Invited to a Party

[Tanaara]

Hi Every one! I see a lot of fairly new people here that may or may not have a lot of experience in RPing, so I'd thought I'd start one up for every one to enjoy and ease into if you are unfamiliar with RPing.

I need to edit in to make it clear- this is not just confined to newcomers, all are welcome to show up, interact and develop your characters

It's going a very character centered RP. Please send someone who really represents what your nation and what its people are like. They do not have to be national leaders or officials of any kind - but you are welcome to send such! I would vastly prefer that you send just one person,a couple or a small family with one or two children in the 4-8 age range.

As is planned: to be the formalish birthday party for the young - four year old- twins, the son and daughter of the Archon of Tanaara and his lady wife, the Empress of Tarlachia. He is enhanced human, and she is half Elvin and half Celestial. The grounds where the party will be held are highly protected ( by discrete, but Very Thorough Future Technology, High and Low Arcane Magic, and powerful Psionics as well as lots of effective low tech as well. Please note: Portal / Gate / Teleport etc directly into the grounds is completely blocked, so sorry ,but don't even try!) so NO groups of security are allowed - if your nation requires such, please limit the personal security to one (1) security/ bodyguard.

Some information:

All tech levels are welcome. Tanaara is mostly FT, save for locals that have decided to remain MT/PMT. Magic and Psionics are well known and active in Tanaara.

Tanaaran cities are very spread out , with many small clusters of urban city cores surrounded with dense green zones, rather than one huge concrete canyon. There are many high-speed maglev trams / and subways, also slide walks, corner transportals – but most Tanaarans prefer to walk - ten to fifteen miles a day is an average -without thinking it exceptional.

Tanaara is a clothing optional culture, but they refrain from going au’natural where it might bother unexpecting, out-of- nation guests. Guest / Host rights are embedded deeply into the culture and hospitality is a national pastime.

Tanaara is home to many races/species other than human and they all mix well. Dueling is legal, and Tanaara has the death penalty

That said, come and have fun!. ( Please read the next as it contains a lot of information, consider ‘reasonable characters’ as approved; if in doubt please feel free to TG/ PM me and we can discuss)

Will things probably happen? Well this IS NS and anything is possible. If you want to try something, TG/ PM me FIRST and we'll discuss. I am a reasonable if evil GM

Please feel free to just post getting an invite and your arrival at the site of the party.
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Tanaara covers the whole of northwest corner of the Araelman continent of the Fatal Terrain region, and covering some 10 million sq. m & holding four time zones. It is right at 4000 miles wide by just over that long. The climate ranges from nearly arctic to all but tropical in the far south.

The capitol city of Montguard roused in the early morning sun, as it draped across the rolling hills and valleys that the broad Muir River wound through. The Muir River is Tanaara's version of the Amazon and is the widest river in the nation. It is navigatable to it’s source, the three Great Lakes that lie at the base of the Lossefanyar Athan Snow beyond the Sky, a massive north/ south running mountain system that rivals the better known Himalayas in breath and heights. The Lossefanyar Athan, forms the border between Tanaara and Tarlachia.

One can arrive at Port Royal via ship – non Tanaaran registered vessels can not come up the Muir without special permission - and take a high speed maglev, of a antigrav commuter flight, or rent and drive yourself in either a conventional automobile or a maglev or antigrav vehicle if you have the proper licensing. Port Royal is roughly a thousand miles west and slightly north of Montguard.

If one wished to fly in, from some where on planet, to the capitol city one can land at Transfer Point , the nations primary Starport/ Airport, Airship and Transportal center Transfer Point covered nearly fifty square miles, most of it left in a natural state for air safety reasons. The highly rated Hotel Heliopolis, attached to Transfer Point on it’s own lushly landscaped sixty acres, has been commandeered to house the party goers. It is a internationally rated hotel that is all suites, has every possible amenity, and has earned it’s multi star rating time and again. The security is top notch and thoroughly discrete – it is well used to having national leaders and other high profile guests.

If you are arriving from off world via instantaneous travel you may arrive via Transport/ Gate/ Transferal at the Transportal Central at Transfer Point. If you are arriving via spaceship you are welcome to dock at the Icarious 1, Tanaara’s original space habitat, known affectionately as the “Tater’ and come planet side via the space elevator, or shuttle- public or private, or Transporter/ Gate/ Transferal from the T-center there.

From Hotel Heliopolis one can then take a dedicated Transportal directly to the assigned receiving gate at the palace, and with but a few dozen strides be at the party. Or if you can not use such there are a fleet of maglev taxi’s available to take one there.

Various transport
A feel of what what Montguard is like, though the buildings are more widely separated by green belts.

And so the invitations had gone out by means mundane, arcane, psionic, mystical, and otherwise, to the far reaches of this universe and no few others. No RSVP needed, there was always welcome and room for a few more.

It wasn’t strictly the twin’s birthday, but that had been celebrated privately. However too many people had clamored for something public, and Rob and Aeris had finally agreed. It was late spring, and the weather perfect. That was a given, since the nation had had very effective weather control for several years now. It had been just over four years since the Fall of Imitora and all the devastation that horror had caused to the nation had been primarily dealt with; though the effects had been region wide and some places still suffered.

The gardens at the Archonal Palace of Mont Royale had suffered little and they were in spectacular bloom, the thousands of flowers scenting the light breeze that caressed the sprawling compound who’s landscaped gardens alone covered over two square miles atop the highest hill of the city. The palace grounds as a whole covered some ten square miles., However some of that was untamed forest preserve and another square mile was a very discretely hidden military compound, most of which was actually underground. The air space over it was thoroughly restricted, naturally.

The gardens were ready for the party, with vast brightly hued open air tents shading the lawns, and acting as stations of an immense variety of tsty food and drink. Here and there music of all sorts could be found – well separated so that each could be easily heard in their ‘zone’. Attentive, white coated waitstaff also circulated with drink and nibbles. There were dance floors, and hot tubs, garden nooks, and discussion forums with learned speakers available for those who enjoyed such. Horse’s were available to ride the bridle paths, and there were three adult only pools.

For the children there were acrobats, and clowns, fire eaters and stilt walkers, a huge variety of lawn games and two well chaperoned pools, one with a dramatic waterslide and wave action. There was a emerald lawn for kite flying, and a tethered hot air balloon ride so as to let visitors see Montguard’s loveliness from the air. Elephant rides and horse drawn hayrides were available as was a large petting zoo. A small street carnival with festival foods, games and rides was off in it’s own area. There were, to ease parents minds, small tags that could be attached to a wrist or ankle – they looked like brightly hued ribbons, but could only be removed by the parent attaching them – that would allow a parent to monitor a child’s whereabouts and status from a small data padd wristband they could wear – the parent’s monitor looked like little more than a wide, jeweled cuff, suitable for male or female. Careful, attentive monitors floated about keeping a close eye on all children. No one wanted anything to ruin the day for them.

At four the twins looked six, and they had the intelligence and manners of children older than that. Avanya Ellenlumenn Greenwood-Hexx, had her mothers sweeping Elvin ears, brilliant seafoam green -grey eyes, and long silver blonde hair. Her older, if by but a few minutes, and taller brother Thomas St. James Robert Fortier Greenwood – Hexx had slightly more rounded ears but they too had the Elvin elegance to them, vibrant blue eyes and darker hair. Neither managed to sleep the night before, both were too eager for the party to begin. It would be their first public hosting and they had been especially managing the manners for the last month. While to them their family was nothing special, save that mom and dad were away more than the twins liked, they understood that other people might not see them in the same light.

[Cats Keep]

OOC: With Tanaara’s permission: interactions between Shalamar / Robert and Aeris

Shalamar, the very long lived and more than slightly curmudgeonly ruler of Cats Keep, looked at the being sitting before her and sighed. He was certainly was not what she had been expecting when she had put forth the Call. But then again she was a Laranzista the most highly rated Psionic Adept in the Fatal Terrain region, but only minorly a practioner of the Arcane arts. With narrowed eyes she studied him a moment longer and nodded reluctantly. She could hear Smug and MBC, both of her Bonds chuckling in unison, in the back of her thoughts.

"Well you may not be much to look at" She told the Bandersnatch Cat "But you've passed all the tests we can devise and the goddess knows with as busy as Rob and Aeris are and despite their admittedly marvelous security another layer never hurts..."

Snark, for that is the only name he would admit too, gave the Lady a look of distain and licked a nonextant errant wisp of shoulder fur down. Any one cat knowledgeable knew the insult implied in that and Shalamar's lips tightened, but as any self respecting cat would, Snark ignored it. His tattered ears, told of a life spent rough in the wilds, but his undocked tail told of a superior fighting prowess. "Well Madame Keeperess, Pretty doesn't get you coffee in the morning if you aren't alive to order it. I AM alive yet and I can boast more years in This realm than you can. And they need me not some one getting by on their looks."

Which was true, for while the Lady of Cats Keep had been alive over thirteen thousand years, less than a hundred of them had been here, on Terra, or Earth as it's inhabitants were used to calling it. Her lips compressed faintly and she nodded slowly. She might be an arrogant old bitch, but she certainly was willing, if reluctantly, to admit when someone had the right of it.

MBC and Smug declined to attend, they weren't fond of crowds and had seen Thom and Ava just a few days ago. Since there would be many who had no idea whom she was, and Shalamar truly preferred it that way, she would attend in protective 'formals'. The all swathing, concealing crimson silks were at once airily cool, and a visual warning advising others that close casual contact and jostling were a very badidea. With a wave of her hand the vibrant silks draped about her, hiding all but her fierce amber eyes. Even her hands were under silk lined gloves of the supplest, thinnest leather available.

With Snark sized little larger than your average house cat - though he could instantly become several hundred pounds of raging, and highly intimidating protector should need arise - she Stepped through shadow to arrive in the small antechamber that had been arranged for her comings and goings - she was one of the twins sponsors before the Goddess and a very close friend of the family . While she could have arrived anywhere there was a shadow she didn't really want to give the Archons security permanent seizures and shortened lifespans. That was endemic enough to their chosen professions, and despite her irascible demeanor she truly was a compassionate being.

Shortly the unlikely pair were strolling the party grounds, admiring the lush gardens and greeting those arrived that the Lady of Cats Keep knew. “Ah there they are now” Was all Shalamar got out before Snark went to attention and bolted toward the twins as if drawn by an invisible string stretched tight and now loosed to return home.

At the same time Thom and Ava looked at one another and without a verbal word ran toward their long separated, but just now met friend. The trio ended up rolling on the greensward in a pile of hugs, purrs, giggle and ear scritchings.

“Damn it Shalamar, they were looking so nice in their outfits” The tall, broad shouldered Archon gruffed in openly mock anger as he strode up to the Lady of Cats Keep with Aeris, almost equally tall and willow slender, at his side, both of them smiling broadly. Robert bowed deeply and Aeris and Shalamar exchanged a brief hug, despite Shalamar being in ‘formals’ The Empress of Tarlachia had been well trained in how to keep her personal aura from interacting with that of a Laranzista.

Shalamar threw back her head and laughed at his mock anger. Holding up one finger she delineated “Firstly they’re kids, and as I understand it kids and dirt have a magnetic attraction to one another. Secondly I know that both of them have mastered the cantrip to clean it off of them should they remember to; and thirdly they are your children and as I well remember you were often grubby enough.”

Robert Ryan Fortier ~Hexx had to laughingly admit that he’d been caught grubbied out from toes to hairline often enough. “But you aren’t supposed to remember that!” He flashed his wife a grin, remembering the first time they had met. He had been all of eight years old sopping wet and covered with leaf mold…and she had been impeccably dressed ever so tall and elegant. The most beautiful thing, then and forever, in his universe. The smile on his lips as he looked at his wife was more than slightly goofy.

Shalamar chuffed softly and shook her head. “Don’t worry he’ll protect them to the death and beyond. He’s a Bandersnatch Cat, rare as hens teeth, but he answered the Call, and passed every test I could devise.” And the Lady of Cats Keep was a evil minded, devious woman who’d survived pretty much the universe could throw at one.

[Tanaara]

OOC: With CK's permission for interaction.

Rob looked on fondly as his children got acquainted with their newest protector – though he was far more than just that, he would be a guide, mentor and play buddy as well, for like all the other cats of Cats Keep he was as intelligent, if not more so, as any human, and his normally small size made him seem very non threatening - eventually the three sorted themselves out and he chuckled to see Ava quickly making the simple gestures that formed small amounts of arcane energies into invisible hands that brushed she and her brother free of grass, twigs and fluffed their clothes in to preventability. He had not the slightest bit of talent for the Arcane, but his lady wife, being half Elvin and half Celestial, virtually lived in a limitless sea of such. And their children had inherited quite a bit her Gifts, Ava more so than Thom, or so it seemed, though he had been told that his daughter was unusually precocious.

He shook his head with another soft laugh as Thom and Ava ran over to hug the Lady of Cats Keep – after a small pause as they took in the warning signal of her Formals – Thom bowed and Ava curtseyed then at Shalamar’s regal nod then thrown wide arms they rushed to fall into the embrace. Once they had thanked her again they looked to their parents with pleading eyes. They’d stay and greet guests if they had too; but they wished far more to go explore the delights brought in expecially to appeal to children that lurked here and there on the grounds.

Aeris had smiled widely, “Go on and enjoy, we’ll call you back if there is any one you need to specifically greet. And remember, if you meet some one you’ve not yet greeted, thank them for coming, and introduce yourselves.”

The two agreed mindfully and, with Snark between them, set out to enjoy things less boringly adult. Thom was very vocal about getting a ride on the elephant. He’d already had a broken arm gotten sneaking out to the stables and climbing atop his father’s favorite mount sans bridle or saddle.

[Elves Security Forces]

Artanis Raynor strolled peacefully along the tree lined sidewalk in the capital of Valanora, the majestic Raynor City. The dark green leaves swayed ever so slightly as a gentle breeze blew across the land, making Artanis' long light brown locks brush slightly against his face. It had been several years since Artanis had stepped foot inside the capital, and he was always amazed at the beauty and majesty of the city. Despite the city being named after his family, it was not his home, as he preferred the cooler temperatures of Gladerial in the north. However, his second cousin, Tobias Raynor, had invited him to the Raynor family mansion in the southwest portion of the city for some unknown reason. So he made the trip down southwards, stepping once again into the beautiful city with its' lush forests, dense population centers, and industries all put together in harmony. He continued to hum to himself as he made the final corner and immediately recognized the iron fence and gates that marked the boundaries of the families' lands. Unlike other visitors who would have had to buzz in and have had an appointment to have the gates open for them, Artanis merely pressed his hand against the keypad and they opened up slowly, welcoming the lad back home.

The long walk from the gate to the front door of the mansion proper gave Artanis the time to think about the reason why Tobias would have suddenly invited him down here. He had not had any contact from his cousin in many years, mostly due to the busy schedule that the former leader of the country had to keep. Artanis could not blame him, as he had bore the brunt of the troubles the nation had encountered for over twenty years, leading the country out of every single mess they ever stumbled across, including nearly being wiped out twice. There was no ill will between the two, so there should not have been any reason for Artanis to feel slightly anxious about the invitation, but alas he was.

Whatever anxiety he might have had was shaken from him when Tobias himself answered the three knocks on the door and greeted his cousin with a bear hug. So caught off guard was Artanis that he stumbled back a few steps before regaining his composure.

"Is that how you greet all your guests Tobias? It's no wonder the entire nation is in love with you if you give hugs to people just like that." the older and more serious of the elves quipped.

The younger elf bore little resemblance to his cousin bar the light brown hair, grinned. Where Artanis was quite tall and whose ears were elongated with tips and carried himself with grace, Tobias was of average height and had shorter ears, more the size of human ears, but tipped in the usual elven fashion, and carried himself more like a commoner than a prestigious dignitary.

"Ah, but I have good new for you my cousin, a gift it is. One that I would have quite enjoyed myself if not for previous engagements that would not allow me the time to savior it."

"If you had me come down here for just a gift, then perhaps it was wise that your wife is now the leader of the nation. Surely an item could have easily been sent through mail?"

"Ah, but it is not that sort of gift dear cousin." At this, Tobias pulled open his coat and reached inside his pocket, pulling out a glittering navy envelope and handed it to Artanis. "Go on, open it up."

Shaking his head, Artanis pulled out the slip of paper from inside the envelope and began to read it. It was an invitation from the nation of Tanaara to attend a party for the leaders' twin children. Despite a superb reputation, Artanis did not see why this party was any different from any other that were had among dignitaries from time to time.

"Skeptical you are? Surely you must realize that we are closely tied to the Tanaarans now, and to refuse an invitation would not suit well with them I think. Your Great Leader is Tanaaran, as are my twins, which is really what this is about anyways. If you would, I would like you and the twins to attend this party. I think that Kheleen and Faelynn would do well to visit the nation of their mothers origin, as well as meet its' people. From all accounts, Aeris and and Robert are superb hosts and individuals. You may just enjoy the trip yourself, maybe find something in the visit that can reignite that more laid back side of you."

Artanis frowned. He knew that this was not a request, but it was an order, despite the pleasantries. While it was true, he had not been the same elf since the Tides of Darkness, he did not see how a trip to some foreign land would change that. Yet he knew that he could indeed spend some time with his relatives on this trip, something he had not yet had a privilege of doing.

"Alright Tobias, I accept. Just charter our transportation if you will."

[The Eternal Swarm]

A most curious thing happened, an invite somehow managed to be sent, and addressed, to The Swarm. Clearly it was someone's idea of a practical joke, and possibly a bad one at that. Yet the fact remains, an invite DID turn up in The Swarm.

"An Invite? How? Who in their right minds would invite a swarm of world devouring space monsters to a kid's birthday party?" Zasz asked, shifting her Carapace armor and trying to adjust to the new female form she had recently been given when she was forced to change sexes after losing a bet. She looked alot like Irene, the Queen of the Swarm, could've been her twin sister, but Zasz's colors were black and dark grey, where as Irene's was dark Purple and White.

"I don't know, but I'm not throwing it away into the devouring pool for recycling. Someone, somewhere, is trying to play a practical joke. Well, I'll just make their little joke backfire, and actually go. I'll take human form, using the new formshifting skill I developed for just such an occasion. Gods, I said that didn't I? I sound like a cliche superhero from a comic book who ALWAYS has what the situation calls for no matter what. Regardless, I best be on my way." Irene said.

So it was, that a single Hive SHip began making its way to the party.

OOC: I just couldn't resist. Well, I could've, but didn't want to.

[Illegal Legs]

Eight Months Ago

Skofte Macleod rode through the northern bogs. It had been days, weeks, since he had seen another Skofte Macleod Gang member. All his men had ridden into the swamps and drowned, or died of dysentery, while others must have just lost their way and driven off into the mists... or left to marry native wives, or gone mad and run off into the wilderness without even their motorcycles. At night the sound of harmonicas and strange Austrian phantoms floated over the swamp, and the bog lights flickered in the distance. Strange and frightening howls rang out in the distance. There had been nothing to eat for a week.

But he rode his motorcycle as tirelessly as ever... for he was Skofte Macleod, the man with the greatest name in the world.

And suddenly he crested a dike, engine loud against the still background of the world, and there it was... the vast grey expanse of the northern ocean, stretching out before him like a pathway leading to the utmost ends of the earth, under an overcast sky... seeming to lead into the heart of an immense darkness.

Skofte Macleod wept, sitting in the pose of a meditating Buddha, indistinct and silent. Nothing in the world seemed to move in the heavy mists and the still ocean.

He raised his head - and found an invitation.

[Tanaara]

He raised his head - and found an invitation.

For those for whom the Road Goes On Forever there is always the Red Limit Freeway, or the Glory Road. Both can take one where one needs, or really just even wants, to go. But then again there have always been the Myriad Ways, the Infinite Paths that cross time, space, dimension, states of mind and lack there of. And sometimes, just sometimes an invitation to a party is more than just a mere invitation to a Party. Sometimes it is a Portal to the Tao itself.

And the innocent seeming invitation that had found it's way into the possession of one Skofte Macleod was just such an invitation.

For there is more than one way to arrive at a Party, just as there is more than one way to skin a cat.

But then again, at this particular Party, that might not be a good thing, a survivable thing, to try. The cats here were certainly Not the usually run of feline-dom. And the Lady of Cats Keep herself was in attendance. And if you think a world devouring hive mind ship was dangerous, the lady had once been forced to dismantle a star...with but a thought. But she really preferred not to.

But on to more pleasant things - there was plenty of food from damn good chow to finest of epicurean dining. Plenty of drink from a parson’s nonalcoholic tea to the finest of ales and exquisite vintenings...and every thing in between.

So it was, that a single Hive Ship began making its way to the party.

The Hive ship would find itself welcomed to Tanaaran controlled space in as warm a manner as any other bearing guests to the Party. They would be offered their choice of docking at Icarious, or taking an orbital slot, or -should the Hive ship possess the ability to land planet side- at Transfer Point. As long as guests came in friendship, they would be welcomed as such. Besides if the hive ship needed a snack, they had coordinates to several systems that were wholly uninhabited and might make suitable dining.

Besides monster is such a subjective title.

[The Eternal Swarm]

The Hive Ship opted to orbit, and Irene herself personally flew out, her wing blades growing a Memberane between each wing blade to form actual wings. Like The Jets, she could transition between spacial flight, and atmospheric. Landing at the selected spot, she glowed briefly, and then, all signs of Swarmling infestation were gone.

She was in her original human form, and gods she was beautiful. She had deep red hair and green eyes that sparkled like emeralds. Her lips were as rubies and there was a beauty mark near her lips. Her skin was fair, and she wore a beautiful formal green gown for the occasion. It came with matching shoulder length gloves, the whole ensemble made of silk.

She took a ride to the party, and was certain no one would expect a Swarmling to have taken full human form.

[Modern Outlaws]

ooc: I'm in...post up later tonight...

[Flammable Ice]

Dustwind Thorn stared in sheer amazement. It was enough to discover an artificial structure out in the desert - a sign that his people were not the first to visit this planet - but to then be invited to a party by the structure?

He turned his head to look back at the hover truck he had arrived in.

"I don't know about you, but I'm going in", he shouted back to his exploring companion, Fleck.

"Are you crazy?"

"I'm an explorer, Fleck. It's my duty!"

Curiosity and the sense of adventure were perhaps even stronger motivations for Dustwind, but that wouldn't have sounded as good. He took a deep breath and stepped into the structure. Suddenly, he was no longer in the desert.

Looking around, Dustwind found himself in a place he did not recognise. It seemed to combine both civilisation and nature. The nature in question was lush and green, which made a pleasant change from the seemingly endless deserts that surrounded FI's cities.

Unsure of what to do next, Dustwind approached the nearest person.

"Hello, I've been invited to a party. Avanya and Thomas. Do you know them?"

[Tanaara]

Madrigal Orel Shimada, ex Ambassadress to the DMG and now one of the Archon's 'Horsemen' -as his closest advisors and senior Ministers were known - had taken over welcoming duties just a few minutes ago.

Like every Tanaaran at the party Madrigal was armed. It was a given - if you were a Tanaaran Citizen, you were armed, and trained - that was a requirement of being a Tanaaran Citizen. However her own preferred carry piece was completely hidden by her exquisitely tailored kimono styled blazer and palazzo pants outfit.

"Hello, I've been invited to a party. Avanya and Thomas. Do you know them?"

She smiled warmly at the newcomer who had seemed to step out of thin air and replied "Why yes, I do, and be welcome to Tanaara. I'm Madrigal Shimada, but please just call me Maddie." She offered him her hand - Tanaarans tended to use wrist clasps, but they were also familiar with hand shakes, head nods, bows, half bows and a wide variety of other greetings - and she would not be offended if he preferred to refrain from personal contact.

"I think I saw Thom and Ava heading off for the elephant ride. It's far more interesting to a kid than meeting hundreds of people the same ancient age as your parents." She laughted "Have you met Rob and Aeris, their parents? I'll be glad to introduce you."

~~~~~~~~~~

She took a ride to the party, and was certain no one would expect a Swarmling to have taken full human form.

That is very true about her expectations, but even if she had come in her usual guise it would not have been met with excitement. There were many in Tanaara that did not look the slightest bit human save when they chose to .

However one psionic Adept is well aware of the approach and arrival of another, and Shalamar's tall, slender form could be seen waiting in motionless, comfortable patience for Irene's appearance.

"I don't believe we've met Your Majesty but I think we have a mutual friend Demoiselle Tiger Lilly Ki'tora -Ryu du Fae, more often known as Drai'lee?" came the polite mental introduction from the Tenerista as Irene arrived. "I am Shalamar, Lady of Cats Keep and I must say you are going to have most of the men and a goodly number of the ladies falling all over you. That outfit quite suits you” Her mental grin was clearly visible.

[Modern Outlaws]

Robert's hands danced over the keyboard with ease. He clicked back and forth between tabs, keeping his fingers on the pulse of his clientele: the forums. He was an active member in over fifty forums that focused on a specific brand, and another handful of non brand specific. Each time he clicked through the tab, he found out what his client base found new and interesting, or what they were willing to spend their money on, where they were willing to go.

However, much nicer than his tapping across the keyboard was the single, thing finger tracing absent minded circles over his chest. Victoria quietly let out a content sigh as she awoke from her nap, glancing up occasionally at the computer screen. Robert was in the middle of a sales pitch, but even he couldn't ignore the stunning woman laying in bed next to him.

"Yes dear?" he asked in mock boredom. He turned and offered her his signature smile.

"That was nice," she said, speaking of their connection a few hours back. She had to chuckle to herself about it. They had done just noe for the first time what most thought they had been doing ever since Robert had picked up and moved to Tanaara, opening Rogue Performance Motorsports and hiring her as his executive assistant.

He clicked a submit tab, and left his newest idea, a redesigned dual intake set up for this specific board's approval. He closed the lap top, and placed it on the bed side table, and turned to Victoria. "Indeed, Miss Renyolds. Better than nice."

She smiled, and playfully punched at him. He let her connect with his shoulder, and feigned injury. "What time do we have to be there?" he asked, pushing the covers aside and standing from the bed.

She pulled a Blackberry out of her purse and clicked through the day planner. "Hmmm. About two hours."

Robert nodded. "Should give us plenty of time to shower," he responded, pouring another glass of champagne. "Gotta shower up and all."

Victoria reached across the bed, snatching his wrist, and tugging him back to the bed. "Lets get the and all taken care of first," she purred.
___

Two hours later, Robert watched the highway speed by from his seat in the back of the Rolls Royce. It had taken Victoria almost a full week to talk Robert in giving up the driver's seat just once. If he had driven, they most likely would have arrived late. Not because he was a slow driver by any means, but because he would have without question found someone to race. Further, Robert couldn't think of a single car he owned that could be mistaken for civilized. The M5 was arguable, but the exhaust set up was far to outrageous, mimicking an F1 sound level.

So this time, and just this time, Robert let someone else drive.

"Ya know, I really hope they don't call me grandpa," he commented, almost to no one but himself. It was a difficult subject to breach, as Robert appeared no older than his early forties, if that, and would most likely not look any older for some time. There was only one other person who had known his true age, and Robert himself had put a nine millimeter Speer Gold Dot into the man's forehead, just above his right eye.

"I'm sure that Rob Ryan and Aeris have taken that subject on with the twins. It'll be fine." She slipped his hand over his, gently squeezing.

"Yeah, I know."

He could feel the big Rolls slow, the massive brakes halting the forward motion of the car built completely to be ridden in, not driven. He smiled at Victoria as they pulled up, and squeezed her hand back. He checked his watch, an Omega Speedmaster Legend, and took note of the perfect arrival. "Exactly the right time. I need to talk to our driver later. We could use someone like him on the team."

The door silently opened a moment later, and Victoria stepped out first, dressed in one of her more favored outfits. Robert followed her out of the Rolls Royce, pulling his jacket closed, tucking the Sig Sauer on his hip away for the time being.

Robert led, Victoria at his side, into the party.

super tired, just wanted to get a post up. sorry if its not as good as it sounds in my mind.

[The Eternal Swarm]

She took a ride to the party, and was certain no one would expect a Swarmling to have taken full human form.

That is very true about her expectations, but even if she had come in her usual guise it would not have been met with excitement. There were many in Tanaara that did not look the slightest bit human save when they chose to .

However one psionic Adept is well aware of the approach and arrival of another, and Shalamar's tall, slender form could be seen waiting in motionless, comfortable patience for Irene's appearance.

"I don't believe we've met Your Majesty but I think we have a mutual friend Demoiselle Tiger Lilly Ki'tora -Ryu du Fae, more often known as Drai'lee?" came the polite mental introduction from the Tenerista as Irene arrived. "I am Shalamar, Lady of Cats Keep and I must say you are going to have most of the men and a goodly number of the ladies falling all over you. That outfit quite suits you” Her mental grin was clearly visible.

"Why thank you. I made it myself, though I'll spare the exact details on how that was accomplished. It is a pleasure to meet you Shalamar, I hope The Overmind's presence isn't too overwhelming, I've taken steps to reduce it's normal level of presence about me. As for all the attention, I'm sure I'll cope, somehow. Shall we walk in to the party together?" Irene asked, her smile clearly visible.

She stepped out of the vehicle, and walked with the grace of a queen, not the gait of a warrior that she normally moved with. About her seemed to be the presence of some abhorrent unnatural thing, but it was muted, and almost seemed imaginary. This was the presence of the overmind, and only the psionically adept could sense it. That, and any computer system with psionic technology.

Underneath that was the most fragrant scent, but it was implacable as to what it truly was,

[Elves Security Forces]

Artanis, the twins, and their two priestesses walked hurriedly across the pavement towards the opposite end of the garden. The priestess were here to activate the portal that would transport the trio from inside one of the many lush gardens in the Raynor family mansion, to just outside the grounds in Tanaara where the party was being held. Artanis was dressed in a navy and gold kimono, while the twins where dressed in royal blue and white. Kheleen was dressed in a loose fitting shirt and pants, while Faelynn looked beautiful in her gown. It was not often that they were dressed in these formal garments, and all three of the outfits looked as if they had never been worn before.

As they reached their destination, the two priestesses began to construct the portal that would be their transport. Artanis took this time to look over his great nephew and niece. Both were genuinely attractive with an obvious glee on their face that made it hard for the older elf not to smile. The exuberance of youth always struck a chord within him, as like so many of the Raynor children, he was not allowed a normal childhood. Always being raised to be the eventual leader of the country, or to be some sort of official if one of the other members of the family was chosen to be the Great Leader, he never had had chances like this just to enjoy being a child. For this, he was grateful that Tobias was not continuing putting the pressure on his children and forcing them to forgo their childhood for what might be their future.

Suddenly a rush of wind and a small burping sound signaled that the portal was constructed and had been activated by the duo of priestesses.

"There you go lord Artanis. The portal should transport you to its' corresponding portal in Tanaara. Whenever you desire to come back home, take these two stones and brush them together when standing in front of the portal entrance. This will reactivate the portal for a few minutes, but be warned, they only have three charges in them. That being said, make sure that you only use them when you are sure you and your party are ready to depart."

Artanis nodded as he took the two marble sized and white stones from the priestess. Then he looked at the children and motioned for them to step through, as they were supposed to arrive at within ten minutes.

[Cats Keep]

OOC: Just an FYI - Tanaara has permission to post for me with any of my characters as needed.

As for all the attention, I'm sure I'll cope, somehow. Shall we walk in to the party together?"

"It would be my pleasure. And while the presence of the Overmind does not bother me" The Lady of Cats keep had seen worse in her time. For at least the Overmind was rational in the sense that this section of the multiverse understood 'rational'. "Though I thank you for the kindness in muting it's presence. Most of those of Tanaara are minimally psionic. After Cats Keep, where all the Citizens are psionic to one degree or another, Tanaara has the largest population of active psionics in the Fatal Terrain region."

Shalamar led the way past the discrete but observant security and into the lush gardens. "I though some one mentioned that Thom and Ava had gone to...oh here they come now!" She winced slightly as a very large, howdah bedecked elephant - it's Mahoot looking completely disconcerted, if not out right frantic and two whooping children leaning out of the ornate crimson and gold howdah - came charging down towards were a foursome were talking. "It looks like they found out that their grandfather has arrived and have decided not to end their elephant ride. Ava is truly her mothers daughter. There's not an animal alive that can resist her requests." She sighed at the precotiousness of the youngster. "She is going to be very powerful when fully trained...not that she isn't already."

[Tarlachia]

OOC: So, I decided to join in after all. Certainly an interesting lineup so far.
OOC2: So, CK beat me to a post about the twins, lol...editing to fit the story...

IC:

"Avanya! Put the elephant down! You're gonna hurt him!" Thomas's whining voice could be heard, though he made his best effort to mute it. His eyes looked upon the elephant with a longing to ride upon its broad backside, and a slight concern for the creature's welfare. Strangely, the elephant was calm, even to the point of being unaware that it was hovering in place a solid two feet off the ground. Around the elephant, several other children were pointing and laughing, clearly enjoying the spectacle.

The elven girl's light giggling answered her brother's demand as she stood there with both hands stretched out toward the massive creature. She was toying with her brother, teasing him because he couldn't do several of the same limited tricks she had been allowed to learn with the permission of her parents. "Look! She's enjoying it!" the girl stated a moment later, correcting Thomas's assumption on the creature's gender. It was just then that a warning voice; her mother's own; slipped into Avanya's mind, like a whisper in her ears. Avanya...

Frowning in disappointment, she lowered her hands and watched as the elephant was safely returned to sure footing. A pout spread on her face as she looked at her brother, "Tattle-tale!" she muttered as she bent down to stroke the backside of the feline known as Snark sitting next to her, an amused look on his face. It appeared that the feline hadn't deemed this an instance he should interfere with for no one was in direct harm's way. Thomas merely stuck his tongue out at her, then got in line for the ride.

Snark turned his attention to Avanya whom had gone to sit in the shade of a nearby tree and wistfully tap her finger into the ground around her. A few seconds would pass before a flower would appear, growing exponentially to its normal height. Each flower possessed a different color, surrounding the young girl in a circle of vibrant colors. The feline mewed softly, rubbing up against her a moment before stretching almost comically and settling himself in the grass next to her, nearly hidden by the foliage. His eyes watched both of the twins though with practiced care.

"A hive has come." Avanya muttered to herself, "False beauty, eyes of emerald, hair of fire, too perfect...a slave to a Greater Mind. Poor soul. Infestation..." Her finger now, with a brush of arcane energies, swept aside some grasses to reveal the rich earth beneath. She traced the figure of the Hive visitor, then delicately plucked one of the red flowers before crushing its leaves between her fingers and soon tracing fiery red hair. Snark studied her design with interest, then turned away as if no longer caring for it. He knew of the girl's unusual ability to see things that were not readily known, and even a few things that were yet to come.

"Avanya! Come here!" called the excited voice of her older brother, whom had clearly forgiven her by now for her little deed earlier. She looked up and couldn't help but smile. Without further ado, she mockingly rolled her eyes toward Snark as she picked him up with care and carried him while stroking his fur between the ears and along his neck.

Thomas, being naturally gifted like his father, had managed to convince the handler to let him hold the reins and direct the elephant around the garden. He was doing splendidly, and Avanya let loose a giggle. The handler, though didn't appear to be quite so care-free for he knew if any of the children present were hurt, much less the twins for whom the party had been hosted, he'd be out of a job before he knew what had hit him.

In moments, the two of them were atop the elephant, and now Avanya took control of the elephant not with the reins but with gentle touches from her hands and soft words spoken that directed the elephant to her whims. They were heading for Shalamar, and ultimately, their grandfather whom had arrived a short while ago.

[The Eternal Swarm]

OOC: Just an FYI - Tanaara has permission to post for me with any of my characters as needed.

Shalamar led the way past the discrete but observant security and into the lush gardens. "I though some one mentioned that Thom and Ava had gone to...oh here they come now!" She winced slightly as a very large, howdah bedecked elephant - it's Mahoot looking completely disconcerted, if not out right frantic and two whooping children leaning out of the ornate crimson and gold howdah - came charging down towards were a foursome were talking. "It looks like they found out that their grandfather has arrived and have decided not to end their elephant ride. Ava is truly her mothers daughter. There's not an animal alive that can resist her requests." She sighed at the precotiousness of the youngster. "She is going to be very powerful when fully trained...not that she isn't already."

"Certain things breed true. Then again, it is known that children are like sponges, absorbing all that is around them to form who they are. Regardless, there are worse traits than continuing to enjoy an elephant ride despite someone's arrival. I wonder if her control could extend to The Swarm?" Irene asked.

She observed the elephant, looking at it carefully. In her mind, she began to decide how to alter one if it was ever assimilated into The Swarm. Add Chitinous armor, reinforce the tusks, and sharpen them, adding a little length, increase its muscle mass and strength, why, she'd almost have a tank.

[Tanaara]

Anyone Gifted with TrueSight would see that Aeris's true form was that of a winged being of glorious, heavenly light - her Elvin appearance was a kindness to the limited Sight of mortals. Her husband was much different, an assured solidity that was its own unique power, with Gifts inherited from his father, who had only just arrived, and more from his time in the Cadre of the Phoenix Empire of Tanara.

Robert led, Victoria at his side, into the party.

"Afternoon Dad, Victoria, glad you both could make it, I heard that you were driven? In a Rolls? Getting old dad?” Rob Ryan couldn’t resist teasing his father who really didn’t look any older than Rob. The pounding footfalls of a racing elephant had him looking in that direction “...Aeris is our daughter going to stop the elephant in time?" Rob Ryan asked with just the faintest hint of concern in his voice. He was absolutely certain that he and his wife, as well as his father, could make it out of the elephants way without any trouble, but Victoria he was not so sure about. And having the lovely Victoria flattened beneath charging elephant’s feet certainly would put a kibosh upon the party.

Fortunately his daughter brought the elephant to a sedate walk then a gentle stop a good ten feet away. Thom swarmed down the howdah’s ladder with preternatural agility, while Ava followed him more sedately. Thom had inherited all his father's and grandfathers physically oriented gifts, Ava was merely Elvin graceful.

Once down they ran over to their Grandfather and Victoria and proceeded to throw their arms about his legs uninhibitedly. “Hey you old Fart!” Thom said ebulliently as Ava giggled delightedly.”

Rob Ryan threw back his head and his rich deep laughter boomed forth delightedly. He was only called Rob Ryan when his father Robert Fortier was about and he thought his son’s pick up on what his father sometimes got called when he wasn’t around a hoot…Robert Fortier hadn’t wanted to be called grandfather, but hadn’t bothered to mention any suitable alternatives, so he’d have to make do…

Then he looked at the children and motioned for them to step through, as they were supposed to arrive at within ten minutes.

“Prince Artanis, it is a pleasure to meet you.” He turned to the children “Prince Kheleen and Princess Faelynn, it is so good to see you again.” Morgan Kincanon - the Archon’s senior Horseman, and effectively his second in command - had been waiting for their arrival and greeted them with a warm smile, and a welcoming hand clasp – for Artanis, and half bows for Kheleen and Faelynn. “If you will come with me, I’ll introduce you to Thom and Ava. It’s been a long time since you all have visited, why you all were only a year old and you have grown so much!” He went onto compliment the two children on their outfits as they crossed the grounds.

“Prince Artanis, I can assure you that every security precaution has been taken, and we also have ‘minder’ devices that we can wrap around Kheleen’s and Faelyn’s wrists that will give you a continuous updates on their whereabouts and physical states, that way you don’t need to keep your eyes on them continuously. We have a great number of child oriented activities, plus an equal number more of the interest to the adults.” There were also herds of well trained nannies and footmen to keep ‘human contact’ with the children.

He saw the elephant now back under the control of it’s shaken mahout, ambling away and had to chuckle. “It looks as if Ava was up to her making friends with any and all animals again. Come let me introduce you to every one.”

Regardless, there are worse traits than continuing to enjoy an elephant ride despite someone's arrival. I wonder if her control could extend to The Swarm?"

“I think in time the answer might be a yes, but the more pertinent answer would be “would she want to?” She is her mother’s daughter as well in that she is innately of the Light. She like her brother will be a great Protector someday, a Power to be reckoned with, but I have seen nothing in her that would giver her need for domination or self aggrandisement.” Shalamar said lightly.

And she had to laugh at Irene’s musings – the Hive Queen hadn’t been trying to hide them. “Yes it very much would be something to be feared, but most elephant’s are gentle by nature, only rogue bulls would have the aggression you would need.” She turned to face Irene, her face very serene, but without an ounce of give to it. “And it would not be a good thing to tamper with their intrinsic nature.”

[Modern Outlaws]

Afternoon Dad, Victoria, glad you both could make it, I heard that you were driven? In a Rolls? Getting old dad?

Robert shook his son's hand in a firm, yet unchallenging handshake. The firmness was a proper sign of respect from the Imitoran. Victoria did the same. She hand Robert had only been officially seeing each other for a handful of months, since the end of the last thirteen hours race. She wasn't sure if she was into the hugging territory yet, and then there was that small fact that she was younger than Rob Ryan. Robert had once told her not to worry about it, but then again he was on his third bottle of wine and second Monte Cristo of the night, and he said a number of things. Including something strange about his overall age.

"Old? Hardly. I just decided to be polite. For a change," he chuckled, dropping his hands to his pant's pockets. "I figured that showing up in a fire breathing mach five car upside down and on fire would be a bit out of line, so I thought why not the Arab dictator mobile?"

"I thought a Grosser 600 would have been more appropriate," Victoria nodded.

"I didn't control the Imitoran Air Force long enough to claim that right. So," he said, turning to Rob Ryan, "things look like they are going well? House hasn't been blown up yet, so I haven't been too much of a bad influence on the youngins. Aeris, it looks like you've kept Rob here in line. That's a good girl," he said with a smile

Hey you old Fart!

"And here are my two proteges," he said, laughing with the children. "Old fart, c'mon? Your only as old as..."

And Robert paused. He thought about it for a second at most, realizing he wasn't with his friends, nor the guys he worked with in the garage. So ending with the ass you pull at night wouldn't have been horribly appropriate. Especially in front of the twins and mixed company.

"...You feel in the evening," he finished. He offered a quick smile to Victoria, and she winked back. He would have to figure out a way to address the situation with Victoria and the grandchildren at another date.

"So how are you two doing? Not staying out of trouble I hope. If your mom and dad ever get to boring you know the guys miss you down at the shop."

He looked back at Rob Ryan and Aeris. "You know, you better keep an eye on these two. Thomas is already looking like he is gonna turn into one of us, and Ava is gonna be a little heart breaker. Or are you gonna take my advice and not let her date till she's twenty nine?"

Victoria laughed at the last one. "Good thing you never had a daughter," she chuckled, "or else the male population of this planet would have to live in constant fear and wonder of when daddy was going to slip out of the darkness and drop them."

Robert chuckled. "Well, Ava here gets the same attention. You better watch out Ava, gotta stay away from guys like me and your dad."

[The Eternal Swarm]

Regardless, there are worse traits than continuing to enjoy an elephant ride despite someone's arrival. I wonder if her control could extend to The Swarm?"

“I think in time the answer might be a yes, but the more pertinent answer would be “would she want to?” She is her mother’s daughter as well in that she is innately of the Light. She like her brother will be a great Protector someday, a Power to be reckoned with, but I have seen nothing in her that would giver her need for domination or self aggrandisement.” Shalamar said lightly.

And she had to laugh at Irene’s musings – the Hive Queen hadn’t been trying to hide them. “Yes it very much would be something to be feared, but most elephant’s are gentle by nature, only rogue bulls would have the aggression you would need.” She turned to face Irene, her face very serene, but without an ounce of give to it. “And it would not be a good thing to tamper with their intrinsic nature.”

"It has been done before, before I came to The Swarm. Before I was Swarm, The Overmind was without morals, virtues, or any form of benevolence, those things in me, he could not kill, only dampen, and because he could not make me into a ruthless killing machine, he was forced to bear the unnatural thoughts and emotions stemming from such things, and in time, created within The Overmind, and through the rest of the swarm, a warped set of morals, virtues, and something resembling benevolence. I am the unnatural aberration to the swarm, a true testament that a things intrinsic nature should not be messed with, for my very existence has changed The Swarm's evolution. Regardless, I think you missed the mark slightly when I questioned the young girls potential power over The Swarm. It is not out of desire or need for domination or self aggrandizement that she would use her powers over us, but a need to protect her people. Not to control the swarm as a weapon, but to use the control as a shield to drive it away without firing a single shot. Consider, that if someone, somehow, gained control over The Overmind, they would have a massive eternal living weapon at their command. Yet as you said, that is not in her nature, for she is of the light, so she would not conceivably do that. Instead, it is my thought that she would drive the swarms away and command them to never return."

[Elves Security Forces]

“Prince Artanis, it is a pleasure to meet you.” He turned to the children “Prince Kheleen and Princess Faelynn, it is so good to see you again.” Morgan Kincanon - the Archon’s senior Horseman, and effectively his second in command - had been waiting for their arrival and greeted them with a warm smile, and a welcoming hand clasp – for Artanis, and half bows for Kheleen and Faelynn. “If you will come with me, I’ll introduce you to Thom and Ava. It’s been a long time since you all have visited, why you all were only a year old and you have grown so much!” He went onto compliment the two children on their outfits as they crossed the grounds.

“Prince Artanis, I can assure you that every security precaution has been taken, and we also have ‘minder’ devices that we can wrap around Kheleen’s and Faelyn’s wrists that will give you a continuous updates on their whereabouts and physical states, that way you don’t need to keep your eyes on them continuously. We have a great number of child oriented activities, plus an equal number more of the interest to the adults.” There were also herds of well trained nannies and footmen to keep ‘human contact’ with the children.

He saw the elephant now back under the control of it’s shaken mahout, ambling away and had to chuckle. “It looks as if Ava was up to her making friends with any and all animals again. Come let me introduce you to every one.”

Artanis nodded and followed Morgan along to the gathered company. There was no mistaking which one of the people was Aeris, as that natural elven grace flowed off her, and made her shine as beautiful as any jewel. The others he would have to wait to be introduced to however, but remained quiet, letting them finish the topic at hand.

The twins were being outfitted with their "minder" devices by one of the nannies and Kheleen's eyes lit up when he saw the elephant. He showed a more natural curiosity and aggressive stance to the world around him, while Faelyn was very whimsical and artistic. She would much prefer to paint a picture of an elephant than to ever dare climb aboard one for a ride. Both showed flickering amounts of magical and psionic abilities, with the occasional piece of fruit or cake floating along the kitchen, but nothing that had manifested itself yet.

Once their devices were on and activated, Kheleen grabbed his sister by the hand and raced towards the elephant. "Come on Faelyn, let's go have some fun!"

[Flammable Ice]

Dustwind shook Madrigal's hand. Seeing her elegant costume, Dustwind felt underdressed. While somewhat smart, his clothes were designed primarily for exploration - controlling internal temperature and providing limited armour in case of dangerous encounters. That said, his outfit was not purely practical. The sunglasses he wore were only for appearance, since his eyes were augmented to adapt to a wide range of light levels. His cloth headband obviously had no function besides the aesthetic.

As he brushed sand from his top he was reminded of the weapons he was carrying. A sword on his back and a gun on his belt. Fortunately, the woman did not seemed to be bothered by them.

"I think I saw Thom and Ava heading off for the elephant ride. It's far more interesting to a kid than meeting hundreds of people the same ancient age as your parents." She laughted "Have you met Rob and Aeris, their parents? I'll be glad to introduce you."

Putting aside for now the question of what an elephant was, Dustwind replied. "No, I've never been here before. To be honest, I don't really know where I am."

[Tarlachia]

"Well, Ava here gets the same attention. You better watch out Ava, gotta stay away from guys like me and your dad." Avanya heard her grandfather mentioning to her of the dangers of men like her daddy and grandfather. She frowned a moment, then looked at her mother.

"Mother...Gran---Ol' Fart say you were not very smart when you picked Daddy." She looked at her father now, "But, I think you chose well. I like this Daddy!"

Aeris didn't suppress her laughter, which was like a soft musical tone as she knelt down and lightly hugged her daughter. "I agree. Your father is certainly the man I took the time to find." She glanced up at the elder Fortier, "And, the blood runs true in that family." She glanced now to her husband, a smile on her face. With her eyes, she conveyed her love for him.

Then, with a gentle shove, she ushered Avanya to take her brother and go continue playing as they were. They had done their introductions for now. She'd recall them if more were needed. Thomas looked up at his grandfather and spoke, "When are you gonna teach me to drive really fast like you? I like going fast. It's like flying!" His smile was broad, and he hadn't quite learned to realize that such speeds while indeed fun, were also dangerous in the wrong situations.

Ava, after seeing that Thomas was on his own agenda, frowned a moment, then spun about and fled on quick footsteps after Kheeleen and Faelyn, soon coming to a stop next to them as they were petting the elephant's trunk that brushed against them. Ava giggled and commented, "She likes you already!"

[Modern Outlaws]

When are you gonna teach me to drive really fast like you? I like going fast. It's like flying!

Victoria laughed, smiling at the boy. "He is your blood," she smiled.

Robert laughed as well, patting Thomas on the head. "Soon enough kiddo, once you get a bit older. Maybe around the time lets me take you out and teach you how to shoot like I can. Gotta get you in a car, first. Then we'll work on the driving part."

Victoria nodded. "Ya know, I'm sure if we started now..."

Robert shook his head. "Can't. Its a Fortier birth right. He's gotta build his own."

Victoria cocked her head, slightly. "And the shooting? That a birth right too?"

"Nope," Robert responded. "Its just good fun."

He messed up Thomas' hair, rubbing his hand vigorously over his head, and gave him a soft nudge towards the elephant. "Go play nice kiddo, have some fun. No one wants to hang out with the boring adults," he chuckled.

[Tanaara]

Dustwind replied. "No, I've never been here before. To be honest, I don't really know where I am."

Maddy did not seem to be the least bit disconcerted by his admission, or the clothing and weapons he wore -merely laughing in a kindly fashion "Well I can answer the that. You are on the outskirts of Mont Royale Palace, which houses many governmental functions, one of our most extensive libraries, and is home to the Archon of Tanaara. The nation of Tanaara is part of the Fatal Terrain Region on Earth, some call it Terra, or Sol System, lying in the Milky Way Galaxy’s Orion Spur” She advised in a more detailed fashion.

Dustwind would notice that many of those circulating about bore weapons, as it was a legal requirement for the Citizens of Tanaara to own weapons and they were a very practical people who figured why own weapons if you aren't going to have them handy? But then again extensive training in weapons and weapon safety were also required. They didn't play games with weapons and children were taught weapon safety from as soon as they were capable of learning such. Some wore them openly, others in more discrete fashion.

"Let me have the privilege of introducing you to them. Might I ask where you are from?” She inquired as she led him in through the garden's walls. There were hundreds of people circulating about, not all of them human, and in as many forms of dress as there were people. Half an acre away several children were clustered around an immense leathery hided grey beast with a long seemingly prehensile nose, it was seemingly as delighted by the presence of the children as they were of it. A small man, the elephants mahout, in a bright scarlet coat over white pants was describing something amusing to the group, given the giggles that could be heard even a hundred feet or so away. A small cloth pavilion, also of scarlet and rich with gleaming gold trim, the howdah rested on the great beasts broad back, a small rope ladder hanging from it, obviously how one ascended to the ‘saddle’.

A short distance from the children was a group of adults, seemingly formed around a couple with a powerful presence about them…

for she is of the light, so she would not conceivably do that. Instead, it is my thought that she would drive the swarms away and command them to never return."

"Yes you are quite correct in that. But it is also equally possible she would use her gifts to make the Swarm much more like her intrinsic self. Both Light and Dark have their own dangers. And she might not see changing the Swarm as a bad thing. Because even the Gods of the Warp are not wholly evil.” Shalamar replied as she arrived at the group of people she had been heading towards.

"Go play nice kiddo, have some fun. No one wants to hang out with the boring adults,"

Thom gave his grandfather another hug and darted off to where Ava, Kheleen and Faelyn and some other friends were being entertained by the elephant’s mahout. He and Ava hadn’t seen their friends in a while and they were happy to have some time together, that wasn’t going to be interrupted by parents. “Come on, the howdah will hold all of us. Right sir?” Thom looked up at the mahout – he was a slim dark skinned man who was part Nekko and had the Gift of animal speech. He nodded agreeably. Emily adored children as a matter of fact and had ‘volunteered’ to come today just to be around some. She’d bring her memories back to her herd.

“Yes Emily is a very strong elephant, and you know…” His smile broad he looked over at Faelynn who had an apple hovering near her “…She especially likes floating apples.”

Indeed the elephant’s limber trunk had been sniffing gently at the apple, her attention focused on the unusualness of a treat floating in mid air that had nothing holding it there.

Morgan looked after the children for a second and turned back to the group. “Let me introduce Artanis of Valnora, he’s Orome’s brother in law.” He introduced Aeris, Shalamar, Madrigal and Victoria, Rob Ryan and Robert. One thing you could always say about a Tanaaran. The more informal they were the more they liked you. Formality tended to be reserved for governmental ‘stuff’ such as diplomacy, duels, war and people they didn’t trust.

“Pleased to meet you Artanis, and thank you for bringing Faelyn and Kheleen. I know that Thom and Ava are just delighted that they could come.” Rob said easily offering his hand to the tall Elf.

Madrigal introduced Dustwind, and Lady Shalamar Irene, and they both got the same warm welcome that every one did.

"Pleased that you found one of our invitations and decided to accept Dustwind. You smell of deep desert, not something found here in Tanaara." And of course Rob's keen eyes had noted the dusting of sand and the utilitarian nature of the explorers clothes."

"You grace us with your presence Irene, and might I compliment you on your gown? That emerald hue brings out the fire in your hair." The Archon bowed over her hand - he was just enough psionic to sense the presence about her and was being diplomatically careful but friendly. And Shalamar had given him a quick but thorough mental precis on what Irene was.