All the Weyrs of Pern - Chapter Four
Sep. 30th, 2024 07:55 pm![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
kalinara posting in ![[community profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/community.png){kind=small}
i_read_whatSo last time, we got more politicking, found out what Toric is up to and enjoyed the absence of Jaxom.
Sadly, this chapter starts with him. Oh well.
Per the opening paragraph, Jaxom's been hard at work transporting cartons and then personnel. It's probably a "bitch eating crackers" moment, but I can't help but feel like the narrative things Jaxom is too good for this stuff. But to be fair, Jaxom himself hasn't complained yet. So I shouldn't project.
...it's getting hard though:
But Jaxom had made a habit of being accessible, amiable, and helpful. People found it much easier to ask him to oblige than they did other dragons and riders. As Ruth never objected, Jaxom felt constrained to assist whenever they could. Sharra thought it was because he was so determined to be the opposite of his despotic sire, Fax. She felt Jaxom carried this second-generation atonement too far sometimes, and she was quick to interfere if she felt his willingness was being abused. But she was back in Ruatha, and this was rapidly becoming one of those times when amiability was a bloody nuisance.
I mean, has he? I don't remember him being any of those things in White Dragon. If anything, I remember him going off on his own a lot and resenting any time when he had to account for his whereabouts.
And well, okay, I can buy him wanting to make up for Fax. But it'd be nice if any of this had come up in Jaxom's own book. Y'know, when he was exploiting an underling for sex, eventually raped her, then dumped her for enjoying it too much.
Sorry, Jaxom. You may be able to pull a F'lar and win me over, but I'm going to bitch about your misdeeds a lot.
Anyway, Jaxom's hungry now. He thinks about Sharra, but Sharra is pregnant and can't go between. Too bad, I like her a lot more than I like him. He heads to the kitchen "unaware that F'lar was holding the extraordinary meeting, or he would have been there to lend his support".
a) why doesn't he know? Dragons are telepathic and there are both Lord Holders and Weyrleaders at that meeting.
b) what exactly does Jaxom think he'll do? He could barely stand up to Toric without Lessa's backing.
He then remembers that he promised to bring Master Oldive to Landing, so he goes to get him too.
When Ruth and Jaxom arrive at Fort Hold, they're surrounded by chittering fire-lizards who have "demands shrill with warning."
What's the emergency?
Master Oldive doesn’t want you to land in the courtyard, Ruth replied. He says the harpers will latch on to you and he’ll never get to Landing. Ruth sounded puzzled, but Jaxom laughed.
“I should’ve thought of that myself. So what does Master Oldive suggest we do?”
I don’t know. They’ve gone to tell him we’re here. Ruth glided to the far side of the big Harper Hall complex, where they would not be so easily seen from either the Hall or the adjacent Fort Hold.
...I wish I didn't read this as not-so-subtle classism. It's the Harpers' job to know what's going on and to spread news, right? So why exactly are Jaxom and Ruth too important to share info? Oldive has to go to Landing, sure. But there doesn't seem to be a time limit, heck, Jaxom had plenty of time to eat before he even remembered he made that promise.
And why can't a Master like Oldive keep things under control?
“You could have warned me,” Jaxom remonstrated mildly. Ruth had a habit of sharpening up his rider’s reflexes with unexpected maneuvers. The white dragon grunted with satisfaction at the success of his trick as he backwinged to land neatly a length from Master Oldive, who shambled up to them at a surprisingly rapid rate for a man with legs of unequal length and a humped back. He had a large satchel thumping behind his normal shoulder, but he waved a greeting, a huge grin on his face.
This is a cool thing to imagine, but it seems unnecessary. Just to make things more cartoonish:
“Ho, there, Jaxom! I feared that you’d forgotten me in all the furor.” He leaned against Ruth for a moment to recover his breath. “I’m not as fit as I think I am,” he said. They both heard the shouts and saw folk in harper blue charging out of the courtyard archway. “Quickly. If they catch you, we’ll never leave.”
I imagine some of those folks throwing their hats down and shaking their fists.
So they fly back. Oldive doesn't recognize the place. Jaxom agrees, pointing out improvements. Apparently Esselin, for all that he's the butt of things, did succeed in getting an annex up. Oldive is impressed that they're using the old buildings - F'lar's suggestion apparently, but really, why wouldn't you?
Oldive is amazed by the number of dragons, asking if all the Weyrleaders are there. Yes, basically. Though I suppose, given the ability to teleport and time travel, the Weyrleaders don't really have to stay in their Weyrs after all.
They chat about Aivas's promise to help obliterate Thread, both find it hard to imagine how that could happen, but they hope to know. Jaxom decides to kvetch:
“I don’t exactly know.” Jaxom shrugged, experiencing another surge of annoyance at being out of things so far that day. “I was hoping to find out more this morning, but I’ve been otherwise occupied.”
Yeah, well, you didn't keep up with the fact that there was a meeting. And since you're apparently not necessary to run your Hold, and aren't going to be flying Thread, then you ought to be fucking useful.
Oldive is sympathetic to Jaxom, the way no one is sympathetic to Esselin, Breide, or any of the people doing real work. Sorry, sorry. I'm being mean unjustifiably, and I will try to stop.
Jaxom does do something legitimately helpful, and without complaining, when he asks Oldive to ask Aivas about a few of Sharra's patients. And I'd be happier about this if we didn't IMMEDIATELY get to hear how selfless Jaxom is by asking:
“They are first on my list, I assure you, Jaxom. Marvelous woman, Sharra, always giving of her own energies and as selfless as you are yourself!”
Seriously, how is Jaxom any more selfless than literally anyone else here? Piemur and Jancis have been scanning and doing tech stuff all day. The Weyrleaders are trying to stop fucking Thread from KILLING people. Jaxom asked about two guys important to his wife.
It's not Jaxom's fault, but damnit, McCaffrey, just let me react to the actual selfless things he does without shilling them.
Jaxom is at least embarrassed by the praise, admitting to himself that he'd rather have spent the time learning new things from Aivas.
They go in, noting the appalling noise from Esselin's craftsmen, but also that progress was made. They can hear F'lar, T'gellan and R'mart having a lively conversation. Then they head to Aivas, where Jaxom gets to whine more:
Jaxom rapped on the door in a courteous warning and then opened it on a scene of great industry, which only served to reinforce his niggling resentment. Seated in front of a table made of a board supported by empty cartons, Piemur, Jancis, and Benelek were crouched over the units that he had helped resurrect from the Catherine Caves. And, adding insult to his sense of injury, the sharding things were working. His three friends were tapping away industriously at the keyboard units in front of them. He inhaled deeply through his nostrils to disperse his pique: a reaction he found unacceptable in himself.
I mean, at least you realize it. But dickwad, you're a LORD with a DRAGON. These people are doing a job that you'd rather be doing, understandable, but they can't do your job, so deal. Perks come with responsibility.
God damnit.
Piemur craned his neck around to see who had entered. “Good day to you, Master Oldive. Welcome to the hallowed Aivas chamber. Where’ve you been all day, Jaxom?”
“I see you’ve made good use of your time,” Jaxom replied, trying very hard to neutralize his ill feelings and not quite succeeding. He caught Oldive’s sideways glance and made himself smile. “But I’m here now, and you can teach me what I need to know.”
You're taking a long time getting rid of those unacceptable feelings, dude.
Piemur and Benelek want to leave Jaxom to learn directly from Aivas (which is what he wanted anyway, right?), while Jancis decides she'll help him. She also suggests they move into another room, as she's too squeamish to want to hear the medical details that Oldive will be discussing with Aivas.
Piemur agrees quickly enough, while Benelek grumbles sourly at the interruption. Somehow this doesn't come across nearly as sympathetic as Jaxom's grumbling. I wonder why.
Jaxom asks if he should get a Weyrleader to introduce Oldive, but Piemur explains it's not needed. Jaxom actually isn't resentful of this. It's petty to note this, but it's like the first paragraph where his reaction wasn't mentioned, so it's noteworthy.
So introductions. Aivas greets Oldive warmly, which disorients him a bit. Jaxom explains that Aivas is basically all around in the room, which is fair, but maybe they could set up a screen or image to talk to? But then this is armchair suggesting, I don't blame the characters for not thinking of that.
There's a notable bit where Aivas actually jokes with Piemur, startling everyone. He's being more human-like all the time.
So anyway, Oldive gets to chat with Aivas and learn about what he knows. There's a lot:
“The memory banks of this facility contain the most comprehensive data available at the time the colony ships set out for their destination of the Rukbat system. That includes medical information.”
“May I ask how that information is organized?”
“Basic anatomy, microanatomy, physiology, autocrinology, medical biochemistry, and many more categories, such as immunology and neuropathology—which, it is fair to suggest, may no longer be known to you.”
...interesting note about immunology, after reading Moreta. But then that was three Passes ago.
Anyway, Oldive is humbled, but Aivas reassures him:
“You distress yourself unnecessarily, Master Oldive, for all those whom I have met so far are in excellent health and well above what was considered normal weight and height by the medical standards of your ancestors. There is much to be said for a nonindustrialized civilization.”
Um. I feel like this is related to MZB glorifying Darkover's nonsensical feudal agrarian society. But, while I'm no expert, I think it's fairly generally known that we, in our industrialized civilization, are on a whole much taller and larger than our pre-industrial ancestors.
If you know better, please tell me. And maybe that's specific just to American culture. But one thing that always gets commented on when we go to museums and the like is how much SMALLER a lot of things are.
Oh, here's the alleged explanation:
“Thank you. Why would an industrialized society produce less healthy folk?”
“Pollution of the atmosphere and environment by industrial wastes, noxious fumes, chemical effluents, contamination of field-grown edibles, among other evils.”
Master Oldive was speechless.
“Those who settled Pern wished to found an agrarian society. To that end they were receptive to many anti-industrial cultures, like the ancient [Roma], as well as retired military types. Their objective has been attained in this, your present,” Aivas said.
...why retired military types? How does that fit in with an "anti-industrial culture"?
I mean, obviously that's who McCaffrey chose as colonists, but I figured that was more about a "tired of wars and fighting" than some kind of generalization about fighting.
I also think that Emily Boll would disagree with you, Aivas. The agrarian part is fine, but I think she'd be displeased at the feudalism and role of women.
Oldive though is thinking about the loss in medical advancement, and that's a fair point. Going back to pre-industrial times isn't a bad notion, for the folks who want that, as the Ancient Pernese did (except maybe Bitra and Ted...but even Ted's rebellion only took place once the rainy death killed his daughter). But it'd be nice to find a way to have that AND keep the good medicines.
Anyway, Oldive changes subject to ask about the patients, and we cut away to Jaxom and company.
And it looks like we're not supposed to like Benelek either. Oh well. I will say, this book has been better about introducing characters that are COMPETENT even when we're supposed to dislike them. Esselin's getting shit done. Benelek too. I appreciate that.
“What’re you doing?” Jaxom asked, mystified by the way the others were intently regarding their gray screens. Aivas’s main screen was not at all like these smaller ones.
Benelek gave a snort of impatience and bent further over the board. He pecked about with his index fingers in no pattern that Jaxom could discern.
See?
Anyway, Piemur explains. They're becoming familiar with the keyboard configurations. Basically, they're taking typing class. And I see why Piemur and Benelek are saying Jaxom needs to learn on his own, because yeah, that's a muscle memory and orientation thing.
Jancis thinks Piemur is being mean, so she starts explaining about how the computer - and it's clear that's what we're talking about is set up.
Meanwhile Benelek suddenly gets upset, he thinks he's lost his whole exercise. Piemur's surprised by the outburst, recommending he reboot. Jancis asks if he saved, and his frustration dissipates as he realizes that he can get most of the work back.
We've all been there.
Still, while I appreciate this relatable moment, I'm not sure I really needed to see these characters take typing class. I feel like this could be accomplished off page. But the interactions are cute.
But is Jaxom happy now that he's where he wants to be?
“Aivas did say we’d have to learn many new skills,” Jancis said reasonably. “Oh, shards! I’ve done something wrong now, too.” She peered at the blank screen, then frowned down at the keyboard. “Now what key did I press that I shouldn’t have?”
As he drew his beltknife, Jaxom wondered just why he wanted any part of what was obviously an occupation fraught with frustrations.
Of course not. Fuck that dude.
So it gets to be evening. Piemur, Benelek, Jaxom and Jancis are still working. Lessa appears to call Jaxom away, as Oldive needs him. She does note that all of them look pretty wretched though.
Benelek earns my respect for actually trying to argue with Lessa. He fails of course, but look at this courage:
Benelek glanced up only briefly. “This is no time to stop, Weyrwoman.”
“This is the time to stop, Benelek,” she replied in an uncontradictable tone.
“But, Weyrwoman, I’ve got to assimilate all these new terms and be able to—”
“Aivas!” Lessa raised her voice as she turned her head to the right. “Can you turn these things off? Your students are too diligent. Not that I don’t approve—in theory—but they could all use a good night’s rest.”
“I didn’t save—” Benelek shouted, spreading his hands in high indignation and staring in horror at a suddenly darkened and unresponsive screen.
“Your work has been saved,” Aivas’s voice assured him. “You have toiled without renewing yourself all day long, Journeyman Benelek. Even machines need maintenance. Your body can be considered a soft machine which also needs frequent sustenance. Refresh yourselves. Return tomorrow with energy and concentration renewed.”
For a few seconds Benelek looked as if he might rebel. Then he sighed and pushed himself back from the table over which he had been bent for hours. He gave Lessa a sheepish grin. “I will eat and rest. And begin again tomorrow—but there is so much to be learned, so much more than I ever imagined.”
I think Benelek is my new favorite. And that was a nice humanizing moment at the end. Maybe I'm not giving McCaffrey enough credit. He may not be a "we're supposed to hate this guy" type after all.
Oldive is also amazed at how much there is to learn. Lessa meanwhile makes a point of getting him caffeinated enough to go home. Ruth fusses too, urging Jaxom to eat, as he's been working for six hours.
Which means, since the others had half a day's head start, they've been working for like nine. But Jaxom doesn't think about that. To be fair, he's tired. A happy Terry is ready to have his turn with Aivas next.
Jaxom, of course, resents Terry and his minions' energy, but realizes they're from Tillek, so this is still early in the day for them. Hah, that's actually quite clever scheduling.
So everyone's eating and quite happy and excited and making plans. Oldive, actually, wants to go to Ruatha, because he has some advice to give to Sharra. They're not sure if they have a cure yet, but they have new avenues to explore. He asks how he might arrange more time with Aivas.
Apparently F'lar and Lessa (both looking tired) haven't actually been intentionally scheduling folks. Piemur points out that once they finish with the individual stations, those can be used as well. Benelek disagrees, saying that they're teaching consoles. And, oh well, may have spoke too soon:
“For us, maybe,” Piemur said. “But if they access Aivas, then they can be used for other purposes. At least that’s what I figure.”
“You’re a harper, not a journeyman mechanic.”
“I’m a Mastersmith,” Jancis put in, her tone edged, “and let me remind you that Piemur got his unit up and running before either of us did.”
Lessa, love her so much, gets annoyed at all of them and orders them, and herself and F'lar out, to get some rest in the two buildings that have been set up as dormitories. Hah.
Oldive is still contemplative, wondering if they know where Earth is relative to Pern. Jaxom doesn't think so. Aivas didn't share it, and Jaxom wonders if maybe he didn't want to, and...huh?
“I don’t think so,” Jaxom replied in mild surprise. “I don’t remember that Aivas gave the direction. Maybe he didn’t want to. Our ancestors came here to escape a war, a conflict of such scope and dimensions, waged against an evil far more destructive than Thread, that they wanted to forget Earth.”
Where the hell did Jaxom get that idea?
I mean, I READ Dragonsdawn, it's only two books earlier. There HAD been a war, but by the sound of it, the war was already finished. Boll and Benden were retiring. But okay, fine. It's not fair to expect Jaxom to know everything right away.
Both Oldive and Jaxom find it hard to imagine something more destructive than Thread. Me too. That's a new idea. And going by the fact that Ted at least was hoping for rescue, I think is inaccurate.
Anyway, we get a cute bit where Ruth complains about Ramoth bossing him around, while Jaxom is clumsy with fatigue. If there was any justice in the world, they'd pull a Moreta and vanish forever. But I'm not so lucky.
Instead, they're met by an enthusiastic Sharra, who takes charge of everything. Admittedly, she seems pretty happy up North, but I still feel like it's a bit of a shame given how much she loved the Southern Continent.
Brand is still around, and named Jaxom's friend since childhood and most valued assistant. Jaxom invites him to stay, while Oldive fills Sharra in. Admittedly, it sounds bad:
“My dear, your female patient is suffering a gall bladder malfunction,” the old healer told Sharra. “Unfortunately, the man appears to have a cancerous growth, as we suspected. We can cure the one, for I have been given a specific medication for dissolving the gravel within the organ, but we can only ease the other from life.” Master Oldive paused, his eyes wide and bright with excitement. “Aivas has the most extraordinary fund of medical information, which he is quite willing to impart to us. He can even help us revive corrective surgical procedures, which you know I have yearned to do. Our Craft may have been limited to repair surgeries for lack of proper training, but he can help us recover much of that lost skill.”
“That would be wonderful, Master, but would we be able to overcome the prejudice in the Hall about intrusive measures?” Sharra exclaimed, her face mirroring her hope.
“Now that we have a mentor of unquestionable probity, I think that once we have proved the benefits to patients who will not mend without drastic measures, we can overcome those scruples.” He drained his cup and resolutely rose to his feet. “A few moments in your infirmary, my dear Sharra, and we shall have the medication for your gall bladder sufferer. The other poor wight . . .” Oldive shrugged, his expression deeply compassionate.
I'm intrigued by this glimpse at Healer Hall politics.
Jaxom and Sharra engage some flirty banter before she goes to consult, while he and Brand discuss Aivas. Like everyone else, Brand's first question, understandably, is if Aivas said how they'll eliminate Thread. The answer is the same: not yet, they've got a lot to learn.
Brand, grinning, asks if this means Jaxom will be frequently away and Jaxom has the fucking nerve to be defensive:
“Another way of telling me you’ll frequently be away from the Hold?” Brand asked, grinning.
“Well, apart from overseeing Falls, there’s not much to do right now in the depths of winter, is there?” Jaxom replied defensively.
Brand laughed and, with the familiarity of their long and close relationship, clapped Jaxom on the shoulder. “That there isn’t, lad. I’d be happy to learn if Aivas knows any way of heating stone-cold holds.”
Have we EVER seen this guy do his actual job? Ever? I think Brand is lying to him just to keep him out of his hair.
Anyway, Brand has the thought of asking if Aivas has any tips on heating stone cold holds. The chapter ends with Jaxom promising to ask.
Sadly, this chapter starts with him. Oh well.
Per the opening paragraph, Jaxom's been hard at work transporting cartons and then personnel. It's probably a "bitch eating crackers" moment, but I can't help but feel like the narrative things Jaxom is too good for this stuff. But to be fair, Jaxom himself hasn't complained yet. So I shouldn't project.
...it's getting hard though:
But Jaxom had made a habit of being accessible, amiable, and helpful. People found it much easier to ask him to oblige than they did other dragons and riders. As Ruth never objected, Jaxom felt constrained to assist whenever they could. Sharra thought it was because he was so determined to be the opposite of his despotic sire, Fax. She felt Jaxom carried this second-generation atonement too far sometimes, and she was quick to interfere if she felt his willingness was being abused. But she was back in Ruatha, and this was rapidly becoming one of those times when amiability was a bloody nuisance.
I mean, has he? I don't remember him being any of those things in White Dragon. If anything, I remember him going off on his own a lot and resenting any time when he had to account for his whereabouts.
And well, okay, I can buy him wanting to make up for Fax. But it'd be nice if any of this had come up in Jaxom's own book. Y'know, when he was exploiting an underling for sex, eventually raped her, then dumped her for enjoying it too much.
Sorry, Jaxom. You may be able to pull a F'lar and win me over, but I'm going to bitch about your misdeeds a lot.
Anyway, Jaxom's hungry now. He thinks about Sharra, but Sharra is pregnant and can't go between. Too bad, I like her a lot more than I like him. He heads to the kitchen "unaware that F'lar was holding the extraordinary meeting, or he would have been there to lend his support".
a) why doesn't he know? Dragons are telepathic and there are both Lord Holders and Weyrleaders at that meeting.
b) what exactly does Jaxom think he'll do? He could barely stand up to Toric without Lessa's backing.
He then remembers that he promised to bring Master Oldive to Landing, so he goes to get him too.
When Ruth and Jaxom arrive at Fort Hold, they're surrounded by chittering fire-lizards who have "demands shrill with warning."
What's the emergency?
Master Oldive doesn’t want you to land in the courtyard, Ruth replied. He says the harpers will latch on to you and he’ll never get to Landing. Ruth sounded puzzled, but Jaxom laughed.
“I should’ve thought of that myself. So what does Master Oldive suggest we do?”
I don’t know. They’ve gone to tell him we’re here. Ruth glided to the far side of the big Harper Hall complex, where they would not be so easily seen from either the Hall or the adjacent Fort Hold.
...I wish I didn't read this as not-so-subtle classism. It's the Harpers' job to know what's going on and to spread news, right? So why exactly are Jaxom and Ruth too important to share info? Oldive has to go to Landing, sure. But there doesn't seem to be a time limit, heck, Jaxom had plenty of time to eat before he even remembered he made that promise.
And why can't a Master like Oldive keep things under control?
“You could have warned me,” Jaxom remonstrated mildly. Ruth had a habit of sharpening up his rider’s reflexes with unexpected maneuvers. The white dragon grunted with satisfaction at the success of his trick as he backwinged to land neatly a length from Master Oldive, who shambled up to them at a surprisingly rapid rate for a man with legs of unequal length and a humped back. He had a large satchel thumping behind his normal shoulder, but he waved a greeting, a huge grin on his face.
This is a cool thing to imagine, but it seems unnecessary. Just to make things more cartoonish:
“Ho, there, Jaxom! I feared that you’d forgotten me in all the furor.” He leaned against Ruth for a moment to recover his breath. “I’m not as fit as I think I am,” he said. They both heard the shouts and saw folk in harper blue charging out of the courtyard archway. “Quickly. If they catch you, we’ll never leave.”
I imagine some of those folks throwing their hats down and shaking their fists.
So they fly back. Oldive doesn't recognize the place. Jaxom agrees, pointing out improvements. Apparently Esselin, for all that he's the butt of things, did succeed in getting an annex up. Oldive is impressed that they're using the old buildings - F'lar's suggestion apparently, but really, why wouldn't you?
Oldive is amazed by the number of dragons, asking if all the Weyrleaders are there. Yes, basically. Though I suppose, given the ability to teleport and time travel, the Weyrleaders don't really have to stay in their Weyrs after all.
They chat about Aivas's promise to help obliterate Thread, both find it hard to imagine how that could happen, but they hope to know. Jaxom decides to kvetch:
“I don’t exactly know.” Jaxom shrugged, experiencing another surge of annoyance at being out of things so far that day. “I was hoping to find out more this morning, but I’ve been otherwise occupied.”
Yeah, well, you didn't keep up with the fact that there was a meeting. And since you're apparently not necessary to run your Hold, and aren't going to be flying Thread, then you ought to be fucking useful.
Oldive is sympathetic to Jaxom, the way no one is sympathetic to Esselin, Breide, or any of the people doing real work. Sorry, sorry. I'm being mean unjustifiably, and I will try to stop.
Jaxom does do something legitimately helpful, and without complaining, when he asks Oldive to ask Aivas about a few of Sharra's patients. And I'd be happier about this if we didn't IMMEDIATELY get to hear how selfless Jaxom is by asking:
“They are first on my list, I assure you, Jaxom. Marvelous woman, Sharra, always giving of her own energies and as selfless as you are yourself!”
Seriously, how is Jaxom any more selfless than literally anyone else here? Piemur and Jancis have been scanning and doing tech stuff all day. The Weyrleaders are trying to stop fucking Thread from KILLING people. Jaxom asked about two guys important to his wife.
It's not Jaxom's fault, but damnit, McCaffrey, just let me react to the actual selfless things he does without shilling them.
Jaxom is at least embarrassed by the praise, admitting to himself that he'd rather have spent the time learning new things from Aivas.
They go in, noting the appalling noise from Esselin's craftsmen, but also that progress was made. They can hear F'lar, T'gellan and R'mart having a lively conversation. Then they head to Aivas, where Jaxom gets to whine more:
Jaxom rapped on the door in a courteous warning and then opened it on a scene of great industry, which only served to reinforce his niggling resentment. Seated in front of a table made of a board supported by empty cartons, Piemur, Jancis, and Benelek were crouched over the units that he had helped resurrect from the Catherine Caves. And, adding insult to his sense of injury, the sharding things were working. His three friends were tapping away industriously at the keyboard units in front of them. He inhaled deeply through his nostrils to disperse his pique: a reaction he found unacceptable in himself.
I mean, at least you realize it. But dickwad, you're a LORD with a DRAGON. These people are doing a job that you'd rather be doing, understandable, but they can't do your job, so deal. Perks come with responsibility.
God damnit.
Piemur craned his neck around to see who had entered. “Good day to you, Master Oldive. Welcome to the hallowed Aivas chamber. Where’ve you been all day, Jaxom?”
“I see you’ve made good use of your time,” Jaxom replied, trying very hard to neutralize his ill feelings and not quite succeeding. He caught Oldive’s sideways glance and made himself smile. “But I’m here now, and you can teach me what I need to know.”
You're taking a long time getting rid of those unacceptable feelings, dude.
Piemur and Benelek want to leave Jaxom to learn directly from Aivas (which is what he wanted anyway, right?), while Jancis decides she'll help him. She also suggests they move into another room, as she's too squeamish to want to hear the medical details that Oldive will be discussing with Aivas.
Piemur agrees quickly enough, while Benelek grumbles sourly at the interruption. Somehow this doesn't come across nearly as sympathetic as Jaxom's grumbling. I wonder why.
Jaxom asks if he should get a Weyrleader to introduce Oldive, but Piemur explains it's not needed. Jaxom actually isn't resentful of this. It's petty to note this, but it's like the first paragraph where his reaction wasn't mentioned, so it's noteworthy.
So introductions. Aivas greets Oldive warmly, which disorients him a bit. Jaxom explains that Aivas is basically all around in the room, which is fair, but maybe they could set up a screen or image to talk to? But then this is armchair suggesting, I don't blame the characters for not thinking of that.
There's a notable bit where Aivas actually jokes with Piemur, startling everyone. He's being more human-like all the time.
So anyway, Oldive gets to chat with Aivas and learn about what he knows. There's a lot:
“The memory banks of this facility contain the most comprehensive data available at the time the colony ships set out for their destination of the Rukbat system. That includes medical information.”
“May I ask how that information is organized?”
“Basic anatomy, microanatomy, physiology, autocrinology, medical biochemistry, and many more categories, such as immunology and neuropathology—which, it is fair to suggest, may no longer be known to you.”
...interesting note about immunology, after reading Moreta. But then that was three Passes ago.
Anyway, Oldive is humbled, but Aivas reassures him:
“You distress yourself unnecessarily, Master Oldive, for all those whom I have met so far are in excellent health and well above what was considered normal weight and height by the medical standards of your ancestors. There is much to be said for a nonindustrialized civilization.”
Um. I feel like this is related to MZB glorifying Darkover's nonsensical feudal agrarian society. But, while I'm no expert, I think it's fairly generally known that we, in our industrialized civilization, are on a whole much taller and larger than our pre-industrial ancestors.
If you know better, please tell me. And maybe that's specific just to American culture. But one thing that always gets commented on when we go to museums and the like is how much SMALLER a lot of things are.
Oh, here's the alleged explanation:
“Thank you. Why would an industrialized society produce less healthy folk?”
“Pollution of the atmosphere and environment by industrial wastes, noxious fumes, chemical effluents, contamination of field-grown edibles, among other evils.”
Master Oldive was speechless.
“Those who settled Pern wished to found an agrarian society. To that end they were receptive to many anti-industrial cultures, like the ancient [Roma], as well as retired military types. Their objective has been attained in this, your present,” Aivas said.
...why retired military types? How does that fit in with an "anti-industrial culture"?
I mean, obviously that's who McCaffrey chose as colonists, but I figured that was more about a "tired of wars and fighting" than some kind of generalization about fighting.
I also think that Emily Boll would disagree with you, Aivas. The agrarian part is fine, but I think she'd be displeased at the feudalism and role of women.
Oldive though is thinking about the loss in medical advancement, and that's a fair point. Going back to pre-industrial times isn't a bad notion, for the folks who want that, as the Ancient Pernese did (except maybe Bitra and Ted...but even Ted's rebellion only took place once the rainy death killed his daughter). But it'd be nice to find a way to have that AND keep the good medicines.
Anyway, Oldive changes subject to ask about the patients, and we cut away to Jaxom and company.
And it looks like we're not supposed to like Benelek either. Oh well. I will say, this book has been better about introducing characters that are COMPETENT even when we're supposed to dislike them. Esselin's getting shit done. Benelek too. I appreciate that.
“What’re you doing?” Jaxom asked, mystified by the way the others were intently regarding their gray screens. Aivas’s main screen was not at all like these smaller ones.
Benelek gave a snort of impatience and bent further over the board. He pecked about with his index fingers in no pattern that Jaxom could discern.
See?
Anyway, Piemur explains. They're becoming familiar with the keyboard configurations. Basically, they're taking typing class. And I see why Piemur and Benelek are saying Jaxom needs to learn on his own, because yeah, that's a muscle memory and orientation thing.
Jancis thinks Piemur is being mean, so she starts explaining about how the computer - and it's clear that's what we're talking about is set up.
Meanwhile Benelek suddenly gets upset, he thinks he's lost his whole exercise. Piemur's surprised by the outburst, recommending he reboot. Jancis asks if he saved, and his frustration dissipates as he realizes that he can get most of the work back.
We've all been there.
Still, while I appreciate this relatable moment, I'm not sure I really needed to see these characters take typing class. I feel like this could be accomplished off page. But the interactions are cute.
But is Jaxom happy now that he's where he wants to be?
“Aivas did say we’d have to learn many new skills,” Jancis said reasonably. “Oh, shards! I’ve done something wrong now, too.” She peered at the blank screen, then frowned down at the keyboard. “Now what key did I press that I shouldn’t have?”
As he drew his beltknife, Jaxom wondered just why he wanted any part of what was obviously an occupation fraught with frustrations.
Of course not. Fuck that dude.
So it gets to be evening. Piemur, Benelek, Jaxom and Jancis are still working. Lessa appears to call Jaxom away, as Oldive needs him. She does note that all of them look pretty wretched though.
Benelek earns my respect for actually trying to argue with Lessa. He fails of course, but look at this courage:
Benelek glanced up only briefly. “This is no time to stop, Weyrwoman.”
“This is the time to stop, Benelek,” she replied in an uncontradictable tone.
“But, Weyrwoman, I’ve got to assimilate all these new terms and be able to—”
“Aivas!” Lessa raised her voice as she turned her head to the right. “Can you turn these things off? Your students are too diligent. Not that I don’t approve—in theory—but they could all use a good night’s rest.”
“I didn’t save—” Benelek shouted, spreading his hands in high indignation and staring in horror at a suddenly darkened and unresponsive screen.
“Your work has been saved,” Aivas’s voice assured him. “You have toiled without renewing yourself all day long, Journeyman Benelek. Even machines need maintenance. Your body can be considered a soft machine which also needs frequent sustenance. Refresh yourselves. Return tomorrow with energy and concentration renewed.”
For a few seconds Benelek looked as if he might rebel. Then he sighed and pushed himself back from the table over which he had been bent for hours. He gave Lessa a sheepish grin. “I will eat and rest. And begin again tomorrow—but there is so much to be learned, so much more than I ever imagined.”
I think Benelek is my new favorite. And that was a nice humanizing moment at the end. Maybe I'm not giving McCaffrey enough credit. He may not be a "we're supposed to hate this guy" type after all.
Oldive is also amazed at how much there is to learn. Lessa meanwhile makes a point of getting him caffeinated enough to go home. Ruth fusses too, urging Jaxom to eat, as he's been working for six hours.
Which means, since the others had half a day's head start, they've been working for like nine. But Jaxom doesn't think about that. To be fair, he's tired. A happy Terry is ready to have his turn with Aivas next.
Jaxom, of course, resents Terry and his minions' energy, but realizes they're from Tillek, so this is still early in the day for them. Hah, that's actually quite clever scheduling.
So everyone's eating and quite happy and excited and making plans. Oldive, actually, wants to go to Ruatha, because he has some advice to give to Sharra. They're not sure if they have a cure yet, but they have new avenues to explore. He asks how he might arrange more time with Aivas.
Apparently F'lar and Lessa (both looking tired) haven't actually been intentionally scheduling folks. Piemur points out that once they finish with the individual stations, those can be used as well. Benelek disagrees, saying that they're teaching consoles. And, oh well, may have spoke too soon:
“For us, maybe,” Piemur said. “But if they access Aivas, then they can be used for other purposes. At least that’s what I figure.”
“You’re a harper, not a journeyman mechanic.”
“I’m a Mastersmith,” Jancis put in, her tone edged, “and let me remind you that Piemur got his unit up and running before either of us did.”
Lessa, love her so much, gets annoyed at all of them and orders them, and herself and F'lar out, to get some rest in the two buildings that have been set up as dormitories. Hah.
Oldive is still contemplative, wondering if they know where Earth is relative to Pern. Jaxom doesn't think so. Aivas didn't share it, and Jaxom wonders if maybe he didn't want to, and...huh?
“I don’t think so,” Jaxom replied in mild surprise. “I don’t remember that Aivas gave the direction. Maybe he didn’t want to. Our ancestors came here to escape a war, a conflict of such scope and dimensions, waged against an evil far more destructive than Thread, that they wanted to forget Earth.”
Where the hell did Jaxom get that idea?
I mean, I READ Dragonsdawn, it's only two books earlier. There HAD been a war, but by the sound of it, the war was already finished. Boll and Benden were retiring. But okay, fine. It's not fair to expect Jaxom to know everything right away.
Both Oldive and Jaxom find it hard to imagine something more destructive than Thread. Me too. That's a new idea. And going by the fact that Ted at least was hoping for rescue, I think is inaccurate.
Anyway, we get a cute bit where Ruth complains about Ramoth bossing him around, while Jaxom is clumsy with fatigue. If there was any justice in the world, they'd pull a Moreta and vanish forever. But I'm not so lucky.
Instead, they're met by an enthusiastic Sharra, who takes charge of everything. Admittedly, she seems pretty happy up North, but I still feel like it's a bit of a shame given how much she loved the Southern Continent.
Brand is still around, and named Jaxom's friend since childhood and most valued assistant. Jaxom invites him to stay, while Oldive fills Sharra in. Admittedly, it sounds bad:
“My dear, your female patient is suffering a gall bladder malfunction,” the old healer told Sharra. “Unfortunately, the man appears to have a cancerous growth, as we suspected. We can cure the one, for I have been given a specific medication for dissolving the gravel within the organ, but we can only ease the other from life.” Master Oldive paused, his eyes wide and bright with excitement. “Aivas has the most extraordinary fund of medical information, which he is quite willing to impart to us. He can even help us revive corrective surgical procedures, which you know I have yearned to do. Our Craft may have been limited to repair surgeries for lack of proper training, but he can help us recover much of that lost skill.”
“That would be wonderful, Master, but would we be able to overcome the prejudice in the Hall about intrusive measures?” Sharra exclaimed, her face mirroring her hope.
“Now that we have a mentor of unquestionable probity, I think that once we have proved the benefits to patients who will not mend without drastic measures, we can overcome those scruples.” He drained his cup and resolutely rose to his feet. “A few moments in your infirmary, my dear Sharra, and we shall have the medication for your gall bladder sufferer. The other poor wight . . .” Oldive shrugged, his expression deeply compassionate.
I'm intrigued by this glimpse at Healer Hall politics.
Jaxom and Sharra engage some flirty banter before she goes to consult, while he and Brand discuss Aivas. Like everyone else, Brand's first question, understandably, is if Aivas said how they'll eliminate Thread. The answer is the same: not yet, they've got a lot to learn.
Brand, grinning, asks if this means Jaxom will be frequently away and Jaxom has the fucking nerve to be defensive:
“Another way of telling me you’ll frequently be away from the Hold?” Brand asked, grinning.
“Well, apart from overseeing Falls, there’s not much to do right now in the depths of winter, is there?” Jaxom replied defensively.
Brand laughed and, with the familiarity of their long and close relationship, clapped Jaxom on the shoulder. “That there isn’t, lad. I’d be happy to learn if Aivas knows any way of heating stone-cold holds.”
Have we EVER seen this guy do his actual job? Ever? I think Brand is lying to him just to keep him out of his hair.
Anyway, Brand has the thought of asking if Aivas has any tips on heating stone cold holds. The chapter ends with Jaxom promising to ask.