I Almost... [B'jin]

If R’nd had to list things he hated, he was pretty sure losing a flight would top it. The sudden sense of loss as reality crashed back in on him while he stumbled away from the winner and the prize that were tearing away clothing wasn’t fun and certainly didn’t fluff up the ego any. The confusion that sometimes accompanied the loss, whether due to wondering how he managed to get to the current location or why he had been so desperate to win that particular flight when enough sense returned to clearly see the rider, never helped matters, only adding to the unfocused staggering steps back. What he did enjoy about those moments, however, was when there was a fellow loser that appealed to him within reach. The pity and slight comfort sex that came out of that wasn’t quite as frantic as when he was completely absorbed in the dragonlust from the win, but it was still pretty satisfying.

That afternoon, however, when he saw I’shan throwing himself at Par’a, R’nd couldn’t even raise an eyebrow of invite at J’dan. They had been chasing Par’a and Grith! That was bad enough but seeing that I’shan had won was slowly causing R’nd’s brain to leak out his ears. His friend wasn’t going to take that well when he came to later on. It was best to get going while he could.

As he stumbled out of the hut and back into the sun that seemed far too bright, R’nd could feel Ayyonth’s own disappointment and a moment later his beautiful blue had landed in front of him. R’nd wrapped his arms around Ayyonth’s neck, each feeding off the comfort they gave each other until rider was mounting dragon. “Let’s go…” R’nd wasn’t sure where he wanted to go so Ayyonth offered a suggestion, Home? He knew he wanted to go home and sulk as he wasn’t a big fan of losing either, but R’nd shook his head a moment later.

“No. B’jin’s.” He was still a bit in a daze but it seemed like a marvellous idea. After his own moment of pause to think about it, Ayyonth clearly agreed as he took off in the direction of B’jin’s hut. It was a lazy flight, almost as if they were crawling compared to the flying Ayyonth had done while chasing Grith – Grith! – but R’nd appreciated it. The cool breeze was refreshing and helping to snap him out of the shock of losing though when they finally did land outside of B’jin’s hut, R’nd’s mood had improved but not quite enough. It was a sign of exactly how out of it he was that R’nd didn’t wait outside or even lightly knock before opening the front door and peeking in. Typically he was far more cautious, not wanting to run across one of his friend’s children or to interrupt anything the man might be getting up to but right then, R’nd had one thing on his mind.

When B’jin was spotted, he was greeted with a large pout and arms circling around his waist as R’nd laid his head on his friend’s shoulder. “I almost… Par’a… but losing still sucks.”

B'jin was more than a little preoccupied with his sulking dragon. She wasn't speaking, hadn't spoken a word since she'd landed on the ground and slunk into her little room to sulk. Not even poking fun at her, teasing her, taunting her or baiting her could get her to reply. She was simply curled up on the ground, her head resting on her paws and her eyes staring dully at nothing. B'jin wasn't quite sure what to make of her or the situation, so with the link between them opened as wide as he could get it, B'jin was walking around his hut on auto pilot. Cleaning didn't take much effort at any rate, simply kicking children's toys back into their assigned corner, folding a blanket here, picking up a plate there, and washing the dishes. He was kicking stuffed toys across the room when R'nd entered the hut.

Miles away as he tried to sooth Larrikith, despite her blank nothingness, B'jin was startled by arms slipping around his waist, the shorter man flinching with a soft gasp. The reaction born of surprise, and there was only a small flash of startled fear behind his eyes as B'jin turned in the encirclement, blinking his mind back to his own body as he felt R'nd bury his face in his shoulder. A small smile flickered over his lips, and B'jin's own arms looped lazily around R'nd's waist.

"Awe," B'jin said gently, his voice tinged with amusement. One hand rose absently to play lightly with R'nd's hair across the nape of his neck, features twisted with coy amusement. "And Par'a is such a good lay." The emphasis was said with a soft purr, B'jin's eyes wide with innocence. He was not unaware of many of the rumours that circulated about his relationship with Par'a though neither he nor his fellow green had either confirmed or denied them. B'jin was pretty sure Par'a enjoyed the ambiguity, where as B'jin just wanted to be left alone. Moving in with the older rider when he had split up with Nemall had been a mixed bag. It had made the Harper extremely angry, given B'jin a break from his children and Par'a had kept him from slinking back to the man (which he had almost done, on several occasions). A fact that did not make Par'a likable as far as Nemall was concerned; B'jin wasn't sure who would come out on top if the green rider and his ex lover were put in a small room together.

It had also provided an amazing amount of fodder for the Katilan gossip network that B'jin didn't want to even look into. But there were times, like this, when he enjoyed his ability to tease without fact or fiction being determined between. After all, no one knew if he really had slept with Par'a, or if it were all just talk. The fact that both greenriders tended to give random answers to every question didn't help. Did it prove they were lying? Or telling the truth? B'jin grinned impishly. He'd let R'nd make up his own answers, if he hadn't already. Par'a had a solid reputation with her flight partners, at any rate. The bluerider would not have been left wanting at the end of that entanglement. B'jin's lips twitched. If nothing else, sex talks with Par'a were very educational.

Smiling gently as he placed a trail of light kisses across R'nd's ear to his neckline, B'jin eyed the shirt collar for a moment, before he retraced his steps to finish with a breathy, "Who won?" back at his friend's ear, smile on his voice, and his lips. Being a greenrider had it's ups and downs. It wasn't always worth being caught, but it was always guaranteed. Poor little bluerider! Brown eyes lit up mischievously.

It was amazing how a man that was usually a hot topic in the gossip mill and loved picking up what he could from it about others, knew so little about the past relationships of the man he had idol worshipped and maintained an awkward crush on. It wasn’t that R’nd didn’t want to know about other lovers because he was jealous – they were blue- and greenriders, always locked in some sort of flight and R’nd had rotating lovers which left no room for that odd emotion – it was something that sprung up with the respect he held for the older rider. If he didn’t learn all the details or get caught up in rumours and speculations, then perhaps his own views wouldn’t be corrupted as well as B’jin appreciating the fact there was one less person that knew all about him without having asked him. R’nd’s logic was a little odd at the best of times.

Still, he did know B’jin had moved in with Par’a for a while and despite his own habits of sleeping with his friends and anyone that caught his eye, R’nd didn’t put much thought into the greenriders sharing a bed. Perhaps it was his own lack of desire to get Par’a into bed that wouldn’t let R’nd make that particular connection but whatever it was, it didn’t help now with B’jin praising the female rider with such well-placed emphasis. He didn’t know if it was the implication that the two greenriders slept together or that Par’a was amazing in bed but R’nd tensed and briefly pulled back enough to see his friend’s face, a look of shocked horror playing on his own before settling back into his previous stance when the odd whirlwind of emotions returned. Words couldn’t be found for a proper reply since R’nd was still trying to figure out everything. Was he glad or sad that he had lost? Like all blueriders, he knew the gossip that matched what B’jin had said and while Par’a’s curves could be very inviting, R’nd hadn’t had a desire to chase her in or out of a flight. He really hated the dejection and confusion after losing a fight!

B’jin’s trail of kisses, however, was doing wonders to improve his mood and R’nd started to relax in the greenrider’s arms. He was finally starting to warm up to the idea of forgetting about the loss and enjoying the time with his friend when B’jin had to ask who the winner was. R’nd leaned back once more, a haunted expression playing over his features as he tried to get his mouth to form the name. “I’shan,” when he finally managed the simple task, his impish friend’s name came out on a whisper, as if speaking any louder would invoke some sort of curse on them all. Everyone knew I’shan’s stance on women and R’nd knew it would be ugly when the bluerider came to and saw who he was lying beside. Given how jealous N’gelt was, R’nd was a bit worried about that as well and wondered if he’d have a crying friend in his living room later on.

Ayyonth waited long enough to make sure R’nd stumbled safely into B’jin’s arms and the greenrider wasn’t about to throw him out for intruding as he had before he wandered over to Larrikith’s living space. Larrikith? Unlike his bonded, Ayyonth didn’t barge right in but stuck his head into her little room after announcing his presence, though he knew she would already know he was there. It was odd for her to not greet him upon landing and the young blue could only think that maybe she was napping. He’d hate to disturb her if she was enjoying some downtime after a busy morning.

B'jin didn't so much as have limited experience with the reactions of failed chasers; he had none. The strange reactions and emotions washing off R'nd were confusing the greenrider, who was far more used to a more definitive lover. R'nd usually knew what he was thinking, saying, wanting or feeling. Seeing him so wrapped up in confusion was making B'jin uncomfortable, unable to figure out how he should react or respond. The bluerider's relaxing to his gentle kisses caused a chain reaction, with B'jin relaxing subtly, figuring that even if R'nd seemed completely out of it, at least he was responding positively to something B'jin was doing. Deciding to continue with the light administration of butterfly kisses on R'nd's neck, B'jin was surprised when the younger man pulled away from him, and brown eyes flashed to meet R'nd's grey, seeking an answer to a move he hadn't expected.

The expression he saw on his lover's face caused further confusion, and B'jin frowned worriedly, the light and mischievous air he had been floating in vanishing as swiftly as autumn leaves in a swift breeze. Confused, and growing worried by the moment as R'nd lingered in a strange silence, B'jin allowed his hands to drop lightly from his friend to rest by his sides, resisting the temptation to fidget just barely. Unsure what to do, B'jin mirrored R'nd's reaction and leaned back slightly, though he didn't further initiate separation by actually stepping away. He was wondering how to fix the odd situation he'd found himself in, when R'nd answered his question, and B'jin blinked at the name, and the apparent distress it was causing his friend. Because he had lost, or because I'shan had wo-? Oh! B'jin's face lit up with understanding, eyes sparkling with sudden mirth and his mouth twisted into a wicked little smirk. He bit down solidly on his bottom lip, attempting to mask the expression, and failing miserably.

"I'm sorry!" He gasped, before erupting into a fit of stifled giggles, trying visibly to control himself, and doing a magnificently terrible job at it. Eyes wide, breathy giggles escaping, B'jin moved back a few shuffled paces from his friend, the movements almost subtle. Both hands hid his face from view for a moment, and he dropped them, peering over his fingers with comical timidity before he burst into laughter again. "P-p-par'a is g-g-going t-t-o h-have a f-field d-d-day!" Barely understandable, his words came between breathy laughter and was accompanied by huge brown eyes, sparkling with mirthful tears.

"Poor Sh-shelly!" His wicked snigger was cut off suddenly, and the greenrider stiffened, spine straightening, as ice cold fury radiated through his body. It painted his face, and twisted his expression before B'jin visibly clawed his way out of the tidal wave Larrikith had let loose - both human and dragon forgetting or uncaring of the wide open link between them - and gasped with a shudder as he slammed the walls up between himself and his dragon, staggering a step and resting a hand gently against R'nd's chest for a moment, looking lost. "Larri?!" Oh dear!

Slightly wild eyed, B'jin's hand traced gently down R'nd's side and he grabbed him by the wrist, his grip stronger than he would usually have used as he tugged the bluerider without explanation through to the bedroom, and, through it to where Larrikith's glass door was curtained by a thick hide. Coming to an abrupt halt, B'jin wrapped one arm around R'nd's waist and leaned into his side with a slightly amused expression. Reaching up, B'jin kissed R'nd lightly on the jaw line, his voice whispery. "Does Ayyonth share your commitment issues?" Smiling mischievous, B'jin parted the hides just enough to create a small window.

The little green dragon had gone out of her way to ignore the appearance of Ayyonth and R'nd, even so far as to not even warn B'jin of their appearance or greet rider nor dragon. Unfortunately, or fortunately? Larrikith wasn't sure, it didn't stop Ayyonth sticking his (big fat!) head into her living space. Eyes a hot, angry red-orange, Larrikith glared at the younger dragon for a few moments. Then she stood up, fluffed her wings out, resettled them, and spun around, showing her back to him, stiff with indignant rage. The tiny dragon was practically trembling.

B'jin pursed his lips, but the expression was born of amusement, and he peered sideways at R'nd, trying to see how the bluerider was taking the actions of the green dragon. Seconds later, and his expression turned mildly thoughtful as B'jin wondered, absently, if he should be shoving R'nd into bed and enjoy a last entanglement before the poor man got his wits about him and fled with his dragon in tow. Or maybe Ayyonth would flee first, and B'jin would be stuck explaining something he was pretty sure he had no understanding of, to a rider who was already out of it and was liable to become more so if his dragon got emotional.

B'jin's slightly amused expression changed to worry and he frowned up at R'nd, his thoughts written plainly on his face.

R’nd was horrified at B’jin’s reaction to the news. He couldn’t stop staring at the man as he tried to suppress his giggles and stumbled through some comment about Par’a. When the words finally registered, R’nd moaned and his posture changed, leaving him slouching in defeat. I’shan was definitely going to be a sobbing mess and Par’a was certainly the sort to make sure she teased the poor drama queen of a man to the point of breaking. The more he thought about it, the more a smile wanted to tug at features set in shock and confusion. It was actually a pretty entertaining thought and R’nd couldn’t stop the little part of him that wanted to see I’shan get a little payback for all the times he teased someone or waltzed through, caused a little chaos, and waltzed back out again without a care. He adored the man but some days R’nd wished that didn’t happen to him so often.

It was just a shame there was the N’gelt equation now and the more Par’a harassed I’shan and reminded people she slept with the bluerider, the more N’gelt was likely to get angry. One look at B’jin and how amused he was at the situation made R’nd keep that bit of news to himself. Even in his current fuzzy state of mind, the bluerider could also recall B’jin’s reaction to meeting N’gelt at the gathering for the new weyrlings. His lover didn’t need that brought back to mind even if R’nd still didn’t know what the reasoning behind it all was.

Lost in his wandering thoughts and conflicting emotions, R’nd was caught off guard for B’jin’s sudden change and the concern attached to the green dragon’s name when it was called out. Before he could ask what was wrong, R’nd found himself being dragged through the hut, his steps not as smooth or agile as usual, leaving him stumbling a couple of times. Given the state he was in, his mind immediately jumped to the conclusion that B’jin wanted to take advantage of the situation, with Larrikith’s encouragement, as the hastily moved for the bedroom. But when they didn’t end up on the bed, much to R’nd’s disappointment, and were left peering through a window at Larrikith and Ayyonth’s head peeking in, R’nd was about ready to just give up on the day and give into the confusion entirely since it seemed so much easier to stop thinking about what was going on around him.

“Does Ayyonth… what?” R’nd was struggling to keep up, his mind having halted on B’jin tucking himself in against him and the kiss. He wanted to protest that he didn’t have commitment issues but they both knew that was a lie and the entire weyr knew his stance on relationships. Instead, R’nd eyed his dragon and thought about the question. It was hard to say. They were perfectly matched in that they were rather similar as opposed to how so many of his clutchmates had dragons that were there to balance out their personalities. Ayyonth did seem pretty insistent most days on getting him to behave and stop running away from B’jin but that likely didn’t have anything to do with a hope for a relationship and to have them both settle down. R’nd couldn’t recall Ayyonth showing any particular interest in one green over another either, except for Larrikith but with their riders spending time together, it was natural for the dragons to bond as well.

“I’m not sure, honestly. He’s never been inclined to say one way or the other. He seems to be okay with my …uh, habits, though.” Why was it suddenly awkward to discuss his bed hopping with B’jin? Hadn’t he just decided everyone knew about it anyway and B’jin wouldn’t be with him if he had any problems with who he was? R’nd chalked it up as the lingering confusion from losing the flight and trying to snap back to reality rather quickly thanks to Larrikith’s hissy fit. That was another good question – why was she having such a fit? What did you do to Larrikith? R’nd was suddenly worried his blue had done something to upset Larrikith and B’jin was seconds away from throwing them both out, but Ayyonth was quick to shoot that fear down. Nothing! I only greeted her once you were safe in B’jin’s arms. This is the reception I received.

That didn’t make any sense. The two dragons were always excited to see each other so why was Larrikith now shunning Ayyonth and quite visibly upset with him? Oh. Oh no. The little green’s fit and B’jin’s comment had the pieces falling into place and grey eyes widened with realization as R’nd shot his blue a glare. Larrikith was upset Ayyonth chased Grith. R’nd had no idea how to deal with this situation since his answer would normally be to run fast and far but to give Ayyonth that advice meant he’d have to follow and ruin his friendship with B’jin. You stupid dragon. Have fun fixing this – which you better.

Ayyonth was completely in the dark about the scolding he received, wondering when it became Pick On Ayyonth Day. He hadn’t done anything wrong! He only said hello! Why would Larrikith be mad over that? The only other thing he could think of was it spawned from something he had done previously. Not wishing to take any time, the blue reached out to R’nd’s mind and stole the answers he had already come up with which only left Ayyonth further befuddled. While he wasn’t sure why the sassy minx would be upset over it, he felt it wouldn’t hurt to ask anyway. Sweet Larrikith, are you upset that I chased Grith?  His head tilted to the side in question as he regarded her pretty hide and kept an eye on her tail. He really didn’t need a lashing for simply asking a question that seemed like a fair enough place to start.

R'nd's confusion was beginning to win B'jin over, who was in a high mood (despite, or perhaps because of Larrikith's sour disposition) and he found the emotion - usually attached to himself and not R'nd - to be both hilarious and adorable. That R'nd stopped to consider the question caused B'jin's small smirky-smile to widen slightly, and he leaned back into his friend. He was taking far too much enjoyment in the bewildered emotions of his friends. Larrikith, with no idea why she was jealous, R'nd with no idea what was up or down, and Ayyonth who was so completely bewildered. It was all too much fun! The greenrider pursed his lips to avoid laughing as he let his fingers play teasingly across the hem of R'nd's pants, slipping them under the fabric of his shirt to play across skin with an odd insight to what he was doing, and how it would be received. Normally, such actions from the greenrider were subconscious, and generally unaware of how they might be received. The smug, sideways glance betrayed that today, he knew exactly what he was up to.

The bluerider's hesitant answer caused the laughter bubbling just below the surface of the mirthful greenrider to rise, escaping with a little chuckle as he arched an eyebrow at R'nd in wiry amusement, fingers stilling as he leaned his head against R'nd's shoulder, expression and actions laughing in the face of his usual innocence. "Larrikith greatly disproves of my lack of, uh, habits." B'jin teased R'nd, mocking his word choice with gentle affection. "It's why she's such a tart." While that wasn't entirely true and was in fact perhaps an overly simplified look at the green's nature, it had always worked for keeping Nemall from getting any more jealous than necessary, and had kept B'jin's fellow greenriders content. "She wants to 'broaden my horizons'." He smirked wickedly, using the opportunity to reoccupy his wandering fingers, the other hand sliding up R'nd's chest - under his shirt. "Of course, she's been broadening them for thirt-..." His babbling was broken off by Larrikith's sudden (and loud) reply to the blue's gentle questioning, and while his posture didn't change, his head tilted to look over his shoulder at the lack of peep hole, and B'jin frowned slightly for a moment. Apparently, he needed more hands. That thought, of course, caused his frown to immediately morph into a wicked smirk.

No! Larrikith spat, not bothering to turn around and so much as glance at Ayyonth, though she stiffened until her trembling was barely visible. Curled against R'nd, B'jin gave an amused snort. "She's lying!" he half-sang, looking far too pleased with himself for ratting his dragon out, attention returning to R'nd, peering up at his friend from under his lashes. Shut up, B'jin! Go away! What started as a vicious snap that was audible to all three males, ended up as a plaintive whine of distress. B'jin (who was finding the entire day far too amusing) gave a snicker of amusement, brown eyes brightening for a moment with mirth as he bit his lip to avoid grinning, smug and amused, though his gaze was darkening once more with lust as Larrikith whined once more, not bothering to censor herself to just her rider.Go away B'jin!

"We're going! We're going!" The dragonrider's voice was singing with mirth as B'jin, rather than untangled himself from R'nd, gently pushed against the bluerider bodily, twisting so he was around in front of him, instead of beside him. "Now," B'jin purred, using his entire body to herd the taller man in the direction he wanted to go. "Got enough brain power to block him," B'jin asked softly, "or shall I just make you forget them?" Nimble fingers left their play to instead work easily at the ties and buttons holding R'nd's shirt closed with uncommon confidence. Brown eyes never leaving grey, B'jin was uniquely sure of himself, convinced he wouldn't be rejected by his friend as he leaned up to initiate a lingering kiss, radiating a smug confidence. Never one to retain control for very long, however, B'jin spoke against R'nd's lips as he pulled away. "Show me something new," He purred, though the deep and husky tone turned it into a challenge, one the greenrider obviously believed R'nd couldn't meet. He was not unaware that he'd just admitted to (almost) thirty turns of flights with enough riders that the younger man would probably go grey if he tried to work out the number, and his wicked expression blatantly said he didn't believe R'nd could surprise him. But that he would very much enjoy the process of his trying.

Larrikith made sure their riders were well occupied with one another before the little dragon finally turned around to see if Ayyonth was still there. She glared at him hotly over her shoulder for a moment. When she spoke, her voice was soft and filled with venom. I am not upset! She paused for a moment, daring him to contradict her before she continued. I hate you! It was meant to come out a raging fire of fury; an indication that she did not need the stupid blue or his stupid attentions and certainly did not care if he chased her stupid friend! Instead, it came out a plaintive whine, her eyes changing to shades of distress as she realised he might take her seriously. What if he took her seriously? Larrikith released a not-qiute keening sound, her distress visible as she stared at Ayyonth, though she couldn't bring herself to go to him, any more than she could find the will to flick between and run away.

R’nd shivered under B’jin’s touch that surprised the bluerider that was used to initiating such moments with most people, B’jin in particular. He certainly didn’t mind though the way his breath hitched and mind began to wander away from his stupid dragon making stupid mistakes from the single touch of a hand to his chest was a bit odd. He’d just blame it on the flightlust rattling him if he thought back on it later on. For now, he had a sexy greenrider feeling him up and R’nd really didn’t want to waste such an opportunity. As he leaned in to kiss his far-too-amused friend, Larrikith’s shriek in his mind hit him hard enough to halt his actions and breath as grey eyes flashed to where he knew the green lay hidden behind the curtains. Ayyonth really, really needed to solve things out there and soon because he was about to have his bonded, normally laidback and able to let things slide by without much sweat contemplating disowning him.

A smirk did manage to creep into place at B’jin’s sing-song assistance to his emotionally clumsy – R’nd was still too far out of it to realize that term was sometimes applied to him as well – blue. He began to think on the implications of a jealous green, especially one that hardly ever did repeat flights, but B’jin was suddenly wrapped around him from the front now instead of the side and pushing him back away from the main event of bickering dragons to, he assumed by the look in brown eyes, work on their own attraction. “A bit of both,” he replied on a soft purr, intrigued by the ways B’jin could make him forget about the trouble Ayyonth had landed in even as he started putting up barriers without so much as wishing his blue good luck. Experience told R’nd he was liable to forget his own name if B’jin put real effort into showcasing his skills acquired from the turns of Larrikith insisting her rider ‘broaden his horizons.’

Again, R’nd was surprised and turned on by B’jin’s confidence in every move he made as he worked at undoing his shirt and then pulling them in for a lingering kiss. R’nd was quite good at going with the flow and didn’t mind if his lover wanted to lead, especially if he couldn’t predict where things were going or how’d they get there. But with that one whispered challenge, the predator within the bluerider woke, breaking free of the remaining fog from being pulled so miserably from the flightlust of before. “With pleasure, love,” R’nd had ideas in mind but there was one that jumped out as the best way to win though he did wonder, albeit briefly, if it was cheating. Given a conversation they had had the morning after celebrating the recent hatching, R’nd was led to believe, without any actual confirmation though he hadn’t been brave enough to seek it out either, that B’jin only knew rough lovers that cared little for the man they were with or what he wanted. Now, while their dragons argued and laid forgotten by their riders, B’jin would have the usual consideration R’nd tried to display while with lovers with an extra dose of sweetness. Of course he’d still do his best to try some of his moves that earned screams of delight but given the state B’jin had left him in after their flight together, R’nd had to wonder if he had anything to teach a master.

His shirt was quickly shrugged out of but R’nd ignored the rest of his clothing in favour of slowly working on B’jin’s in a dance meant to tease and entice with each languid motion. There wasn’t any rush as they had all day and all night if need be. When the last button was freed, R’nd gently spun B’jin around and helped slide the shirt free, letting it fall to the floor between them as he slipped his arms around the smaller man’s waist with his lips placing soft kisses along neck and shoulder. He held B’jin like that for a time, peppering kisses along soft skin, before fingers finally went to work on pants. Once he had the greenrider in a perfect state of undress, they’d find their way to the bed and the real worshipping of his friend would begin.

Ayyonth could only wish he had it as simple as R’nd did! Larrikith was clearly upset though she denied being so yet B’jin insisted she was jealous. Why were females so complicated? Yet when three little words that carried such a heavy weight to them were tossed his way, Ayyonth decided things were possibly clearer than everyone assumed – or he would have if his mind hadn’t shut down every function but the ability to stare at the pretty green before backing away from her and completely out of and away from her home. Her cry of distress that was close to a keening haunted him and kept him from going any further as the confusion hit once more. Was she still upset over chasing a green, something that came naturally to him, or did she regret her words that cut him deeply? He respected and liked Larrikith, had a lot of fun with her and liked playing matchmaker for their bonded. He meant her no harm and didn’t think it would be a big deal, especially since she hadn’t let him win her last flight. All was fair when it came to flights, right?

A few steps forward were taken, slowly and very cautiously, until Ayyonth could lie down with his head resting on his forepaws right at the entrance to Larrikith’s room. He didn’t dare cross the barrier again but he didn’t want to run away either. He always told R’nd not to run when it came to B’jin or comforting a fear, so how could he do anything but follow his own advice now? Why do you hate me for doing what’s in my nature? I don’t hate you for letting a brown fly you though I was chasing you as well. His voice was barely above a whisper as he spoke with uncertainty and a hint of fear. He wasn’t even sure if what he had just said would help or hinder him, so thrown off by Larrikith’s sharp words. The last time he had seen her so angry, at him anyway, was when he had betweened from the ground at her urging only to be scolded. He was certain she would have murdered him if it didn’t defeat the purpose of yelling at him for being so reckless.

A quiver of delighted anticipation rolled through B'jin as he saw R'nd come alive at his whispered words, the greenrider's lips twisting into a devious smirk at the other man's reply. R'nd's expression betrayed all the wonderful things to come, and B'jin could feel his entire body respond to it, blood running both hot and cold as his fingers, trembling with anticipation, danced across the bluerider's chest with the touch of a butterfly's wings, light and feathery soft. His own quirky reply left his lips before he could help himself, the words tart and teasing, but spoken in a husky growl: "That's the general idea." Amusement rolled off him in waves, the entire day being found as far too much fun, and the rider was giddy with the multitude of emotions, mixing together and leaving him radiating a simple joy in life he didn't usually give off.

The loss of R'nd's shirt was met with eager eyes, but he made no move to touch, his body turning to putty in his friend's hands, freeing himself for the bluerider to mould as he desired. He'd asked the younger man to show him something new, and while B'jin certainly didn't think he'd succeed, for all his outrageous reputation, he planned to enjoy himself and the process. From the determination swirling around the bluerider, he was going to give it a damned good shot! Another delighted shiver rippled down B'jin's spine, and his head tilted back against R'nd's shoulder, a breathy sigh of delight whispering past his lips at the feverish kisses.

~~ *whistles innocently* ~~

A breathy laugh escaped B'jin's lips as he rolled his eyes to the side, peering at R'nd cheerfully as he raised a heavy arm, hand brushing damp hair back from his forehead. Well, that had been uniquely delightful. A devious smirk formed on his lips, tired eyes bright with laughter that was still trembling under the surface, ready to tumble forth like lava from a volcano, as soon as the trigger was pulled. Groaning with the effort, B'jin hauled himself up enough to collapse once more, albeit closer to the bluerider. That contained it's own humour, however, and B'jin bit back a breathy giggle as he leaned up onto one elbow, and peered down at R'nd with smug amusement. With laughter dancing in his eyes, and lips forming a light smile he dropped a gentle kiss on R'nd's temple.

"With pleasure, love," B'jin murmured huskily against R'nd's ear as he laid his head beside his friend's, fingers trailing absently over the man's ribcage without any real life; a simple motion to occupy the hand of a fidgeter. His lips twisting into a sugary, if devious little smile, B'jin felt his simple statement to be perfect: an affectionate mockery of R'nd's word choice, or acknowledgement of a challenge well fought - or was it won? His fingers traced lightly across R'nd's collar bone, down his arm, across his fingers, and then lightly across his hip bone, and back up his side. A feathery process of touching, simply because he could, while brown eyes, warm and tired, but still alive with amusement, were locked on R'nd's face. His hand rose, gentle fingers brushing R'nd's hair back from his eyes.

Larrikith watched as Ayyonth rapidly retreated out of her room, taking the horrible words she'd spoken to him and running away with them. Not wanting to disturb B'jin from his fun, Larrikith kept a tight wrap on her own deep unhappiness as the blue she realised she cared for far more than she should, left her abandoned. The little dragon curled up tightly, pulling her small, round body into an equally small and round ball, her tail lying across her face so her sadly coloured eyes peered over the top. The depressed and dreary shades vanished for a flash, as surprise and hope flared through them at the blue dragon's timid reappearance in her doorway. The colours changed rapidly once more, however, at Ayyonth's quiet words, switching swiftly to shaded shock.

I did not let him catch me! Larrikith's reply was indignant, but barely above a whisper as she stared at Ayyonth in bewildered horror. Had he not seen her struggle against the horrible beast's grip? Had he not seen her outrage? Was he so wrapped up in himself he had noticed nothing but the fact that he had lost? Obviously he didn't realise she'd been angling for him! Well, if he were that dense..! Larrikith shrank in on herself, turning her head away from the blue in distress. Not even the warmth of B'jin's pleasant emotions helped the little dragon feel better.

He won. He most certainly won. R’nd’s ego wouldn’t accept anything less given how wonderfully B’jin responded to everything given. Of course if there was a slight chance he hadn’t achieved the goal of showing his friend something new, R’nd saw no issue in trying again and continuing to do so over and over again until the victory was his. In truth, did either of them really lose with each attempt? He said nothing about it however, seeing no need to break the mood he had created with each tender moment and gentle touch and was far too content to catch his breath in bed with B’jin curled up beside him, teasing him with the light dance of fingers. With the brushing back of his hair, R’nd smiled and took B’jin’s hand in his, lowering it to his mouth where he softly kissed the pad of each finger.

This was nice, though on the other side of the wall saw two dragons likely sill having a hissy fit at each other. R’nd found he didn’t really care what the two were up to since the riders were getting along wonderfully as they always did but he did cautiously reach out for Ayyonth and quickly withdrew when he felt the confusion and sorrow the blue was suffering in. R’nd certainly didn’t need either emotion lingering in bed with them! He had finally shaken the confusion of losing a flight – Par’a’s flight! – and felt more like himself and enjoying an afternoon with a friend. That thought, however, made one worrisome little point stand out and while R’nd wanted to ignore it, or at least save it for later, he wondered if it was really wise to do so considering all the circumstances.

R’nd changed positions to lie on his side, elbow resting on the mattress and head cradled in hand so he could fully admire B’jin but also to keep a careful eye out for any brief flickering of emotions. They both seemed like professionals at guarding themselves and while B’jin always seemed so optimistic and friendly, R’nd had quickly caught on to the fact that his friend kept things hidden from everyone and fear seemed to be a dominate hidden emotion. In a previous heart to heart, he had learned it wasn’t him that frightened B’jin but R’nd hadn’t pushed for a proper answer, satisfied with what he had been given and relieved B’jin felt he could start relaxing around him. It was sort of why the issue on his mind had to be addressed before the greenrider came up with the same idea but a different conclusion.

“While I am perfectly content to lie here in silence with you for as long as we can, there’s something I want to make sure you know. I’m fine with rumours and gossip about me but some topics even I don’t like having associated with me,” R’nd paused, knowing it was too late to back out of it now, though he really didn’t want to since there was bound to be talk about him going to B’jin’s after a lost flight which would put his character into question. If people wanted to believe that one, then for the most part, he’d be okay with it but he had to make sure his friends and especially B’jin knew where the truth lie. “I didn’t come here looking to end up in bed with you because Ayyonth didn’t win, though I will never complain when we’re tangled in the sheets together. I was confused and I wanted to go somewhere that brought me comfort… that was a safe haven. I thought of you.”

R’nd wouldn’t be surprised if B’jin laughed at him right then since he knew he had to look startled at his own words. Confessing such a thing wasn’t really something he did as it showed him opening up more which would leave him vulnerable to any well placed attack. But B’jin deserved to hear it and not just because it fit with the tone he had set for his attempt at the challenge issued him. Yes, it was a sweet thing to say, but like all the flowery words R’nd could come up with, he meant it.

For a moment, it seemed like Ayyonth had perhaps achieved R’nd’s level of wordplay but he had said too much and ended up upsetting Larrikith again. At least she wasn’t screaming her hatred again, which was a good place to start. Still, Ayyonth didn’t reply right away but he didn’t move either, opting to stay right where he was, sad eyes watching his friend he couldn’t quite read. There were two things he was sure about since landing at the hut; R’nd was doing well for himself inside and neither dragon knew what they wanted. Did Larrikith hate him and did she want him to stay or go? As to himself, did he want to stay to make up with the feisty green or leave, fed up with the abuse he took from her?

Since he couldn’t make up his mind, he stayed and thought about her indignant comment about the brown and how he factored into the chase. He had been close to winning, if she allowed it, but it was hard to tell with Larrikith’s arrogance during flights and her desire to have B’jin experience as many riders as he could. When the brown came in and took Larrikith, Ayyonth had believed she was playing her usual game and wouldn’t choose him again, especially since he was the last winner. You’re right, Ayyonth began slowly, quietly, when he felt the silence had stretched too long and he had gone over the memories of that day enough times. He did cheat but I was powerless to stop him. And R’nd… well he was very confused and left without pants since B’jin took them. He had to get home in only a towel so I ended up having to tend to him. I’m sorry. Despite the gravity of the situation, Ayyonth’s voice held a note of amusement, almost a laughter, as he retold R’nd’s misfortune of stumbling home with a towel around his waist.

Unknowingly echoing R’nd’s stance that there was still something more that needed to be said, Ayyonth crept a few feet into the room, careful to give Larrikith space still as he didn’t want to seem aggressive or that he was crowding her in for any sinister reasoning. Once more lowering his head to the ground, a sign that he was remorseful and wasn’t about to make any sudden movements, he spoke again with something he felt was the most important thing he could say to the little green he had grown to like far too much, Grith is lovely but she’s nothing compared to you, Larrikith.

B'jin could feel the growing weight of R'nd's ego as he congratulated himself, and found himself highly amused by it. He had had no intention of saying anything to his lover, one way or the other, and even as he watched the subtle cues that indicated R'nd's smug satisfaction, B'jin confirmed his decision to not say a word. But he'd certainly play upon it. R'nd was far too self satisfied, and while he had no desire to deflate the ego he was pretty sure he was suffocating under, B'jin could see it would be a lot of fun to poke at it. But, not right now!

A smile, warm and amused, lifted the corners of B'jin's lips as he watched R'nd kiss his fingers, eyes sparkling before he reclaimed his hand, tapping the bluerider teasingly on the nose with his pointer finger, before B'jin continued the gentle play across his friend's skin. Enjoying the fact that he was being amused by something as simple as watching his friend's unconscious reaction to his touch - muscle twitches, a sudden rush of goose bumps, or little shivers - B'jin wasn't really listening as R'nd began speaking, mostly assuming he was just babbling to fill the silence. Blinking suddenly as one word processed, B'jin looked up with a slight frown. What were they saying about them now?!

His expression irritable, B'jin stilled his wandering fingers and waited with his eyebrows still furrowed for R'nd to pick up after his pause. The words spoken did little to change his expression for the positive; instead, B'jin's features darkened into a glower and he scowled at R'nd. "Honestly R'nd!" B'jin's voice was exasperated and he sat up fluidly, pressing a hand lightly to R'nd's chest to stop his friend following suit right then. "Of all the things they say about us..!" Shaking his head, B'jin rolled his eyes and gave the bluerider a flat look. "The only ones I'm worried about are the ones that will have me seeing nothing but your back from the other side of the Weyr as you try to prove them wrong." An eyebrow arched at R'nd, almost daring him to contest him. B'jin wasn't usually so self assured; hadn't been in so long, but it was proving to be the theme of the day.

B'jin tapped R'nd lightly on the chest and leaned in closer, smiling coyly, brown eyes dark with wicked amusement. "We might want to keep my comfort levels to ourselves. That will start some amazing rumours, my love." Purring out the last two words, B'jin sat back easily with a soft chuckle and made sure he wasn't in a position to be toppling off the bed should R'nd take the opportunity to high-tail it. Of course, if word got out that he saw B'jin and his hut as somewhere safe to be, R'nd would be up to his eyeballs in requests to claim his hut when he moved out. While the idea of R'nd's face in such a scenario was utterly hysterical, the fact that he'd probably never see R'nd again as a result was much less so.

There are two words every girl loves to hear, and Larrikith was no exception. Ayyonth's quiet acknowledgement of the fact that she was, indeed, right (and thus, in her option, justified in her behaviour) probably did far more for the blue dragon's cause than his babble about R'nd being without pants (though perhaps she would share that with B'jin later, he probably hadn't put that puzzle piece together yet) and -- was that an apology for his laughter about his rider or..? Unsure of that one, Larrikith let it slide. She could do that, what with his telling her she was right. Maybe she'd even consent to forgive him before she forgot...

Deciding that she might, possibly, maybe forgive him, the little green dragon picked her head up and turned to watch as Ayyonth crept once more into the room, she considered him, trying to decide exactly how much of his action was genuine, and how much he was playing it up for a faster forgiveness. After all, she felt he was definitely smart enough to play for forgiveness, even if he hadn't quite figured out that's what he was- Oh!

Larrikith's eyes darkened to a deep blue-violet, the two colours swirling together as she stared at Ayyonth with wide eyes, expression as surprised as the tone of her quietly murmured word; Really?

Even though he had anticipated being laughed at, R’nd was still startled by B’jin’s reaction and laid on his back, grey eyes slightly widened, giving away how caught off guard he was. In another situation, he was willing to bet the way B’jin held him down with an assertive hand would have been a turn-on and R’nd would use it to his advantage to further their playing about. Now, however, it baffled him briefly before a flicker of panic went over his features. He hadn’t meant to anger or insult his friend and while B’jin wasn’t truly pinning him down, the hand on his chest was clear enough and he wasn’t intended to sit up and see to the man he had irritated with careless words. A sharp pain went through his chest and while he knew it wasn’t from the pressure of a hand, R’nd didn’t know why it hurt, failing to make the connection between it and panicking over upsetting B’jin.

Suddenly, he wasn’t feeling so comfortable anymore. What was B’jin saying and insinuating? Was his friend upset at being seen as relaxing and used for something so selfish as a moment’s breath without judgement and wanted the presuming bluerider out of his hut? R’nd was halfway to that decision before B’jin’s next words sunk in, leaving him to wonder if he was still in a daze from the missed flight or if he was truly that slow on the uptake. It now sounded like the older rider didn’t want anything to come between them and cut short their fun together. R’nd had no objections to that though the panic hadn’t quite receded just yet. Perhaps it was simply left over from a bout of fear that he had opened himself up too much to the man that understood the benefits of keeping some things to yourself and he had been close to being shoved out of the life of a friend he treasured.

Again, B’jin spoke but it seemed to be even more of riddle and R’nd thought on that statement for a moment. What amazing rumours could come from his confession that being around B’jin was comforting? Comfort could come in multiple forms ranging from food to items to a home. Going with that idea, R’nd placed pieces down in random order until he came up with the line of thought that saw if one generally went home to relax or unwind from an odd day but he went to B’jin’s for that purpose, didn’t it mean that he saw B’jin’s hut filled with children’s toys and beds as an extension of home? Did that make their huts interchangeable? That thought, once it cycled his mind several times and sank in, had R’nd bolting upright and swinging his legs over the edge of the bed for feet to find the floor. Two wobbly steps were taken to where he saw his shirt lying rumpled on the floor but once it was snatched up, R’nd didn’t put it on as the start of a hasty retreat to his hut but stumbled backwards until he was sitting on the bed again.

This time, he didn’t need Ayyonth telling him to stay where he was as he tried to flee the scene. R’nd knew he shouldn’t, couldn’t, go but that didn’t mean he knew what to say. Words failed him horribly when around B’jin, leaving the bluerider feeling inadequate or worrying he had said the wrong thing and could send B’jin clamming up before never opening his door to him again. “You’re right. I’d hate for word to get out,” he finally spoke, albeit softly and staring at his shirt he still held. “Someone else might realise that spending time with you is pretty nice.” R’nd finally glanced up from his shirt to give a small crooked smile to B’jin, opting to go with a slightly flirtatious and light comment than anything serious. They hadn’t quite mastered the delicate art form of serious talks and while R’nd appreciated them when they happened as it showed a mutual trust, he didn’t think he was up for another round now and swept all deeper implications away.

Wait, had B’jin called him ‘my love’? The smile faltered a moment before R’nd decided it was said in jest given the tone of everything else said. He had a feeling he was being teased and likely deserved it.

Ayyonth was distantly aware of R’nd’s discomfort and confusion but left him alone, knowing the man needed to figure some things out on his own. He wasn’t in any danger and as shocked as R’nd seemed to be, he wasn’t running away from the issue which was another step of accomplishment in Ayyonth’s mind. Although, if R’nd had ran out of the hut without his clothes on, it would have been terribly amusing and only served to punctuate the story he had just told Larrikith. Perhaps another time!

He watched Larrikith closely, unsure if his words helped or hindered or if he was about to be swatted for trespassing in her room. Relief washed over him when the feisty green didn’t yell, glare, or attack him but that single word asked so softly as if Larrikith had lost all of her natural self-assurance was as good as a physical blow. He felt horrible for being the cause of her pain and nodded as he stood to properly work his way closer. You are beautiful, funny, and ever-so clever. Once he reached the little green form, Ayyonth sat back down and gave a lick to Larrikith’s cheek. It was possibly a bold move and he was prepared for a negative reaction but it was his final attempt at showing he was sorry before he left her alone if that’s what she wanted.

She had said she hated him, after all.

B'jin was glad he'd sat back when R'nd made a sudden series of motions, and though he'd actually been prepared for his friend to flee the scene, he was less than pleased to see it actually happen. Perhaps that button was somewhat more touchy than he had realised. Frowning irritably (at himself) B'jin watched as R'nd picked up his shirt and seemed to waver for a moment. The greenrider's face altered, becoming a mask of confusion before eyebrows arched up on his forehead as R'nd came tumbling back toward him and plopped down on the edge of the bed.

Pausing delicately where he was sitting, B'jin watched the bluerider's back warily, wondering what was going through the younger man's over active mind. The first words spoken caused a mild flash or both irritation and hurt; what was so bad that R'nd wouldn't want the assumption, anyway?! The following statement, however, caused a snort of amusement as B'jin's face switched to a quirky smile and he eyed R'nd coyly from under his lashes. "That would be a pity." His smile twisted into a smirk. "If we both had fan clubs, we'd never see each other."

Crawling across the bed, B'jin settled himself behind R'nd, a fairly healthy distance between their bodies, one leg alongside R'nd's and the other folded against his friend's back. His hands found purchase on R'nd's shoulders and worked their way down his back, following the flow of shape and muscle. "Your back is lovely," B'jin murmured, following the statement with kisses along his shoulder, and ending it with a nip at the base of the bluerider's neck. "But spending time with me is much nicer." His voice dropped as he shifted slightly, looking up at R'nd wickedly. "Shall I show you?"

Not waiting for an answer, he gave the bluerider a solid shove to the side, pushing him back onto the bed, and tossing the shirt once more onto the floor.

The little green dragon quivered at Ayyonth's lick, before creeping forward, barely raising her body off the ground, the motion submissive and designed not to spook the blue; Larrikith was aware on some level that she could be intimidating, but also that she'd pushed the younger dragon perhaps too far. You are sweet, Larrikith said gently, sitting up slowly and nuzzling against Ayyonth's chest. Though she had intended to say more, the little green paused her words, the silence deep and heavy before she broke it again, her words soft and whispery, were for Ayyonth only. I'm sorry.

Despite all the time they spent together in recent months, R’nd still couldn’t bring himself to confess that he had been a member of B’jin’s fan club since their first time meeting turns ago. He couldn’t find the words and didn’t know what the reaction would be. Would B’jin be amused at having the coveted bluerider interested in him from afar for so long or annoyed that he never said anything back then or after Nemall had been forced out? It didn’t matter either way since it was in the past and like many other things both men kept from others, it could stay there. Besides, the here and now was pretty enjoyable, especially when it involved a hot greenrider peppering kisses along his back which clearly promised more to come.

R’nd knew how nice time spent with B’jin was – though he had been told before as well that his backside was pretty nice and tempting so he had a grasp of appreciation on the distinction. He laughed when his back hit the bed as B’jin showed once again his assertive side that didn’t appear too often but R’nd found it to be a bit of a turn on. He didn’t mind following instead of leading and was more than happy to let his friend guide them to wherever he pleased, however he pleased. “Please do,” R’nd’s voice had lowered into a seductive purr, shirt and all intentions of bolting completely forgotten. One hand slid up B’jin’s arm, grey eyes watching as he did so before turning their gaze to that of brown, “I’ve always preferred the ‘show’ portion of ‘show and tell’.”

Ayyonth knew he could have been a bastard and made Larrikith say her apology again but louder for his own enjoyment or loud enough to include both humans but he was in a selfish and cautious mood so both ideas were thrown out. He was currently at a loss for what to say and settled with a low rumbling moan of happiness that was followed by laying his head atop the little green body while Larrikith nuzzled against his chest. It was nice seeing a softer and even vulnerable side to the sassy minx though it was also a bit weird and not something Ayyonth would strive to bring out regularly. It just made him feel special, wanted, and he was allowed to enjoy the moment, right? Surly he was! So he did so by curling up beside and around the tiny form in their usual cozy sleeping arrangement that seemed to have sprung up as habit somewhere down the road. His intentions were clear; he wasn’t going anywhere until R’nd wanted to leave – which seemed highly unlikely to happen anytime soon – or Larrikith wanted him gone once more.

Now that they were so close and emotions weren’t running rampant in every direction, Ayyonth noticed something potentially off. Larrikith’s mossy green hide wasn’t particularly bright to begin with but still Ayyonth felt it was a bit more muted than usual. A gentle nudge of his head to her round side was given but he made no further attempt to move since curling up with Larrikith seemed too nice to leave, despite the reason. He would offer later on if she wanted to go hunting with him but for now, he sensed they both needed the time together while their bonded had their own alone time.