NationStates Jolt Archive

Lord Galadgul ap Fiona smiled as he watched the stars fly by from the bridge of the Shining Hope. He was an explorer and he felt the excitement of discovery in his veins. He was going to the one star that no Danaan would have dared go to before, an unclaimed star, to be certain, but a star no nation in its right mind would want a claim to. He was going to Balor and he felt thrilled. His body, of course, felt as though it were standing still, the illusion of artificial gravity and inertial dampening. Still, he could not help but imagine himself as one of those ancient sea captains who stood in the breeze with the wheel in their hand, steering a ship for unknown shores. Of course, the ship was not alone. The warships Sword of the Right and Shield of the Good flanked Shining Hope on either side.

Lady Arendil ni Ailil slipped onto the bridge, laying a gentle hand on her explorer husband's arm. "Galadgul, my love, we need to speak."

He laughed heartily. "Of course. There is much more..."

"Alone.." she said. There was nothing foreboding in her tone. The Sidhe lady seemed simply overjoyed as she walked her husband into his office as expedition commander. "I'm late."

"Late for what?" he asked.

"My...my visitor is late, Galadgul. I think...I think we're going to have a child." She grinned nervously.

The husband wrapped his arms tightly around his wife and gave her a loving kiss. "That's wonderful news!" He then paused, looking down. "We might still be here when it arrives, you know?"

She nodded. "I know. I'm not sure a distant star is the ideal place for delivery. But...it will be ours, the flesh of our flesh, the fruit of our love."

Galadgul nodded eagerly, almost trembling with joy and excitement. "And now I can have a greater frontier to explore than all of space!"

Aboard the Sword of the Right, Captain Begorotu Fanduthil sat eagerly in his chair, itching for battle. He knew a few of his crew, more than a few, resented the command being given to a Beastie. He knew that his kind did, and always would, arouse a barely concealed hatred in Summer Fae that only strict military discipline kept contained. He even knew that his patterns of thought really were "darker" than those of his compatriots. But, as he tapped one long tentacle on the arm of his command chair, he also knew that he was a Danaan citizen who believed with all his heart in the new order of High Queen Agwene. He also knew that he would prove himself to his crew no matter the cost. He smiled a little. Just let an enemy come from Balor.

Behind Fanduthil, Commander Stotranna Wyvernjack sat in her own chair. The executive officer and science officer was a rather beautiful Mannikin with legs for miles (not literally) and impressive curbs on her plastic body. Her unmoving purple hair lightly caught the artificial light as she leaned forward. "I'm looking forward to discovering what makes the star seem red. A star of its mass should be yellow."

Lieutenant Cruben Dawntracker, the Pooka navigator, frowned a little. "Isn't it the presence of Balor, ma'am? Isn't that why we shouldn't be here?"

Lieutenant Commander Therlyassa Loyalar, another Beastie on the bridge, snorted out her snout-like nose. "Superstition, Lieutenant, superstition."

Clayton Dedrick sat down at the mess in the Midshipman's quarters aboard the Sword of the Right. The bookish man pushed his glasses up on his nose and he looked with distaste at his rather poor meal. He hated the in-between life of a middie. He was technically a Queen's Officer but he was also like a student aboard the ship, treated much like he had been at the academy. He sighed, shoveling another spoonful of mush into his mouth. It wasn't fair. Dedrick was one of the greatest minds the military had had in a long time. He was sure he would outshine the more experienced officers when it came to actually researching Balor. Meanwhile, he smiled over to his best friend.

Neil Keasler brushed his dark brown hair back from his handsome face as he returned Dedrick's smile. "We should be arriving soon, man. I can't wait to get a look at what this place is like. One of the strangest places in space or so they claim."

Jessie Vogus, a rather ungainly. splotchy-faced redhead, shook his head vigorously. "Strange place in space indeed. It's just a stellar anomaly. That's all we'll catalogue. And then we'll move on."

Guy Gidney idly flexed his immense muscles, laughing good-heartedly at his friends. "There's not the slightest thing to worry about. Besides, what can't we deal with if we stick together? We're getting through our first tour together and we went through the Academy together."

"Friends to the end." added Ted Locher with a smile. Locher's dark, Afro-Danaan features were currently marked by a friendly smile. The companionship of good friends, it seemed, overcame even poor food.

Clayton Selvidge , unusually tall for a human, was the only other middie at the table. He was quiet for now as he often was, though his freckled, almost too young face, wore an innocent smile as he listened to the conversation of his friends.

Crewwoman Amie Wimbish tensed her small, milky white, frame as she vigorously scrubbed the corridor of the Sword of the Right. "I think someone spilled something sticky..." she muttered. "You'd think Her Majesty's service personnel would be a little more graceful."

Crewwoman Alejandra Kantner laughed a little from where she was doing routine maintenance on some of the ship's wiring. "This from the girl who spilled her chips all over the mess room floor just yesterday." The athletic technician moved her lean, ebony form from one panel to another, grinning teasingly at the much smaller Wimbish.

Crewwoman Lorrie Keebler tossed her hair away from her carmel face as she oiled a nearby gun emplacement. "Well, this gun is oiled well enough already. Sometimes I think they're just trying to keep us busy."

Earlene Vanhoy, a bony brunette, looked over at the other members of her detail. "I don't think the Chief would order something done if it didn't need to be done." She dipped her own rag back in the bucket of warm water as she cleaned.

Esmeralda Depaolo, a woman whose name sounded so unfitting for her blonde hair and Nordic complexion, shook her head a little. "Maybe. But this ship needs to carry enough hands for battle and it only needs a fraction of that many hands on a day-to-day basis. They have to keep discipline somehow. And that means work."

Jadisar Nabit, the only Eshu and the only man in this group of Human women, shook his head wryly, listening to them talk. He was gathering stories that he would tell later. But not right now. Now was the time for gossip and not stories. He dipped his mop back into the bucket and tried not to look too obviously at Crewwoman Kantner's figure.

When Lady Alrien ni Fiona has lost her fiance a few years ago, she had thought she'd never love again. She'd thought that she could never be happy again. She hadn't known how she could go on living. Only true friendship had allowed her to bare her loss. But now the corridors of the Shining Hope rung with laughter, laughter proving not only that life goes on but that friendship had blossomened into something more. Part of her heart would always belong to her first love but Alrien had learned that life and her capacity to love did go on.

Alrien was dressed in an elegant gown of gossamer and wore her hair up like any the most refined and noble lady imaginable. Her training in the courtly arts spanned decades and she was unsurpassed as a courtier*. Everything about her screamed lady, but the words coming from her mouth and the scarcely controlled giggles were anything but courtly. "Snugglebutt!"

The Pooka woman running alongside Alrien and occasionally bumping hips, Caraga Moonshadow, giggled herself and shot back "Angelbuns!"

"Cuddlemuffin!"

"Sweetiesnookums!"

"Angeldumpling!"

"Honeycakes!"

This had been going on at much this rate for the last ten minutes or so, accompanied by bright grins and delighted laughter. When they arrived back at Alrien's quarters, the two women collapsed into one another's arms. In the intensity of love and devotion, Alrien forgot that Moonshadow was a commoner, forgot she was another woman, and saw only the one person who would never betray her, never abandon her, and vice versa.

About half an hour later, both women lay in bed, drifting off towards sleep. Before she shut her eyes, Alrien murmured, "A new adventure to set out on, a beautiful woman in my bed, life is good..."

Sir Dolfalas ap Gwydion tensed his muscles as he practiced in the Shining Hope's training room. His blade seemed to dance at the imaginary targets her was slaying, parrying imaginary blows from every direction. He hated this king of training. He wished one of the other Knights of Steel were present to spar with him.

Dolfalas knew they were all getting ready in their own way. Unlike the scientists on this expedition, Dolfalas knew beyond a shadow of a doubt why this star had the wrong color for its mass. He knew it and he didn't like it one bit. He wasn't sure if ordinary skill at arms, ordinary rites, or ordinary Draocht stood the slightest chance against what he felt they would soon be facing, but he damned well intended to be at his readiest.

General Mathew Bayles sat in the ready room, looking out over the other ground security forces aboard the Shining Hope. His bald head gleamed slightly in the artificial light. "Now, we don't know what we might be facing when we land. So I want everyone to stay alert and stay close."

Colonel Guladan ap Varich gave a predatory smile. "I think I know what we can expect to find, sir. I think we can handle it as well." He idly perked an elegantly pointed ear as the others spoke.

Captain Nelson Artist nodded. "We'll be ready, sir."

Sir Barandor ap Varich smiled as he looked up from his tome. The raven-haired Sidhe masked his smile behind a stern, imperious expression as soon as his face was no longer hidden by the pages. He didn't want his apprentice to get soft, which meant he didn't want his apprentice to see the immense pride welling in his chest as the young Pooka completed a near perfect Oakenshield.

Sealamin Glimmergaunt grinned up at Barandor. The young bird Pooka's hat fell down briefly over his eyes and he peeked out awkwardly from beneath it. He took his hat briefly off and bowed deeply to Barandor. "M'lord, is all well?"

Barandor rose, crossing his hands behind his back and pacing before the now hardened shell. It should have been as weak as clay. He stomped upon it as hard as he could. The shell remained entirely uncracked. The Draocht used was phenomenal. Barandor had not had a pupil like this in centuries. With the same stern expression, Barandor simply nodded to Glimmergaunt. "It is satisfactory...for now."

Aboard the Shield of the Good, Captain Man Flum frowned, his pock-marked face furrowed in concentration. The aging Human hardened his eyes as he watched the viewscreen. "We should be there within 42 hours." he said in his soft, haggard voice.

"Yes, sir." answered Commander Cortez Hilk. His bald head glistened in the artificial light as he took as step up to approach the captain's seat. "No difficulties expected en route."

Lieutenant Inger Henges ran a hand through her short, blonde hair as she stood at the security station. "Everything checks out internally, sir."

Lieutenant Commander Jospeh Cakett looked up from tactical. "If anything does happen, we're more than ready, sir."

"Alright." Flum said, standing. "Commander, you have the con."

Midshipwoman Marcie Astudillo curled up in her bed on the Shield of the Good. Her form, tall for a Human, filled most of her bunk and her long black hair spilled over her pillow. She looked over to the bed across from her and sleepily murmured to her best friend, Tia Prevatte. "We should be on Balor when we wake up. Maybe, when people see it's just another star, they'll stop with the silly superstitions."

Prevatte, a perky, athletic woman sat up slightly, shaking her head. "I'm not so sure they're superstitions, Marcie."

Tammi Trickett shook her head as she undid her braid for the night. "I don't believe they are. I'm pretty sure we'll find something to do with the Elder Dark there. Wish I knew what."

Marstine Silentall shrugged as she finished washing her pale face with the black circles, typical of a Nockeress. "Like I know a furbin' thing about any of this cuck. We'll see what happens." The others fell silent at that as Silentall climbed into bed. It wasn't long before all the girls were fast asleep.

Crewwoman Ashley Wimbish glanced with a smile at the photo of her younger sister Amie which she kept by her bunk. The athletic woman, now on her sixth tour, wondered how Amie was doing on her first. As a matter of policy, siblings were almost never assigned to the same ship and, as Amie was aboard the Shield of the Good, this mission was no exception. Still, it was the first time her ship had been in the same group with her sister's and she was hoping for a chance to talk to her.

A few bunks over, Beata Schaack stretched her long form out in her bed. Like Wimbish, she was a natural athlete and fit for the more physical duties of an enlisted crewwoman. She sighed a little, nervous about the next day.

Tiera Teplica let her own mind wander. She was thinking about her family back home, the cute Sidhe officer in charge of the gun emplacements where her battlestation was, everything but the next day.

Viki Achor, a tiny Human woman with a corner bunk, was the only one to ask out loud what all of them were thinking. "Do you believe in the Fomorians?" she asked the other women.

There was dead silence in the room before January Orwick answered with a simple "Yes." As soon as the word was out of her mouth, she closed her eyes and tried desperately to sleep.

In another eight hours, the three ships entered the Balor system. Routine scans were done to sense the presence of any other ships or any signs of interstellar civilization in the system. When no sign of habitation or claim was discovered, the Shining Hope launched a small space buoy into orbit around the system's red sun. At present, the buoy sent out an automated signal indicating that the Danaan High Kingdom claimed first discovery of this system and reserved all rights appertaining thereto. At a coded signal from any Danaan ship, this signal could be changed to a positive claim or to a warning signal.

Readings were taken of the sun itself and of its seven planetary bodies. None of them, on first examination, bore any sign of life. Balor IV, however, did seem to have a climate within Earth range. This planet was marked down for the first landing party for the purpose of investigating the possibility of past life in the system and to investigate the possibility of colonization. Afterwards, the other planets would be searched for mining prospects. Readings would be constantly taken of the sun itself, though no readings so far seemed to explain its miscoloration.

Colonel Guladan leaped out of the dropship first, looking around swiftly. The Sidhe wore an environmental protection suit designed to hinder him as little as possible in combat and carried an H-2 assault rifle at the ready. As far as the eye could see, there was nothing but red sand. It seemed to kick up a little in minor bursts of wind. Guladan occasionally lost visibility in the sand.

Shaking his head, he turned to see the rest of his team. There were four officers and twenty troops in the landing party and they all fanned out into a defensive perimeter at a gesture from Guladan. Still no sign of danger. Still no sign of anything. Just empty red sand. It was creepy. Guladan would have been more comfortable with an enemy to fight or at least some kind of landscape. The planet seemed desolate, dead.

Captain Artist spoke over the communications systerm. "Sir, atmospheric readings say it's safe for Terran life."

"I read you." Guladan replied. "Let's keep the suits on for a moment, look around a little more. Then we'll call the ships, tell them to send the scientists and sorcerers on down."

Solemnly the Voronwië moved through space, the massive bird like ship moving in closer to an outstretched world they were forced to scan on their deep space patrol.

“Contact sir. Three ships near the fourth planet in the system we are approaching.” A female elvish officer with long blonde hair and grey eyes said.

“Communication, open up a channel, standard greeting. Helm, head for the fourth planet of the system at full speed.” The captain said from his seat overlooking the bridge. ”Finally something living. Hopefully they're friendlies, the crew could do with some more social contact to boost their morale.” He said to himself, looking at the data they had on the star system.

“This is the cruiser Voronwië of the Arnanorë of Taurenor. We are conducting deep space patrols in this area, please identify yourself unkown vessels. We mean you no harm.” The communications officer said in a gentle voice, that nearly oozed kindness. Although he first said the message in Quenya, he continued repeating it in every different language he knew. Which proved to be quite a lot. Istyaron was deffinately proving that he was a master speaker.

OOC: Everything in blue is in Quenya.

Captain Flum personally answered the communication in English. "Voronwië, this is the HMS Shield of the Good of the Danaan Fourth Fleet, travelling with the HMS Sword of the Right and the HMS Shining Hope. This is Captain Man Flum speaking. We are engaged in a research mission based partially around this star's cultural significance to our homeland and partially around the anomylous coloration of the star. If you check your gravitic readings carefully, you will find that this star possesses a mass which should and, excepting this one star, always does correspond to a yellow sun. While we're here, we are investigating colonization prospects for the Fourth Planet, which has an atmosphere breathable by Terran life, and mining prospects on the other six worlds."

Flum smiled a little, not that the Elf could see it over the audio communications. "It's nice to hear a friendly voice out here, Voronwië. You're welcome to stick around."

”Let me talk to them Istyaron.” The captain said and waited for Istyaron to indicate he could talk to Captain Flum directly. “Greetings Captain Flum. I am Ecthelion nossë Anwamanë, captain of this fair ship. It has been a long time since me and my crew have come across anyone or anything worth investigating. So I would like to allow my crew to have contact with yours in order to boost morale, and in return we will assist you in any way possible. I hope that is alright with you and the other captains of your squad.” Ecthelion said in perfect English. He said nothing to the helmsman to alter course, he knew full well that Captain Flum would take up on his offer.

((OOC: Unfortunately, this is closed between Taurenor and me for the time being. Sorry, hun. I should have put that in the title.))

Captain Flum pondered a moment. "I think that would be a positive experience for both of our crews. Our nations are allies, after all. Your crew is welcome to come visit our ships. Since social and recreational space on board is rather limited, it would be most efficient if you would divide your visitors up between the three ships."
...
Goncirith ap Ailil rose from his bed, the Sidhe's shining and athletic form glistening in the artificial light. Goncirith was one of those with the most to lose from the new racial equality being pushed so strongly by the High Queen. He was a Sidhe without a title. In the past, that simply meant he was an untitled noble, an aristocrat of the lowest rank but still an aristocrat. Now, now he didn't know what he was. Noblity was based on title and only title, meaning ennobled commoners were to be treated as nobility. Did it also mean he was to be treated as a commoner?

Goncirith was worried for his social standing. That's what brought him on this expedition, the hope for a chance to earn his knighthood and get in the good graces of Lady Arendil. That started with not letting her see the company he kept. Smiling to himself, he looked on the nude, sleeping form of the Pooka man he'd shared his bed with last night, Frueak Arroway. He ruffled the man's furry head before slipping into the hall. He didn't want to be late to the planet's surface.

“Excellent, I shall start writing up the shore leave rosters and send them to you as soon as they are done. And your crew is also welcome to come abourd our ship. Also I'd like to meet you and the other captains personally so we can discuss certain things.” Ecthelion said and gave the okay to cut communications.

The Voronwië continued on it's journey into the system and the fourth planet. The large bird shaped ship pulled alongside the group of Danaan ships, it's posture showing no intent of agression. A flight of small transport shuttles was launched from the Voronwië and flew towards the HMS Shield of the Good, only one however docking with it.

Out of the shuttle stepped Ecthelion, like all Noldor a tall elf and fair in appearance. His long brown hair hanging freely as elves always did and his blues eyes looking curious and friendly. By his right side walked another male, this one with blue eyes and blonde hair. And to the left of Ecthelion walked another elf, though he seemed to have a more toned body and had long raven black hair and brown eyes.

Captain Flum and Lieutenant Inger Henges stepped forward to greet the Elven officers. Flum smiled. "Welcome aboard the Shield of the Good."

Midshipwomen Marcie Astudillo and Tia Prevatte were also in the docking bay though they stood back and watched Flum and Henges quietly.

Ashley Wimbish worked the atmospheric and gravtic controls. Beata Schaack had operated the docking port from the Danaan side and snapped to attention as soon as the Elven officers walked past her. Tiera Teplica had operated the clasping to allow the shuttle to dock. Viki Achor had manned the comm in coordinating the docking.

“Elen sila lú,menn' omentielvo.” Ecthelion said and gave a slight bow of his head. He then rose and gestured to the elf on his righ and spoke. “This here is my second in command, Commander Tyelcanér nossë Helyanwë.” The commander gave a slight bow as well. Ecthelion then gestured to his left. “And this is the head of the marines stationed on my ship, Lieutenant-Colonel Nambanorn nossë Aldaríon.” Nambanorn however didn't bow but did give a gentle nod of his head and then looked over the docking bay.

“Would you prefer to give us a tour of the ship or would you rather immediately start our talks? Also if it is fine with you, I'd like to give permission for the rest of the shuttles to start their dockings so our crews could meet each other.” Captain Ecthelion said with a smile.

Flum smiled, returning all greetings as appropriate. "Ordinarily, I'd love to give you a personal tour. However, I am still in the midst of directing our surveys and operations in the system. This is a rather intensive mission and not a standard exploratory survey. So, if it's alright with you, Captain, I'd like to get straight to the meeting. Afterwards, I'll have one of my officers give you a tour if you're still interested." He paused a moment. "Tell your shuttles to go ahead and dock."

Flum turned briefly to Astudillo. "Midshipwoman, notify docking crews to prepare to receive friendlies. Have them escorted to the off duty area upon arrival."

When Astudillo saluted and headed away to carry out her duty, Flum turned back to the Elves. "If you'll come with me..."

He lead the Elves to a spacious meeting room with a dozen or so chairs set around a long wooden table. He sat at the head of the table, flanked by his two officers. He gestured for Echthelion to sit opposite him. "So, captain, what's on your mind?"

Ecthelion and his two command officers followed Captain Flum, Nambanorn scanning over the interior, judging it for it's combat vallue as it were, while both Captain Ecthelion and Commander Tyelcanér were merely innocently curious. In the opposite to Flum with Tyelcanér to his right and Nambanorn to his left. “Well we are currently conducting deep space patrols and haven't seen anyone or anything for a long time, so the morale of my crew is mainly on my mind. I've talked to my superiors and they have authorised me to do all within my power to assist you on your mission. So how can we be of service?” Captain Ecthelion said with a smile.

***

“So what are you looking most forward to Cassanér?” A surprisingly bals elf with brown eyes said.

“A new face to talk to. One can only look at your face for so long Tiris, before deciding that looking at a horse's rear is far more appealing.” Came as a reply from Cassanér, a handsome elf with long brown hair and brown eyes.

”Very funny. So Turë, what are you looking most forward too?” Tiris directed to a tall, even for elf standards, elf with long brown hair and enigmatic grey eyes.

”You know how Turë is Tiris, you wont get him to say anything unless it should be said.” Cassanér said with a grin.

”I can try, can't I? Well I'll tell you what I'm looking forward too. A nice beautiful woman court. The way I see it is that if she doesn't know our laws, we can't force her to abide by them.” Tiris said and got himself ready to be the first out the shuttle.

As the shuttle docked the crew went silent and exited the shuttle, looking over their new surroundings as they were lead off to the off duty section.

***

”I'm looking forward to seeing new people and learning all about them. I really hope they're going to throw a party. And I mean a real party like you get to see in Menelmacar or Istolinath.” A very beautiful elf with blonde hair and blue eyes said.

”I've never been to what you call a real party. What is it like Nénheri?” Came the reply from another attractive woman. This one with brown hair and grey eyes.

”Well Elnair it's...” Nénheri was cut short as Istyaron waved his hand.

”Be quiet you two, I want to be able to hear them speak over the radio. Why can't you be more like Runando? He's been looking silently out the window at the Danaan ships.” Istyaron said and gestured to a male elf with light brown hair and green eyes, looking out of the window.

As the shuttle docked the two girls remained quiet as they were instructed to, even for the entire walk to the off duty section. Meanwhile Istyaron listened curiously to every word spoken, while Runando looked over the ship, trying to see how it worked.

OOC: There's actually more people on each shuttle and more shuttles, but these are the only characters I made so far.

Flum nodded. "We appreciate your help. In return, of course, we are more than willing to share the fruits of this expedition with our allies. After all, one nation could hardly exploit a system this size to its full potential."

The captain let his mind drift back to the mission for a moment, wondering what the Elves could do before he blinked, thinking of something. "What are normal Taurerore regulations on fraternization. I should make sure the men and women are prepared."
...
The crews of the shuttles were led to the off-duty areas. The off-duty area on the warships largely consisted of a small observation deck with a clear view of the planet below. A bar tended by a rating served drinks and refreshments to members of the crew. The guide escorting the Elves informed them that the Danaan Uniform Military Code had no official provisions against fraternization between officers and men but that an informal social rule to the same effect tended to be adhered to, more strictly on the side of the officers than of the enlisted personnel.

On the Shining Hope, the recreational area was larger, despite the smaller size of the ship. As a research ship, it had to cater to a softer civilian crew. The Elves were shown a small arboretum, kept alive by very careful environmental controls, a cinema, and a bar like the one on the warships. They were informed that most of the people they would encounter would be civilians.

“I am glad to hear that,” Ecthelion said. “And there are no regulations on fraternisation among the ranks. Are there any more questions?”

***

The two groups of elves decided to go to the bar on board the Shining Hope, thinking that it would be a good place to meet new people who could show them a good time.

Flum shook his head, standing. As he stood, the other Danaan officers snapped immediately to their feet. "No more questions. Lieutenant Henges here will give you a tour of the ship."
...
The bar was filled with men and women of all races, colors, and creeds. Some wore the uniforms of the Danaan Space Fleet and the Danaan Marine Corps. Others were dressed in fashionable civilian clothes.

Lord Galadgul and Lady Arendil were over in one corner of the bar talking excitedly to one another. Lord Galadgul seemingly felt the need to remind Caraga Moonshadow, who was serving them, to only serve his wife non-alcoholic drinks every ten minutes or so.

Lady Alrien was sitting near Lord Galadgul and Lady Arendil, politely paying her compliments to Arendil's expectant motherhood. Occassionally, she would smile up secretively at Caraga and get a smile in return.

Sir Dolfalas and Sir Barandor sat a few tables away, deeply lost in a game of chess. Sir Barandor seemed to be winning by a good margin.

Sealamin Glimmergaunt was over at a table by himself, eagerly wolfing down a large ice cream.

“Well see you later, I see something of interest.” Nambanorn said to his friends and walked off to Sir Dolfalas and Sir Barandor, looking over their chess game silently.

“Well then Turë, what say you to going to the bar and getting a drink?” Tiris said and looked up at Turë before just walking over to the bar, Turë following him closeby. “We'll take two red wines if you have any.” Tiris asked the bartender and looked over the people gathered in the bar.

Nénheri grabbed Elnair's wrists and litterally dragged her over to the table with Sealamin Glimmergaunt and shot him a smile.

Dolfalas and Barandor were entirely lost in the game, not seeming to notice the arrival of spectators. Both were clearly skilled, experienced players. Most moves were made almost automatically, a series of offenses and defenses learned in years of studying chess, rote responses worn into the mind of the players. Occassionally, however, some move or another would make one of the players pause and concentrate on the board, sometimes for minutes at a time, in utter silence, before making a carefully considered move. It was during those moments that the two seemed to truly enjoy the game.

The bartender poured two red wines and handed them to the Elves. "There you go."

Glimmergaunt looked up at the Noldorin women with a brief squawk of surprise before hopping up and bowing. His black feathers ruffled slightly as he did so, his beak changing its angle into what could only be called a nervous smile. "My most lovely of ladies, how might this humblest of humble sorcerers be of service to you?"

Amie Wimbish and the other members of her small maintanence crew sat at a table together. The overwhelmingly female group laughed pleasantly as they talked and gossipped among themselves.

Nambanorn just watched the game of chess silently, thinking about which moves he would make himself. He really enjoyed the match that was unfolding in front of him.

Tiris and Turë picked up their respective glasses of wine and started drinking. Both of them looking over the barroom. It was clear that Tiris was interested in the women gathered there, but what Turë was looking for would be anyones guess.
“Well my silent friend, I've found what I was looking for. You just do whatever you always do.” Tiris said when he finished his glass of wine. He got up from the bar and slowly walked over to the table where Lady Alrien was sitting, showing his best smile and bowing deeply. “Greetings friends of the Resurgent Dreams. I am Tiris nossë Eledhwen. I wish to become aquainted to you all. It is the least I can do for the people that have shown me their hospitallity.” Tiris said, glancing over most of the group but staring deep into Alrien's eyes.

Nénheri smiled at glimmergaunt while Elnair seemed to be a little at ease. “I am Nénheri nossë Eledhwen. And my shy friend is Elnair nossë Tinehtelë,” Nénheri said and sat down, Elnair following suit. “You can tell is what that is what you are eating. And perhaps show us how to any party of sorts that might be held on this ship.”

Galadgul smiled politely to Tiris. "Well met. I am Lord Galadgul ap Fiona. This lovely lady is my wife, Lady Arendil ni Ailil, the most beautiful woman in the world. The other young woman is Lady Alrien ni Fiona."

Glimmergaunt blinked. "Well, it's very new. Hardly anyone's heard of it yet. It's called creamed ice. Unfortunately, we don't have parties anymore. We had to leave all the clowns back on earth."

“Your wife is indeed very beautiful Lord Galadgul. But the young Lady Alrien is also a creature of sheer beauty.” Tiris said and sat down on a chair across from Alrien. “I hope you don't mind me sitting here, but I wish to learn more of you. Please tell me about yourselfs.”

Nénheri seemed a little upset by the news at the lack of parties. “Well could we get some of that creamed ice as well. I looks interesting.” She said.

Alrien blushed faintly, glancing away. "You flatter me, surely. What would you like to know?"

Glimmergaunt nodded, walking to the bar. A few moments later, he returned with two bowls of ice cream which he handed to the women. "It's on the house." he said as he sat down again.

“Just tell me a little about yourself, anything at all.” Tiris said and smiled at Alrien.

Both women thanked Glimmergaunt for the ice cream and started eating, clearly liking the taste.

Alrien smiled lightly. "Well, I play the harp. I'm from the Principality of Farinor. I'm His Lordship's troubadour and correspondingly the entertainment director for the voyage. My favorite drink is the mimosa. I like riding and fencing. Unfortunately, I have..." She blushed ever so faintly, trailing off. "Nevermind that. Tell me about yourself."

Tiris listened attentivly as Alrien told about herself, staring deeply into her eyes. His hown seemingly giving off a warm light. “Ah well, I was born and raised in the capital city. It's a very nice place. I am a corporal for the Royal Marines. If I wasn't in the armed service, I'd likely be a jester though.” He said and shot Alrien a smile.

Alrian, giving off her own silver radiance, gaped slightly for a moment. "A jester?" Then she laughed faintly. "I suppose all jobs are filled by Quenya in Taurenor. What is your capital city called?"
...
Glimmergaunt watched the women eat shyly. He seemed quite unsure what to say next so he sat silently for the moment.
...
Henges gave the captain and his two attendants a tour of the ship. She showed them the mess, the storage bays, the shuttles and dropships, the officer's deck and the crew deck, the barber, and the engine room. She didn't show them the weaponry. They were friends and the Taurerore doubtless had better guns anyway but it was still habit not to show them.
...
Goncirith arrived down on the planet. He was the first of the civilian researchers, as the surveyer. He wandered around the area the marines had secured, doing a number of simple tests. At one spot, he simply blinked. He grabbed his communicator swiftly. "This is Goncirith. I need to speak to His Lordship."

“Sorry, that would be Quendi. Quenya is our language, Quendi is the race of Elves. We however are completely compromised out of Noldor. The name of our capital however is Arnatirios. It's not the city with the largest population, but it is the oldest. I'd love to take you there some time.” He said with a smile. “In fact, if you were to acompany me to my quarters, I could show you some pictures. And if you have a computer in your own quarters we could do it there as well.”
***
Nénheri smiled brightly as she finished her icecream, while Elnair kept to herself a bit more. “That was delicious, I'm going to ask how to make this before we go back.” Nénheri said.
***
Ecthelion, Tyelcanér and Nambanorn remained silent as they got their tour. Ecthelion and Tyelcanér looking as to find out as much as they could to satisfy their curiosity. Nambanorn however looked at the tactical vallue of everything, the floor lay out, and at all times figuring out what the best way to escape and to defend was.

Alrien arched a brow slightly. "Take me there, sir? That seems a rather bold proposal form someone I have known all of five minutes."
...
Glimmergaunt nodded. "I really hope they tell you. Sometimes they say it's an ancient Boggan secret. But then Boggans don't talk much anyway. If they do, all the hydrogen comes out."
...
Henges started to walk them back to their shuttle after the tour, as they hadn't expressed any interest in doing anything else while aboard.

Tiris smiled his best smile and spoke softly. “Don't take it the wrong way. I do find you to be incredibly beautiful, but I don't think our superiors would approve.”
***
Nénheri and Elnair remained quiet for a while, not understanding Glimmergaunt's joke. “Well if you don't mind, I'd like to meet some more people. It's been a pleasure to meet you sir Glimmergaunt.” Nénheri said and Elnair bowed her head slightly before she was again pulled away by her friend who was eagerly in search of some more people to talk to.
***
Ecthelion and his two commanders went back to their ship, beginning to map the unkown planet and work out a duty roster.

Lord Galadgul laughed. "And just why wouldn't I approve?"

Caraga frowned lightly, coming up behind the Elf. "Would you like something from the bar, m'lord?"

Glimmergaunt sighed and watched the women go. He turned back to idly playing with his spoon, disappointed.

Amie Wimbish and the other women were still at their table, talking amongst themselves.

The chess game began to near its end. Barandor was apparently winning, apparently knew it, and was apparently used to it.

“Ah, it's better to assume something so you won't do something and then find out it wasn't appropriate and make someone angry at you.” Tiris said with a smile.
***
“Hello ladies. Would you be able to show some new faces how to party on this ship?” Nénheri said after she dragged Elnair over to the group of women.
***
Cassanér watched the chess game move towards it's end.

Galadgul started to say something else when his communicator beeped. "Excuse me for a moment." He walked off briefly, speaking quietly with Goncirith. When he returned, he smiled apologetically to Tiris. "I'm needed on the surface. I trust you can keep Lady Alrien in the meantime." Inclining his head, he moved for the door. "Sir Barandor, Miss Moonshadow, accompany me."

Barandor frowned at having to leave his game, though he and Caraga moved quickly after Galadgul. Alrien frowned slightly as she watched Carage leave before looking back to Tiris.
...
Esmeralda Depaolo smiled at the Elven women. "Actually, there is a little get together in the bunks tonight. Some girls who are off duty from the other ships are coming over. It's a total girls night party. We'll play games, listen to music, and just hang out. I wish there could be booze but both us and our friends from the other ships have to go down to the planet tomorrow. After the initial survey, a full camp will be set up tomorrow and a lot of people will be stationed there from tomorrow onward."

Amie grinned. "Actually, my older sister will be at the party."

“Don't mind me, I'll take care of Alrien. You take care of your duties kind sir.” Tiris said and watched as Galadgul left. He then looked back at Alrien with a smile. “So here we are alone milady. Would you perhaps like a drink? Or do you wish to retire to your quarters for the evening and get some rest?” Tiris said in a way as to best hide his intent.
***
“A fine match good sir. With time and practice you shall beat him for once.” Cassanér said to Dolfalas after Barandor left. “Allow me to introduce myself. Sergeant Cassanér nossë Amandil of the Royal Marines.” He said.
***
“Well that sounds like a lot of fun. I've always been curious to see how the women of other races spend their time together.” Nénheri said.

Alrien smiled radiantly. "I would love a drink. A mimosa, if it's no trouble." She paused, looking whistfully at the door Caraga had just passed through. "How do you find His Lordship?"

Lady Arendil, still sitting at the same table as Alrien, folded her hands demurely in her lap as her husband left. She looked down slightly, thoughtful.
...
Dolfalas stood. "Sir Dolfalas ap Gwydion of the Order of Steel. It is a pleasure to meet you, Sergeant."
...
Alajandra Kantner paused a moment, thinking. Then she shook her head a little and addressed the Elf women at her table. "Taurenor is entirely Noldorin, isn't it?"
...
While he waited for Galadgul, Goncirith began digging in the area where he'd found a small stone outcropping, calling for a few of the people already setting up the camp to come help. His face beamed excitedly. While Balor IV seemed currently lifeless, this was likely proof that it had no always been so.

Tiris nodded and stood up and went over to the bar, coming back with two mimosas and a smile as he handed one to Alrien. “I've never had a mimosa before, so here goes.” He said and drank some. “It tastes nice. I think I'll take a few back to my quarters to enjoy.” He said and looked at Alrien.
***
“Greetings Sir Dolfalas. I hope you enjoyed your game of chess.” Cassanér said and sat down across from Dolfalas. “I enjoy it myself from time to time. But I prefer to hone my tactics and skills by using the blade.”
***
“Yes it is. For centuries we haven't seen any elves other then Noldor, let alone humans are the many species that populate this world. So I want to see how they all party.” Nénheri said and smiled brightly.

Alrien took her drink, sipping it oh so elegantly. "You're going to take glasses of mixed drinks over on your shuttle?"

Arendil shifted slightly in her seat, just enough to remind Tiris and Alrien that she was there and that they were ignoring her, not that it was easy to ignore such radiance.
...
Dolfalas nodded. "I feel much the same way. The fact that I always have more time for the blade than the chessboard is part of the reason Sir Barandor was near victory. Then again, he is a Varich."
...
Kantner stood first. "Shall we get going then? The other girls should be here in thirty."
...
As Goncirith continued to dig, he found himself coming upon an opening that grew deeper and deeper. He kept digging wildly into it, onto the find of his life. Then he slipped through an opening large enough. He found himself tumbling down a hill of red sand into a corridor. The entrance was filled completely with sand except for the small opening at the top he had dug out. He had found a buried structure of some sort.

“Ah well I'll ask them to bottle some for me then.” Tiris said and looked over at Arendil. “I'm so sorry for ignoring you like that milady. It was terribly rude of me.” He said and nodded his head to her.
***
“Excuse me for asking,” Cassanér said. “But what is a Varich?”
***
Nénheri stood up and pulled Elnair with her, following the group of women.

Arendil inclined her head. "Oh, I hardly felt ignored. Who would want to waste his time speaking to an old, married women when he could speak with Lady Alrien here."

Alrien laughed slightly at his comment. "It's just champagne and orange juice. You could make your own easily enough."
...
Dolfalas smiled a little. "A noble House."
...
The women walked through the corridors, leading the Elves into a room with bunks for about a dozen or so girls and a small free area with a table and chairs.
...
Goncirith glanced down the corridor. It was dark but there seemed to be a faint red light coming from the end. He called up to his companions. "I'm going to explore some while you dig out the rest of the entrance!" He then turned, stepping into the light.

“That is true, Lady Alrien is an amazing woman that seems to take up all your attention.” Tiris said. “Ah well, in that case I can make it whenever I want.” He said to Alrien. “So milady, do you have any hobbies?”
***
“Ah, and I take it the nobles are renowned for their skill at chess. The Varich nobles in particular?”
***
“So how do you girls usually party? I'm afraid I'm not familiar with human customs. Especially my friend Elnair. She's a bit shy you see, and I want her to see what parties can be like.” Nénheri said with a smile.

Arendil arched a brow slightly. "I...see..." she said with a slightly threatening hint in our voice. "I shall be retiring for the evening." With that she stood and started to make her way out of the bar.

Alrien rose to her feet immediately when Arendil did. She gave Tiris an apologetic half-smile. "I am sorry, dear sir. I must attend to my liege lady." She moved swiftly after Arendil after that. Arendil gave Alrien one cold look before walking on out the door with the other woman in tow.
...
Dolfolas seemed to take some time to consider the man's question. "You...could say that, I suppose. Varich nobles are experts at seeing patterns in all things. Gwydion nobles have...other talents."
...
Amie giggled. "Well, I doubt...actually, I guess most people at the party will be human. It doesn't usually work out like that. Technically, though, humans are the largest race in the Danaan High Kingdom with 49% of the population. Do you know any card games?"

Alejandra looked thoughtful a moment. "What's it like living in an ethnically homogenous culture?"

Tiris stood up and bowed, say farewell to the women. He then went back over to the bar where Turë stood grinning. “You saw it coming didn't you?” Tiris said, and the only response he got was a faint smile. “Oh well, I should have paid better attention. And I guess it's better this way.”
***
“Ah, so all your noble houses are gifted in a way. That is rather interesting.” Cassanér said, his interet clearly piqued. “So what are the talents of the Gwydion nobles?”
***
Nénheri shook her head to the question about knowing any card games. “Well it is nice to live in an ethnically homogenous culture. It has the advantage that you always know how to act when visiting people or in public. But I like meeting new people and new cultures. So it can be a bit dull at times.”

Dolfalas laughed a little. "We're good at spotting liars. Were you going to get anything to drink?"
...
Amie tapped her hand on the table slightly. "Cards?"

Alajenadra grinned mischievously. "We could play never have I ever!"
...
Flum turned on the comm, hailing the Elven vessel. "This is Captain Flum. You said you wished to coordinate on the mission, yes?"

“Now that you mention it. I think I'll get another glass of red wine. Would you like something as well?” Cassanér said and stood, waiting for a reply.
***
“We're not familiar with that game.” Nénheri said. “Could you explain it to us?”
***
“This is Captain Ecthelion. Yes we would like to assist in any way necesarry. We currently are mapping every square meter of the planet in all spectra. Is there anything else we could do?”

Dolfalas nodded. "I'd like a red wine as well, thank you. It is rather appropriate, given where we are."
...
Amie sighed heavily as she was being totally ignored, flopping down on the bed.

Alejandra smiled a little. "It's simple. We each pour a glass, probably of soda or something. We go around and take turns. When it's your turn, you say 'never have I ever' and the something you've never done. Every girl who has done it has to take a drink. First one to empty her glass loses."
...
Flum smiled. "You're welcome to join us on the planet tomorrow, if you'd like to participate more directly."

Cassanér smiled and went to the bar. Coming back with two glasses of red wine and handed one to Dolfalas. “If you're not too busy. Would you care to have a friendly game with the blade?”
***
Nénheri grinned. “That sounds like fun. But why not use a fermented drink?” She said, knowing that it could cause some amusing reactions in humans.
***
“That would be excellent. I'll write up a duty roster immediately. Is there any equipment we should have with us in particular. Cold or warm weather clothing. Perhaps mountainering equipment. You understand.” Ecthelion said.

Dolfalas grinned. "I'd love to. I'll show you to the practice room." He stood, taking the wine with a nod of thanks and moving towards the corridor as he sipped.
...
Amie rolled over on her bed, a couple of other girls giving her reassuring pats on the shoulder. For her, quite a few negative stereotypes about Elves were being proven.

Alejandra frowned slightly, looking over at the younger girl with slight concern. She then looked back at the two guests. "Because we have active duty tomorrow."
...
Flum blinked, a little taken aback at the question. "Warm weather clothing. Tents. Desert conditions."

Cassanér smiled and stood up, silently following Dolfalas through the corridor to the practice room.
***
“Why wouldn't you be able to drink fermented drink if you have active duty tomorrow?” Nénheri questioned.

Elnair slowly got up and made her way over to Amie's bed and sat down on it. Gently stroking Amie over her head and looking down at her with a comforting smile. She didn't have to say anything, it was clear she was wondering what was troubling the girl.
***
“Thank you Captain Flum. Will that be all?” Ecthelion questioned.

Dolfalas finished his drink, setting it aside as he showed Cassanér into the large practice room. He gestured Cassanér to the swords arrayed upon the wall. "After you."
...
Alejandra blinked. "Fermented drink makes humans less effective in the field."

Amie smiled at Elnair, sitting back up.
...
Flum nodded. "For now. Well, besides saying that we're enjoying having your people on board."

Cassanér looked over the swords, seeing that they were maintained well by Dolfalas. He picked up one of the longswords and performed a few flowery flourishes with extreme grace and minimal effort. “You have some fine blades sir Dolfalas. And you keep them in excellent condition.” He said and smiled.
***
Nénheri laughed slightly. “So it is true. You humans are an interesting race indeed. And I see Elnair is finally making some friends.” She said.

Elnair only gave her friend a short glance and looked back at Amie and continued stroking her. “What troubles you?” She said softly in a melodic and kind voice.

Dolfalas laughed lightly. "These are merely the training room's blades. My own is in my quarters. I normally use it but it would hardly be fair to use my own blade while you are stuck with an unfamiliar one."
...
Alejandra laughed. "Well, hardly everyone in the Resurgent Dream is a human!" She got up and started to pour everyone a soda.

Amie blushed slightly. "Oh, I'll be fine. This was really sweet of you though. Shall we go join the game?"

“Good blades nontheless.” Cassanér said and handed over his sword to Dolfalas and picked up one similair, performing a few swings to find the balance. “So what do you use for protection if any?”
***
Elnair nodded and sat down next to Nénheri and kept the other spot next to her open in case Amie wanted to sit there.

Dolfalas took a blade himself, hefting it briefly. "Usually nothing. The practice blades aren't kept very sharp and I trust you." He bowed respectfully to his opponent and adopted a fighting stance.
...
Amie sat down next to Elnair, smiling a little. Soon, the other girls arrived and everyone sat in a circle. Sodas were poured for the entire group and handed to everyone. Alejandra smiled brightly. "I'll go first. Never have I ever ridden a dragon." Only one or two girls drank to that one. She then turned to Nénheri. "Your turn."
...
Lord Galadgul and his attendants arrived down on the planet, walking towards the find. "Where's Goncirith?"

"Down the hole, my lord. He's exploring a corridor we're still in the midst of digging out." answered one of the team currently at work digging out the sand.

Galadgul nodded, holding back and slowly surveying the emerging entryway.

Cassanér nodden and then bowed to Dolfalas in respect, taking up his own ready stance. He would show Dolfalas his centuries worth of experience with the blade comined with uncanny agility and quick reactions. He was however, not going full out. Prefering to let Dolfalas sweat it out a little and not feel at a complete loss again.
***
Elnair and Nénheri both didn't touch their drinks. “Never have I ever...” She thought for a moment. “Flown a plane before.” And watched Elnair drink her drink.

Dolfalas was not even remotely at a loss, showing his own centuries of training and practice. One would hardly expect less from an immortal knight of a warrior house, a warrior race, and the most elite knightly order in the kingdom, an order to which turned away several thousand times as many candidates as it accepted. He matched the Elf blow for blow, seeming visibly disappointed that
...
A couple of women drank to Nénheri's statement and then it was Elnair's turn. Everyone looked to her expectantly.
...
Goncirith crawled back out of the hole. He bowed to the baron with a smile. "This is going to be a great dig, m'lord."

The team on the planet set up bunkers for the night. When they woke, the others would join them.

Cassanér continued to fight Dolfalas, seeing he made a mistake to understimate Dolfalas. So he went full out, showing him just the extend of his prowess.
***
Elnair smiled and spoke softly. “Never have I ever played this game before.” She said.
As the game continued on, it was obvious Elnair hasn't done as many things as her Danaan allies, and Nénheri has done only a little more then her. And neither of them have done anything at all even resembling having a relationship.

The next morning, Galadgul stood out in the red dessert with the pooka woman and the two other sidhe men. He put a hand over his eyes to shield them from the sun, looking up into the sky. The elves were scheduled to arrive any minute now, the rest of the Danaan team about a quarter hour after that.

A small shuttle craft landed in the red desert, from it stepped Elnair and a group of other elves, all well equiped for the mission. Some of them carrying large backpacks on their backs. Elnair stepped forward to greet Galadgul, she bowed slightly. “Greetings, I'm Elnair, the chief science officer. I've been send to assist you in any way possible.” She said.

OOC: Damn writers block, just gonna post anyway.

Galadgul smiled. "It's good to have you here, Elnair."

A few moments later, the Danaan shuttle s landed, a substantial team emerging from them. They consisted of all the women Elnair had met last night as well as a few dozen other people, men and women, human and fae.

Galadgul nodded. "Shall we head to the sight then?"

Elnair nodded and followed Galadgul.

ooc: Honestly, you don't have to stop with such rhetorical questions. You can keep it moving along.

The part walked towards the now fully uncovered entryway. It was made of red stone and seemed to be a passage into a temple of some sort. Small alcoves in the walls carried statues of what appeared to be monstrous beings, deformed and hideous. "I want to see what's at the end." Galadgul announced, stepping forward.

Moonshadow bounced in after her lord. "Do you think Fomorians lived here, Your Lordship?"

Galadgul simpled laughed. "Oh, dear, you're full of silly superstitions." He reached out and patted her hand lightly. The Pooka pouted lightly at the condescension but didn't turn back.

Barandor snorted slightly and walked in after them, quickly passing Moonshadow and taking a position of formal precedence over her, to Galadgul's right and slightly behind him. "I'm sure some now extinct civilization lived here long ago."

None of the others followed. Instead, the other humans took their equipment to the camp and began setting up a more permanent camp, with more tents, better food, better defenses, and better computers linked to the ships. The Elves were left free to follow either party.

Elnair and four other elves followed Galadgul. The rest staying behind to set up a camp.

ooc: Yes it took me days to write that.

As the party entered the end of the corridor, they found themselves in what seemed to be a large chapel. The whole room was made of glowing red stones that gave the whole place and errie feel and statues were carved all along the walls. Everyone who walked into that room felt entranced, and the party began to slowly walk towards a large statue of a stately woman standing at the front of the room, at the altar. Without thinking, Galadgul, Barandor, and Moonshadow knelt at the altat, gazing up adoringly at the statue. The Elves felt a strong pull to the same, though there was no force to truly make them per se.

The elves just looked curiously at the Danaan group bowing in front of the large statue. Kelumo, one of the elves moved forward to have a closer look at the statue and take some readings of it.

The Elf likely felt overwhelmed, as though he was in the presence of something divine and overpowering.