Welcome to the Family {Feast!}

[Kilnarak]

"S'ppose I never was too good at bein' fashionably late. Or fashionably early. Or fashionable, at all, huh?" A're laughed, settling in a relaxed posture near the other two riders. While A're loved his Muraaph, having spent the majority of her healing solely by her side in their eyling left him wanting for more human contact. Thus he was glad enough to join their company. "Mura's feelin' a lot better, yeah? She isn't sleepin' an' sulkin' all th' time anymore, 'though she still limps a little bit. I'm glad she's feelin' better, but thats ta be expected right?"

The slight green-rider nodded in answer to K'ean's question, offering a briefly sheepish grin. "Ah, yeah. We did. Right before Alianph called us all ta th' nestin' cavern. S'ppose we should have stayed a bit, ta make sure relief showed up, but Mura was so excited ta see th' chicks..." He scratched at the back of his neck, looking a touch guilty - he knew neither of them would approve of him leaving his post - even if it had been on the closing end, he should have waited to be relieved. "She's hopin' ta meet all of 'em. They all bonded, just like th' first time - I was afraid they might not, yeah?"

Muraaph trilled happily at the attention she had gotten - both from Alianph and Seronaph! She didn't seem to have noticed the curt manner in which the red addressed her, or perhaps simply ignored it. The small green hopped her way over to Alianph and butted her head against the black's shoulder, purring thanks into his feathers. She leaned against the black simourv a long moment, then drew away from him to offer Seronaph a similar thanks, butting up against his side and nuzzling his shoulder.

It is much better! It doesn't hurt anymore, unless I lean on it really heavily, so I don't! Did you know? Valenph brought me nuts! They were very tasty! And it was very nice, because it was hard to fly down to get them myself! She chirped brightly, limping a few paces away from the red to stand roughly between both of the males. Muraaph's bright orange eyes looked first from Seronaph, then to Alianph, her ears perked up in an interested set. She waited a few moments, to see whether she had interrupted anything - she was visibly excited, but she felt it was only polite - before she began to speak about the topic that really interested her. Did you see all of the babies! They are so small! I don't remember being so small!

[zeis]

"You let me sleep through it?!" M'ari cried in dismay, and hangover induced grumpiness. He lunged barely clothed from his bed, which was currently a tangled mess of sheets and blankets, and near tackled the large wooden chest that held his belongings. The man slammed open the lid and tore through it frantically, searching for a way to make himself presentable. I tried to wake you, but you wouldn't get up. So don't go blaming me for this. Valenph reasoned with a slightly holier than thou tone. You drink too much, and stay up too late.

He wrenched some gaudy dress clothes from the mess, snapped the chest shut, and leaned heavily ontop of it with an overdramatic pouting sigh. Oh, just-... I know, I know. I'm sorry. Can we please... His bright green eyes turned to look imploringly, pathetically over at Valenph who was crouched catlike at the doorway between his room and her ledge. ...just talk about this later? The man was well aware that his simourv did not always approve of his way of life, but she was patient enough and loving enough to allow him to make his own decisions. A're and Ts'kal often joked about their simourv manipulating them to get what they wanted, but M'ari found himself doing the opposite more often than not.

Valenph offered the simourv version of a sigh, a great whuffing breath that blew his tangled hair briefly about his shoulders. Alright. Get ready fast. The large green simourv pushed herself away from the doorway, and padded over to the edge of her ledge, watching with eagerness and mild embarassment as her siblings and their riders winged through the air toward the cavern one by one. She did not want to be late. I wish you were there with me, M'ari. It was so beautiful.

The green-rider paused in his painful effort to comb out his curly hair to frown at himself in the mirror. Hey, Valenph... He finished hurriedly with his hair, and set about selecting various rings and earrings. ... does it bother you that you can't, you know... It felt like an awkward question to ask, and he hesitated long enough to finish his preparations. That I can't what? Her voice was curious, with a faint tinge of amusement. He distractedly straightened the colorful outfit he had chosen, a vest with a flowing shirt and trousers, embroidered finely with greens, oranges, and touches of black. That you cant clutch like Eceph...? The man regretted asking it even as it slipped out of his mouth, and with a wince he headed to meet his simourv out on the ledge.

She turned her great head to look at him as he approached, her black eyes cut off from the light and without shine, like great empty voids. I can't miss what I never knew. She said gently, trying to soothe both his headache and the regret in his thoughts. Besides... She nosed him affectionately, and crooned in appreciation as he hefted and struggled with her bracelet, tying it around her great forleg. That done, he clambered up her feathers onto her back as she crouched down for takeoff. ... I like being free to chose who I want... as many times as I want. She launched into the air with a rumbling growl of laughter in her chest. I hope Siphraph is there.

M'ari laughed as they made the short swooping flight down to the ground caverns. For all her scolding, he was grateful to have her there with him. She was the steady and patient rock of his world, always there to catch him or block his way to a dangerous path. Despite his headache and lingering sadness over missing the hatching, he was grinning as he dismounted and entered the feasting hall. His eyes quickly picked out his fellow riders who he hailed with a wave of his hand, and a slightly sheepish grin. It was probably no secret why he had been late, and the slightly wild stubble on his face spoke of a wild night.

His first stop however was the area the former candidates were congregating around, and he approached them with a smile, ducking slightly to catch glimpses of the newborn simourv, clinging to their riders sides. He picked E'an out of the crowd easily enough, and shot her a playful wink, speaking not only to her but to her comrades as well. His voice was cheerful, friendly, and a bit teasing. "Congratulations. How does it feel to have voices in your head?"

Valenph pawed with a playful wave of her tail to join her adult siblings. Muraaph! You're looking much better! The green squawked happily at her green sister and gently butted her head into her shoulder before sitting beside her, turning her gaze onto her other siblings. Hey there. Isn't this exciting? Cutting a slighty different figure than her two present green sisters, Valenph as always was relaxed and informal, calm and inobtrusive.

~~~~~~~~~

K'huna enjoyed parties. Life as a simourv rider was hard, and duties to Canph or the Eyrie as a whole consumed much of the riders time. It was not often that they had a night of levity, and after this mornings hatching they definitely deserved one. He was unusued to dressing for fine occasions, but he did his best picking out what he could from his majorly practical every day clothing. He had forgone the rest many of the winglets enjoyed in the hours before the feast to set the final preparations for their lesson in the morning, as well as making himself presentable. His boots were spotless, and his clothing well pressed. The man lingered awkwardly in front of the mirror, before shrugging and heading toward Canph's chamber.

Oh, look at you. Canph snickered in his head the moment he stepped into his line of sight. Finally primped and ready for the ball. The red mused idly from where he crouched at the edge of his ledge, tail twitching with barely hidden impatience. K'huna raised an eyebrow at him, and snorted dismissively before striding over to mount up. Don't give me that. I heard you were preening and splashing in the pond for a solid hour earlier today. His argument was half hearted, as he was too pleased with todays happenings, and amused by his simourv's desire to bathe to put much effort into their usual back and forth. It was hard enough to get Canph to groom himself regularly. For whatever reason he seemed to like being dirty.

Pretty is as pretty does. The red leapt off the ledge and sailed easily down towards the ground caverns, turning his head up to the sky and bugling his arrival to his siblings. K'huna rolled his eyes as Canph landed theatrically in a prancing hop accentuated and a fanlike flutter of his striped wings. The redrider didn't doubt that the simourvs desire to look 'pretty' was mainly due to the presence of the many female simourv of the Eyrie, and possibly also to impress the new Winglets. He couldn't blame his red, he was hoping to get to know the new riders as well, since they would be his students come morning.

Canph practically shrugged K'huna off as his rider clambered down from his shoulders, and no sooner had his boots touched the floor then the red was off toward his siblings. Evening, ladies. The red crooned in a gentlemanly fashion, sitting a respectable distance from the three greens present and shooting them a playful wink. His gaze turned on the assorted males with slightly less enthusiasm. Hey guys, what's going on? No Eceph yet?

K'huna watched Canph stalk off, and shook his head. Behave yourself tonight. No fighting. You hear me? He thought sternly at his companion as his gaze traveled wistfully over the flagons and kegs of refreshments that had been carted out. Always the responsible one, the redrider had decided to forgo drink tonight in order to be clearheaded for his class tomorrow. Hopefully, since he'd be sober the whole time, his red wouldn't test his patience too much. Receiving only the barest of mental acknowledgement, the man moved to join K'ean, G'len, and A're. His eyes moved first to the Senior Commander, and he offered a respectful nod of his head. "Evening, G'len, K'ean, A're." His yellow eyes took quick stock of the room, and he offered with faint surprise. "Ro'za is late?"

~~~~~~~~~~

K'ii woke blearily at the voice with a great weight across his legs and stomach. The boy wasn't sure where he was for a moment, as the large room looked completely unfamiliar and half of the chamber seemed to belong to someone else. Someone else who wasn't Niraan. Yawning, he propped himself up on his elbows with some difficulty, and outright stared at what was pinning him down. A large green and yellow simourv chick lay sprawled ontop of him, and seemed peacefully asleep. The events of this morning came back to him in a rush, and he smiled slightly down at her. His Akaturiaph.

He spared one more glance toward the empty other half of the room. His room-mate, a boy he hadn't thought to get the name of before collapsing earlier this morning had already left. They should get going too. He didn't want all the food to be gone by the time he got there, and he didn't want to miss Niraan either. Though he had never really spoken to his brother at length, he felt like he had so much to say about this new aspect of their lives. He wanted to talk about Akaturiaph, wanted to hear Niraan talk about his red. Grinning he tried to pull himself out from under the weight of his green, only to have his meager amount of strength fail him.

After a moment of awkward struggling, and some voiceless cursing, he tilted his head at his green. "Um... Akaturiaph?" He asked quietly, and reached out with one hand to gingerly touch the golden feathers that flowed down her back. "... We need to go." K'ii smiled down at her as her golden eyes snapped open to fix him with a stare. The smile faded as he felt the irritation radiating from her, causing his own brow to furrow slightly.

We don't need to go anywhere. She lifted her head to yawn, but her voice was peevishly decisive in his mind, fully awake. In truth she had awoken when her new rider first started stirring, but she had remained a limp dead weight on his legs to hopefully dissuade him from leaving. Now dragged out of her ruse, she folded back her ears and snorted at the doorway. Do we? Why bother? It's just going to be too crowded, and too noisy, and there won't be enough food for either of us. I rather we just stay here.

K'ii blinked at her objections, and frowned toward the doorway. But... He started, lapsing into mental communication without realizing it at first. I want to go. I want to see my brother, and I'm hungry... Aren't you? They boy received only stony grumpy silence in reply, but he somehow knew from the edge he felt to his hunger that she needed to eat too. It won't be that bad. If we find Niraan, we'll hole up somewhere where we aren't noticed. He tried to reassure his simourv, and he felt a tinge of pride. I'm good at hiding.

Akaturiaph didn't move for several more moments, but under the hopefull and equally stubborn gaze of her bonded, she finally slunk off the bed with a chattering grumble. She stalked over toward the doorway and lurked there, glaring at K'ii as he made his hasty preparations. In reality the boy just tied back his hair without brushing it, threw on some equally wrinkled and unimpressive clothes, and really did look like he just crawled out of bed. As he approached the door, she fell impatiently in step behind him, pushing him along with rough nudges of her beak. If they hurried up and K'ii got to see his brother early, maybe they wouldn't have to stay long.

K'ii paused when he entered the feasting hall, and glanced around hawkishly trying to locate his brother first and formost. Niraan either wasn't here yet, or he had already taken up a stealthy position. Either way, the green-pair really had no choice but to wait around until he made his presence known. With Akaturiaph clinging to his side like a yellow green thundercloud, he awkwardly approached where all the other Winglets were congregating. He offered a smile toward each of the small groups of new riders, and spotted the boy who he was rooming with. Despite all of his simourvs protesting, he made his way over to Nar'i. "Hey. ... I think you're my room-mate, now." He spoke conversationally, trying to appear friendly despite his simourv glowering beside him. "I'm Ken-... I'm K'ii."

[Kilnarak]

Evening had shifted to dusk, and it had already been some time since Alianph's bugling cry called everyone to the feast, before N'raan passed through the entry way into the kitchens - conversing in an idly flirtatious manner with the new green-winglet, R'ths. His Teimoph skulked along, a pace behind him and to the side, radiating an aura of sulky disapproval. The red had since ceased voicing his annoyance, however, he merely growled occasionally and offered one-word responses. Teimoph was tired, his nap earlier so rudely disturbed, and he was beginning to grow hungry again. He wanted nothing more than to find some quiet dark corner and curl up to sleep - but when N'raan had suggested that he go back to their quarters to rest, Teimoph had refused. He couldn't leave His alone, and he wouldn't leave His alone; he needed to be present to protect His, to keep an eye on His N'raan and make sure none of the others tried to steal him like that Canph had. He couldn't truly blame the older red, however - His was much better than Canph's, His was perfect, much better than any of the others; it was only natural that Canph would try to steal him.

The young red grumbled moodily after they had passed the doors into the feasting hall, pushing forward to lean heavily against His' legs - stopping N'raan briefly in his tracks unless he wanted to trip over Teimoph's bulk. I am hungry and I am tired and I do not want to be here, Mine. Why must we follow Caidiph's around? It was the first thing Teimoph had said in a good while, however it was mostly a refrain that he had repeated numerous times by now. They had gone with the girl, after leaving their perch in the canyon, first to the infirmary, and then to this place. N'raan's answer was nearly the same as it had been previously, as well - testing the mental link he shared with Teimoph. She's interesting. Won't stay long. Find somewhere quiet, bring you food Tei. He stumbled a bit with the practice, finding it easier to offer ideas to the simourv than thought out words - but he was getting a bit better, it would be second nature soon enough. Teimoph grumbled again and butted his head against His' thigh, Find somewhere quiet first, then. I do not want to stay here.

N'raan curled his fingers in the thick ruff at the back of Teimoph's neck, smirking down at the pushy little creature as he was forced a few steps forward. "Righ' Tei. Mmn," he turned his smirk up to R'ths, canting his head to the side, "Meet up 'gain in a bit, pretty R'ths? Gon' find us a decen' spot t' sit, an' y' were sayin' somethin' 'bout talkin' t' some boy-frien' here, yeh?" His lips curved back from his teeth in amusement as he said this and Teimoph shoved him again, impatient. He offered a mocking half-bow to the girl, playing at formality while his Teimoph growled, and then allowed Teimoph's impatience carry him away.

The dark-skinned boy and his red padded about the perimeter of the room, absently glancing over those assembled. A number of large, adult simourv clustered at one side of the room - Canph among them, as well as another red, a massive black, a blue, and a few greens. Teimoph glowered at them, while N'raan merely watched them a moment in interest, before moving on with his search. The Winglets had also gathered in small clusters, as had the riders, seemingly - each in their own little bubble at the moment, and they still had yet to find theirs.

It wasn't long, however, before the pair found an alcove toward the back of the room - shadowed, even if it didn't offer much by way of cover or real seating, and they could observe most of the rest of the room from its vantage. Teimoph flopped to the floor near immediately, offering up a little huff and curling about himself. I shall stay here and guard our spot. I will not sleep, Teimoph seemed particularly intent on this latter statement - trying more-so to convince himself than to convince His. Perhaps later, he might nap a short while... You can bring us back food, Mine? He blinked somewhat blearily up at his, making a low somewhat mewling noise deep in his throat. "'ve course Tei. Won' be t' long," N'raan reached down to scratch between the simourv's ears, and as he did not feel the pressure of the others watching him, Teimoph leaned into the petting, rumbling.

N'raan left the small sanctuary Teimoph had claimed, slinking back amidst the others attending the feast and insinuating himself amidst them. Perhaps he looked a touch out of place - many of those who had gone back to their rooms had changed into nicer clothes, while his were a bit rumpled with a few spatters of blood here and there - reminders of Teimoph's earlier raging assault and of his first feeding much earlier in the day. Despite his attire, N'raan moved amidst the small crowds with a sense of grace, moving as if he belonged, moving as if he was invisible - and for the most part he was, he avoided notice, and when someone did look his way he smiled in the most alluring manner he knew how... and moved on before they could make any gestures on his flirtatious manner. He shouldn't dally here, he had set a goal for this excursion - to procure food for both himself and His, as well as some of the drink he saw floating freely about.

It was in the midst of procuring a platter of what appeared to be a whole roast chicken - he hadn't seen anything set aside specifically for the young simourv, and thus had decided this plate would serve enough of an offering to Teimoph's growling belly - when he spotted Kenii moving amidst one of the congregations of winglets. N'raan snagged a drink - the smell and taste placed it as some sort of wine - as he moved toward his brother, balancing the platter of poultry with his other hand. "'nii! Th' hell y' been? Where've they got y' roomed?" he grinned broadly as he neared the group, his focus shifting from his brother to the others - a girl and two boys, one of them bonded to another of the reds. He eyed Hokan specifically a long moment, sizing him up, before his gaze moved back to Kenii. "These yer new frien's 'r somethin'?"

[Quill]

Sydnyph's forgiveness astonished the winglet. She assumed the blue would have forged a distaste for her tartiness, but the simourv harbored no ill feelings. Syd had rubbed against her leg until he had his first bite. After that, he followed her around, proud to follow in her steps. "Isn't it time we met our room mates?" was a common thought Sydnyph projected into her mind and every time Sal'a would tell him later. Responding with"Not yet," hurt a lot. She hated to see the reddish-brown eyes gaze at her, disappointed. The winglet felt guilty for feeling relieved when her bonded napped.

Room mates, in the past, seemed to be a problem. As a candidate, she barely knew her own, only avoiding her whenever the chance came. When she traveled as a guard, Sal'a had a hard time being put in anyone's living quarters. Now she was getting older and it was time to make things right. Just not right now. Until it was time for the feast, Sal'a avoided her new room mate with her eyes and mouth as she organized her things and new bed. The blue winglet felt pride that she had been roomed with Ol'ia, the only rainbow winglet, but she had never been around one so young for longer than a minute. Sydnyph soon awoke from his nap after their room mates had departed. As soon as he awoke, the blue felt his bonded's uncertainty. "No reason to fear, Mine. I will guard you from all fear." Sal'a patted the blue and they headed to the feast.

As soon as she walked inside, Sal'a spotted Ol'ia first. It wasn't hard to pick the small girl and small simourv in a crowd. 'I should have introduced myself in the room,' she thought. "But there is plenty of time for that. Celebration and food is all you should worry about for now. Do you think we should worry that there is nothing to eat yet" Sydnyph rubbed his side against Sal'a's leg as her head caressed his beak. "No, they must be busy eating. I can see you're going to win many arguments."

---

The two got along quite well. Nasyeph showed an interest in conversation, but the blue didn't need a response from Je'ce to get his answer. Of course, there was a question that the little simourv needed an answer."Why were you late to the hatching?" Nasyeph had no trouble searching for the answers to his simple questions like what's your favorite color, which was blue, but Nasyeph felt wrong searching any deeper than what's on top. "Just woke up late," he answered. The blue recognized the lie, his first one, but the simourv remained cheerful as they moved to the new barracks, jumping every few steps.

It didn't surprise him that he received a new room mate. His old one had received a red and it seemed unlikely that the one day large simourv would share. He took the change as a positive since Ze'el never spoke much to him. Perhaps he would get a more chatty room mate. Je'ce wasn't shy, but he hated starting conversations. This time he was not so lucky as Ca'den seemed more quiet than Ze'el. Sighing, the winglet unpacked his things as Nasyeph picked a hay filled spot on the ground and played his own version of twenty questions.

"What life did you have before me?"
"A candidate." Nasyeph did not reply as he laid his head and stared at the winglet with displeased olive eyes. "I was a farmer."
"What's a farmer? The pause in Je'ce's answers started to grow as the young man became distracted with reorganizing his thing in the larger barracks. He gathered his answer and looked back at Nasyeph to reply, but he stopped, seeing his blue had fallen asleep. Je'ce thought it was a good idea so he laid his head on his new cot.

Before he could enter deep sleep, a presence crawled over his legs and nipped at his clothes. Wake up. Time to eat again!"

[/color] the blue urged as he jumped from small bed. Je'ce glanced at him as he stumbled to his feat and Nasyeph darted to the entrance. The simourv stopped when he noticed he was not being followed. "C'mon, Mine. I bet them have steak and nuts and goat."
"You need a bath first," announced Je'ce as he directed him for a bath. It took a while to get the dirt Nasyeph had acquired from the hay and leaping in the dirt and sand. When he dried off the noble creature, he noticed how bright his feathers actually were. The fact he other markings were black didn't make the feathers any duller. Je'ce smiled as he scrubbed his black legs clean."Ready to eat?"
"Finally," said the blue as he led the way to the dining hall.

The journey was not a long one, but the two took their time, walking in silence. Nasyeph noticed some of the riders soaring to the dining hall and he moved his black and blue feathered stubs. They did not move. "I'd imagine it'll be a while before you're flying. Embarrassed, the blue said, "Ha, I'm fine walking. Better for the claws.". The two looked around. Je'ce first noticed the amount of riders already present. He felt a little nervous, shifting his weight back and forth, especially when he noticed Ros'n and K'huna from the watering hole. Nasyeph's attention was elsewhere. He focused on his brother and sisters. He wanted to greet them, but he felt Je'ce nervousness so the blue refused to move. Instead, he pulled on the winglet's pant's leg, encouraging him to mingle.

[/blockquote][/size][/blockquote]

[Cy]

[/I] she finally blurted after the latest rejection, rolling her dark eyes up and away to continue her search, hips swaying as she moved forward once more to resume her walk about the edge of the gathering. Behind her, the little green huffed, lifting her orange head higher and following after her bonded. ‘They were not suitable, this is hardly my fault. Stop fussing.’ She retorted prissily, earning herself a vaguely dismissive wave of T’ia’s slender hand, bangles jingling with the movement.


Outside of the feast, Ze’el was slowly making his way towards the gathering place. Dressed, with his head down and hands buried in his pockets, he was a picture of reservation, a man that wanted to be anywhere other than where he was going. Dareph, on the other hand, was quite eager. He’d promised His that they could leave shortly, as soon as Zeke had had something to eat and after Dar had had the chance to socialize to a degree, but he was still fairly excited to be allowed to the event. He kept close to his man, side brushing against those legs in a way that had quickly become familiar, and, before Zeke knew it, they were fluidly slipping in amongst the party as if they weren’t late at all. It seemed that things really hadn’t gone anywhere at all, so perhaps they weren’t as late as they might have initially assumed.

It wasn’t difficult for Dareph to spot out those individuals he wanted to speak with. Clutchmates and their bonded failed to slip by his notice as his warm brown eyes looked over them all, but his responsibility in that moment was towards keeping his socially awkward lifepartner as comfortable as possible as they moved along and so he never dared to stray from the stride that continued to brush against his sides. Ze’el was in no mood to socialize. He never was, really. He kept his eyes down, worming his way through individuals with the same ease with which he’d made his way through busy Sayaie markets. He moved with the single-minded purpose of finding a solitary little corner, some place that he could sit and be alone, but still be enough apart of things that Dareph would be able to enjoy himself. He wandered along the tables in search of a vacant seat, which wasn’t hard to find really as so many of those gathered were continuing to stand around as they mingled, but he wanted one on the end so he’d only have to worry about someone sitting on one side of him. Dar moved at his side without complaint or fuss, head turned so he could continue to watch the festivities and keep an eye on those siblings that had come to the party as well.[/ul][/size]

[Bre]

You can dance, you can jive, having the time of your life . . .

Like a force of nature, M'rion and Romaph came charging out of the barrack, catching up to the slow moving G'rael even though their exit was much belated. They had taken their time about getting ready, but it was worth it. For once, M'rion looked as genuinely pretty as she could. Her hair was brushed. She didn't smell too much like sweat. She'd put on an actual dress in green. Cut above her knees, it showed off her legs. They were a bit scratched up, but she hardly cared. She wasn't out to be beautiful. She was out to make a statement. What did she want to say? She wanted to say that she was going anywhere. Marion had become M'rion of green Romaph and she wasn't about to lose another step. Woohoo! We get to dance! A feast was the perfectly imperfect event for an exuberant Romaph. She loved to dance to her own little song.

Reaching G'rael's side, M'rion clapped her hand on her shoulder, cluing him into to where she was. Ignoring Talmaph continued to be her strategy about the protective blue. She was there to look out for the blind bluerider as well. "You look very nice;" she told him, laughter rampant in her voice. She paused and straightened his shirt for him, actually waiting and taking the time to do it right. Then she linked her arm with his, grip firm and confident. She wasn't one for questions. "We have to do this together. We're the odd ones out." She didn't sound scared. She wasn't one for fear either. Giving him a nod and a grin, even though he couldn't see either of those gestures, she turned her attention to the party across the canyon. Behind her, Romaph pranced, hating to have to wait. She wanted to dance and sing.

Finally, M'rion descended towards the party, dragging G'rael along with limited thought to his feelings. Though she wasn't all that noticeable, she was forward and less than subtle. If no one noticed that they had arrived, that was fine and dandy. If someone did notice their arrival, good for that someone. Careful to avoid knocking anyone over, Romaph forged right into the crowd after her rider, ignorant to the fact that many of her siblings were missing from the affair. She wasn't about to miss a party! The colors and noise around her egged her on, following the graceful, flowing lead of her devilishly grinning winglet. For yes, M'rion was grinning like the devil incarnate. Wine, food, and a crowd of people, everything that she normally missed. What a change had occurred that night. She breathed it all in, soaking it up with a joyful Romaph.

Ro'za was a little more than fashionably late. It was really all too expectable. Fancy affairs, even ones as informal as the present feast, were not her forte. Of course, when she arrived, she did it in style. In fact, she did it in the sort of style that only she and I'dou could thus far use. Profile sleek but powerful, her feathers brilliant in their cleanliness, Eceph tipped back her head and let out a triumphant roar. She had finally been properly groomed and eaten after weeks on the sands. With all her children bonded, she was returning to her former glory. Swooping down, no less graceful on her wings than she had ever been, she landed just outside the area where the feast was taking place, flowing out from the kitchens and stores. The pose that she struck was regal, but the pride that she exhibited was only that of mother and rightful queen.

Slipping from her spot on Eceph's back, Ro'za landed lightly on her little feet. Then she dipped into a flowing curtsy, offering the crowd a sardonic grin. For once, she wore a dress. It was like a miracle some ancient god had decided to gift to Pohono. The light folds of cloth tickled at her ankles. The affair was simple and grayish blue in color, but it was pretty in comparison to riding gear or a tank top and pants. Though it did nothing to make her look older, it did everything it could to transform her boyish features into those of a woman. Stepped forward, she looked confident in it, though she hardly felt like that. Dresses were not her thing. Behind her, Eceph settled down, offering no wise words or greetings. Her amber eyes watched her rider as she progressed into the crowd, a silent sentinel over the proceedings. She was not one for cheerful parties.

As soon as she could, Ro'za grabbed a drink. In fact, she grabbed two, holding one in each hand. She descended upon G'len with the glasses balanced perfectly in her grip, easily picking the older rider out of the crowd. The smile that she offered the Commander wasn't flirty so much as predatory and suggestive of the idea that she could kill him if she really wanted. The Phoenix wasn't there to play politics. Making a perfect impression? For people who didn't have better things to do. Offering a nod to all the people surrounding G'len without paying them much mind, she stopped right in front of him. She then took a very purposeful, long drink from the glass in her right hand. When she was done with that, she paused, meeting his eyes, holding herself fiercely composed. "So, how's it going?" She was bored. She was tired. Time for some fun.

. . . see that girl, watch that scene, dig in the dancing queen.

[zeis]

K'ii blinked at N'raan's voice called out to him, and introductions to Nar'i forgotten whirled to face him with a grin. There he was! He'd been looking all over for him. His eyes fell briefly on the chicken with sudden hunger, of course his brother had gone for the food first. Why hadn't he checked there? At his feet, Akaturiaph was having similar thoughts, and was having difficulty trying to maintain her warning gaze on anyone who came near with the smell of meat so close. At his brother's last question, he looked a bit confused, before remembering that he had been trying ot talk to someone before. The boy pointed over his shoulder, and offered a smile at the other green-rider who was still as of yet a stranger. "He-"

His voice was cut off by the powerful attention-demanding roar of gray Eceph, who had finally arrived at the feast. The boy ducked down reflexively, and snaked an arm around Akaturiaph's shoulders, not sure if he was doing it to protect her or for protection. His green gazed steadily in her mother's direction, a bit awed by her. Don't be stupid. Its just mother Eceph. She chided him as he rose nervously to his full height. Casting one last glance over at the gray, the boy looked back to his brother. "He's my room mate... Where's... um..."

K'ii faltered, and bit his lip, not sure what the name of his brother's red was. The idea that his brother was separated from Teimoph was simultaneously a relief but also a worry. The red was either asleep, or roaming the crowd by himself. The latter idea was terrifying. At a loss for words, he pointed down and Akaturiaph, who was staring at Niraan's plate of food with pure greed. "Your simourv?"

~~~~~~~~

K'huna looked up at Eceph's roar, and watched with amusement as she made a showy landing, no doubt feeling great with the burdens of a clutch off her chest. He lifted a brow at the sight of the Senior Phoenix in a dress, surprised but pleasantly so. He was glad to see both her and Ro'za so playful. Running the Eyrie was a serious and demanding job, and today, despite the maulings, had been a huge success. He returned her nod when she acknowledged them all, and abruptly edged her way infront of G'len. The redrider smirked, and politely backed off, getting a hint when it was given to him.

He offered his fellow riders a shrug, and disengaged himself from their group. His yellow eyes turned back on the crowd, surveying the now commenced festivities with pride. Every soul living at the Eyrie deserved this night, and with a few days time nearly every soul in Pohono would hear of what happened here tonight. Feeling inspired, he set about mingling noncommittally, ambling his way through the crowd and chatting with the many faces he recognized. He soon found himself face to face one that was familiar from earlier today. T'ia, though he didn't know her name, and her simourv, the first bonded.

"Good evening, ladies." He offered a respectful nod of his head toward the two of them. "Congratulations to the both of you. First bonded is nothing to scoff at. You looking for someone?" The man asked helpfully, glancing around the party as if to locate whatever it was the girl was searching for.

[Cy]

[/b] She replied bluntly, keeping her eyes focused on him as she narrowed them and smirked coyly. “Are you interesting, sir?”[/ul][/size]

[Lan]

Alianph leaned into Muraaph's attentions, humming back encouragingly. 'It is good you are feeling better... and how nice of Valenph to get those for you!' His mental voice was ever polite and charming, showing all signs of earnestness and genteelness. He nodded at Valenph's arrival, glad to see his other green sister as well. Still, he paid no more attention to Liliph. 'Muraaph, you still are quite small.' His tone flavored with humor as he laughed as well as a simourv could laugh, all humming and warbling in a soft-mannered way. 'But still lovely... especially as you are doing better!' The last addition was meant well, in case he had offended her with his other comment. He seemed more at ease now that his children had been born and the festivities were starting, and more prone to joking with more than just his lifemate.

'It's good Muraaph's feeling better.' G'len replied with a polite smile, nodding to the rest of A're's statements. Shortly after K'huna approached and he nodded in greeting to the Wingletmaster as well. The Commander appreciated how big this night would be for the redrider... he had gained some trainees today, and it was just the beginning of the winglets to come, he was certain. 'The Phoenix always arrives precisely when she means to.' The blackrider offered as explanation matter-of-factly, although the suggestion of humor lingered in the statement. However, it seemed just as he spoke those words he was forced to eat them as the object of inquiry arrived.

Alianph crowed affectionately to his mate as the lovely grey Eceph touched down in a most splendid fashion. True, she had style enough to attract all the attention she deserved, but his pride-filled trumpeting added to the intended effect. She was rightful ruler of the Eyrie, and he was her chosen King. Together they were regal, marvelous, and strong. He wished not a single soul to miss the shine that had returned to her silvery feathers. The Queen had made her arrival. Now, and only now, was it truly a festivity!

Meanwhile, G'len's dark blue eyes traced the rider of the hatchling's Mother. A dress softened her features, quite a rare event, and she was actually acting... womanly. How odd. Forgetting momentarily the company that surrounded him, he continued to follow her with his gaze until the moment she was standing right in front of him. A glass was held in each of her hands, and as she stared at him with a smile that could only be described as dangerous he had an inkling that the second glass was meant for him. She drained one, and he marveled at her with a mere raise of his eyebrows.

'All right here... although, I'm under the impression some folks may have been waiting on you.' He managed a polite smile, his voice unwavering and calm as he addressed her. G'len glanced at the glass in her left hand and took a breath. 'Is that for you as well? Or have you other plans for it?' While he tried to remain unassuming, he couldn't guarantee that Ro'za would interpret it as such. Plus, with that rather frightening charming smile she had flaunted at him, he rather doubted she had any innocent intentions. But who was he to predict her actions? Ro'za, he had found, still managed to surprise him at every turn.

[Bre]

You come in to look for a king . . .

Ro'za decided right about then that she truly and utterly loathed G'len's eyebrows. The rest of him was fine and dandy in a boring, manly way, but she really hated those damned eyebrows. On some other occasion, she would definitely be sorely tempted to shave them off. Right then, she was only vaguely irritated by the way he raised it at her in some silent judgment of her actions. It was mainly only annoying because he then went and talked in that calm, level voice of him as if nothing at all was the matter in his little head. She offered a shrug at his comment that some people had been waiting for her. Their own fault. Just because she was more important than all of them didn't meant they needed to wait for her to get the party started. After all, the real guests of honor were those lucky enough to succeed at bonding to the hatchlings.

"No, this one is mine. No other plans;" Ro'za chimed in reply to his question, voice calm and even but nowhere as innocent and unassuming as his. The predatory smile remained on her lips like a permanent stain. Tipping her head back, she drained the second glass. The alcohol burned satisfyingly down her throat, settling into the pit of her iron stomach. She may have been an average woman in her genes, not designed to any particularly miraculous standard, but she was thoroughly different person in actuality. She could handle her boozes. Setting the two empty glasses, both still balanced with infinite grace in her hands, on a nearby table, she snagged another off a passing server's tray, fingers flying at an unnerving pace. She didn't spill a single drop of the burnished liquid as she spun back around on her heels, still grinning devilishly away.

"This one is for you though. A gift. From me;" Ro'za chuckled to him. She picked up his hand for him, her touch less than loving or seductive, and pressed the glass into his grasp. Stepping back, she looked at him expectantly. There wasn't really any way he could get out of it. Even if she had never been in charge of anything in her life, she was completely in charge of that moment. She didn't test boundaries. She tested people. "We can have a little contest. A little game. We are celebrating, aren't we?" Her voice and manner didn't suggest at anything manipulative. She didn't play politics. She was simply pushing, shoving him into the situation that she wanted so that he had to do what she wanted him to do. There was nothing elegant about it, except perhaps her in the lovely dress she had picked out. She was a brute force sort of girl.

"Come on now!" Ro'za flapped at her hand at him, obviously eager to see the always in control G'len actually drink. She liked fun too. All work and no play made her less nasty and unpredictable, which she would never allow to happen. "You're two, wait;" she started, before trailing off. Drinks had come back into her reach and she picked up a glass, grinning at A're and K'huna in passing. She didn't mind having witnesses. She drained the cup of its contents as if it was nothing. Somewhere in the back of her mind, she could feel the faintest buzz of the alcohol, but it wasn't enough to break her will or concentration. "Three behind;" she sang to G'len in her rough voice. If he didn't catch up, he was a coward and she won. She certainly didn't mind getting to drink. She was looking for a bit of entertainment. Parties weren't really her thing.

. . . anybody could be that guy.