Interview With The Hallmaster (2)

Writers: Jane, Francesca
Date Posted: 30th June 2009

Characters: Taraglan, Leisenn
Description: Leisenn speaks with Taraglan about the available Hallsecond position.
Location: Dolphin Hall
Date: month 3, day 9 of Turn 5

Taraglan stepped into the Hallmaster's office, looking at the desk, the chairs, and the large windows. "This is a nice view," he commented. He could see the brown dragon that had transported him to the Hall. He seemed to be enjoying himself in the water.

"There's nothing too shoddy about any of the views," Leisenn admitted, waving the other dolphineer into one of the chairs. She settled herself in the other, rather than take up her usual seat behind the desk. There was nothing she needed to refer to during this conversation, and no notes she needed to take. What she needed to know was whether she could work with the man or not; nothing was as much an issue as that. "Because of the design of the Hold in the cliff at the back of the bay. But these rooms are the nicest, I suppose." The windows were more expansive, with wide window seats at a comfortable height in each. "Now, Taraglan, tell me a little about yourself and your family. I know a little about your craft progression and interests already."

Taraglan gathered his thoughts for a moment before speaking. "I have spent my whole life near water, first at a minor seahold and then at the Northern Hall. A traveled a bit after walking the tables, but chose to remain close to the Hall after marrying to be with to my wife and children as much as possible. Part of the reason I accepted the Master of Apprentices position five Turns ago was that it ensured that all my work would be within the Hall. I also enjoy hidework," he said, smiling, "especially when it is done and I can file it away. My favorite part of my current job is when an apprentice develops a true passion for an aspect of the craft; something that gives them an appetite for exploring whatever that interest is.

"As for my family, my wife is a Journeyman Harper. She works in the archives at the Northern Dolphin Hall and assists with harper classes. We have five children, three who would be moving here. One is a senior apprentice and the other a junior apprentice in the craft. The youngest is seven Turns. They are all very curious to see this Hall." In truth, the boys

were more apprehensive than curious. "Do you have any specific questions?"

"I do. How does your wife - as a craftswoman - and any daughters feel about the move?" With a family-oriented man, as Taraglan seemed to be stating he was, the success or failure of the posting could rest as much with the family's ability to fit in as his own.

He nodded, glad the Hallmaster was bringing this up. "Kaimi, the youngest, doesn't quite understand that we might be moving. She is just excited to see dragons. My wife, Leiana, is concerned. We are reassured by the number of dolphineers from the North, the proximity to the Weyr, and the fact that a female Hallmaster has been accepted. However, we are wondering if everyone in the Hall is accepting of female crafters and what interactions are between the Hall and nearby Holds. Actually, Leiana is hoping to be able to meet with you to hear your thoughts and experiences."

"I don't know that I'm a good example of a Southern craftswoman," Leisenn admitted. "I'm still in my craft because I was old enough and senior enough not to be affected by the Craft Ban. But your wife would be welcome to speak with our journeywomen dolphineers - and I'm sure the Weyr harpers would be as accommodating. As for work in this Hall, she would be an asset. Acceptance is a little more difficult to ensure, isn't it? But women crafters are accepted by the Northern Dolphincraft and this is their Hall. I don't think there would be much problem - and I'd make sure there was nothing untoward going on - but underlying attitudes -" She shrugged. "Sometimes not all the rules and requirements in the world can change what people want to think."

Taraglan nodded in agreement, thinking of the prejudices his sons held toward Southerners. "I'm sure Leiana would love to speak to any female crafter she can to get a better sense of what to expect. We just want to make sure she feels welcomed and that we feel comfortable raising Kaimi here. From what I have seen and heard, I don't think that will be a problem."

"Probably not. We're fairly insulated here, as a craft with Northern allegiances, as well as being tucked up right beside a Weyr. Will it be possible for her to visit soon? Is the dragonrider likely to be obliging in this matter?"

"We were hoping she could come before the end of the sevenday. And, the brownrider was very happy to take me. Apparently there are many dragonriders who jump at the chance to spend time at a Dolphin Hall. Is there a specific day or time that you think would be best?"

"No, not at all. The brownrider will no doubt not bring you down during Threadfall - but any other time I'll make myself and my staff available to you."

"Thank you. We can send a message to you as soon as Leiana has worked out her schedule with the rider."

"And if you accept the post - when could you start?" Of all issues - given the man was overtly suitable - this was the most pressing in the Hallmaster's mind.

"Within two sevendays. I don't have a dolphin partner so we could come by dragon." If the dragonriders were willing, they could make multiple trips if necessary.

"You'll be looking for a partner among the local pod?"

"Perhaps eventually. I haven't had a partner for awhile." He missed the close relationship he had had with Ani before her death. "I look forward to meeting the local pod."

"We'll introduce you to those who are around before you leave." Leisenn got to her feet. "But how about we have a look around now? It's still not the perfect Hall but it's certainly being improved on all the time - and the

basics are right."

Taraglan stood, following the Hallmaster. "Lead the way."

Last updated on the July 18th 2009

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Interview With The Hallmaster (2)