Tidy Up (MANDATORY for CANDIDATES)

[HG]

The Candidate Barracks was in need of some work. The Weyrleader had specifically asked that the Candidates be the one to clean it before they had to begin living there. It would teach them the value of hard work and a job well done. Plus then he need not waste regular weyr staff to do something that would be so time consuming. “OOOO I know a man who drank his way to sleep...” The sound carried into the Barracks followed by a slender boy with dark hair and a roguish smile.

As he opened the squeeking door to the male section, dust flew everywhere. Coughing he wiped the dust off of his face, with the shirt he was wearing. “Ahchoo!” The sneeze reverberated off of the walls. He shook his head and went in further. The whole place was going to need to be cleaned before he would live here. That was for certs! Orisyn was not so sure this task could be done in one day.

He walked out of the males side into the females and found it to be in much the same condition if not worse. The classroom needed cleaning too from the look of things. Being one of the first people to arrive he went back to where there were buckets and all manner of cleaning supplies available. Looking down at his now completely dusty shoes he shook his head. This was going to take all day. He never particularly cared for work. However if he did not contribute the Candidate Master had made it clear that anyone not involved would not be permitted to touch the Eggs when Aeriath clutched.

Orisyn wondered when his sister would be arriving. She was always easy to work with. Good natured people often were. Maybe they should divy up jobs so that everyone had something. Being small had its dissadvantages. He could not reach the ceiling even on a top bunk and he would be hard pressed to dust off the walls. Carrying the mattresses out was a lot of work. It was probably best if he focused on the floor to start.

“I think I'll sweep.” Hearing the words come out of his own mouth made him really want to close it for the rest of the day. With a little bit of luck though, they would work well and be done early. Then he could go about his day as usual. That was what was driving him to be here on time and ready. The sooner they began the sooner they were able to leave.

~~~~~~

The problem with being late, was that everyone would know. Vaylee had not had time to do her normal routine this morning. She thrust her hair back and placed a ponytail there to keep the blonde strands from getting into her face. Oh dear, she was never going to be there on time. Running really was not her thing. The beautiful young woman generally wore to work nicer clothes than what she was wearing today. Hearing the rumors of how much disrepair the Barracks had fallen into the young woman wore some old work pants of a tan color, a white t shirt and a pair of work boots. She looked unusual in the clothes but she had insisted to herself that it was necessary.

One did not always get to do what one wanted. Becoming a Candidate had been something of a shock for her. She had been told on no uncertain terms that she should try to Stand. The blue rider had been insistent and so here she was, someone who had never thought of herself as a fighter was going to be standing for a clutch to ride a dragon. Hah. Well any dragon that wanted to be with her was welcome. She had no qualms about having a life mate. Still this team building exercise to clean the barracks was a little unfortunate. She much preferred her usual work in the infirmary.

Walking at a brisk pace it seemed she had made it on time. The only person there was a scrawny boy, as far as she could tell. The air in the Barracks was covered with dust. She coughed lightly as she went to inspect the women's side. Oh dear, it was worse than she had thought. “What a disaster...” She shook her head and then suddenly a shriek escaped her. The spinner was right in front of her. She really really really did not like spinners! Running out of the girls side shaking, she looked at the others who were there. “I don't like spinners.” Her soft voice seemed to quiver on the word.

[kaemi]

Cleaning the Barracks today. How... exciting? Aisynn didn't, in general, mind cleaning persay. She more minded the things that she had to clean. Washing dishes was no problem. Cleaning a child didn't phase her. But cleaning rooms that hadn't been touched for a few Turns was out of her comfort zone. She wasn't one for grit and grime and dust, but she would do it, and finish it well. Determined, the girl made sure her hair was acceptable in style and her clothes were acceptable in position, securing her vanity before she stood and began walking to the Barracks.

However, vain was a bit of an overstatement in Aisynn's view. She didn't consider herself vain (although she knew some people did so). She considered herself considerate of her appearance. There was nothing at all wrong with the idea that she wanted to make herself presentable. After all, she didn't much like having to look at something that wasn't visually pleasing, herself- so why would she subject other people to it. That would make her a hypocrite. Which her mother, Niasyn, always told her was not a positive title to hold. Pushing the thoughts from her head, Aisynn let her normal smile spread across her face as she walked into the Candidate Barracks.

She entered the room, and began making her way towards the girls' side. Soon after, a loud shriek was emitted. Aisynn's eyes went straight to the girl who had voiced it. That was the girl... with the voice, she quickly recognized, the healer girl. Quite honestly, she wasn't big on spinners, either. They were not her forte. "Why don't we... clean the boys' side, then," she said hurriedly, "And let someone- else deal with the spinners." Eyes wide, she nodded in confirmation to her own words. Aisynn didn't do spinners, and maybe if both male and female candidates cleaned the barracks together, they could find someone who did deal well with the creatures.

–

He wasn't entirely happy about cleaning the Candidate Barracks, to say the least, and so Kalindan was taking his sweet time getting there. Walking leisurely through the Weyr, he was shameless in his procrastination. Talking to anyone whom he might care to chat with, and, of course, taking the longest route he knew. Maybe he could be so late, that it ended up he didn't have anything left to do spare make a bed, or dust a shelf, or something of the same menial sort. It probably wouldn't work out well, but it was worth a shot!

Kalin entered the Barracks to find that he might as well have been on time- there were only two other people there, by his count. Oh, three. Maybe more, he didn't know. Shells, there went that plan. He didn't let himself be cross, however- instead sighing and then smiling. A little. Maybe they wouldn't notice him, and he could sneak out and come back about a quarter of a candlemark later, when a few more people showed up and worked through the dust. That, too, wasn't very likely... his bright yellow shirt, just a little bit large on him, paired with his favorite green trousers usually drew eyes to him. Instead, he decided to survey his task.

Looking around was overly-depressing, the candidate soon found. It was dusty, and generally disgusting. The last time of use couldn't have been all that long ago! He wasn't entirely sure how long ago- wait, yes, he was. Three Turns ago. And truly, he didn't think that a mere three Turns could translate into this much mess. This could take all day, if not longer... especially if there was going to be such a limited attendance. Hopefully more latecomers would arrive, and they could get this finished as soon as possible.

Sighing again, he turned his gaze (and thoughts) away from the dust, coughing a little as he did so, and his eyes landed on Orisyn. He was carrying a broom, and seemed to be clearing the floors... which was knocking up more dust. They would probably benefit from masks or something but, alas, that was unlikely. So Kalindan just walked over to the other boy, only a Turn younger than himself, and grinned. He liked the kid. “Hey, Orisyn,” he greeted. Turning slightly and raising his voice, so that it was more that he was addressing the candidates as a whole, he continued, “You all- what can I do to help get this done the quickest?”

[HG]

Orisyn heard the shriek come from the woman's side and waited. Whoever it was would probably come to him for assistance eventually. Trust that a couple of girls were the ones to come over. Aisynn and a blonde woman he did not know were first to really come in. “Maybe you two should stick with me.” What he gathered from the blonde was that there was a large spinner on the other side. Something he would deal with when he got over there. Couldn't have the girls afraid to be in the barracks or they might not work. He realized he was leaning on the broom he was holding.

Then Kalindan entered. That made four of them, could this get any worse? Only four out of an entire Weyr full of people. They all seemed to be waiting for him to make the decisions too. He looked at each of them in turn, thinking about what they would be capable of doing and also what he did not want to do. He would have to assign people since they did not know where to start.

“Alright, Aisynn, Vaylee start in here with us until the spinner is taken care of. You can get the bunks cleaned and send the covers for the mattresses to the laundry. Kalindan, you can get the dust off of the walls and ceiling and kill any spinners you come across. We don't want any more screaming.” Orisyn added with an almost humorous authority. He was the youngest of all of them and they were looking to him fro instruction. He could almost laugh.In fact he was about to laugh when some more voices came into the Barracks. Boys and girls with strange accents. Who were they? He did not know or understand why they were here but he could guess that they might be future Candidates.

Well he could assign them too and then be done with it. The Barracks would be cleaned faster than he had thought. Moving out to the main room, he said, “Alright we need two more on the boys side, and six on the girls, watch out we found a large spinner over there. The rest of you can clean in here and in the classroom.” While he was not sure how his orders would be taken he felt pretty good about it. They would never know he was not actually in charge and it was kind of fun bossing other people around.

–

Vaylee smiled sweetly at Aisynn. Someone here she could be most comfortable with. “I agree. Maybe send some of the boys to deal with it.” She was obviously scared to death of them. Although by no means were they her biggest fear. She walked with Aisynn to the other side of the barracks. “How is your hand? I hope it has improved.” As usual, Vaylee was easy to get along with and even when she had to work, she could usually find some way to make herself not think about how much work it was. Chatting with other people often helped.

This was not like working in the infirmary though. As she saw the boys side was no better than the girls. It was going to take all day with just...oh there was another boy so... four of them. Orisyn seemed to be good at delegating and she honestly would not mind working with Aisynn as she already knew her. It seemed Orisyn was already working on the floors. The bunks here at the Barracks were dirty, no one would want to sleep in them. “We are going to need a bucket and rags to get the posts and such clean and Kalindan should get the ceiling done before we take the mattress covers off, otherwise the beds will just gather more dust and dirt.”

Shortly after the words were out of her mouth she heard exotic sounding voices. Orisyn, having taken it upon himself to be leader, went to the front room where the voices were coming from. Who was it and what were they here for? She hoped they were here to help.

--

Nevarre was not happy. One night here and no one had given him any real response. They were being kept here until the Weyrleaders made up their minds. He had no doubt they needed to meet with other people before making any decisions but how long would it take? Today because they were being given hospitality they were being forced to work. They had been given drudge type clothing last night, which grated against his skin. He was used to finery not this.

Walking into the Candidate Barracks he was in a state of utter shock. How dusty and dirty! Holding back a sneeze he went to cover his mouth. It could not be good for him to be in here. He spoke to Koldyn, “The Weyrleaders requested we do our part since they are taking care of us, but I fail to see how cleaning this place is going to benefit us in the slightest.” This was ridiculous and he was not going to do it. He was determined not to anyway. That was until some slip of a boy came out and ordered HIM to do work.

“Fine.” He walked towards the classroom. I'm going to start in the classroom.” He did not want to be in the same place as the boy and certainly the other expedition members were more interested in the Weyrbrats than he was. When his father heard about all of this he would be most unhappy. He got himself a bucket and a rag from the main room and walked to the classroom. He would clean the walls. The young man decided most unhappy that he was being given the chores of a common drudge. However he had no choice in his current predicament. If they did not do what the Weyrleaders asked, they could be left in the jungle to die, or worse.

[kira]

Ziridech sighed gustily as he turned yet another corner into- another hallway. He was very definitely lost, and about to start yanking out his hair in frustration. The Candidate Master had informed him shortly after his arrival that he was to assist the other Candidates in cleaning what would be their barracks. He'd given very vague directions that Zir was sure anyone accustomed to the Weyr might have understood...but alas. The Candidate Master had disappeared - called off for some other duty - before Zir could ask him to clarify. He had somehow managed to only encounter two of the weyrstaff - whom he'd charmed into giving him a sweetroll - but their directions were apparently just as unhelpful. He'd seen a few other people much further down some of the halls, but he couldn't exactly call out to them and none of them had stilled when he whistled. Being a mute had never been THIS frustrating before.

Finally, he turned a corner and heard a gaggle of voices nearby and booked it toward them. Some of the accents were familiar, but some had a unique accent to them that he couldn't quite place, which was fascinating. Peeking into the room, he saw a bunch of people around his age and lots of dust. Could it be? Was fate being, of all things, kind? He grinned and knocked lightly on the doorframe to gain someone's attention. Taking the small slate and chalk-rock his cousin had wonderfully thought he might need, he quickly scribed a question on it - Is this the Candidate barracks? - before turning it to face the others accumulated.

[kaemi]

“Sounds like a plan to me,” Aisynn agreed easily, glad to fall into an easy step with Vaylee. “My hand's doing much better, actually. You did fantastic.” Grinning, she presented her hand for a healer's inspection, regarding it briefly herself. It had healed pretty decently, in her opinion. Bandage no longer necessary, no discoloration or any of that funky stuff... she wasn't all that sure about healing, but it looked fine to her! If she had been smarter, she would have exaggerated, wrapped the hand, and made it look like it was much worse than it ever had been- maybe then she could have gotten out of this. Sadly, her brain didn't work like that.

It was a little amusing, listening to her brother and accepting his delegations. But she had no problem being told what to do (most of the time) and her little brother was decently smart. Shrugging as he told her where to be, Aisynn began looking around the room. It didn't have any terribly visible spinners, but otherwise, it was just as bad as the girls' rooms. She nodded at Vaylee's statement and went into the the main room for a moment or two to grab a bucket and a handful of rags. Coming back into the room, she placed the bucket in the middle with the rags hanging off the edge, grinning at the other occupants of the room.

Before she could get to work, however, there were oddly-accented voices coming from, apparently, the central barracks. Eyes narrowing, Aisynn brushed her bangs out of her eyes and bent from her place by the bucket, looking at Vaylee, then Orisyn, then Kalindan with a quizzical expression. Who were those people? She didn't recognize the accent... which was terrible strange. Could it be... to the two kids that stuck around on the guys' side, she asked, “Are you all the wet people from yesterday?” Blunt. She liked it. There had been a large group of soaking wet foreigners that had come in the previous day. No one knew who they were, except, apparently, the Weyrleaders and the main council of the Weyr- meanng the wingleaders, etc.. And if it was them... then why were they here? Not that she was complaining. If they were here to work, then she could ask who, exactly, they were.

–

Essabellona wasn't sure how she felt on being ordered to the clean the Barracks. Quite frankly, she was relieved that the Weyrleaders weren't kicking them out into the wet again. She jumped every time a dragon sounded, or she saw one- they were huge, and loud, and... well... amazing. Her captivation was another reason that she was glad that they weren't kicking her out. However, she wasn't a big cleaner. Back at home, while she did have to clean a decent amount, it was never extensive. On the expedition, cleaning had really been a non-issue. Sure, they had cleaned up after themselves, but there had been no need for dusting, and other such things. They were on a ship... and then in a jungle. Dusting not necessary.

She had never been a huge fan of cleaning, anyways. Hence, the mixed emotions. But she would do it, sure, no problem. Walking into the Barracks, she followed the rest of the expedition, where they were directed by a... young boy? He couldn't have been any older than 12, really. The other, slightly older 'weyrfolk' seemed to go along with his instruction, though. Hopefully he knew what he was talking about. Nodding, Essa turned on her heel. Nevarre and Koldyn were going into the classroom, so she waved at them, picked up a bucket while crossing the main room, and then walked into the girls' barracks. After all she had seen in the jungle, silly spinners didn't bother her.

It was decently-sized, though, to give whoever had discovered it credit for not wanting to mess with it. Knocking on it onto the ground, Essa quickly stepped on it, squishing it deftly. “First spinner taken care of,” she called out, just loud enough to carry into the main room. Just in case there were any other squeamish people waiting outside. Hopefully Phaerie would come with her... it'd be nice to have her buddy around. Even though they weren't in need of a buddy, technically, she felt that it was more important than ever. In a strange place, surrounded by unknown people. Yeah, a familiar, friendly face whom she trusted would be helpful.

–

No problems with authority, as long as those in charge knew what they were talking about. So, despite being a little confused at how Orisyn, who was younger than them all, had been given authority, Kalindan went along with what he said. Grabbing a broom, he climbed onto one of the bunks and began to knock the dust that had accumulated up there on the floors. It wouldn't be a detail job, for sure, but the vast majority of the dust would be off the ceiling. The walls he would do the same way... and then go over with a wet rag. Just because he didn't wish to lean up on a wall and come away all dusty.

He wasn't entirely sure who the newcomers were, but most of them dispersed once Orisyn ordered them around, too. Some of them left snottily, others left without protest, but until the majority of them were gone, Kalin didn't say a word. Afterwords, however, he nodded to the girl- the healer girl. Aisynn, he had met, and he knew Orisyn. But all he knew about the healer girl was that she was a healer. “My name's Kalindan, by the way,” he said cheerily, as he knocked dust from the ceiling onto the floor.

If any of the 'wet people', as informally dubbed by Aisynn, were going to stick around, then he would introduce himself to them, as well. But start with the people he knew would be working in here with him for right now.

[HG]

((As I am NPCing the CM, its a short post without much detail.))

A few candlemarks later...

The Candidate Master who had been busy in a meeting with the Weyrleader walked in to find a next to spotless Barracks and a bunch of nearly exhausted young folk. Calling everyone to the main room, the Candidate Master went on to say:

“Those of you who worked hard today are going to be permitted by Weyrwoman Raelwyn to touch Aeriath's eggs. I will inform you when this is going to be. For the next few weeks this Barracks will be your home. I suggest you all find a bunk and bring what things you wish to keep with you, here. Chores will begin tomorrow morning at dawn. If you are late you might find yourself one step away from Standing. Dismissed.”

–

One of the smallest youngsters in the room, Orisyn heard the knock long before he saw anyone. “Ahh, yes, this is the Candidate Barracks. You are a Candidate then? Good, you can help me with the floors. Grab that bucket and mop. I'm sweeping, so you can mop behind me.” The fact that he was not one of the Northerners was quickly appraised. Orisyn noted the differences quickly and decided not to make this young man deal with the Northerners just yet. Not after the way some of them seemed to be taking any sort of commands. He was just trying to keep things organized.

When they were finished with the mens side, the young man plopped down on the nearest bunk. Orisyn felt like his arms were going to fall off from the elbow. Ouch. He hated work. The Candidate Master called them all to the main room where some of the group had cleaned too. The place was a vast improvement from when they had first arrived. He would have felt more proud of himself if he weren't so tired. He moved to stand near his sister. Their mother would be none to happy to have them leave their home to stay in the Barracks. Orisyn himself could care less so long as he had a bed to sleep on. The reward for all of their hard work made him smile. They would get to touch the eggs. Best reward ever! He thought to himself with internalized glee.

The only negative to any of this was the fact they would be starting chores so sharding early. Why in the name of Faranth's first egg would they need to be up that early? He already knew he was going to dislike Candidacy. First they had to do a number of equally boring and disgusting chores, two they had to attend lessons, not something he wanted to have to place into his already cramped day and on top of that they had to do everything they were told to do or they could be taken out of consideration for standing.

Still things seemed to always work out for the better. Perhaps things would be fine once they got to know these Northerners and had their help. They would have a harder time with the lessons as they had no idea what Weyr etiquette was. It would be interesting to see what they did and did not know. “Aisynn I think you should tell mother...” Orisyn said thinking about the fact their mother hated that he was standing so young. “She'll be happier to hear things from you.”

–
“I'm glad to hear that.” Vaylee said with a warm smile. “Pleasure to meet you Kalindan, I'm Vaylee.” When Aisynn returned with the bucket and rags she began to work on scrubbing the bed posts and such. She scrubbed hard enough to crack one of her well groomed finger nails. “Flame, fall and fire!” She grimaced and looked at the much shorter nail. Ugh this was not her kind of work at all. She wanted to go home and complain but knew that she could not just leave because of a broken nail. When it came down to it she wanted to find out more about the newcomers and whether the Candidate Master would come to check on their progress. Orisyn entered the room again, with another boy behind him. She smiled in welcome and went back to work. Although Orisyn did not introduce anyone she had a feeling he was not with the Northerners.

The time seemed to drag on on forever until she felt her muscles had turned into jelly. The pile of mattress covers was immense. She did think that everyone should bring those down to the laundry though it seemed a few drudges had been told to take them down to the laundry. Did the Headwoman know everything? She was almost convinced the woman did. As they finished the room, she leaned against one of the beds and hoped it would not be long before they could go. Of course that was when the Candidate Master beckoned them into the main room.

Egg touching? Really!? She was rather excited about it. This was the first clutch most of them would be able to stand for, it had been a long while since Aeriath had clutched last. This might be her only chance at impression although she was doubtful about her ability to impresss a dragon at all. Other than being pretty and well liked by people she held little value in herself. Egg touching would be nice though and probably the only time she would ever be able to do so. She was glad now that she had come today.

–

This was drudge work. This was not the work that a son of a Lord should have to do. It made him angry. Even Briar was ruffled by his thoughts, that was how mad he was about all of this. They were keeping them there as prisoners, doomed to do drudge work forever. He would rather be stranded in the ocean or soaked in the jungle. At least he thought so until the vision of food crossed his mind. Trust Briar to think with her stomach. This place did have a decent supply of food, though his home provided much better quality. The Dragonriders had adapted well to the South. Much better than anyone up North would have anticipated.

He used a rag to get the dust off of the ceiling standing on a bed. This was ridiculous. What was more ridiculous? The fact that the dragonriders had no reason at all to come to their aid. They had the South to protect. They had all the leverage they needed and had no need for the North at all. The Weyrleaders had not said anything about making a decision just yet. He'd be happy to be sent home rather than do all this women's work.

When they were finished with the classroom, he was ready to drop. Tired did not even begin to cover it. Exhaustion was setting in. He did not care about what the Candidate Master was saying though he tried to listen. Something about touching eggs. What was so special about that? He really had no idea why all the Weyr bred Candidates faces lit up at the mention of egg touching. Well he was not going to be the one to ask a dumb question. The only thing he took away from it all was they were going to be expected to do more chores first thing in the morning.

Briar made certain he knew that she was hungry. “I'm going to get some food, if anyone wants company.” He'd find his way to the Weyrhall without the help of these Weyr folk even if he got lost a thousand times. Nevarre was much too prideful to ask for help.

[firethorne]

'Not happy' would be quite the understatement in describing Koldyn's current mood. Perhaps utterly pissed off would do, or maybe even livid would work too. Either way, people tended to discreetly avoid him ever since he had fallen into this foul attitude. Although, then again, he hadn't exactly been 'Mister popularity' on this trip, either, now had he? Following silently behind his fellow holder, the Igen had a rather dark expression upon his features as he stewed over their current predicament. Cleaning? The Weyrleaders had actually decided to put them on cleaning duty. Shaffit. No answers, no real diplomatic discussions, just...this.

Quirking a brow as Nevarre paused and spoke, Kol smirked slightly. "None of this is getting us anywhere, but I have a feeling they are just playing with us right now." To be honest, the Igen had a feeling this was the Weyrleaders' way of getting back at the holders for banishing them to the South all those turns ago. They were at the rider's mercy, after all, and what better way to prove it than to send holders to do the work of a lowly drudge? Of course. Blinking in revulsion as his amber gaze swept across the filthy barracks, Koldyn felt like just punching something. Not only were they being degraded by being forced to work as some menial laborers, but they had to clean this...this disgusting place. In continuity with his mood of late, Kol bit back whatever reply sprang to his lips and locked his jaw. Whatever.

Grabbing some cleaning supplies, he silently followed Nevarre into the classroom and began scrubbing at the floors, not really speaking to the other holder. He doubted either of them were feeling very chatty right now. Glancing up at Essa, the Igen managed to give her a neutral expression and a short wave in reply. Squall, as usual, was slung around his neck, in a sour mood and not really bothering to impress much upon his bonded. Well, except that he was hungry. Fall, Koldyn knew that. When was the useless blue thing not hungry? Sighing, the holder rubbed the little flit for a moment affectionately, still loving the critter despite his general worthlessness. Methodically working his way around the room with Nevarre, Kol was exhausted by the time the man walked in and announced they were free to go.

Eggs. Whooptee-sharding-doo. All the holder wanted was some food and a bed, and then he would be happy. Well, actually, not exactly 'happy', but less moody, anyway. Generally, he wouldn't have been quite so temperamental and irritated, but he was sore, hungry, and about to collapse. Not to mention Squall was not exactly a sharding ray of sunshine in his mind. Sighing as said flit sent more hungry pangs his way, the holder quirked a brow. "I know you're hungry." He muttered, then perked up slightly as Nevarre mentioned food. Koldyn shook his hair out of his eyes and quickly followed. "Food sounds good." He said simply, brushing past the weyr kids like they weren't even there.

~~~~~

Phaerie was enthralled with the weyr. That was the only way to put it. The trader was in complete awe of the handsome Weyrleader and gorgeous Weyrwoman, and she had never felt such wonder before as she did when gazing at the dragons. They were huge, but not only that, they were beautiful and majestic, too. She could have spent the rest of her life here quite easily. Well, at least, she could if she wasn't a prisoner, anyway. Phae was still confused as to what the Weyrleaders planned on doing with her and the rest of the Expedition, but to be honest, she didn't really mind being told to work. She was used to labor with her caravan, and with Refuge supplying them with food and shelter, well, it only seemed fair, right?

However, upon seeing the barracks for the first time, the trader suddenly felt it wasn't that fair. Oh Faranth, what a mess! Sighing, the girl shook herself briefly before listening to the boy as he set tasks before them all. Well, everyone else seemed to be listening, so she would too. He was weyrbred, after all, and surely he knew better than she and the rest of the Northerners. Glancing up, Phaerie spotted Essa striding towards the girl's side of the barracks, and quickly grabbed some cleaning supplies and followed suit. She was rather surprised with the weyrbred girls being so afraid of the spinners. Phae had spent nearly her entire life outdoors, so insects of any sort never bothered her. She and Essa could handle it, surely.

"Hey Essa!" The trader said enthusiastically, watching as the holder deftly squashed the first spinner. You go girl. Grinning, Phaerie quickly followed suit, knocking more of the little buggers to the ground and stepping on them quickly before they could get away. Making small talk with her buddy while they worked their way around the girl's rooms, Phae was rather tired by the time the Candidate Master walked in. Relieved, the girl stood beside her friend, her grey-blue eyes widening at his words. Leaning towards the holder, Phaerie whispered excitedly, "Essa, did you hear that? Aeriath is the name of the Weyrwoman's dragon! We get to see dragon eggs!" Unable to contain her excitement, the trader grinned, anxious now. When would they get to touch them? Blinking as their 'leader' spoke, Phae tilted her head towards the girl at her side. "Want to go, too?" She asked, rather hungry herself. "We could ask one of the weyr kids where to go."

[kira]

Ziridech arched an eyebrow when the people with the odd accents all ignored him, but smiled and nodded when Orisyn acknowledged him. When he got his orders, he gave a jaunty salute and located the correct items, carefully dropping his carrysack in a corner. He was no stranger to hard work and manual labor, so it couldn't be that bad. Quickly figuring out that it was best to start from the top and work down, they gradually got everything dusted and scrubbed.

He'd tried to whistle a skipping little tune as they worked, but the dust was getting to him too badly to keep it up. It didn't work so well when every few notes were interrupted by a sneeze or a cough. The few spinners they managed to find in their side of the barracks were saved rather than squashed and put out in the hall by him. They were the harmless sort, and would snatch up any other bugs who'd pester them more. By the end of it, Zir was thoroughly convinced that he would rather till an entire field by himself than clean another room this dusty.

Claiming his own bunk, the young man flopped onto it and curled up lovingly. Ahh, the burn that had grown in his muscles would be well worth it if he could just rest here for awhile...

But alas, the Candidate Master returned. Zir shot him a small glare, still a little peeved about the wonky directions, but it quickly melted into a smile at the Candidate Master's words. They would get to touch the eggs! And - momentarily more important - he could keep his sweet, lovely, (sort of) fluffy bunk for wonderful, delicious sleep!

Except one of the oddly-accented-boys mentioned food, and he felt his stomach rumble in agreement. What? He was still a growing boy, and it had been candlemarks since last he ate! And he was interested in the strangely-talking folk. Bouncing up off the bunk with more energy than he'd seemed to have just two ticks ago, he made sure to place his carrysack on it to keep his claim. He curiously followed behind the other two boys a few paces back, figuring that they probably knew the way better better than he did. (Hah.)

[kaemi]

It was an extensive cleaning... to say the least. Aisynn wasn't sure how long it had taken. All she was sure of was that, by the time they finally finished, the boys' side of the barracks was beyond improvement. It was sharding spotless! Well- maybe not that clean, but considerably less disgusting than it had been, previously. Pleased, she stood at the entrance way of the room for a moment, surveying the clean beds and floors. Even the walls and ceilings were mostly without the dust and grime. She loved this feeling! The feeling of accomplishment.

So a smile was already in place when the Candidate Master called them into the main room soon afterward. The words straight out of the Master's mouth were brief, but served to intensify her grin. Touching? Of the eggs!? That was... an honor! Allowing herself a short giggle, the girl looked around to judge the reactions around her. A few seemed as excited as herself- most pointedly, Vaylee. Making a note to talk to her on it later, Aisynn turned to her brother to see what he would have to say. Orisyn, after all, usually had something to say about just about anything.

“Oh, don't say that,” Aisynn protested. Sure, their mother wasn't entirely pleased that he was starting so early, but she wasn't displeased... per say. “Why don't we tell her together? I'm sure she'll be excited as we are. Touchings come around rarely, after all. She'll agree that it is an honor for the both of us.” Grinning, she nudged her brother. “Isn't it? An honor? Aren't you excited??”

--

Never. Again.

Kalindan didn't enjoy cleaning. And a few candlemarks doing just that didn't make him 'see the light', or any such nonsense. It made him loathe the activity more. Huffing briefly as he rammed his shoulder into a broom, which had been left leaning against the doorway, the candidate righted it before following the others out into the main room. The Candidate Master probably wished to give them a short encouragement and then direct them to another dusty area of the Weyr. Hopefully, though, he would dismiss them back to their lives and let them carry on. Hopefully.

A Touching wasn't what Kalin had expected. Obviously. It made sense, though. The Records showed that the presence of a Touching, or any amount of increased interaction between Candidates and eggs, had a direct correlation to the ratio between Impressions and number of dragonets. It probably had something to do with the mental connection- candidates reaching out to the dragonets at an impressionable stage while they were still developing within the egg. Shoving the thoughts to the back of his mind, he clapped his hands together, a smile curving his lips.

--

Despite the infestation of spinners, together Essa and Phaerie managed quite proficiently. They chatted while they worked, so that the cleaning was something that didn't occupy her full attention. It made the time pass faster than it might have, if she and Phae weren't already friends. Or, rather, buddies. Cleaning the floors, and replacing the linens on the beds, they took care of the girls' side of the barracks proficiently until it was basically clean. Perfect, to Essa's standards- but she would readily admit that she had just spent an extended period of time in a jungle, and before that, on a ship.

So her standards weren't necessarily 'high'. Still. It worked for her.

Standing beside her friend, Essa wasn't quite sure what to expect from the so-called 'Candidate Master'. Who was he, after all? What was he supposed to be doing? Her answer was delivered quickly, the man speaking briefly and allowing them all to return to their fellows and chat about it. She was as enthusiastic as the next person (namely, Phae) about this 'Touching'. “The Weyrwoman's dragon? The gold?!” she asked excitedly. Aeriath. What a beautiful name! “That's amazing. Why would we get to see... and touch!... the gold's eggs?” It didn't make much sense, but hey, she would be the last one to complain. How exciting was this? Not only had they found dragons- dragons! She had told them- but now they would get to see eggs.

At the proposition of food, the girl quirked a brow, and then nodded with vigor. How long had they been working, anyways? She was hungry. “Sure!” Her thoughts, centered around food, apparently drew Query, as the brown appeared with a rush of frigid air. “You would come just in time for food. Come on, let's find someone who can tell us where to go. Nevarre, Koldyn, wait up.” Turning to the nearest person, who happened to be the boy who had been telling them all what to do, earlier, she had no problem with interjecting into his conversation. Something about a mother. “Sorry, but we're new- could you tell us where to find some food? I'm Essabellona, Essa for short.”

That was sort of funny. Because the kid was short, and she said the word short. Alright, or maybe she was just tired and half-starved.

[HG]

Orisyn laughed, “Oh well if you put it that way.” He was still grinning when she asked if he was excited. “Who wouldn't be? Theres a whole slew of them too! We're bound to impress anyway but egg touching is just icing on the cake isn't it?” There was nothing more wonderful at the Weyr than a new Clutch.

That Zorometh had certain proven his worth as a Bronze. Aeriath was due her credit as well though he had to think the sire had quite a bit to do with the size and colors of the clutch. Judging by the fact that there was a Gold there had to be at least one or two Bronzes. Course there were always more greens but greens were great in and of themselves. Brilliant fliers for sure. He would never reject a dragon whichever color. Of course with higher color came more prestige and you got to order people around. Something he felt he was pretty good at anyway.

“We really should celebrate but I'm soooooo tired. Cleaning kills the soul.” He said with head shake. That was before he heard the exotic voice of the young woman behind them. Now little as he was, Orisyn was not a blind man and therefore found these new girls rather attractive. His face flushed just the slightest bit. Girls were trouble, he reminded himself and set his smile back on his face. Overconfident in himself as usual.

“Pleasure to meet you Essa. I'm Orisyn and this is my sister Aisynn.” They did look like siblings but he felt it was a good way to introduce her. “Well if you want, you can join us. We need to eat too. Plus it will put off telling mother for a few more candlemarks...” He grinned impishly. His mother, Faranth save her, had to put up with his mischief enough to know whatever happened was his fault and his sister was often co-conspirator like it or not.

[meadow]

She was late. Ferlese HATED being late. Being the last one in line, the last one to help out, it made you look bad, it put you behind everyone else. Granted, this was NOT her fault! She'd been in some obscure corner of the Lower Caverns helping her sister clean some dusty rooms out when her brother rushed in to tell her she was SUPPOSED to be in the Candidate Barracks helping them clean out rooms. Dressed in old worn down clothes, covered in dust from a morning spent cleaning already, she had flung herself out of the lower rooms cursing loudly.

Arriving at her destination, she paused before entering the rooms, trying to regain some sense of composure. This wasn't her fault, but she'd probably be in trouble anyways. She could take that though, she wasn't a milksop. Straightening her shoulders, she realized as she entered the room maybe she should have cleaned up. Running one hand over her cheek and noting the dust on her palm she sighed. Well, whatever, she thought briskly.

"I'm sorry I'm late." She wished she'd known earlier! Ferlese wanted to stand out amongst the Candidates as someone who was strong and smart, not a lamer who didn't show up on time.

She ran her hand through her hair, glad it was cut so short. Her locks instantly fell into their normal place. Smiling hopefully, she looked around for something to help with. Noting one corner that seemed empty and dusty, she quickly began cleaning, dedicating herself to making her area spotless. After a couple of moments her less than cheery outlook fell away and she began humming to herself. As long as she was active, she was happy, she decided. So she showed up late? So what? She could still clean awesome! And putting her all into her work would surely stand out and she wouldn't be just seen as the one who was late, but the one who'd done the most in the least time. Or maybe she wouldn't be noticed at all. At least SHE knew she'd done her best.

When the work seemed done, she noted the mention of food, as her own stomach began snarling at her for avoiding it for so long. Moving to the door she gave the room one last cursory look. It looked good. She wasn't the only one here who'd thrown her all into the drudgery work.

[kirensilverfox]

Keylen having arrived later then the others and almost missed the cleanup. He of course jumped in and started helping right away. He wiped down the walls getting all the dust and dirt off the accumulated on the sides. He dipped his rag back into the bucket and simply got right to work. He was a bit sad that they didn't have a lot of time to meet and greet one another but he was sure that they would be able to talk later one possible after class. After all it was time for working and not socializing.

He hurried threw the work and looked around for a unoccupied bed. He didn't bring very much from home. He really didn't have much appropriate to bring besides old work clothing. And he had one nice outfit that his mother had made for him. He also only had his old pair of boot well worn but comfortable.