Sorkana's Rise, New Discoveries free porn video

Sorkana's Rise, New Discoveries By: Malissa Madison As Shalarra was getting to know her new Queen, her parents were making a new discovery. In an attempt to try and capture a few of the Earth similar species, LtCmdr Ta Tsong was leading a flight of three science skimmers trailed by one of the shuttles. The sudden burst of static followed by an electronic Colony Ship Identifier, was almost disregarded before Ta realized it wasn't just static bleed over from their satellites. "Sir, that is a Colony Authority Aivis Unit," the shuttles communication technician informed him with new found excitement. "Can we get a triangulation?" "We are going to spread out and form a triangle," he informed the shuttle pilot. We'll bounce the signal directions back to you." "Ta, report. It sounded as if your shuttle picked up an AIVIS transmission," requested Captain Shelly Tsong. Moments later the playback was heard aboard the ship as well. "Warning, contact lost with Colony Ship New Sydney, last communication from New Sydney was at landing plus five hundred years 301 days, 16 hours, five minutes, Orbit Critical, emergency orbital braking thrusters deployed, estimated landing area 22 degrees West 53.7 deg," and then it went silent. The last part of the transmission was garbled, they didn't know if it crashed in the north or south, but already search and rescue teams were racing for the two possible locations. The primary shuttle was trying to get a fix on the AIVIS station. Captain Tsong keyed her FSP Com-link, "FSP Wolf at Kaus Australis Five, reporting discovery of CA Colony AIVIS unit still operating on the planet surface. SAR Teams attempting to locate crash site of Colony Ship, New Sydney. Will keep you advised." She was aware her heart was racing as were those of her bridge crew. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Yokohama Observatory and Communications Relay Station. "Sir we need to get this message out to the other Observatories and notify the Weyrs and Harper Halls. They discovered an AIVIS on that other planet," Ensign Fielding who was teaching the communications officers of the Yoko responded to the incoming message. Across Pern and at the new Between Observatory the message was being relayed. Longbow and Nacona were stunned by the news. It was only a few hours later that the AIVIS unit and the wreckage of New Sydney had been discovered. But the observatories could not understand the encrypted reports sent by Wolf to the other FSP ships. Being closer to Between Captain Tillek called a meeting at the Harper Weyr to inform the leaders of the discoveries. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Cpt Tillek stood before those gathered to hear his report. "Captain Tsong of FSP Wolf, discovered an AIVIS unit deployed by the New Sydney Colony. The reports showed everything progressing as normal until two years, turns, into the settlement when Thread began falling on the planet." "The colonists were nearly all wiped out by the time the second fall was over. Their livestock and other animals escaped and apparently went wild, but enough survived to adapt to the planet." He took a deep breath. "Unprepared and inexperienced, the few human survivors lived off the emergency rations, believing that the Colonial Authority would arrive to rescue them. The Emergency beacons were still aboard the New Sydney in orbit, they never got deployed. The last report by anyone was that there were three survivors and all on foot, and they were going to attempt to make it up into the mountains before the next Thread Fall." "There were no other survivors? How could they all be wiped out?" asked the gathered crowd. "All of their shelters were constructed from the native timber. The housing units they had, had been broken down in favor of wooden homes." He showed the images that had been retrieved from the AIVIS unit. "The New Sydney left the Home system fifty Earth years after the Pern Colony reported their safe landing. They homed in on the ECC Probe. The AIVIS unit recorded the arrival of a Probe from the Yokohama, I guess that's one that was launched at the Red Planet and dragged there along with the Thread Pods." "As you can see, by the AIVIS recordings, Thread is not as dense there as it is here, nor does it last as long, maybe twenty to thirty years. But of course, as you can see, it is still just as deadly." The ancient videos showed the devastation left in its wake as they watched several falls which were spread out over a seven or even ten-day apart rather than a mere two to three days at its heaviest fall. "I noticed there is a much longer gap between Falls," pointed out Cassia. "Yes, and it didn't start until the Planet was long past," observed Sorkana. "Yes, the Colonists arrived just as it was approaching the planet which surprises me because, the ships officers got the reports from the Amherst and should have relayed them to the colonists," stated Lt Benden. "Or they thought it was far enough away from the Oort cloud to not be a threat. What little was left in the tail appears to have been pulled into the other suns that it passes," added the Science officer from Nacona. "We've contacted FSPs Rampart and Julius Caesar who report no evidence in any of the planets they've surveyed along its return orbit. Of the seven, two show promise of being inhabitable." Pern and then Between were the worst affected being the first planets it passed after passing through the Oort cloud. Also, as it pushed through, it scattered Thread Pods ahead of itself, this was the most dangerous part of its journey. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Over the next few years, between fighting thread, strengthening the Weyrs and establishing Holds, the Weyr Council had assigned certain Queen Riders and their chosen Mates to the task of studying the newest planet, KA-5, dubbed New Sydney by the FSP Crews. The first of the Ark's were only a turn from the outer reaches of the Rukbat system now, and Cmdr Ta Tsing of Wolf's science and exploration section sent a set of photos to the Dragon Riders studying the planet. Shalarra waited until it was only her and C'rter by themselves. Sistine had given her an aerial photo forwarded by Wolf that the younger riders father had said he wished her to have when he had sent it. "I think we can make it here with no problems," she confided as she traced the outlines of an old volcano on the overhead picture forwarded by FSP Wolf. It wasn't close to the New Sydney AIVIS facility, so their presence should go unnoticed. "You know that I will follow you anywhere." C'rter hugged her. "But how can you be so sure that it's possible?" "Because Farrellith says that she can, but she will not go unless you and Brazzleth go with us," she answered. "You know what the Weyr Leaders will say when we propose the expedition," he observed. "So, we don't tell them. We just do it, the same way that Sorkana and Tiva," he pressed his fingers to her lips as Sh'ree, his Wing Second stepped into the room. "You aren't going without the rest of the wing," she grinned. "Farrellith has sworn the rest of our dragons to secrecy. Only F'tel and Geena will stay behind." "Why those two?" asked Shalarra. "Their Parents are Healers at Southern Hold." They looked in stunned shock to see Sistine standing in the doorway. "If they report that your wing is isolated somewhere on the southern continent with Fire Head Fever, and provide reports daily, no one will question it, nobody wants to chance getting Fire Head, even with the new medicines and such that shorten the recovery time." "But if the Queens," began C'rter. "Loath and Crenelth, will be in the South to amplify for your dragons," supplied Sistine. "Besides, if they find out the truth, what can they do to you? You'll be there, not here," she gestured to the space image of Kaus Australis Five and their hopeful new Weyr. "I know your Mother would love to watch Tilvin and Shandy for a while," Shalarra named their two children. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Three days later, under the guise of exploring more of the unexplored Southern Continent of Pern, Shalarra left with C'rter's wing. Only after they were certain they were not observed, and no other dragons were listening in, did they share the images of the old volcano. Everyone looked at the individual photos they'd been given, the horseshoe shape of the long dead cone, the southern face blown out from a centuries old eruption, the survey skimmer hovering only feet above the rim. As soon as every dragon reported ready Farrellith echoed her riders order to jump. It was so black, so cold, only her mental connection to Farrellith told her that she was still alive. Her lungs burned with the need for oxygen before suddenly she burst into the warm morning sky from between. Gasping for breath, she felt Farrellith as she inhaled deeply, felt the chill of between as twenty-six more dragons appeared around her. Two hundred feet below Cmdr Ta Tsong jinked his skimmer to the side in panic after feeling the sudden gust of freezing air. 'Land we need rest,' stated Farrellith. Everyone readily agreed as they glided down to the depths of the volcano. 'My head hurts more than before,' Shalarra complained. 'We are in the right place, just not the right time,' observed C'rter. 'What?' echoed the question of every rider through their dragon. 'We time jumped to the time of the image,' advised Farrellith. "Did you not wish to see your father?" That photo had been nearly four weeks old. They had jumped backwards to the time of the photo, not just to the location. Three dragon lengths up one side, water cascaded down in a waterfall filling a small lake that had not been visible due to the overgrowth of brush and the angle of the orbital camera that was used. Now they flew in following the stream from where it left the bowl to cascade down the side of the ancient volcano to join a larger stream. Still sitting Farrellith, Shalarra saw the wide shelf of rock that led in behind the falling water. Steam rose from the little lakes surface, 'Let's hope there is a source of drinkable water here that isn't steaming hot.' The skimmer sped in to land near the almost full wing of Dragons, Ta seeking out the rider of the washed out Golden Queen. "D, Daddy?" She ran to the man who was her father. "How? How did you get here?" He was both elated and shocked. Then into his Wrist Com he said, "Captain, you need to grab a shuttle and get down here ASAP. Our daughter is here." "Uhhh, Daddy, please don't say anything to the other ships." She was blushing the way she had always done when she thought she was going to be in trouble. "Sir, I'm C'rter. It is an honor to meet you finally." C'rter reached out to shake his hand only to find himself in a bear hug along with Shalarra. "Excuse me," Sh'ree interrupted them. "C'rter, as soon as the Blues have rested I'm going to send them in search of wild grazers." "Yes, the Dragons will need to eat soon." C'rter nodded his approval to his Wing Second. "Sheree Blaze? Is that really you?" asked Ta. "Yes sir, only it's Sh'ree now that I ride Bronze Sith." They were waiting for a report on a herd of nearby grazers when Aimee, a Weyr born Green Rider observed with a chuckle, "Now I understand why we've all had the low-grade headaches for the last four weeks. Timing always leaves you with a headache if it is for very long of a time." "Not just the headaches but we've all been tired as well," observed someone else. "Remember the records from the times they sent dragons back in time to mature before Pern's last pass?" Now chuckling Shalarra said, "Then I guess we have what, four weeks before we're missed and have to go back?" "No, we have to go back after we left," stated C'rter. "We can't be in the same place at the same time." Still with a whole month to explore and begin preparations of the Weyr, they had lots to do. But they needed to have all the dragons fed and cared for. The long jump between had left a lot of scaly patches that needed oiling. The answer was provided by one of the Survey teams. The nearby plains were populated by an evolved species of Old Earth Emu. Not only was the flesh rich and tasty to both Dragons and Riders, it provided a natural oil that did wonders for the dry patches of skin. Figuring the time to return wasn't hard, thanks to her father and the interstellar clock in Wolf's computers. Plus, they had used their view pads before leaving to record images of the secluded cove they had used as their leaving point. She remembered too that there had been a Dolphin in the cove watching, it had gotten into the picture as well. With the help of the dragons, after they'd hunted, they began clearing away the scrub brush at the bottom of the bowl, around the lake and along the stream. "Come on C'rter, Farrellith says there should be a large cavern here we can use as hatching grounds." "Yeah, and there are lots of little caverns scattered around that we can use for Dragon weyrs," stated another rider. "I've got Sh'ree looking into the fresh water situation," he told his mate, his Weyrwoman. They were skirting the steamy lake when Farrellith thought to her, 'Stop before you step on the eggs.' Looking down in sudden fright she spotted the small mound at the lakes edge just where the sandy soil ended, and the rock ledge began. Now she was on her knees examining the mound. No doubt about it, it was a Fire Lizard Mound, but where was the little Queen? Or was this the mound of a Green? Suddenly almost two dozen, wing flapping bodies in every color was around her, as the little gold screeched her warnings. They were diving at her, trying to drive her away from the nest. 'Stop!' commanded Farrellith. 'We did not come to steal your clutch little cousin.' The little queen landed atop her nest mound, the rest of her flock alighting nearby. "How did you get here?" Shalarra asked. She was shown images of the number one hold of the different ships between AK-5 and Between. "You jumped from ship to ship," reasoned Shalarra. I wish I knew how they got to Between to begin with, she thought to herself. Suddenly her mind was filled with images of a shuttle, the crew piling gems and precious metals in a hatch to jettison as they passed Between trying to rendezvous with the Amherst. The jettisoned cargo had fallen, most of it burning up in the atmosphere, but the larger gems, the diamonds had reached the surface. The trio of Fire Lizards had left the shuttle to retrieve them but had no reference to get back to the shuttle after finding the gems. They began instead, going between their new home and Honshu. Now she knew how the Fire Lizards had come to be on Between, how this little queen had brought her own kind to this new world. Farrellith had shared it with the other Dragons, who shared it with their riders. Across the bowl, near the blown-out side, a fresh water spring trickled heavily forming a small pond before joining the larger stream as it flowed down the outside. "Daddy, why didn't you report the fire lizards being on the ship?" "Shalarra, we did. But they weren't there very long, just a day or two. And no one bonded with one either," answered Ta. Her mother arrived in time to visit as Farrellith began exploring the large cavern behind the waterfall. The overhang left nearly four hundred meters of rock shelf. Great pillars of solid rock rose up to support the overhang. The wall behind was pocked with smaller caverns to each side of the largest one. The time jump lag was still taking its toll, the riders tired quickly but began using long breaks between their efforts to clear the new Weyr of underbrush. The longer straighter logs and limbs were used to build corrals and fence off pastures for the different herd beasts the dragons were slowly driving up the slope to the Weyr. Each morning a different group of six were sent to hunt, and they were at least being well fed. They had spotted several different Predator types, nothing large enough to threaten a dragon though. Sh'ree's parents were welcomed as they visited with her. There were a good number of C'rter's wing who were former Ship Children, who had impressed a dragon. It was nearly two weeks later that herd beasts began filtering into the Weyr, dragons driving them forward. Not pushing them hard but staying just close enough that they went in the right direction. Grazers that resembled cattle, horses, sheep, goats and deer. They even managed to capture and fly in several of the wild Emu adaptations. V'mel who had grown up a holdless lad near Benden Weyr chuckled as he told several of Wolf's science crewmen what he needed. Then he started teaching the finer points of sheering the ratty brush tangled wool from the thirty or so head of sheep grazing in the new Weyr's pasture. "I tell you, there are thousands of them out there wandering the grasslands," he said. "Yeah this place is ripe for those looking to start a new world," agreed D'can. Once the opening was blocked by logs and dragons, the beasts were driven into the separate enclosed pastures, to bread and grow. There were lots of helping hands from the two FSP Ships to help in carving out the Weyr and clearing away the brush. Still after four weeks les than half the inner bowl was cleared. Thankfully, the center most portion was still tall grass at the start. They sat around resting the dragons for three days before their scheduled return. Shalarra's parents promising to visit her on Between before the Colonial Authority ships arrived. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ The dragons burst forth from between, all washed out in color, tired and hungry from their long jump. Suddenly Vitath was there gliding in to land beside Farrellith. "The Weyr Leaders know," she warned. 'D'ven comes,' warned the dragons a few heartbeats before their Weyr Leader's dragon appeared. Torrith took the opportunity to frolic in the water with the Dolphins as D'ven stalked straight to C'rter and Shalarra. "Fire Head, really? Couldn't you come up with some other excuse for your absence? Sorkana, Gayleth and every other queen has been on edge for the last three days," he warned. Reaching out he tilted Shalarra's eyes up to his own. "That was both stupid and reckless endangering your dragons like that." 'Did our own Queen not do something similar?' asked Torrith. "They didn't Time Jump," he snapped in response. 'They jumped backward by two days,' pointed out the Bronze as he projected the image of the Fire Lizard queen in the Eye Rock. But D'ven was busy figuring out how long a jump back they had made. He had already figured out where they had gone. "You've been gone three weeks," he pointed out. "And none of your dragons are in any shape to fight thread in two days." "Four weeks and three days," pointed out Sh'ree. D'ven bit off his angry response as L'mar arrived. 'Not one word about this to anyone, clear?' "D'ven, I see they made it back safely," L'mar grinned. "You knew? Does Tiva know?" "No, she doesn't. Sistine, I hope that you are with us in keeping this secret from everyone until the time is right," L'mar stated. "keeping what a secret?" she laughed softly. "Keeping," he stopped. 'Something that never happened,' responded Farrellith. "We can buy you three days to recuperate, but after that you all had better have your stories straight. Sorkana is going to be asking lots of questions." "That is a beautiful Weyr, by the way," added L'mar. "The dragons are not as tired as they were on the first long jump," pointed out C'rter. "I think its because they've already made it once and the time lag didn't seem to be as long either." "Yes, but they are still too tired to be of any use in fighting thread, and Farrellith says they are too tired to go between until they have rested and fed." Stated Shalarra. "Alright, as of now, your wing is under quarantine for possible Fire Head Fever. You can expect a few Healers to come and monitor your health," stated L'mar. "Time jumping has much the same symptoms as Fire Head, though not as severe." "And any further plans you have, had best go through the two of us," stated D'ven. "Wolf has already agreed not to forward any more images of Paradise Weyr. They're continuing to work on it and improve things as well as tend to the beast herds," stated Shalarra. While they waited, D'ven and L'mar viewed the many images the riders had stored on their PDA's of their newly chosen Weyr. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Upon his return to Western, D'ven was interrogated by Sorkana. "Fire Head, how the hell did the entire wing get exposed to Fire Head?" she demanded. "Love you know how it is, all the dragons in the same place. It isn't all of them, but L'mar and I feel it best to keep the whole wing isolated until it's run its course. Or the healers determine what it is." 'Divinath says that Torrith and Nareth are hiding something,' advised Gayleth. "What are you hiding from me D'ven?" "Look love, they just wanted to get away and have a couple of days on the beach. They didn't count on everyone getting sick," he said. "Then Gayleth and I will go see them at Southern," she grinned now. She had caused him to think of their location and she saw the dragons and riders all looking miserable in the images that Gayleth pulled from his mind. "Oh alright, I won't go see them, but they had better all pull through." She kissed him then hurried off to find the Weyrs Harper. 'You owe me Bronze Rider," stated the Queen. 'Paradise looks wonderful and I wish to visit once the Weyr is officially declared.' 'I promise, I will do everything in my power to make it happen,' he promised the Queen Dragon. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Between Thread Falls, members of C'rter's wing began taking exploratory sweeps. D'ven and L'mar coordinating his wing with one from Eastern. But they couldn't do it without the aid of the two Queens. They had just completed a fall and were at Box Canyon when Master Shozin and Master Nolly pulled the two aside. "Romnorth has told me of a secret," began Nolly. "I just want to know if it is true." "A secret? What secret might that be?" D'ven tried to play it off. Looking them straight in the eyes Master Shozin said, "Paradise Weyr, is the secret." They were rewarded by the shock of confirmation registered in the two Weyr Leaders eyes. "It ummm, it is being kept secret because Sorkana and Tiva would want to go with the next group. And the Weyr Council would take control away from those who are establishing it," stated D'ven. "Plus, they have located a few more potential Weyr sites," added L'mar. "This is history being made. It needs to be properly recorded," pointed out Shozin. "They will make no more flights without at least one Harper Rider to record everything." "So, to whom should I have Master Harper Minna report to?" asked Nolly with a grin of triumph. "She needs to speak with Shalarra, so far hers is the only Queen that has made the jump," stated D'ven. "But warn her, nothing is said in front of anyone that is not identified as knowing about Paradise." "May we see pictures of Paradise? I assume there are at least a few floating around amongst C'rter's wing," requested Nolly. But it was Shalarra who had the most spectacular picture. It had been taken by her mother, and Farrellith was in full flight imposed in front of the waterfall. Both harpers simply smiled at each other then nodded their silent agreement. They had the picture to identify the newest Weyr, now they just needed to commission the riders' jackets, and the Weyr Mark design. The wing stayed just long enough to fully recover from the long jump between. They had no more headaches or fatigue, so Sorkana didn't question them. The entire wing turned out for the next Fall, they seemed to be more eager as they sought to get every strand in their level. As a result, no one questioned when a third of the Wing sought a well-earned rest on the southern beaches near Cheetah Delta. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ They had six days to spend at Paradise, or to explore other possible Weyr sites. Then return for two days recovery before the next Fall. Minna arrived almost ahead of those who would make the second jump. Then she was joined by a second Harper Rider, N'trick and his Bronze, Dolinith. Dolinith had flown Ilzabeth during both of her mating flights. He was being assigned as Western's Journeyman Harper. The Master Harpers had decided that they needed at least two Harpers to prevent their dragons from becoming over stressed by the jumps back and forth. Minna eyed D'van curiously. Things had cooled off between him and N'rissa, she felt that maybe Sorkana had something to do with it. But she would have plenty of time to find out once they made the jump. 'Yes, he was scared because Sorkana kept telling him she couldn't wait to have her first grandchild,' replied Ilzabeth. Suddenly her dragon was showing her the image received from the others who had been there already. It was beautiful, and perfect. 'We go,' and they all blinked out together. By the time they appeared above Paradise Weyr, her lungs felt as if they were on fire, her head was fuzzy, and she shivered like never- before from prolonged exposure the cold of between. The other dragons were well ahead of her, N'trick and Dolinith right behind as they descended straight toward the waterfall. The steam rising off the lake was welcoming as dragons plunged into it after dropping off their riders. A group of Skimmers sat in the open. Crew from Wolf were busy cutting steps between ledges and linking caves and carving new ones. Nearby were fenced pastures holding herd beasts of types she had never seen before. Yes, she was a bit tired from the effects of the long jump, but as she forced herself to keep going at a slower pace than usual, her fatigue soon wore off. "Minna, you and N'trick need to see where we've chosen for the Harpers office," began C'rter. "Go ahead and let your dragons feed and rest, we'll need them tomorrow." While they had been gone, the engineering section from Wolf had been busy. They'd cut access tunnels linking the individual weyrs on each level, then laser drilled water channels so each one had both fresh water and bathing water. Another crew was setting up huge solar panels to provide electricity and lighting. The wreckage of New Sydney was being stripped to provide the wiring and lots of metal as well as plastics to be used for various things. Young Marika who was Second Head Woman in the Western Weyrs kitchens had come along with her mate, T'lion and was over joyed by the stoves and ovens that had been produced for the Weyr from parts of the scrap metal, a vast improvement over the old stone ovens with their metal grill tops. She was instantly busy as she began directing the cooking of whatever was brought in for her to prepare. Her drudges working now, she moved outside to choose a plot for the Weyrs Herb Gardens and to discover if the Numb Weed and Fellis starts had survived the long jump between. At her suggestion of starting the Numb Weed along the Weyr Stream every Rider voiced their objection. "But it is what stops the pain of Thread Score," she pointed out. "And we still can't stand the smell of it," chuckled C'rter. "Fine, but I hope you don't mind the lower hills being covered in it," she stomped off to decide where on the more level spots along the mountain stream outside the Weyr to plant the first of Paradise' most valuable crops. The Fellis was better received, as not only were the fruit and juice tasty, some riders enjoyed the intoxicant brewed from the fermented fruits. Of course, she planned to use her connections back home to acquire starts of Benden Grapes to plant on the mountain slopes. She knew that Minna being a Harper would insist on starts from Ruatha and Fort as well. "Hi, Master Harper Minna, right?" asked a woman wearing the uniform of an FSP ships Captain. "I'm Sherry Tsong." "Oh, you want the Harper, I'm Marika, I'm going to be in charge of the kitchens and supplies and such," she answered. "Then I guess I really need to talk with you. I'm Weyr Woman Shalarra's mother," she informed the girl. "We will be heading for Between in two months, and even though it's a long way off before our return here in eight months, I would like to know if there are any supplies that we can haul back on our return trip that can't be brought by Dragons." "Grape vine starts from the major holds, maybe Fellis saplings, and Sweet Potatoes," she said the last with a look of pure pleasure on her face. "Marika, look," they were interrupted, "They have Globe Fruits here." She was handed a large red fruit. "The crew cutting the outer steps said there is a whole grove of them near the AIVIS complex." "Yes, there are do you like apples?" asked Sherry. "My little Shalarra loves Apples and Oranges." Both girls giggled at hearing Shalarra referred to as little. "I love the ones that grow on the Southern Continent of Pern. I haven't heard that they have any on Between. Oh, I'm Master Harper Minna," she held out her hand. "My counterpart is Master Harper N'trick. He will be the Harper for the next Weyr, when they choose where to found it." "I thought the Harpers were the records keepers and the teachers," admitted Sherry. "We are," stated N'trick as he joined them. "Also, musicians, Bards, and sometimes even investigators and explorers." "The next flight here will include four Harpers that will establish the Landing School for the new colonists. They can begin teaching them the Ballads about the laws stated in the charter and about the importance of Dragon Riders." "But don't you have computers?" "Sure, but not everyone knows how to use them. Plus, sometimes they fail, so we maintain the teaching ballads. Everyone knows them," finished Minna. Two days later, Minna paused in her singing of the Teaching Ballads as she worked to pre-plant the Weyrs herb gardens with Marika and N'trick. It wasn't their voices echoing off the walls around them, it was all the work crews singing the Ballads together. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Pern, Benden Hold to Ruatha Hold Gather; With help from the FSP Ships and their crews, new roads have been roughed out linking the Weyrs, Holds and the Weigh Stations in between them all on Between. An enterprising young holdless girl with dreams of becoming a Runner, who often ran alongside Runners from the Runner Hall at Benden Hold began to ask questions. There were three dozen other young holdless who felt that being a Runner was a noble profession. Gordita had fallen in beside the runner as he passed her on the trail. Then become curious hearing the other Runners behind them. "What's going on, why so many of you on the trail today?" she asked as she settled into her ground eating pace beside him. Fletcher and Tamari spotting them, whooped as they passed then soon all her friends had joined the pack. "I can't slow down to talk," he panted. "Why not?" "Hey Gordi, they say it's a race. Benden to Ruatha, winner gets fifty Ruatha hold Marks," panted Fletcher. "Forget it, you don't have what it takes to run all the way to Ruatha. Girls and Holdless just aren't cut out to be Runners," panted out another Runner from the Benden Runner Hall. "Speak for yourself, Jonker. I beat you in the last three relays," laughed a Girl named Friska wearing the colors of the Fort Runner Hall. The banter was friendly as the rest of the runners visited back and forth. The professional Runners had water skins and snacks in their back packs along with salves and first aid kits. Gordita and her friends on the other hand were stuck with having to dart from the trail to grab handfuls of berries or wild fruit as they passed. Occasionally they would fashion a cone of fresh leaves to scoop up water from streams as they passed. Often, they had followed a runner to the next Weigh Station before returning home, so knew most of this stretch. Of the nearly three dozen who had started out, there were twenty-three still running by the time they reached the first Weigh station as the sun began to set. The Runner Hall Masters who had flown ahead by dragons stood checking off each of the runners as they slowed to a fast walk before reaching the station. "Gordita, I see you joined the race," observed Master Allessen. He patted her shoulder the same as he did the Runners and all those who followed her on the trail. Go ahead and get some food, all of you, you've earned it." "I still have a few stragglers out there on the trail," she said. "They are being picked up be Fort Dragons if they are too far off or in need of help," he assured her. "Keebee, add Gordita and her crew to the racers. They started close enough to the starting line," he added to a Runner wearing journeyman knots from the Cove Hold Runner Hall. "Is it true, the winner gets fifty Hold Marks?" asked Tamari. "Yes, the winner does," stated Keebee. "The other runners earn ten Weyr Marks for competing." "The winning 'team' gets to go with Master Allessen to establish the Runner Halls on Between," whispered a Bronze Rider quietly. "You shouldn't have told her that," observed Master Harper Shozin. "But from what I've seen, hers is the only group that seems to have any team work. All the fallouts dropped out close to the starting point. And the rest of these seem only concerned about who is first reaching Ruatha." "I told you that homeless make good runners and they stick together," chuckled a Blue Rider. "They also know shortcuts." Three more had suddenly emerged onto the trail a short distance from the station. As they passed they each tagged hands with Gordita and Tamari. Master Shozin smiled noting that nearly all the Holdless Runners were girls. Of course, not everyone recognized the fact that the Holdless had their own network of dedicated Runners. Young teens who knew the roads and trails between all the Holdless Camps. The dragons had brought in extra food and supplies, as well extra Runner backpacks. Most of the professional runners split up into pairs or by themselves to rest up for the next day's stretch. Master Shozin watched as four of the holdless girls extracted still green leaves from pouches that they had gathered along the trail. Then as they chewed them she finally let her curiosity show. "Gordi, what is that you're chewing on?" she asked. Holding out a leaf Gordi answered, "Femweed." "Oh, to help with cramps?" "No Ma'am, it helps us become girls," answered Tamari quietly. Pointing to where the most arrogant Runners were, Molli giggled, "And they don't have a clue either. We took the side trail to send runners back to let everyone know what was happening." Suddenly it dawned on Shozin that there was at least one unknown Holdless Camp between Benden and the runner weigh station. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Ruatha Hold; Keeve shielded his eyes as he looked toward the Blue Dragon arriving from the direction of Fort Hold. "Well met R'vin," he greeted the rider. "You're a bit early for the gather." "Actually, I have a message for the Holdless Camp Runners," he grinned. Keeve raised his hand over his head and emitted a series of sharp piercing whistles, a signal for a Hold Runner. "Lord Keeve?" "Is there a Holdless Runner here today?" he asked. "Tandra," the young runner motioned her over. "Lord Keeve has a message for the Holdless." "This is a verbal message," stated R'vin. "Master Harper Shozin wishes to meet with all the Holdless Runners available at the Runners Stall during the Gather." "M, Master Shozin knows about us?" "Runner Gordi is currently leading a team of Holdless Runners from Benden who are competing against the other Runner Halls in a race. Please inform your Head Woman or Head Man and of course your Runners," R'vin stated as he handed over a Two Mark, Weyr Mark. Tandra looked at it in surprise, it was four times what Holdless runners were usually paid for such a short run. After she had taken off, R'vin asked, "Is she also Transgendered like Gordi and several other Holdless Runners?" "Yes, is that a," he didn't get to finish. "No, it isn't a problem at all." He had a grin on his face that said he knew something else though. "Can you keep a secret?" "If it isn't harmful to my Hold," answered Keeve. "They are setting up Runner Halls and Stations on Between." +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Cheetah Delta, Between; The young Queen Dragon had lived in the Delta her entire life since hatching. She lived in a high cave in the next higher mountain and got along peacefully with the big cats and their human companion who could jump between. Milliseth was curious, she'd always been curious of anything having to do with the humans who were bonded with the bigger dragons that lived in the Weyrs. She used her Dragon sight to watch as they harvested the strange plants that made the hurts stop. But there was one there digging up the smaller plants, putting them in things and then storing them in a box. Maybe it was just the strangeness of the girl, or maybe it was because she was near her time of Rising for the first time, but this human. This human, there was something special about her, Milliseth launched herself into the air to glide closer. She ignored the three Bronzes that kept watch from high atop the low mountain. 'Good hunting Milliseth,' wished Dorshee. 'Thank you, Clan Mother. Do you know why the humans are here?' she asked out of curiosity. 'They are harvesting the weed that stops the pain. Some are going to plant it on a new planet,' answered Nelshee. 'Do you wish to meet them?' 'Do you know the red headed girl digging the little plants?' Nelshee opened her mind to see through the dragon's eyes. 'Oh, that is Dandra, she is going to the new Weyr.' She started to ask if Milliseth wanted an introduction, but the Queen was no longer there. Dandra looked up as the shadow passed overhead, followed by the flash of sunlight off the golden body of a dragon. Turning her head, she saw Farrellith at the rivers edge. She shielded her eyes for a better look as the young dragon wheeled around to land with a large Brown Wild, she had no flying harness. She continued to pick and choose which plants had the best chance for transplanting. All the while, the little Queen watched her. "You have an admirer," chuckled Andrea as she passed her a skin of watered wine and a meat roll. "Is she really watching me?" "Uhhh, you mean he, right?" Andrea pointed to a Bronze Rider who was trying to suddenly look disinterested. "Oh, I hadn't noticed. I thought you meant the wild Queen," she paused the name Milliseth jumping into her mind as they finally made eye contact. Her world spun, and she felt feint. 'Is the new world pretty?' she heard in her head. In response she thought of the pictures of possible Weyr sites. She could see them clearly, the one depicting Paradise Weyr. 'Is this the one you would go to?' "Yes," she answered both aloud and mentally. 'This one is prettier,' it wasn't a volcanic cone it was an overhang, a heated waterfall spilling from the cliff face. But it was seeing through the Dragons vision that she noted the depth of the valley, the numerous caverns wide expanse of the valley floor. She wasn't aware that she was standing, only the feeling of Nirvana as it swept over her being. In a flash everything was darker than she could imagine, the cold was sinking deeper into her bones than any jump between she had ever made. Suddenly the air was warm and damp. The rushing of the falling water filling her ears and the gentle grip of dragon claws holding her safe as the Golds wings back swept just before plunging through the falling water to the ledge beyond. She gasped as they landed, the ledge was large and level. The waterfall was not as thick and heavy as it looked in the picture, it turned to mist before it reached the valley floor. Suddenly the bugle of a Bronze challenged from the opposite cliff, and she felt the Golds frustration, her ravenous hunger, her deep desire. Suddenly as Milliseth launched through the mist at the herd of grazers below, a Bronze back-winged, his rider jumping to the ledge. The rider hurried to her, placing his hands on her shoulders. "Control her, don't let her gorge," she recognized the voice of J'ker. "Dandra, you have to get her under control." "I, I," she was frightened. She'd seen many mating flights. Knew the Queens rider had to keep control until the Queen rose to mate. "She is your Queen, she brought you here, wherever we are," the taste and scent of hot fresh blood filled her nose and taste buds as Milliseth screamed her frustration and hunger below. "That's it, you're with her, hold her, don't let her gorge," he continued to encourage her. 'Only the blood, do not eat it, only drink its blood or you won't be able to rise.' With a scream of frustration, she lept for the sky, her wings sweeping the air, taking great bites, propelling her higher, faster. Korreth was now rising, bugling his challenge as he gave chase. Dandra's heart beat faster, her excitement growing as she slowly became one with Milliseth. Unlike other mating flights, there were only the two dragons. It slowly turned from a challenge to an areal courtship until finally the two entwined necks, locked in the throes of the mating flight. She was aware of J'ker's arms around her, his lips crushing passionately against her own. Her own desires as her hands tore at his clothing too, their bodies entwined together. Later as both Dragons settled to the ledge, Dandra blushed. Yes, she was sore, yes, it had hurt at first, but still she felt as if she no longer needed to hide her personal life from anyone, she felt complete. Maybe it was seeing herself through Milliseth's eyes or maybe it was the contented look or the gentle caring way that J'ker held her. Finally, J'ker asked, "Where are we exactly? I know we are on the new planet, but this isn't Paradise Weyr." but he was still smiling, still holding onto her. "Nirvana," she giggled. "Ok, but just so you know it, we're stuck here until the clutch hatches." She gasped in shock. "I personally hope to show you how much I enjoy being with you, how much I've dreamed about," he stopped suddenly realizing he was confessing his heart to her. He'd fallen in love with her when she was first brought to Eastern on Search, then as she began studying under the Weyrs Head Woman. She placed her hand on the side of his face, then kissed his lips before gathering up her clothing. "I'm going down to the stream to bathe. Then I think we should find something to eat, because I'm starving." +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Paradise Weyr; All the Bronzes and Browns were suddenly in the sky. "Minna, it's a mating flight," gasped N'trick. Ilzabeth bugled her warning to her own mate. "It's not Ilzabeth, and she's the only Queen who came with us," "Master Minna, what's happening?" asked an Engineering Sergeant. "Our dragons are reacting to the mating flight of a strange Queen Dragon that didn't come with us," she answered. "But this was the only reference point the dragons know." 'Korreth is here," Ilzabeth informed her. 'He followed Milliseth who bonded with Dandra of Eastern.' Already Minna was rushing to her dragon. 'How did they get a reference to jump here?' 'The same way Shalarra did, from an image of the Weyr,' answered the dragon as if it should be common knowledge. Then she projected the image of where the pair was located. 'We are still the first Weyr.' +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Nirvana Weyr; 'Dandra, we have visitors,' Milliseth informed her moments before Ilzabeth and three other Bronzes appeared from between. She hurried and wrapped her dress around her as she stepped on Milliseth's foreleg to mount. Then as she leaned forward gripping with legs and arms, her queen launched toward the lower shelf behind the water spray. She had already seen the much larger cavern there with its hot sand floor. The other dragons landed right behind her as she slid to the ground. "Welcome," she smiled. "I want you to know we didn't plan this," she blurted out before Minna could respond. "And yet, here you are with a dragon preparing to clutch." "I didn't know we were coming here, we just, bonded and I was showing her the Weyr Sites in my mind. This was her favorite," stated Dandra. "And she jumped without permission," stated Minna. Milliseth threw out her wings roaring a warning. Ilzabeth responded by fanning her own wings. Throwing up her hands Minna backed up a step. "Hey, I'm not mad, just confused as to how we deal with this situation." Korreth was suddenly there on the ledge, the grazer he'd carried dropped as he stalked toward the other Bronzes. "Hold!" commanded Minna. "Peace, Dragons do not fight Dragons. And this new world is large enough for several more Weyrs." "Thank you, Master Minna," Dandra hugged her. "Now you get to help me figure out how we explain this to the Harpers and how to get Candidates here for the hatching," grinned Minna. "But first, promise me that you won't share how this happened with anyone who doesn't already know." "Dandra, are we in trouble?" "No J'ker, you are not in trouble," Minna squeezed his arm. "But you are going be stuck here for a long time. So, I think we need to begin planning for the future of," she hesitated. "Nirvana," giggled Dandra. "And you were both supposed to come with the second wing," stated N'trick. Further discussion was interrupted by the arrival of Z'kiel, Kindith was washed out from the long jump. Already more riders were arriving from Paradise bringing food and supplies. "I am impressed," he made a mocking bow. "Two more Queens have figured out how to jump across the void of deep space." Silence followed. "I came because Korreth's disappearance from the Cheetah Delta caused a few ripples," he explained. "As far as Eastern is concerned, you are both on special assignment by the Harper Weyr, and congratulations on impressing Milliseth." "Thank you." "We will begin searching for candidates, just as soon as we know how many we need," stated Z'kiel. He had been in contact with Nolly through their Dragons as Minna had been with Shalarra through their own. This wasn't a planned Weyr, at least not this soon, but what could they do? Any other action besides accepting the facts could cost them both Riders and Dragons. At least Dandra had leadership abilities, the whole reason she had been chosen to migrate, to become head woman of the next Weyr when it was chosen. Now, she would be the Weyr Woman of Nirvana Weyr. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Harper Weyr, Between; Master Shozin had just arrived after being alerted and was in conference with Master Nolly. "This is the second time that a Queen Dragon has taken coordinates from a picture and jumped to the new world. We're doing everything we can to try and control access to those images now," stated Nolly. "Well, it can't be that bad, she had other dragons who had been there to draw the image from," surmised Shozin. "No, she went to a new place, a place no other dragons had been to," explained Nolly. "It is now being called Nirvana Weyr, and in three months' time, they are going to need candidates since she Rose right after her arrival." "Why would any Queen Rider be so careless?" "Milliseth was a Wild, she chose and bonded with Dandra at the Cheetah Delta while they were gathering Numb Weed and Starts to be transplanted on KA-5," interrupted Z'kiel as he entered the Weyr office having just returned. He was holding his temples, fighting back the headache. "Love, how far back did you time it to get here?" asked Nolly. "Three days," he answered. "We need to speak with Shalarra, C'rter, Lotti and K'tril. We need to begin searching for candidates and figuring out how to get them there without it being discovered." "The only way to possibly do that is to search only Holdless Candidates," stated Nolly. "Have you forgotten there are four FSP Ships available?" pointed out Master Shozin. "As for how to keep it quiet, may I suggest we add those two newest to the list being used to map and mark the new roads connecting the Weyrs, Holds, Dens and Halls of Between, that puts them and any others we need under the Direction and support of the Harper Weyr." "The Runner Hall Project," laughed Nolly. "That's perfect, especially since the numbers needed will vary." +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ East to West Trade Route, Runner Station Seven, Pern; Gordi was silently taunting the lead Runner from Fort, he was huffing and puffing while she still breathed through her nose. Sure, her nostrils flared with each inhale and exhale, but she knew if needed she still had the wind to give her the increased speed. There were still sixteen Holdless Runners strung out behind her over the last three kilometers. The Professional Runners were spread out over ten, and their number had dropped from the original eighteen to just six. Those six however had taken an early start, leaving an hour before sunrise. Still, her group had caught up, though they were unable to use short cuts this far from their usual Running Routes. It had only been in the last two hours that she had begun to pass them. Now with the Runner Station in sight, she saw Journeyman Runner Gavin tense as he leaned into his run, struggling to add speed to be the first one there. Tamari and Molli were close behind, close enough to sense the impending stumble. As his left leg gave out under the added stress, Gordi skipped to her right, her right arm reaching to give him support. Molli surged forward to use her left arm in aiding Gordi in keeping him from falling on his face while Tamari continued past them at her steady pace. When Gavin would have stopped, the pair kept him moving, slower, but still moving until they were at a walk when they reached the Station a few long strides ahead of the next group of Runners. "Oh no you don't," chided Gordi when he tried to sit down. "You know better than that, you have to walk down first." "Hey, I've got him," Tamari said as she took Gordi's place. "You need to help mix the Leg Ointment. He's not the only one that's going to need it." From the stations medical supplies, she mixed Fellis, Numb Weed and hot pepper juice into a pasty salve. They'd finished his walk down along with the others, and they were helping them bathe in the stream behind the station. It was a slightly stronger mix than the Holdless Runners had been using all along, but these Professionals would need it stronger. Gavin slept sounder that night than he had in a long time but jerked fully awake realizing that the sun was well past rising. The station was empty save for two other Runners who were just waking up. Still pulling on his Runner Pack he rushed out to the courtyard. "Good morning Gavin," Gordi greeted him. "Are you ready to finish the last leg today?" "W, what?" he looked around at all the rest of the Runners. "You won't make it today, not with this late of a start," added Benden's Lead Runner, Jonker. "We can if we take the high pass trail," said Friska. "No! That trail is too dangerous," Jonker said. "If we all stay together, we can make it," put in Gavin. "Friska, you know the trail better than I do, you lead, and I'll pick up the stragglers." "What? You're just going to make it a group run?" Jonker spat angrily. "Hey, it was Holdless Runners that saved me on the North Reaches Trade Road last year," spat Friska. "And they're the reason any of us can run today." "Yeah they kept me from eating dirt last night," pointed out Gavin. "They are a team, and teamwork is what we'll need if we run into bandits on any trail." He threw his hand up, open palm toward Gordi who slapped it with her own. "Can you teach me to breath through my nose like you guys do?" and this close to a gather, there was likely to be bandits. "It's all just self-discipline, when you start to pant, you slow down or walk it out then start again," said Fletcher. "And slowly build into your pace," added Molli. "Force yourself to breathe through your nose." "Yeah and avoid eating Maize, it makes your stomach cramp up," pointed out Gordi. The Master Runner in charge of the Runner Station sat back and listened to the advice, and the good-natured banter going back and forth. Several of the Holdless Runners had gone to the wall map of the surrounding trails. They traced their fingers along both the high trail and the low land trail which was most used. "This looks like it could be an old trail," it was halfway along the high trail that it branched off to join the low trail. "Yeah, that's Bandits Run," the Ruatha Runner shivered as if frightened. "It used to be used to avoid Bandits, but they caught on and began using it to get runners away from the marked trail. The high trail is mostly a Holdless Runner Trail." "Molli, do these symbols look familiar?" asked Tamari. The other six runners said, "those are just trail guide markers for when the weeds blur the trial." The Holdless runners began to laugh now. "Those are secret trail markers put there by Holdless Runners," explained Gordi. "Geesh, give away our secrets, will ya?" "Hey, we are all in this together. No one runs with me that doesn't know the markers or their meaning. And we don't leave a runner behind," Gordi put her foot down. Then she looked at the Professional Runners, "Yes, the short cuts we've been using are all marked Holdless Trails. See we even picked up and delivered a few Messages along the way." She pulled out several rolled messages from her pouch, mostly from individual Holdless or very small groups hidden away in the wilderness. "Is it true that Dandra from High Reaches is living at Between's Eastern Weyr since she broke her leg and can't run anymore?" asked Fletcher of the Blue Rider that was waiting to signal the runners had begun their last stretch of the race. "She was Searched but didn't impress at the hatching. But I cannot tell you where she is, only that she is no longer at Eastern," G'morn told them with a grin. "But she now Rides a Queen, and that too is not common knowledge, even among the Weyrs." They'd been getting ready and all lined up together, then at a nod from Gordi and Gavin they all took off at a slow trot as they eased into their steady distance eating pace. "Why did you tell them about Dandra?" asked Kolmon the station manager. "They are Message Runners, they have more secrets than the Craft Masters or even the Lord Holders," G'morn chuckled. "Plus, Dandra was one of the best Holdless Runners along the High Reaches Northern Trade Route. She got through during that blizzard ten years ago, broken leg and all. That was what ended her running before it barely got started." "She carried that flu vaccine to the Weyr," Kolmon gasped. "She found the Runner lost in the woods, got him to a holdless camp and then finished the run herself. High Reaches Weyr owed her a big debt for that. She even told Lotti at the Weigh Station where he was so that the next runner through would know he was safe." "I heard she was what ten turns old?" "Eight," finished G'morn as he climbed atop his dragon. The sun was nearly touching the western peaks when the group of Runners burst from the High Trail just in sight of the Gather at Ruatha Hold. The crowd began cheering, shouting encouragement as they stared in confusion. They weren't trying to sprint for the finish line at the foot of the Hold Steps. No, they were all singing Runner Teaching Ballads back and forth as they continued to jog at the same steady pace until they passed through the gate at the Gather. Then, gradually they began to slow a bit and finally halfway to the steps, they all slowed to a fast walk. "Hurry, we need a winner," encouraged a Lord Holder. "Someone better run to be first," shouted another. Gavin and Gordi then stretched out their arms to the side, linking not just with each other but with the other Runners as they all spread out side by side to cross the line at the same time. Holders and other betters began trying to figure whose foot stepped over the line first. There were arguments going on as those who had made bets tried to discover if they had lost or won. Lady Corra stepped to the head of the steps, waiting as the crowd grew silent. "Who do we have here? Who speaks for all of you?" she asked. "Go ahead Gordi, you pulled us all together," stated Gavin. "But I'm just a Holdless Runner," she blushed. "Then both of you come up here, lead your little group to the top of the steps." "Ladies and Gentlemen," Lady Corra raised her voice. "This began as a cross country endurance race between Pern's Runner Halls. But somewhere along the way, these fine young people who represent the best Message Runners of our World came together as a team." She paused as people began to realize something had happened that they didn't understand. "They are all winners, each, and everyone. Barriers between Hall Runners, and Holdless Runners have been trampled beneath their feet. I say all bets are cancelled, as they have all won far more than a mere race." People began to return to the festivities that had started just before Midday. "Come along, all of you. The Hold Bathes are open for you with fresh clothing, soft boots and plenty to eat." She was leading them into the Hold Proper, "Each of you will receive Twenty Ruatha Marks and," she paused to look at Master Shozin. "One Harper Weyr Mark." "Lady Corra, are these the young people that I was told about?" asked a young teen flanked by three wolves. "Yes, Master Jaysun, these are the ones who have won a chance to become Runners for Between."