We nearly had a fight between Kylara and Mardra but Robinton intervened. Kylara was proclaiming herself Fort Weyrwoman.
Flar groaned.
Dont worry, Lessa assured him, briskly kneading the tight muscles across his shoulders. She changed her mind directly she learned that Tkul and his riders were leaving the High Reaches Weyr. Its more logical for Tbor and the Southerners to take over that Weyr than Fort since most of the Fort riders are staying.
That puts Kylara too near Nabol for my peace of mind.
Yes, but that leaves the way clear for Pzar, Roths rider, to take over as Fort Weyrleader. Hes not strong but hes well-liked and it wont upset the Fort people as much. Theyre relieved to be free of both Tron and Mardra but we oughtnt to press our luck too far.
Ntond be a good Wingsecond there.
I thought of him so I asked Pzar if hed object and he didnt.
Flar shook his head at her tactics, then hissed, because she was loosening the old, dried numbweed.
Im not so sure but what Id prefer the physician she began.
No!
Hed be discreet but Ill warn you, all the dragons know.
He stared at her in surprise. I thought it odd there were so many dragons shadowing me and Mnementh. I dont think we went between more than twice.
The dragons appreciate you, bronze rider, Lessa said tartly, encircling him with clean, soft bandages.
The Oldtimers, too?
Most of them. And more of their riders than Id estimated. Only twenty riders and women followed Mardra, you know, from Fort. Of course, and she grimaced, most of Tkuls people went. The fourteen who stayed are young riders, Impressed since the Weyr came forward. So therell be enough at Southern …
Southern is no longer our concern.
She was in the act of handing him the fresh tunic and hesitated, the fabric gathered up in her hands. He took it from her, pulling on the sleeves, ducking his head into the opening, giving her time to absorb his dictum.
She sat slowly down on the bench, her forehead creased with a slight, worried frown.
He took her hands and kissed them. When she still did not speak, he stroked the hair which had escaped the braids.
We have to make the break clean, Lessa. They can do no harm there to any but themselves. Some may decide to come back.
But they can perpetuate their grievances …
Lessa. how many queens went?
Loranth, the Weyr queen at High Reaches and the other two … Oh!
Yes. All old queens, well past their prime. I doubt Loranth will rise more than once. The clutches at High Reaches have produced only one queen since they came forward. And the young queen, Segrith, stayed, didnt she, with Pilgra?
Lessa nodded and suddenly her face cleared. She eyed him with growing exasperation. Anyone would think youve been planning this for Turns.
Then anyone could call me a triple fool for underestimating Tron, closing my mind to the facts in front of me and defying fortune. Whats the mood among Holders and crafters?
Relief, she said, rolling her eyes. I admit the laughter has a slightly hysterical tinge, but Lytol and Robinton were right. Pern will follow Benden …
Yes, until my first mistake!
She grinned mischievously at him, waggling a finger under his nose. Ah-ha, but youre not allowed to make mistakes Benden. Not while …
He caught her hand, pulling her into the crook of his arm, disregarding the stabbing pain at his waist for the triumph of her instant response, the surrender in her slender body. Not while I have you. The words came out in a whisper, and because he couldnt express his gratitude to her, his pride in her, his joy of her any other way, he sought her lips, held them in a long, passionate kiss.
She gave a languorous sigh when he finally released her. He laughed down at her closed eyes, kissing them, too. She struggled to a sitting position and, with another reluctant sigh, rose determinedly to her feet.
Yes, Pern will follow you, and your loyal advisers will keep you from making mistakes, but I do hope youve an answer for pop-eyed old Lord Groghe!