Self-Imposed Exile

[Dread Lady Nathicana]

The SLAGLands 21-12-2003 01:37
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The kitchen of the Plaid House, home of the Prime Minister of The SLAGLands, was filled with boxes, each one meticulously labeled to designate its exact contents: [POTS], [FLATWARE], [SILVERWARE], and so forth. The furniture had already been set up, and a few elaborate wooden barstools had been placed (precisely equidistance from one another) at the bar at the far end of the kitchen. Two men sat at the bar: the first a bald gentleman in blue jeans and a deep brown T-shirt, the second a younger man, his black suit and tie matching his black shoes, black hair, and black sunglasses. Bodyguard Barry and Prime Minister Bonne Westerburg sipped imported Khenalan beer from long-neck bottles, both men with friendly smiles on their faces.

"The place is looking nice," Barry said, taking a slow sip. "Furniture's looking nice... family seems happy with it... you've fixed up a hell of a place here, Mr. Prime Minister."

"Yes, well, my wife is an interior decorator..." Bonne chuckled. He ran his left index finger along the lip of the bottle, staring down at it as he spoke. "Everything has been going so well for us lately. The people of The SLAGLands have done us a great service by affording us this opportunity; I pray we will not let them down." Licking his lips, Bonne took another long drink from the bottle before placing it back on the counter and folding his arms in front of him. "Now then, Barry... there's something you wanted to discuss?"

With a smile, Barry laid the bottle in front of him and turned toward Bonne, his expression plaintive. "The Ministry of State." Bonne's eyes lit up, and he nodded slowly. "Now, as we both know, this position is typically afforded to the runner-up in an election; however, I've noticed that I've heard... well... pretty much nothing from you. It is yours to make the nomination, and I just want to make sure you have your priorities straight here, considering that you may well be stalling the Tricameral..."

"Barry..." Bonne interrupted, placing a hand on Barry's shoulder, returning the plaintive look. "Janine Mendehlson will be assuming the role of Minister of State."

Barry's jaw fell agape. "Janine... Mendehlson. You're placing the SECOND runner-up in the position, breaking all traditions of The SLAGLands, essentially denying the people their decision."

"Barry, the people have voted for a regime change," Bonne said, folding his hands in front of him. "The people have decided that they are quite tired of the Marlena Cantrell/Bodyguard Barry docket. The time is right for a change, and unfortunately... that means that the people have pretty well insisted that the traditions change as well." Bonne turned back to his beer and held it to his lips, muttering, "And of course, there is the messy Il Adib matter..." before taking a sip.

Barry leaned toward Bonne, eyebrows low. "Please... what was that?"

Bonne lowered the beer with a smile. "Nothing, Barry! And, of course, you're more than welcome to take on your previous role as Chief of Security for The SLAGLandic Government... I always need a good bodyguard..."

Barry sat silently for a moment, scratching his chin. Then, at last, his face relaxed. With a grin, he raised his beer in a toast.

"No, Bonne..." he said gregariously. "The people have voted for a regime change, and I think I needn't sully myself by trying to fulfill their will anymore. I'm sure you'll find a Chief of Security who's just as qualified as I am." He took a long swig, downing the last of the bottle's contents, then wiped his lips with his sleeve. "In fact, this 'messy Il Adib matter' leads me to believe that... well... we aren't really welcome here anymore, are we, Bonne?"

"Barry, please..." Bonne said, making a downward motion with his hands for silence. Barry stood quickly, then slammed his beer against the counter.

"Sort this out how you will, Bonne. As for me... I'll no longer have a part of this regime--or even this country--while snakes like you are starting witch hunts for political gain."

With a huff, Barry stormed out of the kitchen. Bonne stood up behind him just in time to see Barry turn around in front of the door.

"Oh... thanks for the beer."

Reploid Productions 21-12-2003 01:42
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((OOC: *sticks a post-it note with tag on the thread*))

Khenala 21-12-2003 01:42
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<tag with immense interest>

The Eastern Bloc 21-12-2003 01:48
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*Tag* and an official "stamp of awesomeness." http://207.44.246.95/147/67/upload/p931.gif


Freod 21-12-2003 01:48
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OOC: *Rams a large sword through the thread with a note tied to the handle "Tag"*

The SLAGLands 21-12-2003 01:54
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Press Release to All Nations and All Citizens of The SLAGLands:

Here in The SLAGLands, we are fond of tradition. It binds us, it gives us a reason to press on, and it gives us the opportunity to look back and reflect upon our grand heritage. Sometimes, however, the quibbles of tradition can impose upon the will of progress. It is during this time when the chains of tradition may indeed become too heavy, and our options are either to lighten them or to fall under their weight.

It is for this reason that after due consideration, I have selected Janine Beatrice Mendehlson as my Minister of State. While Bodyguard Barry was indeed runner-up in the former election, he is not legally entitled to the role of Minister of State unless I, the Prime Minister of The SLAGLands, elect to place him in that position. Mr. Barry and I, however, have several glaring differences in policy that would cause us to clash too greatly, and as such, to have Bodyguard Barry as my Minister of State would essentially place the governmental processes of our great land at a standstill.

Ms. Mendehlson brings with her to the Ministry of State a formidable record as the mayor of one of The SLAGLands' largest cities, Orgla. Her changes within that city have been duly noted, and she is willing and capable of maintaining the duties of this high office. She is motivated to serving the people of The SLAGLands, and she will give her all to fulfill this great nation's needs.

Thank you all, and may the Great Camofrog bless you.

http://207.44.246.95/40/9/upload/p3448.gif
Bonne Gregor Westerburg
Prime Minister
The Emerald Heights of The SLAGLands


I'd like to thank Prime Minister Westerburg for affording me this unique opportunity to serve The SLAGLandic people. I vow to do everything in my power to maintain The SLAGlands as the wonderful nation that it is. It is, after all, not by my own power that I am in this position; it is by the authority of my hundreds of millions of bosses.

I won't let you down.

http://207.44.246.95/40/9/upload/p3450.gif
Janine Beatrice Mendehlson
Minister of State
The Emerald Heights of The SLAGLands

Sketch 21-12-2003 01:55
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tag

Sakkra 21-12-2003 02:06
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<<THWAP<<

We have posted our intent to follow these developments as they unfold.

Scolopendra 21-12-2003 02:08
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Stonozka, FSS, Titan

"So..." Razak folds his arms, frowning.

I'm not getting a good read on this. Doesn't bode well, given the growing anti-Il Adib sentiment in the SLAGLands. Alshai grimaces, fingers tapping on the biceps of his already-folded arms. What's our official response, Speaker?

The kzintosh leans back in his chair. "None as of yet. The SLAGLands are in a period of transition and we need them stable. We will not question their government... not openly, not yet." He looks over to the couch, where Shodey watches the SLAGLandic newsfeed with a curiously mixed expression. "How is he taking this, Shodey?"

She blinks momentarily. "I don't know. I haven't had a chance to talk to him yet." She frowns. "Probably not well."

Freod 21-12-2003 02:19
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"Cyng Eadwacer. SLAGlands has announced there selection of Minister of State. You might want to read this."


Eadwacer reads over the transcription of the announcement. "Most interesting. Tradition is very important, and whenever it is broken, is significant. This nation has a permenant bound and responsibility with Bodygaurd Barry ever since we hosted his wedding. We must keep abreast of this."

Reploid Productions 21-12-2003 03:19
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"And that's the report, Queenie." Tsume finishes reading off from the message.

"I don't like it... Barry was an excellent leader in the diplomatic scene... this entire thing just smells rotten." The orange reploid leans her elbows on her desk.

"So... what's the official response?" The reploid dragon inquires.

"None at the moment.... but invite Barry as a guest to Arpia. Shodey too, since they're married." The orange reploid frowns in deep thought. "There's something not being told here, and perhaps Barry is aware of it."

"You think there's civil unrest brewing? What with the sudden influx of nonhumans since the Outsets affair?"

"I'd like to think not, but people do tend to fear change, and the Outsets... brought a lot of that. You saw the poll results. It isn't a majority yet, but there was some support for an anti-Il Adib sentiment." Firefury scribbles a quick note. "Anyways, send this off- formal invite for Barry and Shodey to come have a vacation, under the excuse of finally taking me up on that offer to prank Nekoa Bay."

Dread Lady Nathicana 21-12-2003 15:58
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[Private communique to the following, hand written and delivered]
Quote:
________________________________________
Originally Posted by Nathicana
To: Prime Minister Bonne Gregor Westerburg
CC: Minister of State, Janine Beatrice Mendehlson

First and foremost, our congratulations on winning the election, and to Ms. Mendehlson on her recent assignment. We look forward to continued dealings with the SLAGLands, and hope that the future will hold as amicable a relationship as we have enjoyed in the past.

Now of course to our concerns. We are aware of the recent unfortunate unrest your noble nation has been experiencing, and we deeply sympathize. However, such focus and growing animosity to a certain sector of your populace brings back rather vivid images of a time long past, in nations quite different from our own. We urge you to act with wisdom, patience, and understanding during these trying times, and hope that whatever actions need be taken, are just ones.

I personally wish you the best of luck in your coming duties, and hope that you will avail yourselves of our support and assistance should such be desired.

With regard,

--Nathicana D'Aquisto of the Dominion
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[Heavily encoded transmission, urgent priority]

Shodey -

What the hell is going on in the SLAGLands? Is Barry alright? How is he taking this? Dammitall I do not like where this is going at all. It smacks of the beginnings of Nazi Germany - and don't be telling me I'm thinking in extremes. It always starts small. You find a scapegoat, you blame them for all your problems ...

They're already changing their policies regarding the Il Adib on account of all that mess. And I still do not believe their stories on all of that. It feels too much like a conspiracy to me. An effort to discredit and lead into what I just laid out there.

I know damn well that's why Barry wasn't accepted, and there's not a one of you could convince me otherwise. We need to keep an eye on this, sis. And not just for him. This is a situation that could go real sour real fast.

Take care, mia sorella. Please, let me know anything you find out. And give that husband of yours a hug for me.

--Nathi

Freod 21-12-2003 17:01
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OOC: Assuming that nothing interferes with this message
IC:

A man dressed in light, ceremonial, leather armor and with the official crest of Freod upon his garb, arrives at the residence Bodyguard Barry and Shodan in The SLAGlands. He desires to hand deliver a message to Barry.
Quote:
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Originally Posted by The Message
Wesan git hale, Hlaford Barry ond Cwen Shodan.

Ic haebbe gehiren thaera incer ceara. Gemyndgod thaet git habbath freondes in Freod ond willath awa habban a ham in Freod.

Eadwacer, bearnes Garpeow, Mearclanda Theoden, Freodes Weard, Titanes Eorl, Yutes Secg
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Valient 21-12-2003 19:18
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Tag???

21-12-2003 19:29
________________________________________*Doesn't Tag*

21-12-2003 19:33
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[Encrypted Data: Level 9]
::Classified- BIGOT::

To: SLAGLands (SL) Executive Branch Office
From: Tiburon (TI) Executive Branch Office

This recent shift in SLAGLandic tradition is noted with alarm. We would like to know the cause of such a radical shift in policy, believing it to be connected in some manner with Il Adib. Also, we would like to know whether this changes any policy in regards to the United Republics.

The SLAGLands 22-12-2003 00:48
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S.H.O.D.A.N. has been waiting by the front door of her SLAGLandic home for several hours now, awaiting her husband's return from business in SLAGTown. She wears a look of concern as her husband stomps in the front door, his hair a mess and his tie crooked. He appears quite vexed as he leans back against the door as it shuts behind him.

"Anything I can do to help?" she asks with an air of concern. With a nervous grunt, Barry powerwalks toward the bedroom, his wife close behind him.

"I'm not worried about that stupid election right now," he replies. "We need to get out of here."

S.H.O.D.A.N. nods quietly, following closely behind Barry. "Why do we need to leave?" Barry charges up the stairs, turning back as he speaks.

"It's Westerburg," he answers. The two of them turn into their rather large bedroom, the light already on. Barry hurries to the closet and flings it open with a flourish, removing a suitcase and tossing it onto the bed. He pops the suitcase open. "I get the impression he's up to something."

S.H.O.D.A.N. answers with a quick "Ah" before her eyes narrow and her voice turns cold, calculating. "A hunch?" Barry turns back from his business at the suitcase to his wife, his expression stolid.

"I get the impression that his choice not to nominate me for the position had less to do with my politics and more to do with... well..." With a sigh, Barry tosses his sunglasses into the suitcase to reveal his lack of eyes. "...what I am." Barry turns to the dresser and begins pulling open drawers, his wife assisting him all the while. "He may be jumping aboard the anti-Adib bandwagon just as quickly as everyone else is. Quite frankly, I'm not about to stand for it."

"Format him," S.H.O.D.A.N. says, handing her husband an armful of shirts. "If he can't see past a minor difference to the man who's defended his land for his entire life, that's his problem."

Barry answers with a grunt. "This whole thing reeks of conspiracy." He stuffs the shirts into the suitcase, forcing them down against his sunglasses and feeling their hard plastic strain against the pressure. "You know what his next bit is? Research on Il Adib children. The half-Adib who've been popping up in SLAGTown as of late? He's taking them into the lab. Studying them."

S.H.O.D.A.N. raises an eyebrow, her voice low. "There is evidence of this... right?"

Barry shakes his head. "I'm certain he knows that if anyone would look into this, it'd be you. Any evidence is going to be well-hidden--and I'm certain you'll find nothing on that dank pit that is SlagNet."

"Quite," S.H.O.D.A.N. responds, handing some pairs of socks to her husband. "I've done my share of nastiness in the past, and I'd like to ensure nothing like that happens again. Still... with the consent of the parents or no? That raises odd issues if consent is given."

"It's in the early stages now. Can't really say," Barry replies, going into the nearby restroom to grab some basic toiletries. "But the whole of SLAGTown is on edge, what with these attacks and all..." Barry pauses as he places the toiletries in the suitcase, then lowers his eyebrows. "And, of course, there's the matter of... Ortcan..."

S.H.O.D.A.N. winces slightly. "That's essentially my fault. Sorry."

Barry puts a hand on her shoulder with a reassuring smile. "You did what you had to do. He'd have killed Nathi if he had the chance, and I know he wouldn't have stopped there." He returns to the frantic packing as S.H.O.D.A.N. lets out a slow sigh.

"Just never gets easier for us, does it?" she grumbles. "Solve one problem, form another. Oh well... nothing to do but adapt." She opens another drawer. "You believe that we're not safe here?"

"I can't say at this point, but I think at the very least, it'd be a good idea to lay low," Barry replies.

S.H.O.D.A.N. nods. "Never hurts to be cautious. And I've gotten word from Arpia and Freod that we're welcome to visit there as guests. It's good to know we have friends we can rely on.

"No... not yet," Barry replies quickly. "I need to consult Mom before we do anything else. Maybe this little vacation of ours will take us to Freod and the Shogunate eventually, but our first stop is The Outsets." Barry huffs, closing the full suitcase and leaning against it. His voice drops as he hangs his head. "Geez... never thought this'd be happening... after the Outsets incident, I thought it'd be smooth sailing for me... but now..."

S.H.O.D.A.N. places a hand on Barry's shoulder and squeezes gently. "We'll manage." The two return to packing, grabbing another suitcase from the closet and filling with with blankets and pillows. "How quiet do I need to be about this? I'm sure the Scolopendrans would be interested if Bonne is planning anything... I could also check Sakura for information, unless you think she's in on it."

Barry shakes his head. "Sakura's not in on it. No way in hell. And even if she is being manipulated by Biddlebaum, he'd have nothing to gain." Barry looks up, getting his thoughts back together. "Keep it as quiet as possible. I'd rather not create an international scene when we may just be dealing with a lapse of judgment. I'd rather the First Among Equals not find out at this point. This is, after all, a transitionary phase..."

S.H.O.D.A.N. nods. "Understood. They are concerned about you, at least. I'll tell them that you're doing well enough as can be expected under the circumstances and leave it at that."

"Good idea," Barry replies, trying desperately to stuff an unfolded sheet into the suitcase before Shodey gracefully withdraws it and, in a display of incredible efficiency, folds the sheet to the size of Barry's hand and passes it to her husband with a wink. "If anyone asks... just taking a vacation. I'll let the Cantrells know what's going on. We can trust them.

"Shall I bring a security detail?" S.H.O.D.A.N. asks with a nod.
.
I doubt we'll have anything to fear in The Outsets," Barry replies, snickering. But if you'd feel better doing so, it's up to you."

"You know me. Two kinds of paranoia..." S.H.O.D.A.N. answers with a shrug. "At least a rapid-extraction option."

"Not a bad idea," Barry says, returning to the bathroom for more supplies. "Of course, if you want to keep an avatar here in The SLAGLands, I won't stop you."

"I'll do so, if nothing else but to keep up a liason presence," S.H.O.D.A.N. replies. Barry returns, throws a few more random items in the suitcase, and slams it shut, shaking his head.

"I'm so sorry about all of this," he sighs. "Seems like my life is nothing but drama, I swear..."

S.H.O.D.A.N. hugs Barry gently, saying nothing for a moment. "Think of it as an adventure."

Barry returns the hug with a gentle squeeze. "Yeah... I suppose," he mutters. "Well, hopefully, things will pan out for the best. They have a tendency to around here. Westerburg may have just been bluffing to me--you know, just one of those attempts to sidle toward popular mindset."

S.H.O.D.A.N. nods, forcing a smile. "Besides, it's been forever since you've allowed yourself a vacation."

Barry snickers, grinning mischievously. "Perhaps a pranking is in order while we're out..."

S.H.O.D.A.N. grins back with an impish chuckle. "I think Firefury's offer is still standing..."

Barry taps his fingers together, Mr. Burns style. "Eeeeeeeeeexcellent..."

S.H.O.D.A.N. grins, then picks up the suitcase and tosses it to Barry. The bodyguard catches it deftly and forces it under his arm. "Well, we can't walk on water, so I'll heat up the Shodeyvette."

"I'll call the Cantrells," Barry replies, calling back to his wife as she darts toward the door. "Thanks for putting up with me."

S.H.O.D.A.N. chuckles. "Never a problem, dear." She then disappears to the door frame as Barry stumbles for the telephone.

[Dread Lady Nathicana]

The SLAGLands 22-12-2003 01:15
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HIGHLY Private, HIGHLY Secure, HIGHLY Unhackable (Regardless of 1337ness) Transmission to the Following Friends ONLY:
Dread Lady Nathicana d'Aquisto
Queen Firefury Amahira
Omicron Blu
Supreme Emperor Speaker-to-Animals
Cyng Eadwacer
Lady Sirithil nos Fëanor
Xeruyu vonKarma

In light of the stresses in my life as of late, Shodey and I have decided to take an unexpected vacation to my homeland, The Outset Islands. The Cantrells will be housesitting for us, so don't try to contact the house.

Please don't call unless it's absolutely necessary, but if you really need to, I'm sure you all have S.H.O.D.A.N.'s number.

Take care, everyone. And don't worry about us. We'll be just fine.


Your dearest friend,

Bari (Bodyguard Barry)

Zero-One 22-12-2003 02:56
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Quote:
________________________________________
Originally Posted by Dread Lady Nathicana
--Nathi
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<Communications to Nathi via Local Avatar Transmission, close range hyperencrypt<
{
<< I'm sure you've gotten the note--we're going on a "vacation" [wink analog]--and yes, sis, I'm looking after him. I've gotten him to at least allow me to set up a rapid-extraction contingency, which I haven't told him means a six-Shadow team and one of my more secret vessels.

<< I don't think there's a threat to us from Westerburg--it would be foolish, horrendous PR--but I don't think your fears are entirely unfounded. I don't like the looks of this either; stories of "violence" among other things is one of the reasons my people are now on the cold face of Rhea.

<< Don't worry about us, we'll be fine. I'm flying Barry to the Outsets right now and I'll keep you updated as we settle in and as I find out more for certain.

<< Another thing... if you find out anything in particular about Westerburg or any new SLAGLandic 'policies,' tell me but otherwise keep it to yourself. I'll explain why to you in person.

<< Take care, sis.
}

http://community.the-underdogs.org/s...leb/shodan.gif
Shodey

* - * - *

Leaning over the small center console of the Shodeyvette, the EI's avatar gives Barry a tight hug. "From Nathi."

imported_Cetaganda 22-12-2003 19:08
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Imperial Palace, Kaer Askavii
Cetaganda, The Ring, Saturn Nearspace

Gregor Vetinari looked up from his perscomp. "I don't like this at all. Some of the rumors ring too true, given the supposed incidents with the children in SLAGTown."

Across his desk, Eloise Savanche, head of the Special Cirumstances Directorate, nodded. "I thought so as well. But we can't find anything concrete on SLAGNet, and while SHODAN is far more skilled than even our best intelligence Minds, if she had something I'm sure she'd share it. We need a way to get evidence of wrongdoing, or lack thereof, another way."

"You want permission to insert operatives, I suppose?" asks Gregor, raising an eyebrow.

"Yes, my lord. Nothing to big, but if we start now, we could have a few people in place in case we need them later."

"I agree. I'll run it by Shodey and Barry first, though." Gregor activates his desk keyboard, grimmacing. "Gods, I hope that I wasn't wrong in supporting Westerburg."

---
{Internal Palace Communications, m16 Securtity Protocols}
x Gregor
o Local SHODAN Avatar

Shodey, I've been hearing some rumors regarding Westerburg's policies towards the Il Adib in the SLAGlands. I thought it might be best to put in some human operatives. Nothing too fancy, just try to get a person or two inside now in case they're needed later. I'd like you to run this by Barry and see if he has any advice on how best to do it, as he was head of SLAGLandic security. Unless, of course, you think he might have personal objections to doing so; I'd rather not ask him to do anything that might be seen as betraying the SLAGLands if you think he'd have problems with it.

The SLAGLands 04-01-2004 01:43
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There is ample room in the carriage for all four guests; however, the fit is a bit tight. The woman in the purple hat beckons specifically to Pacci to sit next to her, and as the group files into the carriage, that is indeed where he ends up. The woman in the hat doesn't look up as the group sits down; rather, she turns to Pacci, head lowered, her hat covering her eyes.

"Hello again, my dear Leandro," she says quietly. The voice is unmistakable. "Surely you remember me, your benefactor in past expeditions..."

The woman looks directly into Pacci's eyes. Despite the unusual outfit, it is abundantly clear who is staring at him.

"...your benefactor, darling? Miss Catherine Villanova?" The woman winks slyly as a quick shout of "Hwoooooop!" and the crack of reins echoes from the front of the carriage, and within the same instant, the carriage is in motion, pulled with a remarkable smoothness by the creatures at the front.

"It's been a long time, Leandro," the woman says quietly. "How have you been?"

Freod 04-01-2004 02:08
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Eadwacer and Ecgþeow disembark from the spacecraft in the Outsets. They are dressed in simple clothing, that is of vaguely indeterminate origin, however, it still has tinges of Freod about it. They two of them have cameras around their necks, tourist guides in their pockets, and amazed looks on their faces as they examine this world, looking, to all, like two elderly men going on a vacation in their retirement.

After fumbling through their papers, and immigration, that make their way over to the carriages, with almost a feeling of comfort and familiarity.

Well, they may not be horsedrawn, but at least they are animals.

They call a carriage and climb in. Eadwacer leans forward and speaks, "Hullo. We're really tired from our travel, and were hoping that you could recommend a good place to stay." He looks out and takes some photos of the edge of the plateau. "Hmm, Lovely time beyond the edge of the horizon, eh, chaps?"

Sakkra 04-01-2004 02:28
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Emperor Gorrm reads the comm from Barry repeatedly, and is doing so as his hatchmate, and chief of intel and counter-agents Thress, arrives in his office. "Yes, my leige?"

Gorrm raises a single finger for silence, and hits a switch under his desk. "White-noise generator. To prevent snooping."

He raises from his plush chair, and walks towards Thress. "There is a situation most delicate that we may be interested in. You know of the political changes in the SLAGlands, yes?"

"I have kept abreast of them......one might say. We now have a vested interest?" She cocks her head, indicating that she knows the answer will be more than what is spoken.

"We do. Bodyguard Barry, although we have had no official diplomatic contact with him, has been friendly at best to our people. Indifferent at worst."

Gorrm paces to and fro in his office now, chin cupped in his hand. "With our own situation as it is, we need to know that political forces will not attempt to take advantage. 'Friendly' political forces. I am uncertain about this Westerburg, but something about him raises my crest. I think he would try to take advantage of us. But how? Barry may have some answers."

Gorrm stops pacing, and stares with both eyes locked on Thress. "And he may be in a perilous situation. We will aid him. I am appointing you Deputy Minister of Diplomacy to the SLAGlands. It will be a mission of observation. I will attempt to gain you entry into the SLAGlands to see how the shift in power is affecting the government there, and also, if you are able, to find some way of giving aid to Barry in some form. You will be going alone. No guard, no team, no outside communications."

"A diplomatic shuttle is being prepped to journey to Eniqcir. From there, a commercial flight will take you to Het Amid. Find out what you can. Do not report back until you leave the SLAGlands. Any questions?" Already Gorrm is handing her a disc, able to be inserted into her PDA, with an overview of SLAGland customs, political movers-and-shakers, and other pertinent info.

She pockets it, and salutes. "No questions, Emperor."

"Good. I'll get in touch with some of the other Yut leaders to see how this is playing out."

Khenala 04-01-2004 10:03
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"Honestly, wool robes? Why?"

James sighed, once more. "As I've explained, brother, Intel believed they would draw less attention. This is supposed to be a secret trip, remember?" He looked around to make sure they werent being monitored, having just traveled from Eniqcir to the Outsets via Commercial Jet, they stood together in the airport ready to depart.

Andrew scratched at his arms for the fiftieth time during their trip. "They could have selected a less irritating garb. When we return, someone is getting sacked for this."

"Grin and bear it. We have business to attend to."

Andrew conceeded with a final sigh. "Very well. Do we have instructions on where to go?"

James nodded. "Yes, we are to take a local taxi to the location provided to us in the original communique. Ah, there is one now."

"A carriage? Hmm, old fashioned. I like it.", Andrew replied with a grin, as he waved a hand to hail the taxi and set forth to their destination.

Dread Lady Nathicana 04-01-2004 18:00
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Pacci's breath all but stopped as he looks on the face of one whom had long haunted his thoughts, and lived vibrant in his half-remembered dreams.

It was the day the sun's ray had turned pale
with pity for the suffering of his Maker
when I was caught, and I put up no fight,
my lady, for your lovely eyes had bound me.

"How could I forget," he manages to breathe softly, his own eyes locked on hers, seeming to drink in her presence, all the rest of the world, for now, not existing for him in the least.

At the cry from the driver, he blinks, looking flustered beyond words. Blushing furiously, and attempting to cover it by removing his glasses and cleaning them fastiduously, his gaze now focused on the task at hand, he attempts a couple of times to answer, finally stammering out what passes for a cohesive sentence.

"I ah ... well, I ... quite well, my La ... that is to say, Miss Villanova." Coughing lightly, he slides his glasses back on, not daring yet to meet her eyes. "A-and yourself?"

Marik is more concerned with keeping track of their surroundings, watching from beneath what seem to be lazily hooded eyes.

Nathicana, on the other hand, arches a brow at Pacci's reaction. The name Villanova strikes a chord with her, and she leans forward slightly as if to ask a question. Looking again at Pacci, and guaging the tone of the woman's voice, she settles back between the others in their decidedly cozy arrangement, glancing to Speaker, and shrugging slightly.
imported_Cetaganda 04-01-2004 21:43
________________________________________
A young man who looks to be college age and dressed in a hawaiian shirt and shorts steps off of a commercial airplane. Stretching out and muttering about economy-class seats, he proceeds to stride through the terminal, occaisonally glancing around at the various beings around him. He flags down one of the taxis, and directs the driver to take him to a good hotel.

Reploid Productions 07-01-2004 03:39
________________________________________
5,000 feet above sea level, international waters roughly 200 miles off the Shogunate coast

I never realized how rough a ride it is in these blasted contraptions. Tsume thinks to himself, sitting in a cramped position in the bomb bay of his less than elegant ride to the Outsets. The Yotaka drone's twin bays were packed with oceanic survey bouys, leaving the six foot reploid with little room to relax.

It had been at least four hours since the drone was piggybacked into the air atop a Hamakaze 220 jet, and Tsume had spent the time plotting and listening to the ambient noise that would let him know it was almost time for the short freefall and the start of the serious part of his trip.

The drop doors slide open with a loud mechanical whine, releasing the drone's payload. Within moments, the 'floor' of bouys falls out from under Tsume and he drops into the cold air.

This is it-!

Twisting slightly in freefall, the black dragon's wings snap open and beat furiously to gain purchase on the damp breeze, spiralling down to fly low to the water, a dark spot against the dark ocean.

Several hours later, the reploid backwings to a tired landing on a beach at the Outsets, immediately sending an encrypted message back to the Shogunate.
<<This is Tsume. Let Shodey know I'm here. Good Goddess, that was the most tedious flight ever!
<<Ryoukai. Have fun over there!
<<Fun. Right. Yeah. I'm out.

With that, Tsume tromps off toward signs of civilization, all sneaky and ninja-like.

((OOC: I'll be fully back in action in another few days, so... yeah. Tsume's there, I guess ^_^; ))

[Dread Lady Nathicana]

The SLAGLands 08-01-2004 00:45
________________________________________
"Ms. Villanova" smiles weakly at Pacci, raising her hat enough to reveal her eyes. There is both weakness and sadness behind them, the air very much different from the furious creature who emerged from the light in the caves and the peaceful, strikingly aloof deity whom Pacci met again at the Outsets summit. This Esmerelda seems tired, nervous, burdened... in short, strikingly human.

"Leandro, please," she says, a bit of quiet relief in her low tones. "I have truly missed your company. You have been... well..." She looks away, trailing off for a moment before becoming audible again. "...my friend. Perhaps my only friend, I would say."

The other carriages, each one carrying a different representative of Yut, join in caravan behind the first. Esmerelda looks out the side of the carriage, her voice low as she watches the red stones and Joshua trees of the plateau plod past.

"These times have been difficult..." she says. "I have been away, travelling, exploring, learning... my first time truly leaving The Emerald Heights. I have learned a lot about the world, its current state, myself... and most of all, my own limitations. It is new for me, Leandro, and I do not particularly like it."

The carriages continue their silent passage as Esmerelda turns back, her distant eyes lowered, looking to her knees.

"And worst of all is that I bear it alone..."

Sakkra 08-01-2004 02:00
________________________________________
The trip to Het Amid was one of little consequence. Transfer flights, show papers, be subject to security scans, board flight. Thress was accustomed to this. the few stares she drew were of little consequence; foreign tourists gawking and little more.

This was her thought as she rode in one of the carriages traveling in a caravan of some sort. What an archaiac contraption, but well suited for its purpose. It brings some form of a .... romantic ... atmosphere to this whole thing. She leaned her head out of the window to spy some of the other passengers in the caravan.

Dread Lady Nathicana 08-01-2004 15:26
________________________________________
Pacci is beside himself for a moment, the drastic change in the Goddess being completely unexpected. And completely irresistable to his decidedly chivalrous ideals.

"Surely not your only friend," he murmurs, daring to reach out and place his hand over hers, giving it a gentle but warm squeeze. "I ... I have missed you as well."

He looks on with concern as she speaks of her recent travels, his brow furrowing at her reaction to them. "The world, I'm afraid, is not always a pleasant place. And none of us, regardless of our abilities I would imagine, is without some limitations. It is the way of things," he says softly. "It does not make one less for realizing this. Rather the opposite."

At her last comment, his eyes drop, and an expression of sadness and guilt creep across his face.

"Esm...Ms. Villanova, not a day goes by that I don't regret that I couldn't do more. I feel ... responsible for the loss you suffered. I keep wondering what more I could have done ... " He trails off lamely. "Though we are small compensation, please know that among friends, which you are whether you see it or not, you never need bear it all alone."

He sat in silence for a few minutes, watching her. The play of the light across her beautiful features, her hair, like living gold in his eyes. And all so troubled.

"Please," he finally says, his tone earnest. "If there is anything I can do to help, name it. It's yours.

Nathicana for her part, keeps her eyes fixed on the surroundings and the strange beasts drawing the carriages. Listening intently to the conversation, she makes no move to indicate that she's doing so, occasionally chatting quietly with Marik, who responds with his usual loquacity.

Scolopendra 09-01-2004 23:25
________________________________________
Speaker looks out the window, appreciating the countryside as he softly hums grumbling songs from his youth to himself. Other than that, he doesn't have much to do but think and worry.

Dread Lady Nathicana 10-01-2004 12:28
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"Those songs," Nathicana says quietly, shooting Pacci a sidelong glance as she turns to Speaker. "I remember you singing one on the safari as we marched along. What do they mean?" She cocks her head inquisitively as her gaze shifts to him. "I remember that one stirred the blood ..." she trails off, smiling softly at the memories. Still, given their earlier topic, and the reason for their being here, she pats his knee gently.

"Don't worry. It will all work out."

Scolopendra 10-01-2004 14:29
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"Hrrr?" Speaker blinks, then shakes his head slightly out of his reverie. "The songs? They are bits of epics and folktales put to music to make them easier for the bards to remember. Some mythology, legend, and history. The one on the safari is an epic about a hunter... probably allegorical for the Great Hunt. The one I was just humming is a portion of a very long one called the Song of the Race... one of the very few portions I know."

He makes no comment on how events will turn out, but the hand laying on the windowsill flexes almost imperceptably as he barely extends and retracts the tips of his claws.

Dread Lady Nathicana 10-01-2004 17:15
________________________________________
"Is it one that has been ... forgotten, or just a very long one to memorize?" She looks abashed for a moment, realizing that perhaps this is not the best time to bring up painful memories, nor quiz him on the subject. "I apologize, Tuyc. I find your humming comforting. Please, don't let me keep you from it.

If she notes his reaction, she doesn't let on, one ear still perked, listening to Pacci and the woman. Several conclusions are drawn from their conversation, still, she says nothing, preferring to give them at least the illusion of privacy for now.

Scolopendra 10-01-2004 20:17
________________________________________
"A bit of both." Speaker looks idly out the window again, and sighs very softly. "During the Extraction, we lost our Conservors--our priests--who remembered the Song. I remember portions, and I know others remember others... but surely long portions are lost. It was... a weakness of the old tradition. Only the Conservors were permitted to learn the entire Song, and they defended that right in combat. Their collections of ears were... fearsome."

He turns to look at Nathi, smiling softly. "Do not apologize. While we are saddened by losing so much, we are glad to share what we can."

Dread Lady Nathicana 10-01-2004 20:38
________________________________________
Nathicana arches a brow, starts to speak, thinks better of it ... then bulls ahead anyway.

"If I may, you say you know some, others know some ... have you made an effort to gather together all the various information you survivors have, and damn tradition? I mean, gods - times have changed. You've said so yourself. There are any number of things out there just for the asking, if you've not done so already. And if you haven't, why not? Adapt and live, S...Tuyc. Imagine what your race could learn if they pooled all those bits and snippets they have." She drops her gaze then, fiddling with her hands ... most noteably the finger that still shows the mark of a missing ring.

"Again, mi dispiace. But I have always valued information and learning. It is I suppose, a passion of mine. The thought of so much being lost ... " She looks back up to Speaker with a wry grin. "I tend to get a touch carried away, I suppose."

Scolopendra 10-01-2004 21:28
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Speaker blinks at first, suprised by the passion of Nathi's response, then chuckles softly. "Do not apologize... it is the obvious solution. Hrrr..." Leaning back, he rubs his chin as he looks down at his flexing hand in thought. "There are still many of us who remember, although we are scattered wide... and there is more to rebuild than ancient songs." Muttering softly to himself in a growling language, he flaps his ears slightly. "It is doable. Even if some cannot attend, with modern technology mere presence is not necessary..."

He smiles and looks back up at Nathi. "Thank you, kzaw-tzobu. I have a new... project when I return from this errand."

Dread Lady Nathicana 10-01-2004 23:13
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"Sometimes the 'obvious' is not so much, depending on one's situation," she says with the usual close-lipped smile she uses when around Speaker. "As they say, there are times to hold close to traditions, and times when one must lay tradition aside for the greater good. Salvaging what you can of your heritage, I would think, counts as such a time. Not to mention it being a decidedly honorable effort, at that. I wish you luck with it. And," she says, pausing. "I thank you, though I do not understand the honorific, I'm ashamed to say."

A change? All I did was suggest ...

imported_Cetaganda 10-01-2004 23:26
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As he rode in a carriage down the road, Gregor stuck his head out the window and took a look around. Beautiful scenary, the occasional odd animal roaming the countryside, other carriages traveling down the road, the head of a Sakkran...the head of a Sakkran? Gregor reached into his pack, and took out a set of binoculars. Pointing them forward, he found that sure enough, that was indeed the distinctive shape of a Sakkran leaning out of one of the other carriages.

'What a coincidence. He...or is that a she? I think that's a female, ' Gregor thinks. 'I really should figure that out... probably asked for a good hotel like I did, and had the same place recomended. Or we're being sent to the same place deliberately.'

Gregor give the Sakkran a small wave when she looks his way, then turns his attention to the other carriages, trying to spy any other familiar faces.

<OOC: Sure, we prolly wouldn't be in the same caravanish thing. But odd coincidences and/or hidden plans make the Ring go round.<

Scolopendra 11-01-2004 11:40
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Quote:
________________________________________
Originally Posted by Dread Lady Nathicana
"I thank you, though I do not understand the honorific, I'm ashamed to say."
________________________________________
Speaker chuckles softly. "In time, I may tell you. For now, I will keep you in suspense." He looks back out the window and returns to humming, apparently somewhat less agitated now.

Dread Lady Nathicana 11-01-2004 16:12
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Nathi arches her brow curiously, obviously wanting to press for an answer. "I ..." she begins, then laughs softly, smiling. "I shall try and be patient, for now. I believe, Tuyc, that it is far past time I tried to learn your language. Though my hopes of ever managing proper pronunciation, I'm afraid, are few."

She turns her own attention back to speaking quietly with Marik, glancing at the passing countryside, and idly listening to the conversation between Pacci and the Lady.

I'm almost certain. But ... since when were they so close? I've been remiss in my observations, obviously. Still, Evangelista did report a certain ... fondness or some such at that banquet between them. So much was going on then, I scarcely remember. I wonder.

Her hands idly twist and fidget in her lap, she scarcely noticing, it has become such a habit when her mind wanders.

I hope Barry is ok.

The SLAGLands 21-01-2004 23:11
________________________________________
(OOC: F*CK RETIREMENT!)

Esmerelda only looks up once into Pacci's eyes, and there is a relief behind them, a silent sigh. Moments before she opens her mouth, the carriage hops to a halt before the mouth of a gigantic cave. Only Leandro recognizes it, and only he recognizes the tall, muscular cat who stands at the cave's mouth. The cat's fur glows dull grey.

"Welcome," he says slowly. "I am Guide. Please come. There is much to discuss."

Esmerelda steps from the carriage first, looking around carefully to make sure no one is watching. Then, as the groups exit the carriages, she instructs each of the drivers, one by one, to return to the airport. Each takes a different route; some go the opposite direction. Quietly, with neither flourish nor fervor, both the glowing cat and the goddess in the purple dress lead the group down into the cave's mouth.

imported_Eniqcir 22-01-2004 12:26
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Neasa dressed in what was hopefully an inconspicuous outfit consisting of red t-shirt, black jeans, and cowboy-style hat, boots, and belt. After passing through customs with a minimum of difficulty,she exited the terminal thinking I have absolutely no idea where the heck I am, and proceeded to hail a taxicarriage.

imported_Cetaganda 22-01-2004 23:38
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Gregor hops out of the carriage and follows Esmerelda and Guide down into the cave, thinking to himself, 'Either this is the strangest hotel ever or I was right and we were lead here deliberately. Either way, I hope we see Barry soon. I want to here from him what's going on.'

Sakkra 22-01-2004 23:48
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Thress walks along, following the guide. "Indeed, as do I. My government is not trusting of this Westerburg. At my 'gentle' prodding, we supported Barry. He has made a positive image on us, and we hoped to see great things from him. But alas, life had othe rplans."

Khenala 23-01-2004 02:44
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Andrew and James exit their carriage with little comment, giving a polite nod to both Thress and Gregor as they follow the group into the cave.

Dread Lady Nathicana 24-01-2004 07:55
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Damn. Pacci gets quickly to his feet, moving to exit close behind Esmerelda, only after thinking to look at Nathicana with a somewhat sheepish expression.

The dark-haired woman merely nods, almost imperceptably, indicating her approval. She, meanwhile, gracefully gets to her feet, then waits her turn to slowly exit the carriage. Both she and Marik gather the luggage from the back, then follow after their hosts - she, hesitating, waiting for Speaker, and him, taking up a position a few paces behind her.

Nathi makes a few calculations, scanning over the others who have been dropped off as well, quietly nodding to those who recognize her, and merely observing the rest.

Pacci greets Guide with a solemn smile. "It has been a long time," her murmurs, his eyes once again being drawn back to the goddess, his expression concerned as they followed along. He hardly takes note of the others there.

Freod 25-01-2004 23:52
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Ecgþeow and Eadwacer disembark from the carriage and enter the cave. Though apparantly carefree tourists still, each keeps his sword hand beneath his cloak and upon his hilt.

The SLAGLands 19-02-2004 13:13
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The gentle glow of Guide lights the cave as the delegation enters it. It is wide and quite unnaturally round, with an unusually steep grade, its walls decorated with crude cave paintings of the eyeless Adib and the pensive and marvelous Brethren of Shade. The sweet aroma of fish and vegetables wafts from further down the passage, and the flicker of candlelight slowly begins to come into view.

"We have prepared a small meal as a gift for your coming," Guide says. "We hope you will enjoy it." Esmerelda, meanwhile, pulls the hat from her head and throws it in the air, and with a quick flash, it disappears. She reaches her hands behind her head and lets her long blonde hair loose, flipping it into freedom with a quick twitch of her neck.

Shortly thereafter, the tunnel opens up into a gigantic cavern, lit strangely brightly by the dozens of candleabras filling the room. Huge pillars stretch to the room's ceiling, which is far beyond the reach of the light. The only other exits to the room appear to be a rather large opening on the right end of the room and a strange-looking pit on the opposite side of the room.

And in the center of the room is the "small meal." The gigantic round table features just enough chairs, plates, silverware, and napkins for every member of the group, and beside the table, a long buffet is laid out. Its centerpiece is a huge crimson fish carefully seasoned and garnished, steam rising from its juicy body. Beside it, a medley of vegetables and fruits complement the aroma, joined at last by tall bottles of shimmering white wine.

After all of the changes that have been made to the place, Pacci barely recognizes it as the room that once housed the foul Il Adib queen, Mother.

The host--one of only two occupants in the room--rises as the guests enter. Behind him stands, of course, the S.H.O.D.A.N. avatar. She nods dutifully as the delegation enters.

The man who rises is much less recognizable. He is completely bald, his face above the nose void of eyes, his face smoothly shaven. He is quite tall and muscular--well over six feet--and wears a simple green-and-brown robe across his body. Only through his smile and his words do the guests recognize him as Bodyguard Barry.

"Hello, everyone," he says slowly, holding his head high as if to look past the delegates and make sure they weren't followed. "Please, take all you like, and eat all you take." He motions with one hand to the table, looking back over his shoulder momentarily before nervously turning back. "We have much to discuss, but I... uh... want you all to feel at home here... so... enjoy..."

He quickly sits back down, lowering his head a bit and glancing about him. Shodey puts a hand on his shoulder and gives him a loving squeeze.

"We'll begin shortly," she says. "For now, though, grab a plate and fill it."

Sakkra 19-02-2004 15:48
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Thress grabds a plate, as requested, and loads it mostly with the fish, and a few vegetables. She declines the use of utensils, however.

Shortly thereafter, she takes a seat, and awaits for the other delegates to sit before she begins her eating.

Reploid Productions 19-02-2004 21:11
________________________________________
((OOC: For simplicity's sake, I guess I'll just assume Tsume got his mechalizardy keister to the gathering after flying in ^_~.))

This being Tsume's first visit to the islands, he contents himself with looking around, taking note of the decor. The reploid dragon is uncharacteristically reserved as the group is led to the meeting room, though even he gives a start at Barry's eyeless face. After the brief introduction, he manages one of those odd wing-spread bows of his. "Thank you for the offer, but I do not require food." He grins, showing his fangs and a glance at the Sakkran he does not recognize. "However, I'm sure my share will not be wasted."

Tsume finds an empty seat and awkwardly works his draconic frame into it, and waits for the others to eat their fill.

imported_Cetaganda 19-02-2004 22:51
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Thanking Barry and Shodey, Gregor sits down besides Tsume and digs in, somehow managing to maintain a semblance of polite table manners while shoveling food into his mouth. Between the shirt, the slacks, and the ravenous appetite, he could easily be mistaken for any male college student on several planets. Only the silver circlet that is visible on his head - and sometimes only from the corner of the eye, for that matter - breaks the illusion. Well, not so much illusion as the simple fact that, were he not the leader of a major stellar power, he really would be a student.

"So," Gregor says, between mouthfuls, "was everyone's trip was pleasant?" He's obviously trying to lighten the mood a bit, knowing that the rest of the day was likely to be far from pleasant.

Scolopendra 19-02-2004 23:27
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Speaker keeps up the meatshielding act, preceding Nathi into the cave and keeping a careful eye on the surroundings. His keen hunter's nose picks up the scent of food far from the source, pricking up his ears and swallowing slightly. Must not present the image of slathering beast, after all. Hrr hrr hrr. His eyes trace over the intricate designs as he represses that odd feeling of foreboding welling in his spleen.

Upon arriving in the dining chamber carved from the living rock, Speaker blinks at the moderate change in atmosphere and expectations. Barry--No, make that Bari, Tyuc-Tasskin--isn't wearing his usual suit, and S.H.O.D.A.N. the faithful wife doesn't quite match up with her more customary image, that of the unofficial advisor and friend who hangs out on the couch back in his office. He did, of course, know that she had assigned an avatar to Bari; something he knew intellectually but never quite took the time to understand.

Still, the life of a diplomat is to see new sides of people. Adapting quickly, he bows shortly to his hosts then allows himself to take a predatory air, tail swishing as he looks over the buffet. Motioning for Nathi to go first, he follows behind, carefully selecting bits of fish and a surprising array of vegetables and fruits. Taking up some a bottle of wine, he pulls his old Kn-Yani green-crystal chalice--fluted oddly to fit his mouth--from a bag hanging at his belt and fills it.

Standing by his seat, he follows tradition--letting the females sit down first--then takes his seat, watching the situation closely as he sips from the goblet, facets glittering and flashing in the candlelight.

Dread Lady Nathicana 20-02-2004 23:50
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Nathicana quietly follows, one brow quirked curiously at the odd surroundings, and decidedly unusual reception. She peers around the broad back of Speaker now and then, curious as to where they're going, and seriously pondering asking Shodey for a little cheat on language skills.

God knows I'll never be able to make a decent pronunciation of it, but at least I'll better understand what the hell he's saying, she thought with a hint of smile.

Pacci, on the other hand, is for once oblivious to the scene around them, his eyes fixed as often as he can manage on the beautiful woman in the hat. He gasps quietly as she takes off the hat that had been shielding her features, and shakes out her long golden tresses.

"Ah, e cosi molto bella ..." he breathes softly, his brow furrowed in concern.

What weighs so heavily on your mind, Esmerelda? Dammit, woman you're not alone.

Marik for his part, remains quiet, though watchful as always. Odd as it may seem, the cave paintings catch his eye, and he gazes at them longer than the rest of their surroundings. He remains close to Nathicana, hovering quietly without seeming to overshadow.

I don't like this. To far away from things. Too much opportunity for accidents. Nath, one of these days you're going to step out too far and find there's nothing beneath your feet but air. I just hope I'm there to catch you when it happens.

All three are impressed with the spread, to say the least, though his attention remains diverted, and hers shifts to the two figures awaiting them in the room immediately.

Nathicana flashes the avatar a warm smile, though the look of concern is clear enough when her gaze shifts to Barry. For some reason, this doesn't feel like the proper time for the usual hugs.

He's gone monk. Sweet Jesu, this is a twist I didn't see coming.

<LOS Communications - Shodey<
{
<< Sis - so good to see you, as always. I'd pry, but it seems Barry wishes to do this a certain way.

<< Let me know if there's anything I can do, all the same. Family. [hug analog] And please ... tell him not to worry for me? Whatever is wrong, you're among friends. We'll find a way.
}


She nods to Speaker as he gestures for her to go on ahead, murmuring a quiet thanks. Marik follows close behind, giving Speaker an apologetic but firm look as he maintains a close watch over the shorter woman. She samples a little bit of just about everything, settling into her seat with a little bow of respect to the big kzin. She pours herself, Marik, and Pacci a glass, then pointedly sets the bottle away from her.

Pacci in the meantime, waits for the others, still lost in thought. It's almost with surprise that he begins filling his plate, keeping mainly to the fish and vegetables. He sits down to the left of Nathicana, Marik settling in on the right with his own plate of food.

Nathi makes an effort to at least make eye contact with each of the others, nodding and offering a little smile in greeting when it seems appropriate. At Gregor's question, she starts, surprised after all the quiet.

"I er ... yes, quite," she murmurs, arching a brow expectantly.

Sakkra 21-02-2004 00:04
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Seeing the others take their seats, Thress begins to inspect the food lain out on her plate. A cursory visual examination, as well as a deep inhale, satisfy her that there are no undue toxins in her meal. One can never be too cautious, even amongst allies.

She hears Gregor's question, and the Dread Lady's response. With a thick Sakkran accent, sounding like a low roll of the tongue on the Rs and Ls and slight hissing on the S, she responds. "The trip was not eventful. This is good, as it gives one time to ponder."

Scolopendra 21-02-2004 01:57
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Speaker shrugs. Diplomatic small talk used to be a good portion of his life, no matter how little he used it. "It is always good to travel with friends," he begins, "and I have sorted some things in my mind. Hopefully they will come to fruition soon."

Reploid Productions 21-02-2004 03:18
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Tsume chuckles dryly at Gregor's question, a deep-throated rumble. "I imagine everyone else had a more pleasant journey than I did. Sneaking out of the country in the bomb bay of a Yotaka drone aircraft is certainly not high on my list of preferable travel practices. But when the order says 'sneaky and ninjalike', well..." He shrugs, amusement on his face as he watches the others dig in to the food. "Suppose it reminds me of the days of secret gatherings and the like from the Dividing War. I daresay I'm quite direly curious as to the nature of this gathering, among other things."

[Dread Lady Nathicana]

The SLAGLands 08-01-2004 00:45
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"Ms. Villanova" smiles weakly at Pacci, raising her hat enough to reveal her eyes. There is both weakness and sadness behind them, the air very much different from the furious creature who emerged from the light in the caves and the peaceful, strikingly aloof deity whom Pacci met again at the Outsets summit. This Esmerelda seems tired, nervous, burdened... in short, strikingly human.

"Leandro, please," she says, a bit of quiet relief in her low tones. "I have truly missed your company. You have been... well..." She looks away, trailing off for a moment before becoming audible again. "...my friend. Perhaps my only friend, I would say."

The other carriages, each one carrying a different representative of Yut, join in caravan behind the first. Esmerelda looks out the side of the carriage, her voice low as she watches the red stones and Joshua trees of the plateau plod past.

"These times have been difficult..." she says. "I have been away, travelling, exploring, learning... my first time truly leaving The Emerald Heights. I have learned a lot about the world, its current state, myself... and most of all, my own limitations. It is new for me, Leandro, and I do not particularly like it."

The carriages continue their silent passage as Esmerelda turns back, her distant eyes lowered, looking to her knees.

"And worst of all is that I bear it alone..."

Sakkra 08-01-2004 02:00
________________________________________
The trip to Het Amid was one of little consequence. Transfer flights, show papers, be subject to security scans, board flight. Thress was accustomed to this. the few stares she drew were of little consequence; foreign tourists gawking and little more.

This was her thought as she rode in one of the carriages traveling in a caravan of some sort. What an archaiac contraption, but well suited for its purpose. It brings some form of a .... romantic ... atmosphere to this whole thing. She leaned her head out of the window to spy some of the other passengers in the caravan.

Dread Lady Nathicana 08-01-2004 15:26
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Pacci is beside himself for a moment, the drastic change in the Goddess being completely unexpected. And completely irresistable to his decidedly chivalrous ideals.

"Surely not your only friend," he murmurs, daring to reach out and place his hand over hers, giving it a gentle but warm squeeze. "I ... I have missed you as well."

He looks on with concern as she speaks of her recent travels, his brow furrowing at her reaction to them. "The world, I'm afraid, is not always a pleasant place. And none of us, regardless of our abilities I would imagine, is without some limitations. It is the way of things," he says softly. "It does not make one less for realizing this. Rather the opposite."

At her last comment, his eyes drop, and an expression of sadness and guilt creep across his face.

"Esm...Ms. Villanova, not a day goes by that I don't regret that I couldn't do more. I feel ... responsible for the loss you suffered. I keep wondering what more I could have done ... " He trails off lamely. "Though we are small compensation, please know that among friends, which you are whether you see it or not, you never need bear it all alone."

He sat in silence for a few minutes, watching her. The play of the light across her beautiful features, her hair, like living gold in his eyes. And all so troubled.

"Please," he finally says, his tone earnest. "If there is anything I can do to help, name it. It's yours.

Nathicana for her part, keeps her eyes fixed on the surroundings and the strange beasts drawing the carriages. Listening intently to the conversation, she makes no move to indicate that she's doing so, occasionally chatting quietly with Marik, who responds with his usual loquacity.

Scolopendra 09-01-2004 23:25
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Speaker looks out the window, appreciating the countryside as he softly hums grumbling songs from his youth to himself. Other than that, he doesn't have much to do but think and worry.

Dread Lady Nathicana 10-01-2004 12:28
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"Those songs," Nathicana says quietly, shooting Pacci a sidelong glance as she turns to Speaker. "I remember you singing one on the safari as we marched along. What do they mean?" She cocks her head inquisitively as her gaze shifts to him. "I remember that one stirred the blood ..." she trails off, smiling softly at the memories. Still, given their earlier topic, and the reason for their being here, she pats his knee gently.

"Don't worry. It will all work out."

Scolopendra 10-01-2004 14:29
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"Hrrr?" Speaker blinks, then shakes his head slightly out of his reverie. "The songs? They are bits of epics and folktales put to music to make them easier for the bards to remember. Some mythology, legend, and history. The one on the safari is an epic about a hunter... probably allegorical for the Great Hunt. The one I was just humming is a portion of a very long one called the Song of the Race... one of the very few portions I know."

He makes no comment on how events will turn out, but the hand laying on the windowsill flexes almost imperceptably as he barely extends and retracts the tips of his claws.

Dread Lady Nathicana 10-01-2004 17:15
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"Is it one that has been ... forgotten, or just a very long one to memorize?" She looks abashed for a moment, realizing that perhaps this is not the best time to bring up painful memories, nor quiz him on the subject. "I apologize, Tuyc. I find your humming comforting. Please, don't let me keep you from it.

If she notes his reaction, she doesn't let on, one ear still perked, listening to Pacci and the woman. Several conclusions are drawn from their conversation, still, she says nothing, preferring to give them at least the illusion of privacy for now.

Scolopendra 10-01-2004 20:17
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"A bit of both." Speaker looks idly out the window again, and sighs very softly. "During the Extraction, we lost our Conservors--our priests--who remembered the Song. I remember portions, and I know others remember others... but surely long portions are lost. It was... a weakness of the old tradition. Only the Conservors were permitted to learn the entire Song, and they defended that right in combat. Their collections of ears were... fearsome."

He turns to look at Nathi, smiling softly. "Do not apologize. While we are saddened by losing so much, we are glad to share what we can."

Dread Lady Nathicana 10-01-2004 20:38
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Nathicana arches a brow, starts to speak, thinks better of it ... then bulls ahead anyway.

"If I may, you say you know some, others know some ... have you made an effort to gather together all the various information you survivors have, and damn tradition? I mean, gods - times have changed. You've said so yourself. There are any number of things out there just for the asking, if you've not done so already. And if you haven't, why not? Adapt and live, S...Tuyc. Imagine what your race could learn if they pooled all those bits and snippets they have." She drops her gaze then, fiddling with her hands ... most noteably the finger that still shows the mark of a missing ring.

"Again, mi dispiace. But I have always valued information and learning. It is I suppose, a passion of mine. The thought of so much being lost ... " She looks back up to Speaker with a wry grin. "I tend to get a touch carried away, I suppose."

Scolopendra 10-01-2004 21:28
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Speaker blinks at first, suprised by the passion of Nathi's response, then chuckles softly. "Do not apologize... it is the obvious solution. Hrrr..." Leaning back, he rubs his chin as he looks down at his flexing hand in thought. "There are still many of us who remember, although we are scattered wide... and there is more to rebuild than ancient songs." Muttering softly to himself in a growling language, he flaps his ears slightly. "It is doable. Even if some cannot attend, with modern technology mere presence is not necessary..."

He smiles and looks back up at Nathi. "Thank you, kzaw-tzobu. I have a new... project when I return from this errand."

Dread Lady Nathicana 10-01-2004 23:13
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"Sometimes the 'obvious' is not so much, depending on one's situation," she says with the usual close-lipped smile she uses when around Speaker. "As they say, there are times to hold close to traditions, and times when one must lay tradition aside for the greater good. Salvaging what you can of your heritage, I would think, counts as such a time. Not to mention it being a decidedly honorable effort, at that. I wish you luck with it. And," she says, pausing. "I thank you, though I do not understand the honorific, I'm ashamed to say."

A change? All I did was suggest ...

imported_Cetaganda 10-01-2004 23:26
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As he rode in a carriage down the road, Gregor stuck his head out the window and took a look around. Beautiful scenary, the occasional odd animal roaming the countryside, other carriages traveling down the road, the head of a Sakkran...the head of a Sakkran? Gregor reached into his pack, and took out a set of binoculars. Pointing them forward, he found that sure enough, that was indeed the distinctive shape of a Sakkran leaning out of one of the other carriages.

'What a coincidence. He...or is that a she? I think that's a female, ' Gregor thinks. 'I really should figure that out... probably asked for a good hotel like I did, and had the same place recomended. Or we're being sent to the same place deliberately.'

Gregor give the Sakkran a small wave when she looks his way, then turns his attention to the other carriages, trying to spy any other familiar faces.

<OOC: Sure, we prolly wouldn't be in the same caravanish thing. But odd coincidences and/or hidden plans make the Ring go round.<

Scolopendra 11-01-2004 11:40
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Quote:
________________________________________
Originally Posted by Dread Lady Nathicana
"I thank you, though I do not understand the honorific, I'm ashamed to say."
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Speaker chuckles softly. "In time, I may tell you. For now, I will keep you in suspense." He looks back out the window and returns to humming, apparently somewhat less agitated now.

Dread Lady Nathicana 11-01-2004 16:12
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Nathi arches her brow curiously, obviously wanting to press for an answer. "I ..." she begins, then laughs softly, smiling. "I shall try and be patient, for now. I believe, Tuyc, that it is far past time I tried to learn your language. Though my hopes of ever managing proper pronunciation, I'm afraid, are few."

She turns her own attention back to speaking quietly with Marik, glancing at the passing countryside, and idly listening to the conversation between Pacci and the Lady.

I'm almost certain. But ... since when were they so close? I've been remiss in my observations, obviously. Still, Evangelista did report a certain ... fondness or some such at that banquet between them. So much was going on then, I scarcely remember. I wonder.

Her hands idly twist and fidget in her lap, she scarcely noticing, it has become such a habit when her mind wanders.

I hope Barry is ok.

The SLAGLands 21-01-2004 23:11
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(OOC: F*CK RETIREMENT!)

Esmerelda only looks up once into Pacci's eyes, and there is a relief behind them, a silent sigh. Moments before she opens her mouth, the carriage hops to a halt before the mouth of a gigantic cave. Only Leandro recognizes it, and only he recognizes the tall, muscular cat who stands at the cave's mouth. The cat's fur glows dull grey.

"Welcome," he says slowly. "I am Guide. Please come. There is much to discuss."

Esmerelda steps from the carriage first, looking around carefully to make sure no one is watching. Then, as the groups exit the carriages, she instructs each of the drivers, one by one, to return to the airport. Each takes a different route; some go the opposite direction. Quietly, with neither flourish nor fervor, both the glowing cat and the goddess in the purple dress lead the group down into the cave's mouth.

imported_Eniqcir 22-01-2004 12:26
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Neasa dressed in what was hopefully an inconspicuous outfit consisting of red t-shirt, black jeans, and cowboy-style hat, boots, and belt. After passing through customs with a minimum of difficulty,she exited the terminal thinking I have absolutely no idea where the heck I am, and proceeded to hail a taxicarriage.

imported_Cetaganda 22-01-2004 23:38
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Gregor hops out of the carriage and follows Esmerelda and Guide down into the cave, thinking to himself, 'Either this is the strangest hotel ever or I was right and we were lead here deliberately. Either way, I hope we see Barry soon. I want to here from him what's going on.'

Sakkra 22-01-2004 23:48
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Thress walks along, following the guide. "Indeed, as do I. My government is not trusting of this Westerburg. At my 'gentle' prodding, we supported Barry. He has made a positive image on us, and we hoped to see great things from him. But alas, life had othe rplans."

Khenala 23-01-2004 02:44
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Andrew and James exit their carriage with little comment, giving a polite nod to both Thress and Gregor as they follow the group into the cave.

Dread Lady Nathicana 24-01-2004 07:55
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Damn. Pacci gets quickly to his feet, moving to exit close behind Esmerelda, only after thinking to look at Nathicana with a somewhat sheepish expression.

The dark-haired woman merely nods, almost imperceptably, indicating her approval. She, meanwhile, gracefully gets to her feet, then waits her turn to slowly exit the carriage. Both she and Marik gather the luggage from the back, then follow after their hosts - she, hesitating, waiting for Speaker, and him, taking up a position a few paces behind her.

Nathi makes a few calculations, scanning over the others who have been dropped off as well, quietly nodding to those who recognize her, and merely observing the rest.

Pacci greets Guide with a solemn smile. "It has been a long time," her murmurs, his eyes once again being drawn back to the goddess, his expression concerned as they followed along. He hardly takes note of the others there.

Freod 25-01-2004 23:52
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Ecgþeow and Eadwacer disembark from the carriage and enter the cave. Though apparantly carefree tourists still, each keeps his sword hand beneath his cloak and upon his hilt.

The SLAGLands 19-02-2004 13:13
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The gentle glow of Guide lights the cave as the delegation enters it. It is wide and quite unnaturally round, with an unusually steep grade, its walls decorated with crude cave paintings of the eyeless Adib and the pensive and marvelous Brethren of Shade. The sweet aroma of fish and vegetables wafts from further down the passage, and the flicker of candlelight slowly begins to come into view.

"We have prepared a small meal as a gift for your coming," Guide says. "We hope you will enjoy it." Esmerelda, meanwhile, pulls the hat from her head and throws it in the air, and with a quick flash, it disappears. She reaches her hands behind her head and lets her long blonde hair loose, flipping it into freedom with a quick twitch of her neck.

Shortly thereafter, the tunnel opens up into a gigantic cavern, lit strangely brightly by the dozens of candleabras filling the room. Huge pillars stretch to the room's ceiling, which is far beyond the reach of the light. The only other exits to the room appear to be a rather large opening on the right end of the room and a strange-looking pit on the opposite side of the room.

And in the center of the room is the "small meal." The gigantic round table features just enough chairs, plates, silverware, and napkins for every member of the group, and beside the table, a long buffet is laid out. Its centerpiece is a huge crimson fish carefully seasoned and garnished, steam rising from its juicy body. Beside it, a medley of vegetables and fruits complement the aroma, joined at last by tall bottles of shimmering white wine.

After all of the changes that have been made to the place, Pacci barely recognizes it as the room that once housed the foul Il Adib queen, Mother.

The host--one of only two occupants in the room--rises as the guests enter. Behind him stands, of course, the S.H.O.D.A.N. avatar. She nods dutifully as the delegation enters.

The man who rises is much less recognizable. He is completely bald, his face above the nose void of eyes, his face smoothly shaven. He is quite tall and muscular--well over six feet--and wears a simple green-and-brown robe across his body. Only through his smile and his words do the guests recognize him as Bodyguard Barry.

"Hello, everyone," he says slowly, holding his head high as if to look past the delegates and make sure they weren't followed. "Please, take all you like, and eat all you take." He motions with one hand to the table, looking back over his shoulder momentarily before nervously turning back. "We have much to discuss, but I... uh... want you all to feel at home here... so... enjoy..."

He quickly sits back down, lowering his head a bit and glancing about him. Shodey puts a hand on his shoulder and gives him a loving squeeze.

"We'll begin shortly," she says. "For now, though, grab a plate and fill it."

Sakkra 19-02-2004 15:48
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Thress grabds a plate, as requested, and loads it mostly with the fish, and a few vegetables. She declines the use of utensils, however.

Shortly thereafter, she takes a seat, and awaits for the other delegates to sit before she begins her eating.

Reploid Productions 19-02-2004 21:11
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((OOC: For simplicity's sake, I guess I'll just assume Tsume got his mechalizardy keister to the gathering after flying in ^_~.))

This being Tsume's first visit to the islands, he contents himself with looking around, taking note of the decor. The reploid dragon is uncharacteristically reserved as the group is led to the meeting room, though even he gives a start at Barry's eyeless face. After the brief introduction, he manages one of those odd wing-spread bows of his. "Thank you for the offer, but I do not require food." He grins, showing his fangs and a glance at the Sakkran he does not recognize. "However, I'm sure my share will not be wasted."

Tsume finds an empty seat and awkwardly works his draconic frame into it, and waits for the others to eat their fill.

imported_Cetaganda 19-02-2004 22:51
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Thanking Barry and Shodey, Gregor sits down besides Tsume and digs in, somehow managing to maintain a semblance of polite table manners while shoveling food into his mouth. Between the shirt, the slacks, and the ravenous appetite, he could easily be mistaken for any male college student on several planets. Only the silver circlet that is visible on his head - and sometimes only from the corner of the eye, for that matter - breaks the illusion. Well, not so much illusion as the simple fact that, were he not the leader of a major stellar power, he really would be a student.

"So," Gregor says, between mouthfuls, "was everyone's trip was pleasant?" He's obviously trying to lighten the mood a bit, knowing that the rest of the day was likely to be far from pleasant.

Scolopendra 19-02-2004 23:27
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Speaker keeps up the meatshielding act, preceding Nathi into the cave and keeping a careful eye on the surroundings. His keen hunter's nose picks up the scent of food far from the source, pricking up his ears and swallowing slightly. Must not present the image of slathering beast, after all. Hrr hrr hrr. His eyes trace over the intricate designs as he represses that odd feeling of foreboding welling in his spleen.

Upon arriving in the dining chamber carved from the living rock, Speaker blinks at the moderate change in atmosphere and expectations. Barry--No, make that Bari, Tyuc-Tasskin--isn't wearing his usual suit, and S.H.O.D.A.N. the faithful wife doesn't quite match up with her more customary image, that of the unofficial advisor and friend who hangs out on the couch back in his office. He did, of course, know that she had assigned an avatar to Bari; something he knew intellectually but never quite took the time to understand.

Still, the life of a diplomat is to see new sides of people. Adapting quickly, he bows shortly to his hosts then allows himself to take a predatory air, tail swishing as he looks over the buffet. Motioning for Nathi to go first, he follows behind, carefully selecting bits of fish and a surprising array of vegetables and fruits. Taking up some a bottle of wine, he pulls his old Kn-Yani green-crystal chalice--fluted oddly to fit his mouth--from a bag hanging at his belt and fills it.

Standing by his seat, he follows tradition--letting the females sit down first--then takes his seat, watching the situation closely as he sips from the goblet, facets glittering and flashing in the candlelight.

[Dread Lady Nathicana]

The SLAGLands 08-01-2004 00:45
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"Ms. Villanova" smiles weakly at Pacci, raising her hat enough to reveal her eyes. There is both weakness and sadness behind them, the air very much different from the furious creature who emerged from the light in the caves and the peaceful, strikingly aloof deity whom Pacci met again at the Outsets summit. This Esmerelda seems tired, nervous, burdened... in short, strikingly human.

"Leandro, please," she says, a bit of quiet relief in her low tones. "I have truly missed your company. You have been... well..." She looks away, trailing off for a moment before becoming audible again. "...my friend. Perhaps my only friend, I would say."

The other carriages, each one carrying a different representative of Yut, join in caravan behind the first. Esmerelda looks out the side of the carriage, her voice low as she watches the red stones and Joshua trees of the plateau plod past.

"These times have been difficult..." she says. "I have been away, travelling, exploring, learning... my first time truly leaving The Emerald Heights. I have learned a lot about the world, its current state, myself... and most of all, my own limitations. It is new for me, Leandro, and I do not particularly like it."

The carriages continue their silent passage as Esmerelda turns back, her distant eyes lowered, looking to her knees.

"And worst of all is that I bear it alone..."

Sakkra 08-01-2004 02:00
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The trip to Het Amid was one of little consequence. Transfer flights, show papers, be subject to security scans, board flight. Thress was accustomed to this. the few stares she drew were of little consequence; foreign tourists gawking and little more.

This was her thought as she rode in one of the carriages traveling in a caravan of some sort. What an archaiac contraption, but well suited for its purpose. It brings some form of a .... romantic ... atmosphere to this whole thing. She leaned her head out of the window to spy some of the other passengers in the caravan.

Dread Lady Nathicana 08-01-2004 15:26
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Pacci is beside himself for a moment, the drastic change in the Goddess being completely unexpected. And completely irresistable to his decidedly chivalrous ideals.

"Surely not your only friend," he murmurs, daring to reach out and place his hand over hers, giving it a gentle but warm squeeze. "I ... I have missed you as well."

He looks on with concern as she speaks of her recent travels, his brow furrowing at her reaction to them. "The world, I'm afraid, is not always a pleasant place. And none of us, regardless of our abilities I would imagine, is without some limitations. It is the way of things," he says softly. "It does not make one less for realizing this. Rather the opposite."

At her last comment, his eyes drop, and an expression of sadness and guilt creep across his face.

"Esm...Ms. Villanova, not a day goes by that I don't regret that I couldn't do more. I feel ... responsible for the loss you suffered. I keep wondering what more I could have done ... " He trails off lamely. "Though we are small compensation, please know that among friends, which you are whether you see it or not, you never need bear it all alone."

He sat in silence for a few minutes, watching her. The play of the light across her beautiful features, her hair, like living gold in his eyes. And all so troubled.

"Please," he finally says, his tone earnest. "If there is anything I can do to help, name it. It's yours.

Nathicana for her part, keeps her eyes fixed on the surroundings and the strange beasts drawing the carriages. Listening intently to the conversation, she makes no move to indicate that she's doing so, occasionally chatting quietly with Marik, who responds with his usual loquacity.

Scolopendra 09-01-2004 23:25
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Speaker looks out the window, appreciating the countryside as he softly hums grumbling songs from his youth to himself. Other than that, he doesn't have much to do but think and worry.

Dread Lady Nathicana 10-01-2004 12:28
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"Those songs," Nathicana says quietly, shooting Pacci a sidelong glance as she turns to Speaker. "I remember you singing one on the safari as we marched along. What do they mean?" She cocks her head inquisitively as her gaze shifts to him. "I remember that one stirred the blood ..." she trails off, smiling softly at the memories. Still, given their earlier topic, and the reason for their being here, she pats his knee gently.

"Don't worry. It will all work out."

Scolopendra 10-01-2004 14:29
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"Hrrr?" Speaker blinks, then shakes his head slightly out of his reverie. "The songs? They are bits of epics and folktales put to music to make them easier for the bards to remember. Some mythology, legend, and history. The one on the safari is an epic about a hunter... probably allegorical for the Great Hunt. The one I was just humming is a portion of a very long one called the Song of the Race... one of the very few portions I know."

He makes no comment on how events will turn out, but the hand laying on the windowsill flexes almost imperceptably as he barely extends and retracts the tips of his claws.

Dread Lady Nathicana 10-01-2004 17:15
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"Is it one that has been ... forgotten, or just a very long one to memorize?" She looks abashed for a moment, realizing that perhaps this is not the best time to bring up painful memories, nor quiz him on the subject. "I apologize, Tuyc. I find your humming comforting. Please, don't let me keep you from it.

If she notes his reaction, she doesn't let on, one ear still perked, listening to Pacci and the woman. Several conclusions are drawn from their conversation, still, she says nothing, preferring to give them at least the illusion of privacy for now.

Scolopendra 10-01-2004 20:17
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"A bit of both." Speaker looks idly out the window again, and sighs very softly. "During the Extraction, we lost our Conservors--our priests--who remembered the Song. I remember portions, and I know others remember others... but surely long portions are lost. It was... a weakness of the old tradition. Only the Conservors were permitted to learn the entire Song, and they defended that right in combat. Their collections of ears were... fearsome."

He turns to look at Nathi, smiling softly. "Do not apologize. While we are saddened by losing so much, we are glad to share what we can."

Dread Lady Nathicana 10-01-2004 20:38
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Nathicana arches a brow, starts to speak, thinks better of it ... then bulls ahead anyway.

"If I may, you say you know some, others know some ... have you made an effort to gather together all the various information you survivors have, and damn tradition? I mean, gods - times have changed. You've said so yourself. There are any number of things out there just for the asking, if you've not done so already. And if you haven't, why not? Adapt and live, S...Tuyc. Imagine what your race could learn if they pooled all those bits and snippets they have." She drops her gaze then, fiddling with her hands ... most noteably the finger that still shows the mark of a missing ring.

"Again, mi dispiace. But I have always valued information and learning. It is I suppose, a passion of mine. The thought of so much being lost ... " She looks back up to Speaker with a wry grin. "I tend to get a touch carried away, I suppose."

Scolopendra 10-01-2004 21:28
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Speaker blinks at first, suprised by the passion of Nathi's response, then chuckles softly. "Do not apologize... it is the obvious solution. Hrrr..." Leaning back, he rubs his chin as he looks down at his flexing hand in thought. "There are still many of us who remember, although we are scattered wide... and there is more to rebuild than ancient songs." Muttering softly to himself in a growling language, he flaps his ears slightly. "It is doable. Even if some cannot attend, with modern technology mere presence is not necessary..."

He smiles and looks back up at Nathi. "Thank you, kzaw-tzobu. I have a new... project when I return from this errand."

Dread Lady Nathicana 10-01-2004 23:13
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"Sometimes the 'obvious' is not so much, depending on one's situation," she says with the usual close-lipped smile she uses when around Speaker. "As they say, there are times to hold close to traditions, and times when one must lay tradition aside for the greater good. Salvaging what you can of your heritage, I would think, counts as such a time. Not to mention it being a decidedly honorable effort, at that. I wish you luck with it. And," she says, pausing. "I thank you, though I do not understand the honorific, I'm ashamed to say."

A change? All I did was suggest ...

imported_Cetaganda 10-01-2004 23:26
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As he rode in a carriage down the road, Gregor stuck his head out the window and took a look around. Beautiful scenary, the occasional odd animal roaming the countryside, other carriages traveling down the road, the head of a Sakkran...the head of a Sakkran? Gregor reached into his pack, and took out a set of binoculars. Pointing them forward, he found that sure enough, that was indeed the distinctive shape of a Sakkran leaning out of one of the other carriages.

'What a coincidence. He...or is that a she? I think that's a female, ' Gregor thinks. 'I really should figure that out... probably asked for a good hotel like I did, and had the same place recomended. Or we're being sent to the same place deliberately.'

Gregor give the Sakkran a small wave when she looks his way, then turns his attention to the other carriages, trying to spy any other familiar faces.

<OOC: Sure, we prolly wouldn't be in the same caravanish thing. But odd coincidences and/or hidden plans make the Ring go round.<

Scolopendra 11-01-2004 11:40
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Quote:
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Originally Posted by Dread Lady Nathicana
"I thank you, though I do not understand the honorific, I'm ashamed to say."
________________________________________
Speaker chuckles softly. "In time, I may tell you. For now, I will keep you in suspense." He looks back out the window and returns to humming, apparently somewhat less agitated now.

Dread Lady Nathicana 11-01-2004 16:12
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Nathi arches her brow curiously, obviously wanting to press for an answer. "I ..." she begins, then laughs softly, smiling. "I shall try and be patient, for now. I believe, Tuyc, that it is far past time I tried to learn your language. Though my hopes of ever managing proper pronunciation, I'm afraid, are few."

She turns her own attention back to speaking quietly with Marik, glancing at the passing countryside, and idly listening to the conversation between Pacci and the Lady.

I'm almost certain. But ... since when were they so close? I've been remiss in my observations, obviously. Still, Evangelista did report a certain ... fondness or some such at that banquet between them. So much was going on then, I scarcely remember. I wonder.

Her hands idly twist and fidget in her lap, she scarcely noticing, it has become such a habit when her mind wanders.

I hope Barry is ok.

The SLAGLands 21-01-2004 23:11
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(OOC: F*CK RETIREMENT!)

Esmerelda only looks up once into Pacci's eyes, and there is a relief behind them, a silent sigh. Moments before she opens her mouth, the carriage hops to a halt before the mouth of a gigantic cave. Only Leandro recognizes it, and only he recognizes the tall, muscular cat who stands at the cave's mouth. The cat's fur glows dull grey.

"Welcome," he says slowly. "I am Guide. Please come. There is much to discuss."

Esmerelda steps from the carriage first, looking around carefully to make sure no one is watching. Then, as the groups exit the carriages, she instructs each of the drivers, one by one, to return to the airport. Each takes a different route; some go the opposite direction. Quietly, with neither flourish nor fervor, both the glowing cat and the goddess in the purple dress lead the group down into the cave's mouth.

imported_Eniqcir 22-01-2004 12:26
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Neasa dressed in what was hopefully an inconspicuous outfit consisting of red t-shirt, black jeans, and cowboy-style hat, boots, and belt. After passing through customs with a minimum of difficulty,she exited the terminal thinking I have absolutely no idea where the heck I am, and proceeded to hail a taxicarriage.

imported_Cetaganda 22-01-2004 23:38
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Gregor hops out of the carriage and follows Esmerelda and Guide down into the cave, thinking to himself, 'Either this is the strangest hotel ever or I was right and we were lead here deliberately. Either way, I hope we see Barry soon. I want to here from him what's going on.'

Sakkra 22-01-2004 23:48
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Thress walks along, following the guide. "Indeed, as do I. My government is not trusting of this Westerburg. At my 'gentle' prodding, we supported Barry. He has made a positive image on us, and we hoped to see great things from him. But alas, life had othe rplans."

Khenala 23-01-2004 02:44
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Andrew and James exit their carriage with little comment, giving a polite nod to both Thress and Gregor as they follow the group into the cave.

Dread Lady Nathicana 24-01-2004 07:55
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Damn. Pacci gets quickly to his feet, moving to exit close behind Esmerelda, only after thinking to look at Nathicana with a somewhat sheepish expression.

The dark-haired woman merely nods, almost imperceptably, indicating her approval. She, meanwhile, gracefully gets to her feet, then waits her turn to slowly exit the carriage. Both she and Marik gather the luggage from the back, then follow after their hosts - she, hesitating, waiting for Speaker, and him, taking up a position a few paces behind her.

Nathi makes a few calculations, scanning over the others who have been dropped off as well, quietly nodding to those who recognize her, and merely observing the rest.

Pacci greets Guide with a solemn smile. "It has been a long time," her murmurs, his eyes once again being drawn back to the goddess, his expression concerned as they followed along. He hardly takes note of the others there.

Freod 25-01-2004 23:52
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Ecgtheow and Eadwacer disembark from the carriage and enter the cave. Though apparantly carefree tourists still, each keeps his sword hand beneath his cloak and upon his hilt.

The SLAGLands 19-02-2004 13:13
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The gentle glow of Guide lights the cave as the delegation enters it. It is wide and quite unnaturally round, with an unusually steep grade, its walls decorated with crude cave paintings of the eyeless Adib and the pensive and marvelous Brethren of Shade. The sweet aroma of fish and vegetables wafts from further down the passage, and the flicker of candlelight slowly begins to come into view.

"We have prepared a small meal as a gift for your coming," Guide says. "We hope you will enjoy it." Esmerelda, meanwhile, pulls the hat from her head and throws it in the air, and with a quick flash, it disappears. She reaches her hands behind her head and lets her long blonde hair loose, flipping it into freedom with a quick twitch of her neck.

Shortly thereafter, the tunnel opens up into a gigantic cavern, lit strangely brightly by the dozens of candleabras filling the room. Huge pillars stretch to the room's ceiling, which is far beyond the reach of the light. The only other exits to the room appear to be a rather large opening on the right end of the room and a strange-looking pit on the opposite side of the room.

And in the center of the room is the "small meal." The gigantic round table features just enough chairs, plates, silverware, and napkins for every member of the group, and beside the table, a long buffet is laid out. Its centerpiece is a huge crimson fish carefully seasoned and garnished, steam rising from its juicy body. Beside it, a medley of vegetables and fruits complement the aroma, joined at last by tall bottles of shimmering white wine.

After all of the changes that have been made to the place, Pacci barely recognizes it as the room that once housed the foul Il Adib queen, Mother.

The host--one of only two occupants in the room--rises as the guests enter. Behind him stands, of course, the S.H.O.D.A.N. avatar. She nods dutifully as the delegation enters.

The man who rises is much less recognizable. He is completely bald, his face above the nose void of eyes, his face smoothly shaven. He is quite tall and muscular--well over six feet--and wears a simple green-and-brown robe across his body. Only through his smile and his words do the guests recognize him as Bodyguard Barry.

"Hello, everyone," he says slowly, holding his head high as if to look past the delegates and make sure they weren't followed. "Please, take all you like, and eat all you take." He motions with one hand to the table, looking back over his shoulder momentarily before nervously turning back. "We have much to discuss, but I... uh... want you all to feel at home here... so... enjoy..."

He quickly sits back down, lowering his head a bit and glancing about him. Shodey puts a hand on his shoulder and gives him a loving squeeze.

"We'll begin shortly," she says. "For now, though, grab a plate and fill it."

Sakkra 19-02-2004 15:48
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Thress grabds a plate, as requested, and loads it mostly with the fish, and a few vegetables. She declines the use of utensils, however.

Shortly thereafter, she takes a seat, and awaits for the other delegates to sit before she begins her eating.

Reploid Productions 19-02-2004 21:11
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((OOC: For simplicity's sake, I guess I'll just assume Tsume got his mechalizardy keister to the gathering after flying in ^_~.))

This being Tsume's first visit to the islands, he contents himself with looking around, taking note of the decor. The reploid dragon is uncharacteristically reserved as the group is led to the meeting room, though even he gives a start at Barry's eyeless face. After the brief introduction, he manages one of those odd wing-spread bows of his. "Thank you for the offer, but I do not require food." He grins, showing his fangs and a glance at the Sakkran he does not recognize. "However, I'm sure my share will not be wasted."

Tsume finds an empty seat and awkwardly works his draconic frame into it, and waits for the others to eat their fill.

imported_Cetaganda 19-02-2004 22:51
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Thanking Barry and Shodey, Gregor sits down besides Tsume and digs in, somehow managing to maintain a semblance of polite table manners while shoveling food into his mouth. Between the shirt, the slacks, and the ravenous appetite, he could easily be mistaken for any male college student on several planets. Only the silver circlet that is visible on his head - and sometimes only from the corner of the eye, for that matter - breaks the illusion. Well, not so much illusion as the simple fact that, were he not the leader of a major stellar power, he really would be a student.

"So," Gregor says, between mouthfuls, "was everyone's trip was pleasant?" He's obviously trying to lighten the mood a bit, knowing that the rest of the day was likely to be far from pleasant.

Scolopendra 19-02-2004 23:27
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Speaker keeps up the meatshielding act, preceding Nathi into the cave and keeping a careful eye on the surroundings. His keen hunter's nose picks up the scent of food far from the source, pricking up his ears and swallowing slightly. Must not present the image of slathering beast, after all. Hrr hrr hrr. His eyes trace over the intricate designs as he represses that odd feeling of foreboding welling in his spleen.

Upon arriving in the dining chamber carved from the living rock, Speaker blinks at the moderate change in atmosphere and expectations. Barry--No, make that Bari, Tyuc-Tasskin--isn't wearing his usual suit, and S.H.O.D.A.N. the faithful wife doesn't quite match up with her more customary image, that of the unofficial advisor and friend who hangs out on the couch back in his office. He did, of course, know that she had assigned an avatar to Bari; something he knew intellectually but never quite took the time to understand.

Still, the life of a diplomat is to see new sides of people. Adapting quickly, he bows shortly to his hosts then allows himself to take a predatory air, tail swishing as he looks over the buffet. Motioning for Nathi to go first, he follows behind, carefully selecting bits of fish and a surprising array of vegetables and fruits. Taking up some a bottle of wine, he pulls his old Kn-Yani green-crystal chalice--fluted oddly to fit his mouth--from a bag hanging at his belt and fills it.

Standing by his seat, he follows tradition--letting the females sit down first--then takes his seat, watching the situation closely as he sips from the goblet, facets glittering and flashing in the candlelight.

[Dread Lady Nathicana]

Dread Lady Nathicana 20-02-2004 23:50
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Nathicana quietly follows, one brow quirked curiously at the odd surroundings, and decidedly unusual reception. She peers around the broad back of Speaker now and then, curious as to where they're going, and seriously pondering asking Shodey for a little cheat on language skills.

God knows I'll never be able to make a decent pronunciation of it, but at least I'll better understand what the hell he's saying, she thought with a hint of smile.

Pacci, on the other hand, is for once oblivious to the scene around them, his eyes fixed as often as he can manage on the beautiful woman in the hat. He gasps quietly as she takes off the hat that had been shielding her features, and shakes out her long golden tresses.

"Ah, e cosi molto bella ..." he breathes softly, his brow furrowed in concern.

What weighs so heavily on your mind, Esmerelda? Dammit, woman you're not alone.

Marik for his part, remains quiet, though watchful as always. Odd as it may seem, the cave paintings catch his eye, and he gazes at them longer than the rest of their surroundings. He remains close to Nathicana, hovering quietly without seeming to overshadow.

I don't like this. To far away from things. Too much opportunity for accidents. Nath, one of these days you're going to step out too far and find there's nothing beneath your feet but air. I just hope I'm there to catch you when it happens.

All three are impressed with the spread, to say the least, though his attention remains diverted, and hers shifts to the two figures awaiting them in the room immediately.

Nathicana flashes the avatar a warm smile, though the look of concern is clear enough when her gaze shifts to Barry. For some reason, this doesn't feel like the proper time for the usual hugs.

He's gone monk. Sweet Jesu, this is a twist I didn't see coming.

<LOS Communications - Shodey<
{
<< Sis - so good to see you, as always. I'd pry, but it seems Barry wishes to do this a certain way.

<< Let me know if there's anything I can do, all the same. Family. [hug analog] And please ... tell him not to worry for me? Whatever is wrong, you're among friends. We'll find a way.
}


She nods to Speaker as he gestures for her to go on ahead, murmuring a quiet thanks. Marik follows close behind, giving Speaker an apologetic but firm look as he maintains a close watch over the shorter woman. She samples a little bit of just about everything, settling into her seat with a little bow of respect to the big kzin. She pours herself, Marik, and Pacci a glass, then pointedly sets the bottle away from her.

Pacci in the meantime, waits for the others, still lost in thought. It's almost with surprise that he begins filling his plate, keeping mainly to the fish and vegetables. He sits down to the left of Nathicana, Marik settling in on the right with his own plate of food.

Nathi makes an effort to at least make eye contact with each of the others, nodding and offering a little smile in greeting when it seems appropriate. At Gregor's question, she starts, surprised after all the quiet.

"I er ... yes, quite," she murmurs, arching a brow expectantly.

Sakkra 21-02-2004 00:04
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Seeing the others take their seats, Thress begins to inspect the food lain out on her plate. A cursory visual examination, as well as a deep inhale, satisfy her that there are no undue toxins in her meal. One can never be too cautious, even amongst allies.

She hears Gregor's question, and the Dread Lady's response. With a thick Sakkran accent, sounding like a low roll of the tongue on the Rs and Ls and slight hissing on the S, she responds. "The trip was not eventful. This is good, as it gives one time to ponder."

Scolopendra 21-02-2004 01:57
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Speaker shrugs. Diplomatic small talk used to be a good portion of his life, no matter how little he used it. "It is always good to travel with friends," he begins, "and I have sorted some things in my mind. Hopefully they will come to fruition soon."

Reploid Productions 21-02-2004 03:18
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Tsume chuckles dryly at Gregor's question, a deep-throated rumble. "I imagine everyone else had a more pleasant journey than I did. Sneaking out of the country in the bomb bay of a Yotaka drone aircraft is certainly not high on my list of preferable travel practices. But when the order says 'sneaky and ninjalike', well..." He shrugs, amusement on his face as he watches the others dig in to the food. "Suppose it reminds me of the days of secret gatherings and the like from the Dividing War. I daresay I'm quite direly curious as to the nature of this gathering, among other things."

Freod 21-02-2004 13:33
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Eadwacer and Gartheow look around the cave, and see that now, at last, they are surrounded by friends and comrades. They both become noticibly more relaxed as the settle back into chairs. Weapons, previously concealed, slip out from beneath their cloaks to more comfortable positions.

"Gartheow, Methinks that Secg Bari could have chosen a more comfortable location for his exile. Instead, he must live like a wulf upon the borders of his nation. This is truly a disgrace."

"Ah, but Cyng, is this now how you want the people you exile to dwell?"'

"Butan this is ungelice! Bari is a freond!"

"Mine hlaford, you're getting soft in your old age."

imported_Eniqcir 22-02-2004 23:48
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Neasa climbed out of the last carriage, and quickly followed the tail end of the group down into the cave. Her intended-to-be inconspicous dress showed off the tiniest bit of teenage stereotype present in her personality, and the associated fascination with all things graffiti-like led her to make a careful examination of the cave paintings.

Once in the eating room, she picked up a plate, paused a bit by the fish before placing just a little taste on her plate, and loaded up on fruits before sitting down. Waiting for a pause in every one elses speach, she finally made her own answer to gregor's question following Tsume.

"I find one of the advantages of living in the proverbial shadows is that almost no one recognizes you when you occasionally leave. My own journey was just as unexciting as any normal person's commercial flight. The in-flight movie was quite good."

Khenala 22-02-2004 23:55
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Andrew nodded his head in agreement with Neasa, sifting through his plate with minimal interest, mostly focussed on the issue at hand. "It was something I havent experienced in a long while," he paused. "a commercial flight, that is. To tell the truth, it actually feels quite liberating, to be free from the chains of upper government, if only for a short while." he said with a small grin, but then his expression turns somewhat grave. "It is unfortunate, however, that it would have to come under such circumstances."