attention long enough to be examined. (Rescue At The Tower Of Danger) Nyjel arrives with Linda and Atana on Shameer, but tries to sneak away shortly after they land. Shameer prevents him, and sends him back down toward her rider and the other people rescued from the tower. Kavin introduces himself to Nyjel, who doesn't know how to react. (Eye To Eye) Kavin stood back watching and observing the healers, as Zyrah observed Nyjel observing Kavin. Zyrah finally stood and went over to Nyjel, sitting next to him while Rysa followed and then tried her best to get Nyjel's attention. After some time, Kavin notices, then comes over and speaks to Nyjel, introducing him to his sister and the wolf cub. (The Silent Goes Unnoticed, But Does Not Miss A thing) Atana gets checked over by Xanthia and Latnem in the medcenter, and is given a clean bill of health, both physical and mental. Nyjel surprises himself by protecting Atana when the startled wolf puppy nipped at her, and gets bitten mildly on the wrist as a result. Frightened and confused by his protective feelings for Atana, he runs out of the medcenter, leaving the girl there crying. (Once Bitten) Tatiana finds the object that Shakara sought at the tower while escaping with one of the children. (And behind door number 2) *** ... and the story continues!

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