Andemon raised a hand. I have my own observations to make first.
By all means, Master Andemon, and Flars grin broadened, Im confident of the outcome. I remind you of your first journey to the Southern Weyr. You commented on the luxuriant growths, the unusual size of the trees and bushes common to both continents, the spectacular crops, the sweetness of the fruits. That is not due to the temperate weather. We have similar zones here in the north. It is due, and Flar pointed his finger first at Andemon and then toward the tubs, to the stimulation, the protection of the grubs.
Andemon was not totally convinced but Flar did not press the point.
Now, Master Andemon, the Harper will assist you all he can. You know your people better than we youll know whom you can tell. I urge you to discuss it with your trusted Masters. The more the better. We cant lose this opportunity for lack of disciples. We might be forced to wait until your Oldtimers die off. Flar laughed wryly. I guess the Weyrs are not the only ones to contend with Oldtimers; weve all got re-education to do.
Yes, there will be problems. The magnitude of the undertaking had suddenly burst on the Masterfarmer.
Many, Flar assured him blithely. But the end result is freedom from Thread.
It could take Turns and Turns, Andemon said, catching Flars glance and, as if that consoled him somehow, straightened his shoulders. He was committed to the project.
And well may take Turns. First, and Flar grinned with pure mischief in his eyes, weve got to stop you farmers from exterminating our saviors.
An expression of pure shock and indignation passed across Andemons weather-lined face. It was swiftly replaced by a tentative smile as the man realized that Flar was ribbing him. Evidently an unusual experience for the Masterfarmer.
Think of all the rewriting I have to do, complained the Harper Im dry just considering it. He looked mournfully at the now empty wine bottle.
This certainly calls for a drink, Lessa remarked with a sidelong glance at Robinton. She took Andemons arm to guide him out.
Im honored, my lady, but Ive work to oversee, and the investigations I ought to conduct. He pulled away from her.
Surely one drink? Lessa pleaded, smiling in her most winning way.
The Masterfarmer ran his hand through his hair, clearly reluctant to refuse.
One drink then.
To seal the bargain of Perns fate, said the Harper, dropping his voice to a sepulchral bass and looking solemnly portentous and amazingly like Lord Groghe of Fort.
As they all trooped out of the Rooms, Andemon looked down at Lessa.
If it isnt presumptuous of me, the young woman, Brekke, who lost her queen how is she?
Lessa hesitated only a second. Fnor here can answer you better than I Theyre Weyrmates.
Fnor was forced to step up. Shes been ill. Losing ones dragon is a tremendous shock. She has made the adjustment. She wont suicide now.
The Masterfarmer halted, staring at Fnor. That would be unthinkable.
Lessa caught Fnors eye and he remembered he was talking to a commoner.
Yes, of course, but the loss is unsettling.
Certainly. Ah, does she have any position at all now? The words came slowly from the Farmer, then he added in a rush, she is from my Crafthall you see, and we …
She is well loved and respected by all Weyrs, Lessa broke in when Andemon faltered. Brekke is one of those rare people who can hear any dragon. She will always enjoy a unique and high position with dragonfolk. She may, if she chooses, return to her home …
No! The Masterfarmer was definite about that.
Brekke is weyrfolk now, Fnor said on the heels of that denial.
Lessa was a little surprised at such vehemence from both men. Shed had the notion from Andemons attitude that perhaps her Craft wanted her back.
My apologies for being so brusque! my lady. It would be hard for her to live simply again. His voice turned hard and lost all hesitancy. What of that adulterous transgressor?
She lives, and there was an uncompromising echo of the Farmers coldness in Lessas voice.