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All Things Come Full Circle


Date:  December 12, 2002
Places:  Ista Weyr's Living Cavern, Southeast Bowl, and Infirmary
Game:  PernMUSH
Copyright Info:  The World of Pern is copyright(c) to Anne McCaffrey 
l967. The Dragonriders of Pern(r) is a registered copyright.

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Kassi's Note:  About five and a half RL years ago, Kassima gave birth
to her first child and daughter:  Kaylira, who since has grown up,
Impressed brown Pheirth at Ista, become Timor's Wingleader, weyrmated
to Weyrleader M'llon, had a rendezvous with Ursa's son U'yn... and 
gotten pregnant.  Now it's Kaylira's turn to deliver her firstborn.
And Kassi's on hand to provide moral support for her daughter, as well
as to join mother, fathers, and Healer in welcoming a new life to the
world:  her first grandson, Kaylon.  Congrats, Kay--and thank you for
making this such a fun, touching scene. :)

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The Log:

Ista LC> Kaylira tries to down her discomfort in a large swallow of tea.
Bad move - it dones't go down quite right, ending up in a fit of coughing.

Ista LC> M'llon frowns at Kaylira, leaning forward to rub her back lightly,
"You okay?"

Ista LC> Kaylira shakes her head, hands shaking enough that the tea is
spilling. "I think I'm going to be sick.." Her eyes widen terribly as she
pales again.

Ista LC> M'llon takes the tea out of Kaylira's hands, setting it on the
table, "Let's go into the infirmary and they can take care of you."

Ista LC> Brees sits up straighter and glances over at Kaylira with a bit of
worry sticky bun forgetton for a moment.

Ista LC> Jascela sets her plate down on the end of the serving table and
turns to look back at Kaylira with concern.

Ista LC> Kaylira shakes her head, arms pushed out. "I dont want to go to
the infirmary. Please.. don't make me go to the infirmary. I.. air.. I just
need some air."

Ista LC> Mindii leans forward, shushing Oparel with a wave and peeking at
Kaylira. "Maybe the baby's comin?"

Ista LC> Jascela heads back toward the group, watching Kaylira curiously.
She stops behind Brees, placing a hand on the Greenrider's shoulder lightly.

Ista LC> M'llon nods and stands up, preparing to help Kaylira stand, "Let's
go outside then.. It will be okay, hon."

Ista LC> Brees reaches up to rest her free hand on top of Jascela's and
then just turns to watch for the moment.

Ista LC> Kaylira nods, eyes welling with tears as she stands, leaning
heavily against M'llon. "I just need air," she repeats. "Thats all. And my
mum. I need my mum."

Dragon> Lysseth and Pheirth sense that Bromith warbles softly, << My rider
says that Pheirth's rider wants her mum.."

Ista LC> M'llon leads Kaylira out to the bowl, letting her set the pace,
"Let's get some air. Bromith said he would talk to Lysseth too."

Ista LC> Oparel blinks twice at Kaylira and murmurs something into Mindii's
ear. She nods twice. "We're gonna go get you a coupl'a nice towels wetted
with warm water, m'kay Kaykay?"

Lysseth> Pheirth and Bromith sense that Lysseth's mind, alert and
brightly-lit, flashes momentary surprise and curiosity, but she sends a
pulse of agreement and goes silent for a moment to relay the message. << We
will be right there, >> she replies quickly once she's returned.

Ista LC> Kaylira nods, though its clear she's not hearing anyone but M'llon
and that single word 'Lysseth'.

You place one hand on Lysseth's neck and she warbles down at you fondly.
You grin and scratch her eyeridges once before climbing up onto her lower
neckridges, using the riding straps and Lysseth's thoughtfully offered
foreleg.

<*> Lysseth springs from the ground, the air from her wings churning up
dust as she takes to the skies.

You spring from Lysseth's ledge with one downsweep of your wings, soaring
into the sky above the Northern Bowl.

The rim of the bowl falls away from you and you soar into the open skies.

<*> Lysseth disappears into Between.

Between
You gasp as the icy black nothingness of Between surrounds you! You hear
nothing, see nothing, and feel nothing. The trip takes five heartbeats...
Black...
Blacker...
Blackest!

You suddenly emerge...

<*> Lysseth emerges from Between with a blast of cold air!

Ista LC> M'llon smiles and continues out the door with Kaylira.

Ista LC> M'llon walks outside, into the bowl.

The wind is brisk and feels good under your wings, supporting your wings
firmly as you glide lower into the bowl.

Dragon> Lysseth and Bromith sense that Pheirth croons (albeit late) << It
/is/ the egg! My Lira is hatching>! >>

Ista LC> Kaylira walks outside, into the bowl.

The huge looming entrances of the living caverns are easily visible from
here, and you glide downward to land, scattering firelizards as you do so.

<*> Kaylira blinks back tears that insist on falling. "Where's my mum? Why
isn't she coming? I feel sick. This can't be normal."

<*> Lysseth doesn't actually glide so much as descend in a controlled
plummet, backwinging to a neat if somewhat heavy landing; Kassi's already
tugging straps free in a scramble to get down to the ground even before the
green has fully settled. "Kay? Oh--Kay, love, we're right here," she calls
as she slides to terra firma.

You slide off of Lysseth's neck to land beside her easily. She rumbles,
cocking her head down at you, and you rub her eyeridges gratefully.

M'llon walks slowly with Kaylira, "She is coming, she will be right here."
and indeed she is. He smiles gratefully at Kassima.

Kaylira whimpers at sight of Kassi. "I'm not ready!"

"Nay anyone ever *is*, minxlet." Kassi gives Lysseth's shoulder a quick,
absentminded slap before loping to where her daughter and M'llon are,
flicking the bronzerider a quick, rather anxious smile in return. "But
you'll be fine. We'll get you to the Infirmary, hey?"

M'llon nods to Kassima then leans forward to look at Kaylira's face, "Ready
to go in now?"

Kaylira shakes her head. "I don't want to go to the infirmary. They'll make
me ahve hte baby."

Kassima bites her lower lip to keep back a sudden impulse to laugh.
"Consider the alternative," she advises. "Imagine how much 'twould hurt
t'have a toddler in there, screaming and carousing--or worse, a teenager.
And how would you feed her if'n she wanted a sandwich? This is the best
alternative, love. C'mon. 'Twill nay be any better t'have your bairn out
here in the Bowl, trust me."

M'llon nods and smiles, "You should listen to your mother, I think she
knows these things."

Kaylira nods, however reluctantly. "I have to pee."

"I haven't actually had one in the Bowl," Kassi admits, with a wry grin for
the Weyrleader. "But I've had five of six in the Infirmary; 'tisn't *that*
bad. And we'll be with you, Kay; and Sauscony's here, she'll help you. I'd
wager five marks there's a necessary in there for you and everything." She
reaches a hand towards her daughter's shoulder to give it a comforting
squeeze, should she allow it.

Kaylira more than allows the hand, She grasps it tightly within her own.
"Its gonna come anyway, isnt' it? The babe."

M'llon smiles and nods towards the infirmary, "Let's go inside .. you will
be more comfortable in there than you would be out here."

Kassima twists her hand about so that she can clasp Kay's in turn. "'Tis
pretty hard t'talk one out of being born. Whether you're ready or nay.
Listen t'your weyrmate, m'dearest, because he's right."

Kaylira nods, "And you won't leave me alone?" The belly is regarded with
somethign akin to a look of betrayal. "You were supposed to warn me!"

M'llon smiles gently, "I promise, I am going no where without you."

Kaylira giggles nervously, "Ready to have another daughter? Oh! We didn't
pick a name! How can we have a baby without a name?" However, with her will
or no, this child is determined to be born, and almost on cue with with her
complaint, a trickle of wet puddles about her feet.

"Nay for so much as a moment," Kassima promises at once. "And don't be too
angry with the kidlet. It *could* have had you in labor for days a'fore
'twas ready t'come; better fast and without warning than that... shall we,
then?" A pause. "Though I confess I don't know where the Infirmary *is*,
precisely. I'll trust you t'guide... oh-oh." Yes, she's noticed the water.
"*That*, I'm afraid, means there's nay time t'waste, Kay-love."

M'llon has gone from gently urging to more insistent, "Kaylira, let's go
into the infirmary.. it will be best for you."

Kaylira stares down at her feet. "I told you I had to go.." Though at this
point she's looking like maybe she's rethinkign that infirmary idea and
looking more favourably upon it.

M'llon leads Kaylira into the infirmary, "It is right in here Kassima."

Kassima murmurs, "I doubt 'tis what that was, though Sauscony can confirm.
Looks like your water's broken t'me. You can't stay out here any longer,
m'dear--" She nods to M'llon and follows quickly after, keeping Kay's hand
in hers.

Kaylira follows along, mincing her steps (cold wet pants!).

Kaylira walks into the infirmary.

You head into the infirmary.

M'llon walks into the infirmary.

Sauscony is frowning thoughtfully at a hide, dragging her gaze away almost
reluctantly as she senses a movement from the corner of her eye. All
reluctance slips awat as she recognizes them, stuffing the hide into a
pocket of her jacket as she makes her way towards them. "Welcome," She
greets, her gaze immediately moving towards Kaylira.

M'llon leads Kaylira in slowly, only looking up once inside. He smiles at
Sauscony's welcome, "I think someone is about to have a baby."

Kaylira tries not to look like that someone. She'd be doing better if she
wasn't so pale and wet and well, frankly, as large as a weyr herself.

Kassima follows slightly in the wake of the other two, but not much--she's
holding her daughter's hand, which doesn't leave much leeway for wandering
off. Not, from her anxious expression, that she's particularly interested
in wandering off. "Make sure you breathe," she advises Kay in a low,
comforting voice. "Deep breaths, and focus on the breathing; it sounds
absurd, but it *does* help. And you can crunch m'hand if'n you need to.
Sauscony!" Relieved? Pleased? Yes. "I'm glad you're here... time, 'tis,
aye. As you can likely tell."

Kaylira shakes her head and turns. Thats it. She's leaving again.
BReathing? Nobody said there'd be breathing. And .. nope. she's going.
"I've changed my mind."

"Not you, I hope." Soz notes in amusement to M'llon as she indicates one of
the curtain enclosed cubicles. She slants Kassima a quick smile as she
nods. "So, it seems. You both will stay to help, yes?" She seems to assume
their agreement, for she turns her attention to Kaylira now. "Let's get you
comfortable first, then we can talk." Unless the baby is a bit more
impatient. Err, well, unless the mother runs. "I think its a wee bit late
for that." She reminds."

M'llon holds tight to Kaylira, "No, you aren't going .. where would you go?"

Kaylira whispers (its that or wail) "I .. out. I'd.. I am *not* having this
baby." There, she said it. its decided. Yep. Of course, small and insistant
has other dieas. And any hand being held gets a squishing. "Oh.. okay..ow."

Kassima holds onto Kay's hand firmly, however. "I fear this isn't one of
those things you can change your mind about. You'll be *fine*. Trust the
Craftsecond--y'know how I am about Healers; I'd nay say that if'n she
wasn't a good one. And," cajolingly, "she has a tea that will help with the
pain. Somewhat. A'course we wi--iiiiiill!" The last word's a bit shrill,
what with the not-entirely-expected crunch of her hand and all.

Sauscony lets out a long sigh as she looks skyward for a moment. Her next
remarks are aimed towards her 'assistants', "Would you get her settled on
the bed,please? I think I will get the tea."

Kaylira nearly loses her footing as another pain hits. As strong as the
last. Or perhaps moreso. Only the crunched hands can tell for certain.

M'llon nods to Sauscony, urging Kaylira to continue walking over to the
bed, "It is going to be okay, love."

Kassima's eyes cross briefly as her abused hand is abused some more, but
this time she bites her lip on any exclamation. "Mmmph. Right. This way,
kidlet--" She attempts to pull Kay towards that indicated bed. "'Twill help
you up if'n you need."

Kaylira moves, panting her breaths. Okay, so thats not the way she was
told, but that *hurt* and she isn't remembering. "Bed. Bed." Chanted as a
goal to reach. You got it... one step away and another pain hits.
Prelabour? Wanna bet she's been in labour for a goodly time and just
ignored it?

Luckily, Soz had the water ready, all she needed to to was pour it into the
cup. She keeps a careful eye on the trio. "When did you first feel the
contractions, Kaylira?" She asks as she sets the cup on the table beside
the bed. "When that cools a bit, would you help her drink it, please." She
peers at M'llon for a moment. "Sir." She finally finishes before turning
her attention to Kassi, "And would you help her with her breathing, please?"

Kaylira mumbles something, her pale cheeks flaming crimson.

Kassima murmurs, while helping Kay towards and onto that bed, "More like
this, love--" She demonstrates the proper breathing pattern, something with
which she is *vastly* familiar. "Breathe with--ow--with me. And trust me:
if'n you've the strength t'squeeze hands like *that* then you still have
plenty t'get that baby out. Oh, Sauscony," she thinks to call over,
"methinks her water broke, just a'fore we got in here. A'course, a'course."
Back to the breathing demonstration.

M'llon nods to Sauscony regarding the water as he helps Kaylira sit down on
the bed, "Please, call me M'llon."

Kaylira tries to follow her mother's breathing. In long and slow.. ou..
"Ah..ow ow ow.. ow.."

Sauscony watches the girl for a moment, a smile touching her lips before
she nods to the bronzerider, "Thank you, M'llon." she notes with a nod to
herself. "Good." She adds to Kassi's comment. "Not to much longer. Drink
the tea." She intsructs Kaylira. "That should help you with the pain." As
the healer speaks, she is scrubbing her hands carefully, her movements
quick but not rushed.

"Concentrate on the breathing," Kassi encourages, "nay on the pain."
Realistic expectations and experience bid her add, after a beat, "As much
as you can. But you can yell if'n it makes you feel better. Keep going:
in... now out... you're doing fine, love, you really are. And here's the
tea. Drink up, now, it *does* help."

Kaylira looks at the tea, and admits, "Yesterday." Then mumbled quieter,
"Morning." There, now if she just downs the tea she can ignore the looks
she's sure she's going to get.

M'llon had been about to reach for the tea but Kassima has beat him to it,
he murmurs encouraging, "It will be okay."

Sauscony sets a basin of cool water and a towel on the table by M'llon. "I
would like you to wipe her brow as she needs it and hold her hand."
Hopefully, it won't break. "Kassima, I would like you to continue to help
her with her breathing." She pauses to draw her stool over with her foot,
then setting up a draped frame across the girl's hips.

Well, that sends *Kassi's* breathing all to the Star, as she breaks off to
just stare at her daughter. "Yesterday *morning*, and you didn't say aught
until now? Why in Faranth's name--" Oh. Wait. That's probably not helpful,
is it. She closes her mouth with a click of teeth and quick headshake,
settling for watching Kay to make sure she drinks all the tea instead.
"Listen t'your weyrmate; he's absolutely right. And you heard Sauscony: nay
much longer, so soon the baby will be here with you too. Right, a'course,
a'course...." She takes a deep breath, then instructs, "Back to it, love.
In; now out--"

M'llon keeps one hand in Kaylira's hand and reaches for the cloth with the
other. He smiles at Kassima, "And you are surprised she kept it hidden?"

Kaylira remarks, voice rising with another pain, "I am still *he*-ERE*"

M'llon pauses, "Did anyone's dragon talk to U'yn's dragon?"

Lysseth> High above the bowl, Kismith emerges from Between with a blast of
cold air!

Kassima admits at her wryest, "I hoped she'd have more sense than I did.
'Twas insistant for a full day that *her* coming was just indigestion
brought on by garlic, vinegar, and riverggrain pudding." And never mind
that the whole distrust of Healers is also inherited. "Aye, m'heart, you
are, but wouldn't you rather have us talking over you than clustered around
Sauscony t'have a look at where she'll have t'look? Don't stop the
breathing, now!" Sparing a moment for a quick glance Bowl-wards, she
observes, "Someone must have. Lyss says he's just arrived."

Lysseth> Kismith approaches from above, the wind from his wings stirring
the air into a great rush as he lands.

Lysseth> U'yn climbs carefully down with the assistance of Kismith's
extended forelimb.

If Soz is suprised by this, she gives no sign of her, just shaking her head
in wry amusement before her head disappears behind the drape. "Well, I do
not believe it will be much longer." Her voice sounds a bit disembodied.
"Now, Kaylira, I would like for you to -push- whenever you feel a
contraction, then relax to catch your breath the minute it stops, alright?"

Kaylira tries to catch her breath - hey, its not easy when you're caught
between wanting to protest and these interferring pains. "Thought.." Yes,
yes, Kassi, she's breathing, in in in... slow exhale over her words, "would
go away..."

Lysseth> Madieth lifts her head from where she's curled up with Tansith to
croon over at Kismith with amusement.

Kaylira nods at the instructions. Okay, thats worrisome.. how on Pern is
she supposed to know when and how this pushing thing is done? And shards,
she never did manage to get that tea. Somehow those of you who know and
love her best just nkow she's decided this child has an uncommon lot of
stubborn impatience (now, which parent shall we blame that on?).

M'llon nods to Kassima, "I'm glad, he should be here too." He smiles again
at Kaylira, reaching over to wipe her forehead.

Lysseth> Kismith bellows a friendly greeting as he settles down. U'yn,
however, seems rather flustered. He hops off of Kismith and starts charging
down the bowl. Then, unheard instructions stops him in his tracks, and he
turns abruptly, heading a new direction. A third turn finally gets him
charging towards the infirmary.

U'yn walks into the infirmary.

U'yn comes in at top speed, then screeches abruptly to a complete halt. And
stands there, near the entrance. Stands there. Uhm.

Kassima suggests, her voice soft, "You can bear down on our hands if'n it
helps, too." Nice of her to volunteer M'llon's hand like that. Probably not
*surprising*, mind, at least to Kay, given her oft-stated views on a
father's role in childbirth. Perhaps she sees Kay's confusion, because her
next words are, "Your body will know what to do. Just do what feels right,
and what feels like 'twill get the kid *out*--and finish that tea right
now, young woman." That's said in the Mother Voice, yes. She looks up to
nod her agreement to M'llon, then glances back over her shoulder at the
sound of footfalls; U'yn gets a rueful, somewhat harried grin.

Lysseth> Lysseth and the scads of fire-lizards perched on her neckridges
and back like a living cloak have all settled into a low-voiced hum by now.
The 'lizards continue the sound, but Lysseth interrupts hers long enough
for a brief rumble towards Kismith.

[Editor's Note:  I got disconnected here--and many other times through
the evening :P--but U'yn and later Sauscony were kind enough to page me
the poses I missed, so there should be no loss of continuity.]

Kaylira takes the remaining gulps of tea in two swallows.. a long childhood
of *that* voice proving instinctive. (Hey, no fair M'llon gets to witness
that!). Somehow the empty mug is no longer in her hands (probalby found
under a cot tomorrow, who knows). And then she sights U'yn.. its like the
hand of childbirth came down and said now, because thats exactly what
happens. *Now* is when she gets that 'oh shards I have to push' look - a
milisecond of time before she just *does* it. Hands grabbed and grasped for
purchase.

I can see the very tip of a head." Soz announces, settling back on her
stool to roll her shoulders. As she does so, she spies the newcomer.
Figuring that he must be part of her group, she offers him a quick smile.
It never does to try and figure out Weyr relationships. But an extra set of
hands are always helpful. "By the fire are packets of tea, as she finishes
that cup, could you make her another one,please?" Of course she expects him
to obey.

Kaylira pushes until her body says 'okay, that was good'. The wave of
relaxation rolls over her and without Kassi's prodding she breathes like
she's supposed to! Finally looking focused and certain about what she's
doing (hey, you move from transitional phase labour to final phase and see
what it does for you).

M'llon murmurs soft words of encouragement to Kaylira, as everyone looks to
the entrance he makes no further comment but he does smile a hello.

Now U'yn is not unfamiliar with birth, his mother does midwifery at Telgar,
after all. But.... this could, possibly, maybe, be his kid, and that
changes all of everything. Tea, though, he can focus on that, so bustles
over and gets to work making an oversized overenthusiastic cup of tea.

Kaylira barely gets out a warning. "Pushing!" Before her helping hands are
put to use again. Its a good and mighty push too. Maybe this isn't so bad
after all.

Kassima makes a strangled noise as her hand is broken into itty-bitty bits,
her eyes crossing again in a spasm of pain. But she complains not at all.
And you know why? Because she knows darned well she'd rather be *here* than
where *Kay* is right now, that's why. "Good, lass, very good," she manages
to get out after a moment, summoning an encouraging smile for her daughter.
"Just like that. Your bairn will be here a'fore you know it and you can
rest; just push now, that's a way--" She bites her lip on any exclamations
of pain that may just want to follow.

"Very good!" Soz encourages, raising her head above the draped separation
to peer at her assistants. "How are you doing?" She asks as her gaze slips
from one to the other before she settles back onto her stool. "Just a few
more pushes." She adds.

M'llon is not above wincing as his hand is squeezed overly hard now too, "I
think everything is going well here."

"Devoutly rethinking that desire for more children," Kassima reports with a
sidelong glance towards Sauscony, "but otherwise fine." As a belated but
still sincere afterthought, "Glad you could make it, U'yn. Hear that, Kay?
You can handle a few more; I know you can."

Kaylira doe about as much damage as the hand can take in one push and
relaxes again. Sitting back and taking a couple more breaths. "Coming..
faster. Think." Couple more pushes.. okay, she can do that. "She'll be
here," she murmurs to M'llon. "Couple more."

U'yn now hovers. With tea. Sorta hovers. Not too close. Just, uhm. Hovers.
Sorta.

M'llon wipes at Kaylira's forehead again then leans forward to kiss there,
"You are doing wonderfuly."

Kaylira gives U'yn an encouraging smile. "We're having a baby," she tells
him, as though he could be oblvious to the fact. She actually has time for
a bemused smile. Its actually hit her (like labour wasn't a wake up call??)
that she really is having this baby.

Kassima scootches back a little to leave U'yn room: "You'll likely have
t'hold it for her," she suggests, with a glance back to her laboring child.
"U'yn has more tea for you, Kay-love. Drink up if'n you can... and I agree,
you *are* doing wonderfully. Beautifully. I'm more proud of you than I can
say."

Kaylira ohs at the tea, taking a sip and then another. "Okay.. no more.."
Of course not! She has to push again. Another good, strong push. She's
getting right into this now.

"Have her drink some of that between pushes." Soz informs U'yn "If she
can." Kay's comment does elicit a look from the healer towards M'llon
before she shakes her head. Its better not to ask at times. But then the
delivery does draw her attention. "Okay. the head is clear now. You can
take a rest and relax." She falls silent as she works on the baby for a
moment, clearing mouth and nose.

Kaylira does relax, and gives everyone a semi-exhausted, sweaty, exuberant
smile. "There's a head."

Watch Kassi's eyes try to cross again! "You may want t'keep it handy all
the same," she mutters to U'yn. "If'n it works on hands, I'd bet one of us
will want it when this is over. The head?" Remember what she said about it
being better that they were talking than trying to get a peek? Evidently
she doesn't, because this is her cue to try and crane her head and lean as
much as Kay's grasp on her hand will allow to, indeed, take a look.

M'llon catches the healer's look but he merely smiles and looks back to
Kaylira, "Soon my dear."

U'yn isn't quite sure how to feed a labouring woman tea between pushes, but
he's there, offering it. "Have some?" he asks, hopefully.

Kaylira gratefully takes the tea - she even holds it while she has a nice
long swallow. Somehow she just knows she's got enough time to take the
offering, avail of it, and hand it back. "OKay, lets have this baby. She's
gotta be tired of waiting.."

"One last push, please" Soz's head doesn't appear this time, the healer
bent over her patient as she supports the baby's head.

U'yn flashes Kaylira a warm grin as he takes mug back. He keeps pulling his
hands through his hair, making it an awfully crazy mess.

M'llon mostly ignores U'yn's presence now, concentrating on Kaylira he
smiles, "You are ready now?"

Kassima reluctantly gives up trying to get a look at the baby to return to
Kay's side, leaning in to brush a quick kiss against her daughter's temple.
"That's m'lass. You can do it, love--just one more, and 'twill all be
over." More like just beginning, but why sweat the details?

Kaylira nods to M'llon, flashing him a nervous smile, "She's.." But she
doesn't get time to finish her sentence as the awaited for push overtakes
her. While not stronger than the others, it turns out rather painful, the
shoulders clearing, fist one, then the other, as the babe is helped along
gently by the ever so capable hands of the attendant healer...

After a moment's pause, there is a hiccup from the baby, then a sharp cry
as lungs fill for the first time. Soz's head appears over the draped cloth,
looking at the mother to make she that she is still there before the healer
turns to take care of the baby.

M'llon takes a deep breath as the baby cries, smiling in relief, "You did
it Kaylira."

Kaylira ohs, craning to see the baby. "Is she okay? She's got everything?"

Kassima's expression, which had still contained a certain amount of worry,
immediately soften and warms at the sound of the baby cry. "Oh, Kay," she
says, barely above a whisper, "you have a...." Pause. "You have a...
something. Is she--he? It?--all right?" she asks Sauscony, while leaning
again, wanting to see.

U'yn cranes. Everyone else is craning, so he must, too, to see around all
the others craning to see the baby. Wordless, but it's apparent in his
eyes. WOW.

Sauscony doesn't reply until she turns, carrying a neatly wrapped baby in
the crook of her arm. "He is a beautiful little boy." She notes, holding
the baby so that all the bystanders may see his face before she bends down
to offer him to his mother. "A nice strong little one." She adds.

M'llon smiles down at the child, saying quite unneccessarily, "Oh Kaylira,
its a little boy."

Kaylira takes the small bundle, that ancient soft wonder lighting her face.
"A boy? Its not a girl?" But how can she really question this? There's this
wonderous being to welcome to the world.

Kassima lets go of Kaylira's hand at once, both so her daughter can take
her son, and so she can hug her own newly-freed hand close to
herself--along with its mate--to help resist any impulse to reach for the
baby herself. "A wee little lad," she whispers. "Kay, he's *beautiful*.
Just look what you've made."

"Check under the cloth, if you doubt." Soz seems amused at the question.
She slants a glance to Kassima, nodding to her words. "He is a handsome lad."

Kaylira does check, opening his swaddling to look at every single beautiful
detail of this tiny being. And he's definitely a he. No doubt about that.
Even if he's not yet learnt the fine art of peeing at cool air contact.
"Look at him, he's .. wow.. its like.." And she melts all over again. "I'll
always be here little one. Momma loves you.." Her dark head bending to kiss
a small fist. And then another. Then each foot in turn.

M'llon smiles gently as he watches Kaylira and the baby, "He is very
beautiful, you did wonderfully Kaylira."

Kassima finds a good spot from which to gaze down at Kaylira and her son,
wearing a beam which is rather ridiculously wide; not that she cares about
such things just now. "Perfect," she murmurs to Kay. "He's perfect. I've
never seen a more bonny lad, save mayhaps for your brothers... and what
d'you think of him, U'yn?"

Kaylira looks up and gestures U'yn over. "Come. See.." Encouraging him to
look upon this wonder - that very possibly is his own son.

Sauscony disappears beneath the cloth, finishing up as she allows the
family to bond. She does slant a curious glance between the men, but this
seems to be a situation that she has dealt with before.

U'yn can only make one answer, here, but it's sincere, nonetheless.
"He's... he's perfect," he breathes, quietly, taking the invitation to come
closer.

The smile Kassi thinks to flash to Sauscony commingles genuine gratitude
with a hint of wry amusement, likely for the situation. But rather than
comment on it, she looks back down to watch the baby with wondering,
loving, and just a touch wistful eyes. "You said you didn't have a name
ready yet...?"

Kaylira mms, "Kaylon." The name just comes as she rests back and lets hte
father's take their fill of son.

M'llon smiles at Kaylira, taking a seat on the cot next to hers, "Can I get
you anything?"

"I like it," says Kassima at once, unsurprisingly. "'Twould have been wrong
for such a bonny lad t'have t'go through life without the Fortunate Letter."

As Soz removes the frame, she draws a blanket over the rider, lest she
catch a chill, even in the warmth of Ista.

Kaylira is tired. That happy 'I just had a baby tired'.. And when the
father's have had Kaylon's fill of being oggled.. she does what comes next,
naturally, and gives her son his first meal (because you just know all the
rest of that icky birth stuff has been attended to.. we won't bore you all
with details).

Sauscony moves away, out of earshot,as she begins to clean the instruments.
She does occasionally glance over at the new mother and her assistants.

Kassima gives a quiet, contented sigh that commingles elements of the 'wow'
sigh and the 'I want one' sigh. Silence reigns from her corner for several
moments; she says nothing for the first minutes of Kaylon's nursing.
Eventually she draws her attention away from the baby and his mother long
enough to turn and say to Sauscony, as she moves from earshot, a simple,
"Thankee, Craftsecond. Thankee."

Kaylira would offer her own thanks, but perhaps happy and healthy mother
and child is enough for now.

Sauscony offers her a warm smile, "It was a pleasure, Kassima. Your
daughter is very much like you, it has been interesting." She pauses before
asking. "Has your time at the hall changed your opinion of Healers any?"

Kaylira finger's stroke along the babe's skin as he suckles. Absolutely
entranced with him.

"I, ah...." Kassi stalls. Fidgets a bit. "I don't entirely know. Nay
anyone's ambushed me and tried t'drag me off t'poke at me or pour foul
medicines down m'throat, but Craftmaster Ayanne seems t'have a wee sadistic
streak, though 'tis more subtle than, say, Ushu's. So the Council's still
out on that, so t'be speaking."

"Then we will continue to see you about the hall?" Soz asks rather
hopefully. "It has been very good for the apprentices to have a chance to
get to know the riders on a different level."

Kaylira sighs happily, looking over from her adoring reverie of son.
"Thanks. Everyone. He's wonderful.. and guess I'll be pushign capable back
yet again."

Kassima is a brief moment before answering, but eventually bobs her head.
"At least somewhat. I still have a mint there t'visit, that Ayanne put into
the greenhouse for me; I couldn't just leave it t'languish, could I?" Lucky
mint. Or unlucky mint, as the case may be. "Probably so, kit; he'll keep
you busy for a time--nay that he won't be worth it... oh. A'fore I'm
forgetting. I brought some things for him, that 'twas meaning t'get here
with a'fore he was born. D'you want t'see 'em? Would it wait better for
another time?"

Sauscony offers Kassima a quick smile. "You are always welcome at the
hall," She informs her before she slants a look towards Kay, she seems well
pleased with how the new-mother handles her baby.

Kaylira has, in the interim, switched sides.. and a glance reveals that
Ista's latest member has fallen asleep. "I'd love to. Oh, he's.. I didn't
know it would be like this."

"I don't think anyone could have told you. Sauscony knows more new mothers
than me, so may know better, but I don't think anyone's ever come up with a
way t'describe the feeling that can make you *understand* a'fore you feel
it for yourself." Kassi flashes the Healer a smile, her daughter a slightly
warmer one, and excuses herself, heading out to the Bowl for a few moments.
When she returns, it's lugging something oddly-shaped and obviously quite
heavy.

Kaylira watches this activity with bemusement.

"But, I have never been a new mother." Soz points out, watching the
greenrider in amusement.

"Whyever nay?" Kassi demands in breathless good humor, finally setting the
large object down beside Kay's bed. It appears to be a rather large cradle,
its interior obscured by leather belts and cloth bound around its middle to
keep the contents in place; she unbuckles the belts and whisks the cover
off so that the various items can be better seen.

Kaylira gives the craddle a teary look. "Oh, mum.


------------------------------------------------------------------------------
To:        Kaylira
Cc:        Sauscony
Subject:   Gift Descs. :)
==============================================================================

Dragon's Dawning Wooden Baby Cradle
	Crafted in sturdy white oak, this elegant baby cradle is large enough to
carry an infant through to crib age. At the center of this craftpiece is
the bed section, enclosed along its length with curvy posts to give the
piece a light and airy feel. Each post has two curves, reminiscent of thin
hourglasses, which meet in the center at a decorative ovoid. The posts
attach at top and bottom to sturdy, flattened beams. The silhouettes of
flying dragons have been carved in relief along the top beams of the bed
frame, perpetually chasing after one another. At opposite ends of the bed
section are an arching headboard and footboard. Both the interior and
exterior of the end boards features a dragonet emerging from it's shell,
wings unfurling around it's dawning form to create an oval-shaped reverse
relief carving. The entire reverse relief has been carefully coated with a
burnished brown paint--a notable resemblance of cast bronze.
	The entire bed frame is supported by four legs affixed to arching rockers.
The legs resemble the posts of the bed frame, but come to an end in four,
egg-like ovoids, each painted in the same bronze as the emerging hatchling.
All the edges on the cradle have been rounded over to avoid sharp edges,
and all surfaces have been smoothed to avoid splinters. The oak has been
stained in a warm golden-brown, the semi-glossy tone hinting at a pleasant
summer day.
	In an inconspicuous spot is the coniferous stamp of the Woodcraft, the
crafter's name "Journeyman Jeroch" burned into the wood to encircle the stamp.

---

	Nestled within the cradle is a further assortment of objects: a soft
blanket to serve as its lining, dyed richly russet and embroidered around
its edges with patterns that vaguely suggest dragons in thread of a warm
chocolate brown; a plush stuffed dragon whose hide is a handsome shade of
green somewhere between hunter and forest, and whose bright, embroidered
eyes swirl in gentle blues; a pair of baby outfits to grow into, tiny pants
and shirts, one set in russet and the other a shade of golden brown that's
a fair match for Pheirth's hide; an infant sweater made of lambswool to be
worn on visits to Grandmum Kassi at Telgar, navy blue in color with
soot-colored stitching around the collar and sleeves... and one more outfit
a cut above the rest: this one is feather-soft cotton dyed a deep midnight
blue. And all of it--pants, booties, shirt, cap--is decorated with tiny
six-pointed stars, their bright white thread edged with palest blue to
suggest a celestial glow.

	Wind to thy wings,
	Kassima, green Lysseth's rider and Thunderbolt Wingleader, Telgar Weyr.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Sauscony offers a slight shrug. "I think that is one thing I just haven't
found time for." She admits. "Maybe someday." Her voice trails off as she
spies the cradle. "oooohh. That is lovely."

Kaylira brushes a finger to beneath her eyes. "You have all the colours in
there. .. Oh mum.. its gorgeous. All of it."

Kassima has never entirely lost her smile, but it broadens at this
reaction. Her own eyes perhaps aren't as dry as they could be. "I thought
you could use one; I wanted something a bit special... Jeroch did fine
work, methinks. The rest are just wee tidbits I bought from the Weavers.
D'you think *he'll* like it?" She doesn't mean M'llon or U'yn by the tone.
One of her hands reaches out to stroke Kay's hair gently. "Nay less than
you deserve, m'lass."

"If he has any taste, he will." Soz points out as she goes back to cleaning
up, staying within earshot.

Kaylira looks at the small, perfect bundle nestled to her chest. "How coudl
he not like? Everything there has so much love with it. This babe is so
lucky - already so lucky. So very loved."

"I don't doubt for a moment that your foster-mum will love him, too. And
Mum and Da, and Grandsire and Grandmum, and the whole family. Then there's
M'llon's family, and U'yn's family; shells, Ursa will probably be over the
moon--" Kassima breaks off, shaking her head in marvelling fashion. "He
should have naught t'complain of. But he doesn't deserve less... he's a
wonderful baby already." There's a pause. She adds, almost reluctantly, "I
should admit, I may have another gift for him. From Craftmaster Katlynn.
But, ah, I'm nay sure how appropriate 'tis now, and 'twas half-inclined to
save her for a granddaughter; but would you like t'see and judge?"

Kaylira nods, lips parting in a smirk. "More? I'd love to see!"

Sauscony's eyes begin to cross as she tries to follow the relationships,
shaking her head as if to clear it. "More?" She echos Kay's comment,

Kassima's nod is hesitant. "All right," she finally decides. "I'll go get
it. But I'll take nay offense if'n you'd rather I save it or the like,
hey?" With that, she lopes back out to the Bowl, returning *this* time with
an adorable but very pink item which she holds up rather sheepishly for
both women to see.


---

Quite large, this stuffed dragon toy has a rather unusual colouring. Her
hide is a mis-match of different fabrics, all coloured decidedly pink.
Fragile lacey wings of a sweet blush shade have been stitched to fold along
her back, with stylised embroidery of wine threads at their tips. The
delicate wedge of her head is of a silken sisal, soft and smooth to the
touch. The eyes have been first pieced together from many tiny scraps of
bright reddy-pink fabrics. Plush fuchsia velvet, multi-coloured brocade,
fuzzy, hot pink felt, and a soft, cuddly flannel in the darkest wine have
all been stitched together with thick pink thread, creating a mosiac effect
over the rest of her body.

---


Kaylira chuckles. "Oh, Mum, its wonderful. And sort of appropriate seeing
as we were so certain he was a she. But if you wish to keep it until or
if.. I would understand. But its terribly lovely."

"It struck me as something a lass might appreciate more," Kassima admits,
stroking the dragon's soft mosaic hide. "If'n you think he'd like it,
though, or want it for him... 'tis up t'you, kit."

Kassima then amends, "Her, I should say. She's surely a she." This being
the dragon, not her grandson.

Kaylira holds a hand out for the toy. "It was made for him.. I dont care if
its pink or not. Perhaps he'll like pink.. a colour won't make him any less
a man. Or any more one."

Kassima passes the stuffed dragon over to Kay. "That's true enough. There
are plenty of manly men who wear pink from time t'time, I'm sure, and
anyway he's a wee bit young t'have to worry about his testosterone levels.
Let me know what he names her when he's old enough t'think of one?"

Kaylira says "Twill, mum. Certainly."

Kassima nods to that, pleased. Then, if it's permitted, she extends a very
gentle finger to brush lightly, lightly against Kaylon's cheek. "Don't make
life *too* hard for your mum, lad," she instructs him, more amused than
serious. "She's being very good t'you, giving you pink dragons and
everything. Just you remember this when you're first tempted t'scream and
wail and keep her from getting any sleep at night." Though she asides with
even more amusement to Sauscony, "As if'n there's any chance of avoiding
*that*."

"Knowing most babies, I doubt it will remain that same shade for overly
long." Soz notes in amusement. "This is what happens when you are so sure
about a baby's gender, its just the way ofit."

Kassima agrees, good-humored rue coloring her voice, "He'll spit up on
everything, if'n he doesn't pee on it or worse... and lads are a bit worse
about that than lasses, for a reason you'll discover fast enough, m'dear.
Still, they *are* worth the mess."

"I dare say, that each genders has its own particular challenge." Soz notes
diplomatically.

Kaylira quirks a brow. "Mum, after *that*.. I think I'll reserve judgement
on whether boys are worth it."

She teases, of course, meaning the fathers, and not the son, but Kay can't
help it.

Kassima's laughter has just a *touch* of wickedness to it. "Now mayhaps you
can understand how 'tis I usually end up threatening t'castrate the fathers
of m'children during labor, nay? But they were both fairly good t'you in
this. Methinks 'twere lucky, Kay." The reminder of just how good everyone
was brings her mind back to her abused hand, and she rubs the still-red
skin with an exaggerated grimace.

Kaylira notes, for the first time, the damage she did. "Oh! I'm so sorry!"

"Would you like some numbweed?" Soz offers Kassi, before she brings over
yet another cup of tea. "Drink this is you feel any discomfort." She tells
the new mother.

"'Twouldn't mind some," Kassi allows. "'Tisn't the first time I've held a
laboring woman's hand, but 'tis the first time in *awhile*. I could almost
feel sorry for all the men's hands I've crushed if'n they hadn't so richly
deserved it." Humor softens into affection as she tells Kay, "You've naught
to apologize for! I knew what 'twas getting into when I offered the hand,
m'dear--you needed something to hold. And 'twill feel as normal again soon
enough."

Kaylira drinsk the tea obediantly, even if she isn't feelind discomfort
-she's had at least enough training to know (now that she's thinkign
straight) that she *will* hurt soon enough and will want it.

Sauscony slants a glance towards Kassima, nodding her agreement. "I should
look in on a few more patients before I head back to the hall, but I will
be back in a couple of days to check up on you and the baby. I would like
for you to stay here tonight at least and if you feel up to it, you may
return to your weyr on the morrow."

Kassima straightens a bit, running a hand back over her hair. "At some
point I should likely leave you alone with him," she admits to Kay with
considerable reluctance. "I've nay wish to, but I know you probably want
some time... and time t'sleep, eventually."

Kaylira asks Kassi softly, "Want to hold him.. gramma?"

Kassima gives an exaggerated cringe at the G-word, but that doesn't keep
her from immediately holding out her arms in answer to the offer; nor from
saying, "I'd *love* to."

Sauscony can't help but snicker at that as she slips away. Perhaps there is
a reason she doesn't have any children.

Kaylira holds Kaylon out, letting Kassi do the bulk of the taking - since
yes, predicatably, parts of her are beginning to ache just a bit.

Kassima gathers the baby boy in close, snuggling him against her chest;
there's no hesitation in taking him, nor in holding him. After six
children, if there's one thing she knows it's how to hold a baby. She
shifts her weight from foot to foot, rocking slightly, and her eyes start
to mist over. "Heyla, little darling," she murmurs to him. "I love you;
y'know that? You'll find it out soon enough. Because I'm going t'spoil you
*rotten* when you come t'visit me." She lowers her head to brush a soft
kiss against the baby's forehead before asiding to Kay, "If'n you still
have any of that tea from a'fore, it might help a bit... you'll hurt for
awhile, though."

Kaylira nods, and has a half-cup still. Each drop savoured as exhaustion
sets in - mother nature's way of saying yo'ull be up again in two hours,
dear, sleep now.

Kassima smiles to herself, and doesn't comment to *Kay* on her
exhaustion--she does, however, say to Kaylon, "You should be a good bairn
and let your Mum sleep tonight. If'n you think *you've* had a hard day,
just imagine hers! Pshhh. But you're a lad. You're probably gloating
already, under that sweet innocent face, thinking how 'twill never be
*you*. But just you wait. If'n you ever do that to a woman then you'll get
t'have *your* hand broken, m'fine smug lad!" Whatever she says, her voice
stays quiet and soothing in tone, if a little amused. Wouldn't do to wake
the baby up and make him actually listen to this nonsense.

Kaylira can't help a small, tired grin. Kaylon, for his part bubbles a tiny
spit bubble at his lips and goes on blusfully asleep. Setting himself up
for turns to come of exactly that male attitude to female advice.

Kassima laughs softly at this reaction, turning her head to rest her cheek
on top of his downy hair for a moment. But finally, with great reluctance,
Kassima straightens and passes him back to his mother, explaining softly,
"I don't know if'n 'tis what you want t'do, but I always held the babies
while we both slept, the first night... and I don't think you're long from
joining him in dreams."

Kaylira nods, eyes already drooping. "I thought I'd remembered that. Don't
all mommas?"

"I don't know. Mayhaps some don't. I've never understood how anyone could
be willing t'let their newborn go long enough to sleep." Kassima
straightens up again once Kaylon's in Kaylira's arms, but not before
attempting to smooth her daughter's hair a last time. "I'll leave the two
of you to slumber... if'n you need aught, though, you'll have Pheirth call?
I'll come if'n I can. And I can promise, you'll see plenty of me the next
few days whether you want to or nay."

Kaylira can't help another soft smile. "Thanks mum. Love you."

Kassima matches the smile with a warm one of her own. "Love you, too, kit.
Always. And mayhaps now," with a nod towards the sleeping bundle in her
arms, "you understand a part of why... though I'd love you anyway for
yourself. Dream sweetly, loves." And she's off, though not without a last
look for the spectacle of mother and son before she disappers into the Bowl.

You move into the windy expanse of the bowl.