Different Perspectives

Writers: Emma, Vix
Date Posted: 18th September 2007

Characters: Royah, Benaran
Description: Royah tells Benaran of his new daughter
Location: Amber Hills Hold
Date: month 5, day 22 of Turn 4

"We're going to call her Tenira," said Royah to his brother, the daft grin of a new father across his face.

Benaran nodded, hiding his relief that this child had not been still another male to lay claim to a portion of Amber Hills Hold. "Congratulations - to you and to the proud mother. I take it that all went well in the birth?"

"Tenia's tired, but happy." And she had a right to be after losing several babies between five turn old Yatia and the new babe. "She only wishes her mother could be here. I didn't have time to send for her from Coral Bay."

"Yes, but you can remedy that now, can't you?" suggested the older brother. "She could come and stay for a while and help with the new one."

"I was going to organise that later, ask the headwoman to raise a flag for a dragonrider."

"I imagine that Tenia's mother will appreciate that," drawled Benaran. "After all, Coral Bay Hold does have its limitations."

"But it compensates with it's attractions, being close to the sea is nice."

"If you care for that sort of thing." In actuality, the beaches had been nice, but during all of his visits Coral Bay, Benaran had missed the deference that was shown him at his home Hold.

"And it will always be special as Tenia and I met there."

"But of course," his brother agreed, though to him that fact held no merit. Love was a thing of harper tales, a romanticizing of lust, and had no place in the marriages of holders. The pairing of Royah and Tenia had created a bond between the two Holds and opened up some trading opportunities, which was the real merit of that marriage. "Perhaps when the babe is older, you should go for an extended visit."

"Not for a while though, she needs to be able to travel."

"I'd not expect you to go soon. However, you could probably get away in a few months and miss some of the worst winter weather. I'm sure that Tenia would appreciate that - our weather can't be easy for her."

"And we could perhaps look for somewhere to foster Roten in a turn or two."

"It's never too early for that," agreed Benaran. "Nor to think on a possible match for this new one. Several Holds have young heirs, so her marriage could be used to advantage."

"One day at a time, I'm sure that when she is old enough to walk and talk she might have her own opinion!"

The older man waved his hand dismissively. "All the more reason to teach her of her duty from the start."

"She'll know about that."

"Of course," murmured Benaran, though considering his brother's earlier remarks, he doubted that the daughter would be schooled quite as carefully in duties and expectations as his own children. "So for the moment you're spending extra time with family?"

"Tenia needs me."

"Are there any tasks you'd like me to take on to give you that time?"

"I'll let you know, I need to speak to Father as well."

Benaran's face dipped briefly into a frown, though he quickly stifled it. "I'll speak to him as well and let him know that I'm willing to help."

"Thank you Benaran, I'd appreciate that."

"What are brothers for?" the other asked magnanimously. Of course, such a suggestion would probably gain him favor with their father as well.

"I'd do the same for you in your place."

"Of course you would."

"And perhaps that will be soon if you find another woman to love."

"I do well enough and see no reason to limit myself to just one woman."

"It'll change when you meet the right one for you." Royah was well aware of his brother's political ambitions, and how that had guided his choices in the past.

"Perhaps, but I won't hold my breath."

"Just when you least expect it, she'll walk into your life."

"I'm not much of a believer in that type of emotion. However, if it happens, I'll let you know."

"You'll know first."

"As I said, we'll see." Benaran barely concealed his rejection of his brother's suggestions, forcing a smile. "But in the meantime, this new baby is more important than what may or may not happen in my life."

"She is indeed," and another silly grin crossed his face.

The older brother managed to keep from rolling his eyes as he added, "And you should be getting back to her and your wife."

"Which is right where I'm heading."

"Good luck to you and to your family," was Benaran's automatic reply. He waved and headed off in the opposite direction, already planning how he could use his brother's current distraction to ingratiate himself to their father.

Last updated on the September 23rd 2007

Welcome to Triad Weyrs!

Different Perspectives