Birth
A panting Brina lay resting on the small cot, a bundle in her arms and an anxious looking youth kneeling next to her.  "What shall we name her?"  Brina asked softly, gazing lovingly at the small bundle.  

"Well, seeing as we can't name her Falesen Jr. what about Fina?" the youth responded gently.

"Fina, I like Fina."  She nodded and fingered the dark wisps of hair on the small head.

Brina and Falesen were living in Brina's father's hold when Fina was born, her mother had overseen the birthing and had been at Brina's side shooing away the visiting relatives who insisted on 'oohing' and 'ahhing' over the baby.  Fina was only a few days old when G'ven and Tioth came on search.  The dragon found them suitable and Brina and Falesen were swept off to Southern Weyr.  They were the last candidates to arrive and within several months the eggs hatched.  To their surprise Brina and F'sen impressed Gold Fananth and Bronze Halyiath.  Leaving the two new parents with not only their own baby but two others.

Age 2 Turns

What is this?  Mommie?  What are these?  Oooh yumm. Fina cried out mentally.

The little one has gotten into something again Brina.  My oiling can wait go tend to her.  And please could you soon teach her to talk, her mental jabber is quite distracting.

Rising Brina rushed to Fina's cot only to find the baby sucking her toes.  

Fananth is this what you thought was so urgent, Fina sucking her toes?

It sounded more urgent.  Bring her here, I will keep an eye on her.

Picking up the toddler Brina sighed and returned to finish oiling Fananth.

Ooooh pwittey dwaggie!  Fana!  Fana!  Pweeze mommie me see dwaggie?  

Your mother is busy Fina, please think more quietly..

Fana?  Dat you Fana?  Pwittey dwaggie talk to me mommie!

Hush child.

Age 3 3/4 Turns

"Why do we have to leave mommie?  It's not fair, I like it here, I want to stay!"

"Fina dear, your father and I have been assigned to Turquoise Weyr, we are going to be Weyrleaders.  It is a great honor."

Your mother is right Fina.  This is a very important move for all of us.

Oh so now your siding with her.   Fine be that way I don't like you anymore Fana.  Halie? You don't agree with them do you?

Fina dear, your mother knows best.  I'm sorry but we must go.

Screeching in rage Fina turned and stormed off.  "I hate all of you.  I never want to see you again."

"Fina!"

Fana she doesn't really mean it does she?

Of course not!

Age 4 1/2 Turns

"Mummie, Daddie, I want a baby sister!" Fina tried her hardest to look serious and put her hands on her hips to try and look more important.  One of her dark curly locks fell into her eyes and she quickly brushed it back.  Narrowing her small brown eyes she glared at her parents with mock hatred.  "So, when do I get my sister!"

"It's not really that easy Fina, having a dragon makes it harder to..." F'sen faltered seeing his daughters face fall, her expression changing to one of disappointment.  Her lip trembled and he could she was trying to hold back tears.

Fina dear would you like a pet?

"P-p-p-et?" Fina sniffled and looked up at the big bronze.

Yes, a firelizard or some such creature.

"What a wonderful idea Halie!  Last time I was at White River Weyr Weyrwoman Kataela showed me their Firelizard eggs.  I was planning on going to White River this next fortnight anyways, why don't I ask her if she has an egg for you.  White River is known for it's unusual colorations."  By the time F'sen finished Fina was glowing, grinning so wide F'sen thought her rosey cheeks would burst. 

"Oh Daddie!  Would you?  Oh please, pretty please!"

"Of course dear."  F'sen chuckled.

After a restless night Fina woke bright and early to see her father off.

"Remember to ask Kataela if she has an egg for me, and remember to be polite and remember...."  She stopped.  F'sen was looking down at her smiling.

"I'll remember Fina, don't worry."

"Oh thankyou Daddie!  Now go, you don't want to be late, she might think it was rude and not give you the egg!"  With mock seriousness she pushed F'sen towards Halyiath.  "Hurry back!"

Halie?  Could you remind Daddie that he needs to pick up the egg.  He might forget.

I will be sure to remind him little one.  But he will not forget.

All day long Fina sat on the ledge of their double weyr, waiting for F'sen to come home.  Late that afternoon Halyiath appeared over the crest of the Weyrbowl.  Jumping to her feet Fina waited impatiently.  The few minutes that passed as Halyiath carefully made his way down seemed like an eternity.  But finally Halyiath's powerful hind legs touched down on the ledge of the weyr.  As soon as he had touched down Fina sprung up his side to sit next to her father.  

"Didja get it?  Didja get it?"

"Yes dear I got it, but we must get down quickly.  I had to fly strait from White River, the egg is very close to hatching!"

"Mommie!  Where can we get meat?  I need meet or it won't want me!" Fina cried desperately.

"Halyiath told Fananth he was coming, I called down to Ursa for some fresh wherry."  Brina told her daughter in a steady and even voice.

"It's rocking!  It's rocking!  What do I do?"  A note of panic tinged Fina's voice.

When the egg cracks open, focus on the creature and project love and affection, tell it you will take care of it.  Then stuff it with meat.  

To her rider only Fananth continued, Dragon Impressions are much more civilized, but I suppose a firelizard will have to do until we can get her a dragon.

  "Project love and affection, project love and affection." Fina chanted her newfound mantra.  All the while trying her hardest to think loving and affectionate thoughts.

All her attention focused on the egg Fina didn't notice her parents retreat to the back of the room, wanting to be there when she bonded to the little flit, but not wanting to distract it's attention away from the young girl.

A crack appeared, then another opposite it.  the two grew and connected.  The mottled egg heaved and with a smack broke in two, revealing a small multicolored creature.  Caught in the creatures beauty Fina forgot all about impressing the creature and just stared.

Don't just stare at it girl, feed it! 

Snapping out of her daze Fina picked up a juicy piece of meat and offered it to the small flit.  Racing for the meat the little flit gobbled it up so fast Fina was scared the creature would choke on it.  The next piece was smaller, she didn't want to risk choking it.  Gobbling it up just as fast the flit looked up at her, asking for another, and another, and another.  After most of the meat was gone the flit curled its self up in the crook of Fina's arm and promptly went to sleep. 

Fina, had woken early to see her father off, and though it was still only late afternoon she followed her fireliard's lead and dozed off.

It's not everyday you see a firelizard like that.  This one is quite unique.

"Very special, just like our Fina."  Brina spoke proudly.

Age 5 Turns

One of Sokie's favorite places to doze was curled in a ball in-between Fana's neck ridges.  Fina had asked the gold repeatedly if this was ok, and each time the gold replied that while some dragon's would never let a firelizard sleep on or near them, she rather liked the little creature, and she wouldn't mind if it slept on her.

It was one such day, Brina was about the Weyr, welcoming newcomers, and seeing to Weyr business with F'sen. Fananth, Fina and Sokie were sleeping.  Fananth in her couch, Sokie on her neck ridge, and Fina in her cot.

A bloodcurdling scream woke Fina, accompanied with a mental scream it left Fina holding her head.

What is this creature doing soiling my hide?  Can't you see how it glows runt?

Then with an intensity Fina had never felt or heard from Sokie. *Sokie sleeping on Fana~Awake~Alarm~Fear~Aid*

Rushing from her cot to Fana's couch Fina was just in time to see the gold lash out at her beloved flit, and Sokie disappear between.

Fananth then ran, as well as a dragon can run, out of the weyr and towards the feeding grounds.

Confused and hurt that her beloved Fana had scared Sokie into hiding, Fina ignored the gold's actions and began searching for Sokie.

She found the scared flit curled in a ball in her cot.  Shaking and projecting her feelings.  *Scared~Confused~Betrayed~Sad*

Picking Sokie up she stroked her little head, projecting *Love~Together~Happy* at her.  Eye's swirling contentedly Sokie fell into a deep peaceful slumber.

"Mommie, Fana scared Sokie half to death this afternoon.  She said...'What is this creature doing soiling my hide?  Can't you see how it glows runt?'  What do you think was the matter with her?

Sitting next to F'sen, Brina looked at him and smiled.  And laughed inwardly, she dared not laugh aloud, she knew how seriously Fina took Sokie.

"Fina dear, Fana was proddy.  It's something all female dragon's do before they fly."

"But I've seen you and Fana go flying plenty of times, and she never acts like that!"  Fina spoke, almost accusing her mother of lying.

This time Brina could not conceal her amusement. But, she reminded herself, Fina was only five, how could she know of such things. "She flew to mate, it is much different then when we fly together.  Much different,"  She smiled lovingly at F'sen then continued.  "She acts in ways she normally wouldn't.  I'm sure she didn't mean the things she said.  Why, if possible she likes Sokie almost as much as you do!"

I did not mean the things I said.  Fina could feel Fana sending her feelings to Sokie, *Remorse~Sorrow~Aplolgy* Please tell her she may sleep on me without fear tonight and every night.

"I should have known something like this could happen.  Next time I sense Fana is going to rise I will be sure to warn you to keep Sokie away."  Brina stated emphatically.

"And now young lady,"  F'sen jovially assumed a frightening pose.  "It is time for you to go to bed, unless you want the tunnel snakes after you?"  Raising his eyebrows threateningly.  Fina got up and ran to her cot in mock terror, F'sen chased after her, making slithering sounds.  Reaching her cot, he tickled her viciously, watching her squirm and try to worm her way out.  He stopped abruptly, and ruffled her curly hair.  "Good night Fina, sleep well."  

Sleep well little one.

We will see you in the morning.

Kissing her forehead F'sen joined Brina on the couch where they talked late into the night about Weyr business and other, more pleasant, things.

"Sokie?  Where are you?"  Fina laughed, one of Sokie's favorite games was hiding.

"Where are you?" Mental images flashed through her head.  *Sokie curled in corner by table*  Hurrying over to the table Fina looked for the wayward flit.  No sign.  *Sokie above Fina head*  Fina looked up, no Sokie.  "Where are you?"  *Sokie sitting on Fana~Alarm~Fear~Aid* 

"Sokie!" Fina cried in alarm.

Fana Stop!  

Stop what, little one?

But... Wasn't Sokie? Trailing off Fina heard Fana chuckle mentally.

She is rather bright for a flit isn't she?

"Where are you, you little rascal?"

*Sokie on Fina's shoulder*

Feeling the little creatures claws press into the extra fabric she had sown into the left shoulder of all her jerkins Fina smiled, Sokie was back, and uninjured as well.

*Fina~Disapointed in Sokie~Scared for Sokie~No more tricking Fina*

Turning her head to look at the little flit, Fina saw recognition of her thoughts in the flits eyes, and for a second thought she saw the flit nod.  Shaking her head Fina discounted the thought, Sokie was intelligent, but not that intelligent.  Thoughts of *Sokie~Food~Sleep~Content* filled her mind and Fina headed to the lower caverns.

After feeding, Sokie decided she would head back to the Weyrleader's weyr and sleep in Fina's cot for a while.  Fina was supposed to meet her father for lunch that afternoon, and to meet some of the Candidates for Fana's eggs.  She loved meeting the candidates.  Most of the new arrivals were deposited in the weyrbowl, so Fina headed there.

From where she was Fina could see no one in the Weyrbowl that she hadn't already met.  Then she spotted a form swimming in the Weyrlake.  No one she knew swam.  With fleet footsteps she arrived at the lake just in time to see a young man secure his trousers around his waste.  Looking up she saw something dark, almost wine red in color, starting at  the tip of his left collar bone continuing down to just the center of where his ribs start.  An involuntary gasp escaped her lips and she clamped her hand over her mouth but not in time.  She could see his eyes follow hers to the blotch, then momentarily flood with anger.  Closing his eyes, the young man, seemed to calm himself.  

"I was born with it."

Looking up at him Fina smiled shyly.

"My name is Fina."

A grin spread over the young man's face.

"You can call me Niko sweetheart."

Blushing, Fina watched as Niko pulled on his shirt.

"What are you doing out here?"  He asked gently.

"I was waiting for my daddie."  Fina responded, only half telling the truth.

 "Who is that?" Niko questioned again.

"My Daddie is the Weyrleader."  Fina made no effort to hide her pride at her fathers high rank.  She was after all, very proud.

Niko grinned and seemed to be thinking about something, but Fina did not ask what.  After a moment he responded.  "I'll wait with you then."

"Ok,"  Fina smiled endearingly at him.

Halie?  Is Daddy coming anytime soon?

He is on his way little one.

Good, tell him to hurry.

Why?  Are you that hungry?  He feeds you well, tree times a day is more then enough.

Yes it is Halie, but tell him to hurry anyways.

Not privy to this private conversation Niko shifted his weight, the silence making him uncomfortable.

"Do you have any brothers or sisters?"

Fina shook her head, "No," then letting a sigh escape her lips she continued, "But I want one."

Niko nodded in agreement, not sure what he as agreeing to Fina looked at him as he replied.  "I have four brothers, and one sister. My sister is two years old. I have two younger brothers named Jaines and Tomeas. My older brother Kief, is a candidate at a place called White River Weyr."

White River?  White River was where Sokie was from.  Concealing her excitement she nodded with a seriousness that surprised her. "My Daddie goes there sometimes."

"Oh?"  Niko looked as if he was going to ask her another question but a voice interrupted him.

"Fina!"

Still looking at Niko, Fina saw him jump, startled.  But Fina recognized the voice as her fathers.  She jumped up and raced to him, giving him a big hug.  Then she turned around, and in her best grown up voice said.  "Daddy! This is Niko."

Her father looked at her curiously but instead of asking the question on the tip of his tongue responded.  "I know. He's a candidate."

"For mommy's dragon?" Fina asked, already knowing the answer.

"Yes dearie." F'sen replied.  Halie... Tell Fina she shouldn't play so innocent.  The boy doesn't realize how smart she is, and she is playing down her knowledge.

"He kept me com... comp... compaanoooo!" Fina stumbled over the word as Halie delivered his message from F'sen.

"Company." F'sen said gently.

"Yes!" Fina replied.  Hallie, tell Daddie to tell me himself next time, and not to make me look silly by having you interrupt me and mess up my words.

Halyiath relayed the message, but F'sen was already laughing. And Niko laughed right along with him. He didn't realize they were laughing about different things.  They looked at each other and grinned.

Age 6 Turns

Fina was on the sands visiting Fana when the humming began.

Fina, go sit over there, that will give you a good view of the candidates and my precious children.  Fana ordered her off the sands.  Brina had hurried with F'sen to sit next to Fina, but it was only noted on the smallest level.  Fina watched, mesmerized.  Noting each detail of the hatching with a keen interest.  She noted who impressed what, and cheered loudly after each impression, she was glad to see Niko impress a blue, and cheered the loudest for him.  

he saw each candidate leave the sands with their dragon pair.  The after hatching festivities had started before Fina realized it.  She went among the tables, snacking on the delicious food, and talking to the guests.  She didn't get to bed until late that night, and she was so tired that she fell asleep on Fana's couch, curled up, thinking she was the mighty gold.

Fana? Do you know where Niko is?..........Fana?

Getting no reply from the gold Fina would have asked Sokie, but she found the little flit curled in a ball, lying in her cot.  Deciding not to disturb her still sleeping parents Fina went out searching for Niko herself.  She found him in the Barracks, playing some game with his blue.

In a sweet voice Fina asked, "Who is that?"  To her surprise the blue answered.

I am called Yir, sweet heart.

Fina giggled and blushed.  And Niko grinned at her.

"Hello Yir.  Are you Niko's dragon?"

His name is N'ko now.

"Oh, ok."  Fina turned her bright eyes to N'ko.  "Hello N'ko."

N'ko laughed.  He leaned down and picked Fina up.  "Do you want to go for a swim later sweet heart? Yir would like to go with you."  Grinning at her, he set her gently back on her feet.  Fina beamed up at him, but replied.

"I have to ask Daddie and Mommie."

"Sure thing sweet heart."  N'ko teased.

Turning Fina skipped happily out of the Barracks.

Age 10 Turns

"Fina, I think you and Sokie should stay away from Fana for the next little while, she is feeling proddy again, and you don't want to have a repeat of the last incident.  Do you?"

"No Mommie, I don't, it's just that Fana is so much fun I don't know if I can stand not being able to talk to her."

"I'm sorry Fina but I think this is the best option.  Make sure that Sokie understands."

"I will.  But it won't be any fun, that's for sure"

I'm glad your back to normal Fana, I missed you terribly!

I missed you too little one, I am sorry it was necessary.  But I would not want to hurt you or the other.

Sokie gave a friendly chirp and nuzzled Fana's neck ridge.  *Fana and Sokie~Friends*

Yes tiny one, we are friends.

Fina threw her arms around the gold's neck giving her a big hug, then as an afterthought she reached out and scratched the gold's eye ridge.  Fina smiled, hearing the gold's happy rumble, her eyes whirling a contented blue.

Wincing at the heat through her boots Fina walked gracefully, if somewhat cautiously, across the sands.  She had burned her feet walking across the sands before.  

Fana dear, how are your eggs?  Hardening as they should?

The eggs are well, all 14 of them.  The gold replied contently.

Halie must be very proud, why just you two together could populate the Weyr!

I am proud, as is Fananth. Halyiath responded from their weyr.

We could.  But I don't think my daughter would appreciate it, she needs her turn too.

From the Weyrbowl a challenging scream echoed to Fina's ears.

What was that?

A green rising.

On instinct Fina called Sokie to her, the flit appeared above her head confused as to what was going on.

The green would not hurt the tiny one, besides she is already high in the air.

I am curious as to who it is, Fana can I leave you with Sokie for a moment?

Just as long as it doesn't go near my eggs.

*Sokie~Fana eggs~Bad* Fina told her flit and then left the sands to find out who was chasing.

Fina new the Weyr by heart, and even thought she had never seen the flight board she knew where it was.  There were two copies kept, one in the Records Room and the other in the main eating area.  The eating area was closer so she headed there.  

She encountered few people on the way there, the Weyr was still quite small, but the few people she passed recognizer her and waved, she knew most of them and waved back.  Reaching the eating area she realized she could have sent Sokie to fetch it.  But she was here now so she simply headed to the list.  The first dragon on the list was Jharnith, a green from Dawn Sisters.  She had heard her parents talk about Dawn Sisters, It was one of the older Weyrs.  Weyrwoman Alora had visited before and Fina had taken a liking to the kind woman.  Her thoughts turned back to the chart, chasing were, M'lo and Blue Tionalth, Ka'shan and Blue Beridonth, T'esh and brown Kwavyeth, Y'tro and brown Vreth and N'ko and Blue Yirbith.

N'ko is chasing?  Her mind denied the fact, even as her feet pounded down the cold stone tunnels, heading for the green riders weyr.  She knew Jharnith's rider would be in her weyr and N'ko with her.  If Yir was chasing he was sure to win.  She had to stop N'ko.  Her small feet slamming against the stone steps with a vengeance as she climbed up the few steps to Ninara's weyr.  Just as she came to the platform that marked the level she wanted Fina looked up.  Coming slowly from the left were four dejected looking riders, their eyes glazed over talking to their dragons, consoling them.  Fina scanned them quickly, hoping with all her might to find N'ko's face among the rejected riders.  But she did not.  Pushing past the surprised riders she neared the weyr.  Suddenly she felt compelled to look to the sky, and on the cloudless day it was not hard to see the green and blue floating down slowly, slowing their fall with their wings, tails and necks entwined.  Knowing the blue had to be Yir she felt salty tears run down her cheeks.  Turning she ran.  She descended with more speed and ferocity then she had ascended, her anger fueling her forced run.  Reaching her shared weyr she sunk to the floor, back scraping the uneven stone surface.  But the pain was nothing compared to the pain she suffered when she thought about what was occurring to the two linked to the dragons in the sky.  Head resting on her knees she wept vehemently.   

Sokie popped into the air above her, and settling on her shoulder flooded her with warm, loving thoughts.  Her sobbing subsided, and Fina wiped her face on her tunic.  Looking at her flit she asked.  "You'll never leave me will you Sokie?  You won't betray me like he did."  Sokie chirruped encouragingly and continued projecting *Love~Affection~Together~Happy*  Stroking the little flits eye ridges she marveled at how such a small creature could be so emphatic about something.  Rising Fina made her way to her cot and with Sokie curled up on her shoulder fell into a troubled sleep.

Waking the next morning with a cramp in her neck Fina searched for Sokie, but couldn't find her.  *Sokie to Fina* She thought to the flit.  Her only response was a mental picture of Sokie sleeping on Fina, a feeling of discomfort and a mental picture of Sokie sleeping on Fana.  Laughing Fina knew the flit must have waited until she had fallen asleep and then moved to sleep on Fana.  Knowing how to get the flits attention Fina thought *Fina hungry~Fresh wherry~Sokie hungry*  The flit popped in above her head, and settled on her shoulder.  Grinning Fina made her way to the kitchens.  Many of the residents of the Weyr kept firelizards as pets and Headwoman Ursa, being the kind woman that she was, had made efforts to accommodate the flits, who were also fondly referred to as flying stomachs.  The most useful of Ursa's attempts to accommodate the flit owners was a bowl which she kept filled with meat scraps.  Heading for it's usual location Fina was surprised to find the bowl absent from its usual location.  Making her way to the kitchen she encountered Vertan, Ursa's eldest son.  He was scampering away to do another errand no doubt, but Fina called and the young boy came scampering just as eagerly back.

"Vertan, the meat bowl isn't where it normally is, do you know where I could find some scraps for my hungry companion?"

"I-I-I was just going to fill it Miss Fina." The boy stammered, aware, as everyone seemed to be, of her rank. 

"I'll give you a hand Vertan, we both know how heavy that bowl can be when it's full."  Fina winked at the youth.  She was only a few turns his senior but for some reason she felt much older.  Walking with him she kept a smile on her face, and by the time they reached the kitchens he was smiling back.

"Miss, if you don't mind I will fill the bowl, you wouldn't want to get your pretty hands dirty would you."  He looked up at her questioningly.

"Of course I'll help you Vertan!"  Fina picked up a handful of scraps and lifted them to the bowl Vertan had carried, she let them drop with a satisfying plop.

Vertan watched in horror as one of the more important people in the Weyr did one of his most messy chores.  His jaw dropped as on the second trip she plunged her arms in up to the elbows and grabbed an armful of the bloody scraps.

Grinning at the youth Fina asked him innocently, "Aren't you going to help Vertan?  I can't do it all by me self can I?"  She smiled teasingly.

"N-n-n-no of course not Miss Fina."  Plunging his arms into the mess he grabbed and armful and dropped it into the waiting bowl.

"Please Vertan, just Fina is fine."  She smiled at him, genuinely friendly towards the youth.  Grabbing another armful she grinned at the squishing sound the scraps made as they plopped into the bowl.  

"Y-y-yes M-," Shaking his head he started again. "Ok Fina." Sighing, he was relieved that he hadn't exploded and added himself to the pile of scraps by calling her Fina.

The bowl filled quickly with both of them working at it, and soon the two blood soaked teens were busy straining to lift the filled bowl from the table.  Making all sorts of obscene noises as they carried the heavy bowl to its customary spot the two set the bowl down, and to both their surprise they exchanged a short embrace.  Blushing fiercely Vertan excused himself to return to his duties.  And Fina was thankful that the blood coating her own face hid the flush that had risen in her cheeks.

Having forgotten her flit Fina remembered when she saw Sokie appear from between and settle contently on the overflowing bowl of meat, eating to her content.

"Are you nearly done Sokie?  I really should go get cleaned up."

*Sokie hurrying~Choking~Black~Between*

"Alright, I'll wait for you.  But I'm starting to smell."  Looking around Fina was startled to see that no one was staring at her. Shrugging she watched as Sokie snarfled another piece of meat and with whirling blue eyes and a bulging belly struggled to reach Fina's shoulder.  Holding out her hand, Fina felt the flits claws tap lightly on her skin, moving her hand next to her shoulder she helped the flit on. Returning to her parents weyr Fina was careful to walk the way she had practiced, one foot in front of the other, moving at a gait that would not disturb Sokie.  Reaching the weyr she grabbed a change of clothes and a bag of soap-sand.  Lifting the now sleeping flit of her shoulder Fina placed Sokie in her cot and headed to the Weyrlake.

Skipping down the stairs Fina wondered about the bathing chambers she had heard some of the older Weyr's had.  An individual bath for the Weyrleaders would be nice, she had even heard that some of them were heated.  The Weyrlake was certainly refreshing, but a warm bath would be heavenly.

Reaching the lake she striped down, and dropped her dirty clothes in a pile next to her clean ones on the shallower side of the lake.  Moving to the deep side of the lake she was thankful that there was no one she had to share the large lake with.  Then without a second thought dove into the chilly water.  Surfacing she swam to the shallow end and reaching up grabbed the bag of soap-sand.  Taking a large handful she scrubbed herself thoroughly.  Grabbing another handful she scrubbed her face, and soiled hands.  Ducking under the water she rinsed her face.  Surfacing again she then reached for her soiled clothes.  Soaking them thoroughly she then scrubbed at the still wet bloodstains.  She succeeded at getting most of the stains out of her jerkin before she ran out of sand.  Hoisting the clothes back onto the ledge she held the open sack in one hand, and taking a deep breath dove under.  Opening her eyes Fina dove to the bottom, taking the open sack she grabbed a handful of the bottom sand and stuffed it into the sack.  Another handful, and another, feeling the pressure building she turned and headed for the surface.  Grabbing her pants from the ledge she scrubbed them with the sand she had gathered.  Tossing the now clean clothes back onto the ledge Fina lifted herself up.  She was so shocked by what she saw that she lost all strength in her arms.  Dropping back into the pool, Fina peeked her head over the ledge.  Yirbith dominated her view, two young figures appeared to be hiding behind him.   A taller more mature figure approached from behind them, and Fina instantly recognized it as N'ko.  She recognized his tall lean figure, his air of sophistication, and the high collar on his shirt, designed to hide his birthmark.

She watched as he said something to the two.  She was too far to hear him, and she wished desperately to hear what he was saying.  

The shorter of the two youth said something in reply.  And even from this distance Fina could tell that it had made N'ko laugh.

Another figure approached the group, this one distinctly female.  N'ko apparently hear her approach and turned to wave.  Ducking behind the ledge Fina hid for a moment, then raised herself so just her eyes peaked over the ledge, her dark curls clinging to her face.  Turning her attention back to the four figures Fina's heart sank as N'ko wrapped his arm affectionately around the woman's waist.  The woman could be no other then Ninara, Jharnith's rider and N'ko's new interest.  N'ko spoke a few words, gesturing to Yir and then to Jharnith's rider.   If Fina's heart had previously sunk to her stomach it now dropped violently to her feet, she watched helplessly as Jharnith's rider turned and gazed at N'ko with such love that it almost made Fina sick.  Fina's normally dark face was now pale, and it turned green as she saw the same look being returned by N'ko.  

Tearing her eyes away from the star-struck pair, Fina saw the other two figures squirm uncomfortably.  One of them appeared to say something but neither N'ko nor the green rider even appeared to notice the two leave.  Fina watched as the two moved closer.  She closed her eyes willing herself to believe this was a dream, a horrible dream.  Her eyelids pressed firmly together Fina shut out the world, hoping to stop the familiar pain rising in her chest.  Opening her eyes Fina still saw N'ko and Jharnith's rider in a close embrace.  The pain in her chest increased, moving into her temples, it began pulsing faster and faster, making it hard to concentrate.  Fina no longer cared what happened, it was better then watching N'ko with her. 

Fina roughly pulled her naked form from the water and glancing once more at the couple, she ran.  The pulsing in her head, amplified by her anger, pulsed, pounding her temples in time with her feet. Beating the ground in an ever increasing tempo her feet strained to keep up with the pounding in her head.  Finally the pounding lessened, her bare feet screamed for an end to their torment, and she slowed.  She was in the tropical forest that surrounded Turquoise Weyr.  

Collapsing against a tree Fina wished life wasn't so complicated.  "I wish we were all born knowing what we had to do, and what would happen along the way.  None of this not knowing what will happen next.  I want to know exactly what is going to happen and when."

"Me to."  Fina jumped to her feet prepared to run.  But she looked up into the kindly face looking down at her and she hadn't the heart.  She just stood their staring up at N'ko's face, wondering what it would be like to have him look at her like he had looked at Jharnith's rider.  She shivered at the thought.

"You must be cold." N'ko removed his riding jacket and put it around Fina's shoulders.  Suddenly aware of how naked she was Fina pulled the jacket close around herself.  She couldn't help but smile as the scent from the jacket wafted up into her nose.  She inhaled deeply.

Sitting down next to her N'ko looked at the girl he had so long considered a friend.  He had aspired to be the brother she had always wanted, and this is where it had gotten him.  Looking at the shivering girl he saw the hurt look in her eyes.  He had aspired to be a friend, but, he realized, she no longer saw him as the friendly big brother figure.  There was something more hidden behind her big dark eyes.

Shuddering himself N'ko wondered just what he was going to do.

"Fina." His voice tentative he reminded Fina so little of the self assured N'ko she new, he seemed almost scared of her.

"What do you want." She snapped at him.  But seeing the hurt  and confused look on his face she stopped short.

"Will you listen to what I have to say?" N'ko asked cautiously.  When she remained silent he continued anyways.  "Ninara and I, we shared something special when Yir and Jharnith mated."

Fina's lip quivered, she didn't want to listen, she didn't want to see him.  Not after he had betrayed her.  Wounded her so with his actions.

Unaware of his comments effect on Fina, N'ko continued. "I think I love her Fina."

Time seemed to stop.  Fina looked at him in horror.  He was looking at her expectantly, expecting her to say something.  Instead she lifted herself silently from the forest floor, and turning on her heal left N'ko to ponder just what had gotten into her.

The following section of Fina's History is based on a RP between myself and Weyrwoman Naeodin.

Fina was on her way back to the lake to collect her clothes when she ran into someone, looking up she saw the familiar lock of short brown hair and the mysterious green eyes.

"Excuse me N'ko" She muttered, pushing past him roughly.

To her surprise he grabbed a hold of her shoulders.  Preventing her from passing him.  An authoritative finger lifted her chin up, forcing her eye to eye with him.  He smiled, and in a rough accent he spoke "I ain't no N'ko your talking about.  Especially if he got you hurt."  He paused, and Fina waited as he looked her over skeptically. "My names Gorden."

She glared at him fiercely. “N’ko what kind of joke are you playing?"  A surprised look on the others face distracted her for a moment. "N'ko I know it's you!"  She pointed an accusing finger at him.

“I’m not N’ko.” He responded calmly. 

“Who could you be but N’ko?”  Fina demanded. Her anger rising.

He stared at her. “Do I really look like N'ko?”

Fina glared at him.  She could see that he was annoyed.  But why did he keep insisting that he wasn't N'ko?

“Is N'ko 13, and is he my height?” Looking around he seemed to be searching for someone who looked like him.  Finding no one he looked triumphantly back at her.

Confused thoughts ran through Fina’s head, N’ko was taller, and much older.

“What’s your name?” he asked abruptly. 

“Why do you want to know my name?” Fina asked suspiciously. 

He grinned. "Its good to know the name of a girl whose accusing you of being someone else."

Fina looked even more puzzled but nodded. "Yes, I suppose."  She paused, considering her next words.  "If you aren’t N'ko who are you?"

Gorden laughed. "I'll tell you mine, if you tell me yours."

"Fina." She replied warily. 

Gorden smiled at Fina. "You've got a really pretty name. Mines Gorden, that doesn't sound anything like N'ko, does it? He teased.

Fina blushed, and avoided his green eyes, instead she let her eyes stray to his collar, seeing the familiar blotch half hidden behind a tall collar she was shocked. How similar were they?

His eyes followed her own.  Stopping at his collar.  He shrugged. "Its a birth mark. I was born with it." He smiled wryly. "I think of it as a curse mark.”  Then asked gently. "Who’s this N'ko, and what did he do to you, sweet heart?"

Anger flashed in her eyes, at the familiar nickname.  "Its none of your business.”  She stated coldly, but looking up into his eyes, she wished he would ask again. 

Gorden looked down at her thoughtfully. "Come on, you can confide in me." He said gently. "Its not like I know him."

How could he not know him, they were so similar... the birthmark.  Sweetheart?  Confused Fina sighed, "He betrayed me."

She saw Gorden wince. "That’s a mean word, isn't it? Betrayed? How do you know he didn't do it by accident? That it wasn't on purpose?"

"The first thing I could have forgiven, if he had given me some time...” Eyes downcast Fina continued " But he rubbed it in my face, like he didn't even care it might hurt me."

Looking up Fina saw Gorden glaring at her and was shocked, but when she looked into his eyes she could see the humor dancing behind them.  "And you called me N'ko." He sighed, and sat down in the middle of the Weyrbowl.  Pulling her down to sit with him. "You know what you should do? If he knows your hurt, you should just yell at him, and get all that feeling out."  He grinned sheepishly. "It really works."

Fina thought for a moment. "I'm sorry I called you N'ko, but I thought you were him.  But the more I talk to you the less you seem like him.  N'ko never would have stuck around this long, he is horrible with emotions." Bitterly Fina thought about what she had seen in Ninara's chambers the day Jharnith had flown.  N'ko was only horrible with his emotions when he was in control.  She shuddered. "I could never yell at him."

“Does he know how you feel?" 

"I’m not sure... I stormed out on him." Smiling sheepishly "I guess I'm not that good with my emotions either." 

Gorden grinned. "Anyone who is good with their emotions all the time, isn't human."

"I suppose," Fina sighed, "Here I am accusing N'ko of not listening to me and I stormed out on him.  I feel so childish."

Gorden grinned, and looked down at her. He blushed, and mumbled. "Umm.. I think you should go change." He grinned sheepishly.

For the first time since leaving the lake Fina felt, if possible, even more naked then she was...

Gorden shrugged. "Where do you live?" he asked.

"Here in the Weyr."  She hugged N'ko's jacket tighter around herself not volunteering any more information

Fina heard him sigh impatiently but kept her eyes on her feet.  "I'm not going to stalk you or anything." He said, and picked her up.  Startled Fina gasped.  But before she could say anything Gorden interrupted "I'm not going to look. Now where? It saves you the trouble of running around half-naked with a jacket on." He grinned and looked down at her, carefully averting his eyes.

Fina resigned her self to the inevitability of being carried around the Weyr by a N'ko look alike and pointed the way to her parents weyr.  She hoped they weren’t home.

Gorden carried her in, and looked around. "You live here? With your parents right?"

She could tell my his tone that he was worried about the same thing she was, so she answered, a reassuring tone in her voice.  "Yes... but Mommie should be on the sands with Fananth and Daddie is at Istabitha's Weyr visiting Weyrwoman Naeodin."

He whistled out loud, then, remembering the bundle in his arms he grinned sheepishly and put her down on the bed. 

"Turn around while I find something to wear."  Waiting until he complied Fina hurried to the chest at the end of her bed.  Grabbing the first available jerkin she pulled it over her head and then slipped into her trousers.  Smoothing out the wrinkles she realized that the cut on the shirt was rather low.  Revealing quite a bit of what she had very little of.  She tried to pull she shirt back over her head and exchange it for another but Gorden had begun to turn around. 

Gorden asked. "You ready?" But didn't wait for an answer.

Stuffing her arms back into the sleeves Fina tried desperately to pull the neck of the shirt higher.

Gorden watched her, and grinned. "So, you want to find N'ko?"

Fina stared at Gorden incredulously, he wanted to go find N'ko?

Gorden smiled sheepishly. "I want to know what he looks like!" he protested.

"Then I can solve our problems here in this weyr, he looks like you, only taller.  His eyes have a more jovial look to them...and he has an air of sophistication... "  Fina stopped, looking at Gorden she saw him grin mischievously.

"Fina, you forget, I can carry you downstairs and find N'ko by looking for my look-alike..." he warned.

Her hands on her hips Fina let out an undignified humph "Fine!"

Gorden grinned innocently. "Fine, you can carry me, or fine I'll walk downstairs?"  Not waiting for an answer he scooped her up in his arms, and walked downstairs.  "You said fine,” he said mischievously

Screeching and kicking, Fina half-heartedly asked Gorden to let her down.

Gorden ignored her. "Now where would he be?"

Bitterly Fina responded "Check her weyr"

Fina looked up as Gorden looked down, she could see the surprised look on his face and she new that with once sentence she had told him the whole story.

"Where’s her weyr?" Gorden gently questioned. 

"It’s only a level up from ours." Grimacing Fina thought, if Turquoise was anywhere near half capacity the green rider's weyr would be much further from her own.

Gorden half bounded up the stairs, and stood at the top, gasping for breath. "You alright?" he asked.

"Just a little bit jostled... could you let me down now?"  Fina asked politely.

Gorden grinned. "You want me to let you go?"

Grinning back, "No, but it wouldn't do for anyone to see us prancing around like this so I think you should set me down." 

Gorden grinned. "Do you want me to let you go?" he repeated.

Pausing for a moment to think about it she replied.  "It would serve N'ko right to see us like this."  Fina thought about it for a few more seconds.  "No, I like it where I am, just promise me you'll let me down before we go back down the stairs."

Gorden smiled sheepishly. "Ok then." But first Gorden entered the Weyr without knocking, and looked around. "N'ko?" he called out.

Fina whispered hoarsely "Not this one... it's the third one over." Fina smiled to herself as Gorden hastily retreated from the weyr “To the left.”

"This one?”  Gorden asked tentatively.

“Yes... I would remember this doorway anywhere..." anger seeped through her otherwise calm voice.

Nodding, Gorden just walked in, and yelled out. "N'ko?"

Grimacing at his lack of manners Fina waited silently for a reply, hoping she wouldn't hear one.

Fina's face fell as N'ko entered from the back of they weyr.  She could see the frown on his face clearly.

"Fina?"

Gorden looked curiously at N'ko, and whispered. "You really do look like me."  He looked down at Fina. "He really does look like me Fina!"

She whispered fiercely to Gorden "I told you!" Then looked at N'ko, and in a calm cold voice "N'ko"

N'ko stared at her for a few moments. "Are you alright sweetheart?" He asked gently.  

Blood boiling, Fina wondered at the gall N'ko possessed to call her by her nickname.  She sensed Gordon stiffen but he said nothing. She whispered to him. "Now would be a good time to put me down."

Gorden smiled down, but held her closer. "No, you might attack him" he teased.

Glancing over at N'ko Fina saw the challenging look in his eyes.

"Please Gorden?"  She looked up into his eyes and saw they were filled with a genuine concern for her.

Gorden sighed, and let her down gently.

Keeping a tight hold on his hand, Fina stood in front of him, her frail frame dwarfed by his larger one.  She stared coldly at N'ko.

Confused by the surprised look on N'ko's face Fina softened her glare, but kept her eyes fixed on him.

"Boy, can you leave us alone please?" N'ko asked softly.  Behind her Fina could feel Gorden tremble.

"Over my dead body." He stated. N'ko sighed, and knelt in front of Fina.

Squeezing Gordon’s hand reassuringly she stepped forward.  Looking down on N'ko for the first time.

N'ko spoke softly but clearly. "I'm sorry Fina, if I hurt you in any way. I never meant to.  I've talked it over with Ninara, and I realized I never really thought about it that way...” He paused thoughtfully. "I love Ninara Fina, I don't think anything will change that.” Then quietly, so quiet, it was hard to hear.  "I care for you too, but not the way I care for Ninara."

Fina was startled by the sincerity of his words.  "I- I- I think I understand N'ko” Blinking her eyes she tried to hold back her tears.

N'ko sighed. "So can we be friends?" Not waiting for an answer, he enveloped her in a hug.

Returning his embrace Fina wiped the tears from her face, and releasing him, smiled fondly at him

"Well then" N'ko said. "Whose this guy behind you sweetheart?"

"His name is Gorden."  She looked up at Gorden's face fondly... and clasping his hand in hers squeezed it tightly.

N'ko grinned at Gorden. And Gorden grinned at N'ko. N'ko stilled for a second, then said. "Your mother wants to speak to you."  He said. "Something about a girl dressed in a jacket being carried up to a Weyr by a young boy?" N'ko said innocently.

Grimacing Fina thought of the events that awaited her that evening..."I suppose you will be wanting your riding jacket back N'ko?  It must have been a chilly flight between without it."

N'ko winked. "Keep it, I can get another one."

Smiling, Fina thanked him.

Fina and Gorden walked outside, and down the flights of stairs.  Gorden was quiet the whole time. 

"Gorden?  Are you ok?"

Gorden looked up suddenly and nodded. "Of course I am. Sure thing," 

"I don't believe you... is-is it N'ko?"  Fina stammered feeling a chill despite the warm weather.

Gorden stilled, and shook his head. "Of course not."

"What is it then?"  Stopping on the stairs Fina turned to look up at him.

Gorden smiled. "I'll tell you when you know how to ask the question well enough." 

Puzzled by his words Fina frowned and resumed her walk down the stairs. Stopping she turned again.  "Are you sure?  You helped me an awful lot, working things out with N'ko, I owe you.... big time” She looked up into his eyes, and saw the confusion that danced behind his calm composure.  Still staring up at him, Fina saw his eyes soften.  But he said nothing, and continued his way down the stairs.

Sokie was won in a contest at White River Weyr
N'ko was created by Weyrwoman Naeodin of Istabitha's Weyr and Impressed at Turquoise Weyr
Tumtum and Jari were created by Weyrwoman Naeodin of Istabitha's Weyr and are standing as Candidates at Turquoise Weyr
Vertan was created by Weyrwoman Brina of Turquoise Weyr, he has not yet been searched.
Gordon was created by Weyrwoman Naeodin of Istabitha's Weyr, he has not yet been searched.