He stood on the table as people started to enter. He took a few deep breaths.. he had to make this seem real.. well, if he announced the real news first, perhaps the later news would seem more real..? Yes.. yes that was it.
He waited until most were there before speaking. "Everyone. I have a few announcements today.. We've lost.. several of our riders and recently graduated Weyrlings, as well as their dragons. We took a hard hit today.. but I would also like to say that we did an amazing job of protecting the holds and halls. We did everything we could have to prevent further damage to those buildings..." He explained a bit more in detail, relaying the extent of damage to each building.
And then got to the big news.. "There is... a major loss to our ranks... The riders accompanying myself and B'Len have fallen. He and I made it back, but we fear that my brother Jamis, Weyrwoman Sukura, and the others were not recovered.. We're.. extremely saddened by this and we .." he stopped to compose himself.. "we will remember them. They all fought bravely.. to the end.. But now, we shall fight in their honor. We must recover our numbers. From this moment on, all riders will be required to take lessons again. There will be drills for riders and for dragons alike. We must become more efficient and each of us must be trained to help. If you can not fly, you will help heal or you will provide another vital service. These services will be assigned to you upon medical examination to assess your physical well-being. We will have guard duty running constantly throughout the day, every day. Everyone will have a turn. For now, I will be on watch duty with some of the drudges. Relax and be well. We have k'lah prepared.. but be prepared to ride at a moment's notice. I'll have the healers in to check everyone. Please remain on the left side of the room if you have not been evaluated yet. If you have, remain on the right side or feel free to return to your rooms. That is all for now. Drills and lessons will begin tomorrow."





