NationStates Jolt Archive

KTV - Channel 12 News
Thursday, 10 June 2004
7:00 am

An impossibly thin woman of obvious Japanese ancestry sits beside an attractive, but not overly striking, white man. He fidgets nervously before the broadcast begins, while the woman has the air of a military general about to address the troops. From behind the camera, the silent countdown begins at five, lowering by one every second.

"Good morning, Krioval, this is Aiko Takada, and today is Thursday, June tenth. Our top stories today - Micah Andros's health worsening? Will tribe Andros be electing a new leader? Elections just over eight weeks away - will the Security party ride the latest conservative wave to victory or will moderate voices carry the day? Will the beleaguered Frontier party rally its core in time to stave off irrelevancy? Also, what to get a man who has everything? Serph Dekker turns thirty today. Stay tuned for our exclusive interview with some of the Chief Paladin's closest comrades."

The man interrupts. "But first, we take you to the Adele Kriov Memorial Hospital, where Micah Andros was brought late yesterday evening. Johan, are you there?"

The scene changes to the exterior of a hospital. People are chanting nearby, many of whom are wearing blue and green - Andros colors. "Yeah...it's quite a scene out here."

"Can you tell us what's happening?"

"Well, as far as we can tell, the Andros leader was brought to the hospital complaining of chest pains around three o'clock this morning. At present, hospital officials are not releasing details of his condition, except to say that he has been stabilized. People have flocked to the square across the street, where an impromptu vigil has organized. As our viewers are no doubt aware, tribe Andros is the third-largest in population in Krioval, with about three million individuals claiming membership. Micah has led the tribe for almost forty years, and in this time has managed to maintain the balance between conservative and progressive forces within the Andros umbrella. I'm sure I speak for Krioval when I wish him a quick recovery."

Aiko spoke next. "Thank you, Johan. And now, we turn to Dr. Anna Lee, an expert on contract law, who is particularly well-versed in tribal laws. Dr. Lee?"

The broadcast switches to the inside of an office lined with bookshelves. Dr. Lee looks to be about fifty years old, and she is undoubtedly native to Krioval, despite her western-sounding name. "Good morning."

"What can you tell us about tribal succession laws?"

"Well, Aiko, they differ among the tribes. Last September, for example, when Serph took control of the Kriov tribe, he did so through the so-called 'one hour rule'. When there were no objections to his nomination, the title passed to him."

"Is this common among tribes?"

"It's fairly standard. The goal is to reduce the time that a tribe is without a leader. The reasoning is that a longstanding leader's nomination should be weighed in consideration of his or her leadership. It becomes a referendum on the former leader's tenure, then, and not necessarily the incoming leader's qualities."

"So, in the Andros case?"

"It is widely rumored that Micah has not named a successor. If this is true, it will fall to the main families within the Andros tribe to decide who takes control. However, Andros tribal law compels elder decendants to be given priority."

"But Micah Andros didn't have any children."

"Exactly. That means that the likely successor will be either David Andros, Micah's brother, or Valkai, Micah's eldest nephew. What is especially interesting is that, despite the familial relationship, David and Valkai are diametrically opposite in politics. If neither were to receive a clear mandate, it might be necessary for the other tribes to intervene."

"Is there precedent for such an intervention?"

"Only in smaller tribes. For one as large as tribe Andros, there is definitely the possibility that the tribe could divide. Of course, large tribes are constantly splitting simply for logistical reasons, but for a Great Tribe to do so would have unclear implications for the balance of power among the remaining Great Tribes. Ultimately, it remains to be seen how this plays out."

"Very interesting. Thank you, Dr. Lee."

"My pleasure."

The unnamed co-anchor continues. "Elections are coming again in Krioval, and that means the airwaves will be flooded with campaign advertisements. Already, President Kara Tyvok has warned the parties to tone down the negative campaigning, though it's yet unclear whether her words will have any lasting effect. Current polls indicate that the broad support for the liberal coalition government between Free Krioval and Frontier parties has waned considerably in the past year, owing in large part to the disastrous response of the administration to the spate of tropical cyclones that ravaged the southern islands last summer. Also high on the list of concerns is tax increases. Currently, the average income tax in Krioval is approaching seventy-five percent, angering conservatives and libertarians alike.

"Also of interest is the newly formed 'Valiyos' party, based in Valak City. This party consists mostly of Guild members, and their political statement calls for a return to 'true libertarianism'. And now for the numbers. If the election were held today, the Senate would be thirty-six percent Free Krioval, thirty-four percent Security, thirteen percent Frontier, eight percent Environmentalist, seven percent Valiyos, and two percent for other independent candidates."

"When we return," Aiko said, brightening, "a gift fit for a Chief. Exclusive details of Serph's celebration after these messages."

OOC thread (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?p=10922968#post10922968)

Daveed, Faro and Tannis had settled into the hotel with little problem. It was one of the highest rated in the nation, with vast experience in handling wealthy, and excentric, foreigners. Daveed figured he counted for more than most in both of those catagories, and espceaiily as his companions did as well. Though the staff had only blanched at little at the sight of Faro (http://www.atddm.com/dkc.jpg) and goggled no more than that at Tannis (http://www.atddm.com/Tannis.gif).

He looked up from his laptop as the news came on, noting that there were not reports this morning of any further mysterious disappearances. Though the apparent troubles with in the Andros tribe might make things interesting, though hopefully as an outsiders he and his companions would be left alone.

Tannis came onto the suite's living room from her bedroom, brushing out still damp hair. It flowed like an ebony waterfall past her silver and platinum hued wings to nearly her waist. "When's breakfast?" She hid a yawn with her free hand.

"I ordered sometime ago, before I woke you. So it should be up any second." Daveed replied as he smiled up at her from this sprawl out along the length of the oversize couch.

"A gift for a man who if he doesn't have it can get it on his own? What does a man like that want?" Tannis shook her head as the station went to a commercial break. "One can't buy the most important things in life, you can only make it for yourself." She headed to the suites door, her paraeo halter dress's heavy silk flowing about her lithe body, as a knock sounded. "I bet's that's room service."

And inded it was. The young man did specatcularly, not dropping or spilling anything though it was hard for him to take his eyes off of Tannis, or may be it was her wings. Once he was done and generously tipped the two settled down to tuck away the large meals that had been laid out. Daveed hand a high metabolism, and Tannis an even higher one. Three egg cheese and mushroom omletts were accompanied by multiple rashers of bacon, breakfast steaks, croissants, and fresh fruit. Coffee, milk, and orange juice filled insulated carafes. Faro wandered in to mooch bits from both Daveed and Tannis, then floppeed back down for yet another nap.

"I'm going to see what contacts I can make among those who follow 'the wierd' this morning" David said as he sipped the last of his coffee. "And I'd like you to just spend the day shopping, sight seeing and see who is interested in you" He requested of Tannis.

"That'll be fun." Tannis was not especially enamored of shopping, but she never minded exploring.

What did Serph receive for his thirtieth birthday? Aside from the boring trifles that made for good news copy, the Guild had intervened in yet another turf war between rival gangs. These were becoming a rarity, but the latest clashes had threatened to move Valak out of first place for "safest city in Krioval". That would simply not have done.

"Two for one today," Shinji remarked. "That's some kind of record."

"One can only hope," Valkai responded. "Of course, they're only learning to avoid Guild lands."

"Well," Hiroshi grinned evilly, "I can't imagine why they wouldn't want to stick around. So tasteless of them."

"That's absolutely vile, Hiroshi Andros!" Ayumi turned away in disgust.

"And yet I didn't notice your contempt when you sat right there, snacking away next to the rest of us."

"Enough." Valkai pounded his staff on the floor in emphasis. "We do what is necessary for survival. Which brings me to my next point." He looked disdainfully toward his brother, Hiroshi. "The bodies cannot be released in their current condition. We may need to use the replication process..."

"That takes energy," Serph said gravely. "Almost as much as is gained through the devouring." Several paladins flinched at the word. "The other members of the warring factions?"

"They will adapt," Valkai said.

"Or they'll die," Hiroshi added. "Of course, it'd save a lot of time and energy if we..."

Serph held up a hand silently. He stared down his rival. "We do not kill the innocent." He maintained his gaze as Hiroshi thought to interrupt, but decided against it. "Logistics will take care of the disposal." He nodded toward Kiros, who had remained uncharacteristically still up to that point.

"Already done," Kiros said, trying not to smirk. "On de vid screen tonight, I'm thinking."

"Very good then," Valkai said. "This meeting is adjourned."

*********************

KTV - Channel 12 News
6:00 pm

Aiko looked exultant as the newroom assistant handed her a copy of the latest happenings in Krioval. Still in her dressing room, she applied lipstick carefully as she read the lines again, subconsciously convinced that if her glance broke from the paper, the news would revert to something far more boring. Two gang leaders killed in the same day, and in Valak. This would complement the rash of disappearances quite nicely. Aiko saw the word "promotion" flash before her mind's eye. Then she emerged and sat behind the desk.

"Good evening. Some breaking news out of Valak City tonight - the leaders of two opposing drug gangs were found killed and mutilated this afternoon. The bodies of 'Jimmy the Killer' and 'Chris the Mauler'," she tried not to giggle at the absurdity of the names, "were found on the border of Valak and Bralos, and were only able to be identified by DNA and dental records. Please note that the following images are quite graphic, and not suitable for children..."

Pictures of the slain bodies, magnified so as to instill every last pixel of gory detail in any viewer's mind for months, appeared. The broadcast continued to say that there were "no leads, but every available resource was being devoted to solve the grotesque murders."

*********************

"Interesting tack there, Kiros." Hiroshi regarded the black-skinned paladin with a mixture of awe and disgust.

"Either dat or replicate. You rip 'em apart, I leave 'em today. All works out, ya?" Kiros grinned wider than Hiroshi thought possible.

"Hmph. Trying to get me into trouble?"

"Like you need help."

"He's got a point," Ayumi said softly. "It's not as if you need to tear them apart for the process to work."

"They're the scum of the earth! I'll do whatever I want to 'em. And your little prude act aside, I saw you earlier. I'm surprised that anybody else got any of it, with you slurping away. You like it. Just admit it for once."

Tears formed in the woman's eyes, but her gaze held nothing but fury. She stood and slapped Hiroshi with all the force she could summon. Where her had had struck, his skin became as brilliantly red as his hair. Then Ayumi stormed out of the room and toward her quarters.

"Smooth move, dere. You're different from de way you used to be. Why is dat?" Kiros regarded the other man almost sadly, and then headed off in the same direction as Ayumi.

Daveed had spent the day making the beginning overatures that would reassure several normally skittish folk that he was not only sincere, but discrete. He had credentials that should hold sway with quite a number of people, it ws getting to their attention that took the time.

He returned from his evening jog with Faro- the big King Cheetah had proved quite a draw for second looks and wide eyes at the near by park, and turned on the local news. The headline was the apparent murder of two notorious gang leaders. The bodies had been torn apart with a ferocity that Daveed had seen before. In the Golden Scimatar, demons had taken most of the mine personell when the barrier that had kept them sealed off had been inadvertantly breached. Daveed set the memories aside and listend closely.

Tannis returned a little later her hands filled with heavy bags. They contained only a few 'ladies goodies', being mostly books published as guides to local Krioval highlights. They done their basic homework - bought the best tourist/ visitor based books, and had read them completely. But these new books were written for 'insiders' and would hve an whole different set of information.

Taking a quick shower she was back out quickly, wearing one of the few things she had bought for herself.

"Daveed, theres a restraunt, where every one who is in the Who's Who is seen at. I managed reservations for us at 8. Our table will probably be located right next to the doors to the kitchen, but it will allow us a live look at the local hierarchy and garner more reactions to me." When she chose Tannis could almost glow with a mantle of otherworldliness.

Daveed smiled at her, taking in the elegant simplicity of the gown she wore and the subdued, but very expensive jewelry she was adorned with. "You just want to be seen and swooned over." He teased gently as he wrapped an arm about her and drew her in for a warm kiss. They were lovers but neither believed that they possessed the other or wanted excluseivity.

Letting her go he retired to his room to shower and put on an suit of equal refinement. At seven thirty the reserved limmo called announced it's arrival. Giving Faro a promise to bring him a cheetah bag Daveed and Tannis left arm in arm.

Nari handed her passport to the customs officer. He saw just what she wanted him to see, a well used, but well kept collection of 'stamps' such as any world traveler would have aquired. Never mind that the last stamp was dated some where around 1945. Such was her gift as a Kitusne that she could easily seduce his mind with what she laughingly called now days the 'jedi mind trick'. He also saw only a lovely young woman of Oriental extraction, but every one saw that, unless she wished differently.

Having been passed quickly and with no trouble though Krioval Customs, Nari collected her few bags and took a cab into Valak City. A series of phone calls several days ago had aquired her the years rlease of a recently renovated loft. Unfurnished but with utilities active, it was not in the best part of the city, being on the edge of a reurbanised artsy zone, but still within an area that had so far remained more than a little blighted. It was just what she felt she needed as a base to find and study the Kriovalian Paladins.

The taxi deposited the Kitsune and her bags at the door just as as strom clouds gathered and grumbled. The porter let her in and she showed him the faxes that confirmed her lease. He assissted her in bring up her bags and left her to the falling twilight.

She looked over the spacious residence, comprised of a bedroom loft with it's own grand bathroom and a library, a second bedroom with a bath on the main floor, a kitchen, laundry room and a skylighted living room with sliding glass doors that led to a south facing balcony. The loft bedroom over looked the living room and had it's own smaller balcony that looked to the west.

With a wave of her hand the clean but empty rooms rooms changed as she called upon a Kitsune's greatest ability. That which made illusion real.

Heavy, hand knotted carpets covered the floor, glowing in rich jewel tones under tiny fairylights that drifted near the ceiling. The glimmers were swirled about by the winds that wafted through and danced the multitude of sheer, crimson silk curtains. A fine tall bed with a gold, green and blue brocaded canopy and a fully ten handspan thick down filled matress filled most of the loft bedroom. A pair of massive rosewood clothes presses with full closets and a matching dresser with a large silvered mirror claimed the rest of the bedroom's wall space. A sitting stool, a lounging chair and a pair of bedside tablechest's rounded out the bedrooms appointments.

In a corner of the living room nearest the island kitchen, four dramatically upholstered, richly cushioned chairs sat about a round dining table of fine rosewood. Flames danced behind the grate of the fireplace that filled the diagonally opposite corner, and a quartet of comfortable chairs faced one another in an arc before the peacocks tail shapped brass fire screen. In between the chairs were several small side tables and beside the left most chair was a magnificent violin on it's stand, bow at rest. Fiver towering book cases lined one wall, displaying numerous leather bound books, small statues and various items of curiosity. The walls were mostly hidden behind assorted works of art, but what could be seen of them were deeply carved dark wood. A black laquered weapons stand sat beside the door and held her weapons, naginata, katana, yumi, yari, bo and others.

Sandalwood incenses burned, scenting the air delicately, and on the round table tea steeped over a tiny brazier. Nodding in satisfaction, Nari went upstairs and removed her travel weary garmets. Setting them, neatly folded , aside she stepped into the bathroom. From a crystal bowl she tossed a handfull of rose petals upon the steaming bathwater that flowed from the mouth of the lion head faucet. While it filled she set about choseing what she would wear for the night. Once that was decided she stepped gracefully into the tub. Once she was clean, and her long mane of shimmering ebon hair as well, she waved the water clean and even hotter than before. She leant back and soaked for a long time, all but asleep.

A particularly loud clap of thunder brought her eyes open and she stepped from the deep, black marble tub to wrap a thick towel about her. The rain was coming down in heavy sheets as she looked out onto the city's night lights. Shivering slightly, and glad of the room's warmth she finished drying off and began dressing, just a simple three layer kimono. Silver grey with rain and clouds as the inner layer, purest red matte silk the next and the outer of jade green with hand painted celestial dragons entertwining. Her obi reflected all three in muted tones.

Daveed was glad for the protective porche cochere that the restraunt provided, he had no desire to get soaked by the quickly building thunderstorm. And while Tannis's wings shed water, he had no desire for her to get soaked, for she took chill easily. "The weather report didn't mention the possibility of a storm." Daveed remarked softly as he extended a hand to help Tannis out of the limmo. Her wings always made that a difficult maneuver, especially when she was in more delicate- and therefore expensive - clothes.

Tannis flicked her silvery wings to settle them properly as she stood and gave Daveed a knowing look. Both of them were well aware that disturbed weather patterns were one of the more obvious indicators of 'unusual' activity. "But Krioval is an island nation, and unforeseen evening thunderstorms coming in off the water might not be that unusual" she replied, taking the 'contrary' position.

Daveed lingered half a step to get a better look at the darkness of the storm and how wide it spread across the darkening sky. Then he caught up with Tannis just as the door man, his eyes huge despite the controled expression on the rest of his face, made a half bow and threw the door open. Arm and arm the couple swept into the warmly lit reception area of the exclusive restraunt. There were, of course, no groups of customers waiting to be seated, and the maitre d was greeting them by name, and politely inquiring as to how their day had gone before the gust of chill air that swirled in with them had ebbed. His sophistication showed, his eyes were not wide and he gave Tannis the gentlemanly attention he'd give any beautiful woman.

His warm reception of them was the result of one of Tannis's most often used 'gifts'. She had the uncanny ability to find out the little details that made one an instant 'insider'. Her foray into the most exclusive of ladies couture boutiques had yielded not only the exquisite gown that fit her perfectly, but the name of the restruant and it's normally wary maitre d'. Her call in on the restraunt's unlisted and little known 'back line' had gotten them the reservation, and given the restraunt staff their names. And of course the maitre d' had run a check on them. One certainly didn't want the 'jumped up fifteen seconders' trying to scam their way into proper society.

Over the years Daveed had allowed his family background to be brought back into the open. The world still remembered those of royal extraction, and his grandparents has been scions, if distant, of Russia's Imperial Romanov family. He refused, as his parents before him had also, to claim any title, save that of Doctor. However his wealth, the many charities he was associated with, and his family background did give him entree into international society. Even if there was very sparse information of many years of his adult life.

And Tannis with her obvious 'nonhumanness' and beauty had made more than a few socitey headlines when she attended functions on Daveeds arm.

Heads turned, discretely of course, as he escorted the couple to the table awaiting them. Not one of the prized tables, also 'of course', but not quite as poorly placed as Tannis had guessed. He held the chair for Tannis and with another wish that they enjoy their evening left them in the hands of the sommielier and the wine lists.

He watched the storm build over the capital with detachment, yet he surely felt its awe-inspiring power. Serph seldom left Valak these days, owing in large part to the tremendous volume of Guild business. There was also the gnawing hunger that grew by the day - the Chief Paladin was the personification of patience and grace, for a paladin anyway, but after ten days without feeding, and he ran the risk of turning feral. That was to be avoided.

It was a well-known "secret" that, despite the official hierarchy of the Guild, Shinji Machida was Serph's "hidden Director" - he represented the Guild at many of the official functions. The younger man's playful and energetic presence deflected most of the criticisms that might have been leveled at the solemn and calculating leader. Even the Senate was effectively disarmed by Shinji's tactics. There was something about the nature of bureaucracy that wilted under the onslaught of seemingly limitless energy.

If Shinji stood by Serph's left side, representing the outward face of the Guild, Valkai Andros stood by the Chief's right, and presented a visage of placid control. It was a reflection of the city of Valak itself, a city of marble, lush gardens, and winding rivers. Should one withstand the energetic Machida, the next likely target was Valkai, and in him the battle of mental endurance would begin anew. The Guild Director was a master of misdirection, despite his Andros heritage, and he and the Chief were often successful in deterring even the most ardent investigator with relevant, but ultimately bland, information.

Of course, if subtlety failed, there was alwas Hiroshi. And Kiros, who ran the division of logistics, was flexible when needed. But they were not needed outside the City of Paladins this evening. Serph, Valkai, and Shinji, on the other hand, *were*. Midsummer was fast approaching, and with the Chief's sequestration in Valak, the rumors were on the upswing again. So they prepared for the capital.

Dressing in a way to attract attention, yet not make it evident that they *wanted* attention, the three waited for the storm to break. Seeing that the rain should slack within a few minutes, they departed the marble and green city for the metallic spires of Torokara. They had *that* restaurant in mind...

Nari sipped her jasmine tea and watched the storm die. She hadn't needed it's rejuvenating properties any longer and chose not to affect it further. Her thoughts drifted to those she sought, and if they truly understood what they had become. She was certain that the runors and incomplete information that had reached her ever inquisitive ears were true. Do they know how disruptive pulling a Kitsune out of it's realm and binding it here, in the world that is not Maya is? How dangerous it can become over time asn the very warp and woof of reality is torn assunder? Or have what they brought forth decieved them, for it's on puropses? She wondered. Much of the lore of Kitsune had been lost down through the centuries, and now most saw them as little more than childrens tales from another age. They did not realize that the variant of Kami known as a Kitsune was real and as dangerous as the myths made them out to be.

"But its it one of my kin, or something else? I dare not hope that it is other, for if I wait too long the destruction may be unstopable." Nari worried aloud, for she had too little information to make more than the merest of guesses. And that was a danger in and of itself.

Sighing and knowing that she would get no answers tonight she picked up the violin and began to play. She'd fallen in love with the western musical instrument and found it just as rewarding to play as her first love the Koto.

The haunting strains flowed out the open balcony doors to be borne away on the last remnants of the storm.

Tannis leaned back agains the low back of the chair. The restraunt was living up to its reputation. The non standard low backed chair had been waitng at the table. She disliked having her wings trapped and no little crushed agains the a high back. She wondered briefly if the restraunt had had other patrons with wings, for the style and quality of the chair matched the rest of the elegant decor. She smiled and dismissed the thougths, as she took her first sip of the wine that Daveed, in consultation with the sommielier, had chosen to go with the first course. Tannis let her eyes close as she savored the complex flavors that balanced well with dish set before her.

Daveed watched Tannis sample the wine and smiled to himself. There was considerable speculation as to her origins, with some holding forth that she was one of the Heavenly Host - an opinion mostly formed by those who had been priviledged to hear her incredible singing voice. However any one who had been around her long generally was of the impression that she was the earthiest of angels, delving deeply into all the delights of corporal ensconsement and the senses. While she had never shown any sign of being an addicitve personality, she was a complete and refined hedonist.

He discretely observed the others patrons of the restraunt, noting various figures to Tannis's attention with soft voiced comments. They had compiled brief dossiers on various notable figures before their arrival in Krioval. It was always good to see that the pictures in the packets matched what noteables looked like in person. And their reactions to Tannis and his own not inconsiderable self, for he stood nearly seven foot and was not built like a stick, was also of interest to the investigateing pair.

Their presence was sure to be noticed immediately. Normally, a paladin wore a standard uniform while "on base" in Valak - a fairly standard garment. More ceremonial functions, however, merited the clothing that adorned the three now. First, and most striking, was the head-to-toe white, which was rarely worn by any Kriovalians outside the home. Second, the symbols would clearly identify them to anybody with even passing familiarity with the Guild would know not only that they were paladins, but *which* paladins.

Valkai had the simplest symbol of the three, with a circle over an "X" marking him as "Guild Director". Serph's symbol was the same, but had a vertical line also crossing the circle. Folktales implied that the symbols were derived from two swords crossing before a shield - indicating the militarism of the Guild. The vertical bar in the Chief's symbol, however, was more esoteric, and was thought to have its origins in an ancient symbol for divinity. Thus, the Guild Director was seen as the muscle of the group, and Serph as the soul. That left the brain of the group, normally Kenji Miyamoto, who directed Guild research, but today, Shinji. He wore an "X" with dots at the cardinal points, and a triangle above something similar to the Greek "pi". Thus, Political Director.

Both Valkai and Shinji spoke at length, about the future of the Guild, the state of Krioval, and even of some strange visitors reported in recent days. For the most part, Serph kept his silence, though more astute observers might recognize his nods and gestures as modulators of the conversation - when it strayed into potentially dangerous territory, or when a change of subject might be advantageous, the topics drifted quickly.

They walked toward the proprietor of the restaurant. Valkai spoke, voice deep and resonating. "Is our customary space available this evening?"

Of course it was. It always was. Except for that one time. But that particular eatery had gone out of business several months later. It was quickly established that borrowing heavily from Valak and then thumbing one's nose at the Guild was a good way to turn a profitable business into a potential tax write-off.

"We don't get out enough," Shinji said, casting a pointed look at the Chief. Serph wisely refrained from taking the bait.

Valkai smirked. "The Director seems to spend time outside the City," he said slowly. "Telekar, the Capital, even abroad."

"Entirely different. I said 'we' don't get out enough."

"Are you saying the Senate is too boring for you? Perhaps a reassignment is in order..." The big paladin grinned at Shinji's sudden discomfort, though both knew that the threat was absurd. Shinji stuck his tongue out at Valkai by way of response. Serph rolled his eyes. "I wonder if any 'admirers' will show up tonight?"

**********************

David Andros fumed silently. The latest indications showed that, should Micah succumb to his ailments, the tribe was effectively divided between his succession and Valkai's. He cursed the decision to leave the rift untended for so many years - a return to orthodoxy in both spirit and politics would have stemmed this liberalization of the former bastion of power. Even now, he watched as the advances of other tribes - lesser tribes in his mind - began to eclipse those of the Andros.

The notice that the Great Tribes were convening to discuss the matter was even more unthinkable. They hadn't adjudicated any of the Kriov or Dekker issues when Serph took command of not one, but *two* Great Tribes, and that despite his shameful conduct first with the Machida boy and then, to David's ultimate chagrin, with his son Valkai. Should the younger Andros take the helm, the pro-Valak Tribes would number six, half the number on the council. But for a vote of non-members to have any binding authority? That was unprecedented. And should the High Priest solemnify the ascension of Valkai?

Were the paladins of Krioval to be the next incarnation of the medieval European Templars? David grinned despite the thought. They had fallen quickly, when their reason for existence had been denied. Should the Guild suffer the same fate...

Arianus Tavern
Abri, Patrynia

The bua wine is delicious, dangerous here at the Arianus Tavern. Though the Patryn patron's tattooed bodies are resistant to toxins, only those with wealth are able to afford the wonderful wine of the bua, and money makes one a target here. The Tavern is ancient, a relic from farther in the past then most care to think of, shortly past the time when the worlds were joined once more and the elements became one again, long after the Sartan-caused Sundering that tore them apart, when they divided what was meant to be united.

Garu shakes her head and shatters the thoughts that cloud her mind, clearing the obstructions that prevent the precious awareness that keeps a Patryn alive and their purse from being stolen. That last is particularly important in this place of theft, of death. Her fingers tighten and stroke the staff she holds at her side as she senses the approach of someone towards her hindquarters. Surreptitously, she activates the fire runes on the staff and smacks it into the someone. A startled scream attracts the attention of the surrounding patrons and amused eyes smoothly turn toward the scene. She uses her superlatively keen senses, seeing without sight as an ashamed Patryn walks swiftly from the bar area holding a burned arm.

Later that evening...

A safe place to sleep is a particularly precious commodity in this city, one not easily procured. The persistent padding feet following her path through the shadowed streets made a safe place a priority. She knows she is not in an area of Abri in which it is sensible to seek violence. She has many enemies here, and the structures around her stand silently, still and offering no strategic advantage. Deception is her best weapon now, and she removes her recently-acquired armament from where it had remained in her robe. The sigla seen on the small ball of steel represented smoke, and as she cast it, a thick cloud arises around her, filling the alley and staying near the stone street. Lights flash dimly in the dark, drowning in the thick smoke. The owners of the padding feet do not find what they are seeking as the smoke slowly moves into higher shadows.

After using the rune-magic to move stone and summon an entrance through which she could escape, Garu stands surrounded by silent behemoths, layers of soft dust bespeaking great age, her body still alert from moments of quiet danger on the street above. She is not ready for sleep, and chooses to see the ancient sights around her, perhaps to discover something of value, a treasure to trade for a full purse. She is drawn to a ship, and she is not sure how she knows it is a ship, or why she senses death when she sees the shadowed steel shape, sitting in this strange place. Her hand hovers over the sigla, and it suddenly glows a harsh blue. The ship opens to her, holding secrets inside for her to find. She does not recall what happened after she entered the ship, and she recovers her consciousness in another place of darkness, another city of death, below streets that teem with the same lusts she has seen in Abri.

He discretely observed the others patrons of the restraunt, noting various figures to Tannis's attention with soft voiced comments. They had compiled brief dossiers on various notable figures before their arrival in Krioval. It was always good to see that the pictures in the packets matched what noteables looked like in person. And their reactions to Tannis and his own not inconsiderable self, for he stood nearly seven foot and was not built like a stick, was also of interest to the investigateing pair.

"It appears we have competition for attention tonight," Valkai said, gesturing subtly toward the visitors. "I wonder who they mean to attract."

Serph gestured far less subtly. "Shinji."

The youngest of the three stood up quickly and made his way toward the foreigners' table. "Good evening. You must be new to our nation." He grinned, even as his voice dropped perceptibly. "It's not every day that one walks around already transformed."

"It's not every day that one walks around already transformed."

Tannis looked up at the handsome young Paladin, recognising him from the photo in his dossier. Daveed just grinned to himself and sat back to watch the fireworks. Tannis had little liking for politicians, and Sinji seemd to fill that role for the Guild admirably- if for the good of the Guild, if not for Tannis's reaction to him.

One delicately arched eye brow raised and she replied in an equally low voice that carried to him alone, and lost nothing of it's tartness in the lack of volume.

"Yes we are recently arrived. And Transformed? No, as best I can recall I've always been like this. Though both Daveed and myself do enjoy seeking the enlightenment that is the usual adjunct of transformation."

Her smile was that a a tigress lazily ascertaining the status of a new comer...dinner, or dancing partner... And her deep amethyist eyes were laughing as she took a sip of her wine.

"Oh forgive my my lack of manners, Paladin Machida..." Her eyes unfocused a little then she shook her head and her voice dropped to a barely audible whisper "soul of the seas of ice..." Then her eyes cleared and the faintest of blushed stained her cheeks. "I am Tannis, and this is Doctor Daveed Roth. Would you and your companions care to join us? We were about to decide on desert."

Her look swept over Shinji, on to Valkai, and then the Chief Paladin, Serph. Her dark eyes locked with his calm silver ones across the room for a long second but if she was aware of the momentary catch in her breathing she gave no outward sign.

"Yes we are recently arrived. And Transformed? No, as best I can recall I've always been like this. Though both Daveed and myself do enjoy seeking the enlightenment that is the usual adjunct of transformation."

The paladin's face displayed a moment of confusion, that was quelled by his mind's voice. Discuss with Kenji. The Director of Guild Research would have likely come across such things - demon forms without human analogs, or something else entirely. In any case, figuring out *that* was beyond Shinji's purview - he could safely ignore the issue.

"Enlightenment...huh." The wide grin returned. "What brings you to our modest nation?" He failed to react to the 'seas of ice' comment, owing in large fact to his utter indifference toward the demonic transformation. He was a paladin by virtue of his ability to duck just about any uncomfortable situation. As such, he was easily among the most stable and reliable members of the Guild.

A short difference away, Serph and Valkai appeared to converse wordlessly. It wasn't that they were telepathic, or anything particularly advanced, but that they simply spent so much time in one another's company that they instinctively knew the other's thoughts. Serph nodded, and Valkai gestured toward Shinji. Shinji seemed to indicate something in the affirmative. When the Chief Paladin met the gaze of Tannis, he reacted with characteristic neutrality. Besides, it was widely known that women usually failed to elicit strong reactions from the tribal lord. He and Valkai rose slowly and walked toward the foreign "delegation".

"Lord Roth, Tannis," Valkai spoke. "Welcome. I am Valkai. This is Serph. You have already met Shinji?"

"What brings you to our modest nation?"

Daveed answered that one "I find myself an eternal student, and there are interesting thoughts circulating about various curious things occuring within your 'modest' nation, and particularrly within the Paladin's guild." Where there had been a subtle challenge and irreverance in Tannis's voice, Daveed's rich baritone carried nothing but sincere interest.

"Lord Roth, Tannis. Welcome. I am Valkai. This is Serph. You have already met Shinji?"

'Oh what excellent hearing you have." Tannis grinned up at him, her eyes laughing once more. "I am very pleased to meet you, and glad that you are willing to join us."

Her eyes where drawn back to Serph and darkened. Sometimes the things she sensed were too strong to ignore, even if she couldn't quite target what cued them. "I hate to see some one go hungry."

Nari let the strings of the violin go silent, and set it carefully aside. She stood and stretched as she glided towards the balcony. The gentle zephyers were warmer now that the tempest had long since given way to the heat of the season.

She stepped out on to the balcony and leaned against the railing looking down to the street some six floors below. The Kami let her eyes droop closed as she concentrated. Then the web she wove spread outward like ripples in a pond. A web imperceptible to all but her, a sensor net that would vibrate in her mind if any used the energies she was attuned to. The energies that signaled the summoning of not just another form, but of those like herself. Kami.

Once that was done she retired to her bed, to sleep and perchance to dream.

"I find myself an eternal student, and there are interesting thoughts circulating about various curious things occuring within your 'modest' nation, and particularrly within the Paladin's guild."

"Would you like to see it?" Shinji's eyes sparkled with the exuberance of youth - he had not yet completed his twenty-fourth year. "Not that you need an invitation, of course. The Guild is open almost entirely to the public." He rushed through the 'almost' in his last sentence, leaving it up to the foreign visitors to challenge or ignore the implication of what, precisely, was restricted. "Is there anything of particular interest that you might like to see?"

"I am very pleased to meet you, and glad that you are willing to join us."

"I am quite happy to meet foreign guests, especially here. So few from outside our borders feel confident enough to nagivate the capital outside of the traditional tourist locations." Valkai pulled up a chair and sat in a fluid motion - surprising for one of his size. He tugged lightly at the scruff on his chin, momentarily lost in contemplation. "Have you been here long?"

"I hate to see some one go hungry."

Serph was not particularly attracted to the devouring, as Hiroshi was, but he was not strongly antipathic toward it, as Ayumi was. It was a way of life now, since the transformation, and the Chief Paladin was the type to deal with change however best leveraged his overall position. He thus regarded the comment with a slight tilting of his head, as if to assimilate the statement and determine whether its meaning was literal or metaphoric. More information was required. "It is true. Hunger can lead to madness, if left untreated long enough."

The Kami let her eyes droop closed as she concentrated. Then the web she wove spread outward like ripples in a pond. A web imperceptible to all but her, a sensor net that would vibrate in her mind if any used the energies she was attuned to. The energies that signaled the summoning of not just another form, but of those like herself. Kami.

Kenji Miyamoto was the Guild's primary researcher, who had worked with his aunt Rei on information storage and processing years back. That had been when he had met Serph, then considered little more than a foppish remnant of a nobility in decline. What difference a few years made.

No individual could have sensed the change in energy - it was localized and subtle. Had the Guild not been monitoring nearly every cubic millimeter of Krioval, it would have gone undetected. As it was, Kenji noted it without emotion, as the alteration was brief and nonthreatening. Ultimately, he decided not to pursue it further, unless it recurred or intensified. All things were data, and all data could be modified. If necessary, anomalous data could be smoothed over, though the expense might not be worth the effort. He sighed lightly and returned to the results of one group's latest efforts. The creation of matter had been done several years past, though the technology was still in its infancy. Now, it was looking more and more likely that life itself could be made from crude parts. What would be the likely implications of such research?

"Is there anything of particular interest that you might like to see?"

Daveed eyes were alight with equal enthusiasm as he replied to Shinji's question. "I would guess it's what's hidden by that almost that would be the most interesting.

Tannis smiled at Valkai's comment about traditional tourists and the locals they favored. "But one can hardly count me as traditional, and while I have spend most of my memory traveling, I've never felt I was a tourist. Daveed and I have been here only a couple of days."

She turned her attention back to Serph when he had considered her comment thoroughly and made his reply.

It is true. Hunger can lead to madness, if left untreated long enough."


"And you Hunger. I can feel it gnawing at you" Her voice was soft, filled with compassion.

"I would guess it's what's hidden by that almost that would be the most interesting.

"Heh. I can't imagine what that would be the case." Shinji paused thoughtfully. "Still, that's not exactly my decision. Unpublished research and all...the Guild is practically self-sustaining, and we can't endanger that, now can we?"

"But one can hardly count me as traditional, and while I have spend most of my memory traveling, I've never felt I was a tourist. Daveed and I have been here only a couple of days."

"Perhaps. But you have placed yourself in the capital quite rapidly, and at a nexus of important officials." It was intentionally vague as to whom Valkai referred. "What compels your travels?"

"And you Hunger. I can feel it gnawing at you"

Shinji stepped into the side conversation. "Well, we haven't had a chance to eat dinner yet." Again the impish grin spread across his face. Serph retreated again to silence. Some things were better unsaid, at least to strange visitors.

the Guild is practically self-sustaining, and we can't endanger that, now can we?"


"Certainly not. My interest in matters esoteric are purely personal. I learn and study for my own knowledge and pleasure, not for any sort of 'commercal' gain" Daveed replied as he turned part of his attention to the conversation between Tannis, Valkai and Serph.

"What compels your travels?"

"I love to travel, to meet new people, explore things. Oh what is that James Bond phrase... "The world is not enough." I think that is simply not true, why one could spend hundreds of life times exploring just the world and then you add in people." Her smile was wide, alive and very genuine.


"Well, we haven't had a chance to eat dinner yet."

The look Tannis turned on Shinji said all too clearly what she thought of such a bald faced interuption and evasion. The look faded as she glanced back to Serph, and it was as if music drifted though the aether, a faint melody meant for only one. And were there words? "Touch me, trust me, savour each sensation" heard by Serph alone?

The hand she stretched out could be reaching for her glass, or it could be a hand offered to Serph should he chose to take it.

I love to travel, to meet new people, explore things. Oh what is that James Bond phrase... "The world is not enough." I think that is simply not true, why one could spend hundreds of life times exploring just the world and then you add in people."

"Huh." Shinji developed a look of concentration, as if absorbing the words and their impact. "An interesting philosophy. Where do you call home?"

The hand she stretched out could be reaching for her glass, or it could be a hand offered to Serph should he chose to take it.

Once, Serph Dekker might have been tempted by the offer. That was before the series of betrayals and political maneuverings that had plagued him since Sylvan's sickening. There had even been a few attempts to kill the errant paladin, and while poorly orchestrated every time, they ominously had originated closer to his tribes than he might have liked. So many people had cast icy aspersions on the ascendant leader's plans that he was said to have frozen over, the placid surface demeanor constructed painstakingly to conceal the mystery beneath. He pondered an appropriate response when a voice resonated in his head.

Serph? There has been a slight inconvenience.

The Chief Paladin was not a telepath in the traditional sense - the Miyamoto process had modified his brainwaves to act as a transmitter and receiver of more traditional forms of communication. That Kenji felt it was important enough to use the arcane, rather than the ordinary, means of contacting him meant that the 'slight inconvenience' was on the verge of becoming a modestly sized nightmare. Returning to base.

Understood.

Serph turned back toward the group. "Valkai." The tone of voice meant exactly one thing. The Guild Director took over.

"I apologize for our abrupt departure, but it appears that we are needed back in Valak. The Director will assist you with anything you may require. Good evening."

Tannis smoothly picked up her glass of water and took a small sip, but her eyes followed Serph, and for a moment darkened with sorrow. She turned back to Shinji to answer his question Where do you call home?"

She shrugged lightly. "I have no memory of a home, so I guess it is where ever I happen to find myself."

The waiter slid a small confection before her and she shook her head. "I guess they couldn't resist" She forced a small chuckle as she put her fork to the anglefood cake.

Daveed sought to reclaim Shinji's attention.

"What are the goals of the Paladins Guild? They are most vague in the information published out side Krioval, and inside Krioval theres even less." Daveed asked. He'd caught the under tones of Tannis's interaction with Serph and knew what she had offered. He'd give her a chance to regain her composure.

"I have no memory of a home, so I guess it is where ever I happen to find myself."

"Interesting." The young paladin tilted his head slightly leftward, as if absorbing a previously unknown idea. "I guess that the idea of a 'home' in this nation has begun to evolve similarly. Most in the Guild would probably consider the White City to be their homes now, even though it's only been built this past year."

"What are the goals of the Paladins Guild? They are most vague in the information published out side Krioval, and inside Krioval theres even less."

Shinji's far-off look snapped back into focus. He had been answering these types of questions for the Senate many times in the past twelve months. At least it wasn't about the speed of Valak's reconstruction. Here he wouldn't have to be too evasive. "The Guild exists to pick up the slack, I guess. We do a lot of research, mostly in cooperation with Kriovalian universities. The royalties from our patents help to fund basic operations and create jobs. We're still working out a more regional strategy than just that. Truth is, the Guild is fairly new to the concept of industrial and commercial development. It's important that the roots of the organization don't fall by the wayside." His tone was honest, if a bit polished from repetition. "Have you had the chance to see Valak yet? We don't have many foreign dignitaries in the city. Most prefer the capital. I think it's because like attracts like," he concluded, the slightest hint of mirth evident on his face.

I think it's because like attracts like,"

Daveed laughed "The birds of a feather, or follow the flock syndrome endemic to certain types." He shook his head 'No we have not had a chance to, but we were planning to take a lease there next week. It looks like we might be in Krioval for some time, and hotels, no matter how patron oriented, eventually get tired of having Faro about."

Storage Room
Paladin's Guild
Valak, Krioval

She sighed with sudden relief as the ship settled into stillness. Garu waited patiently, as Patryns were wont to, wondering what had happened in the haze of shining runes that had overtaken her. After what would have been an agonizing stream of time for most people, Garu worked her way out of the vessel, careful not to activate the sigils that had caused her to suffer from the shock of serious unconsciousness. Sure to secure her gear before making her way, mindful that she was no longer in the same room as before, Garu slinked softly in search of a safe way out of her new surroundings.

t looks like we might be in Krioval for some time, and hotels, no matter how patron oriented, eventually get tired of having Faro about.

Shinji laughed. "I can see that, especially if you've been staying long in the capital. Traditionalists and all."

**********************

Serph and Valkai returned to Valak with uncharacteristic speed. Few paladins, including most of the directors, would have sooner jumped from the administrative tower than to *summon* the Chief to return. Kenji Miyamoto was one of those few. As supervisor of all research in the White City, he commanded great respect from Serph - the two had jointly discovered the process of matter/energy manipulation, and the technology had greatly enriched Krioval. Now there appeared to be a problem.

Initiate transmission. Serph. I need you to return quickly. There has been an accident. End transmission.

The Chief Paladin had interfaced with the network directly upon receiving the message. It was not without risks outside the firewalls of Valak and the universities, but Serph's personal security was second only to the president's. He spoke in short half-sentences while connected, anticipating Valkai's questions.

"Not an explosion. Not a security breach. Not a medical emergency. Pinpointing location." He paused, his expression frozen in one of total neutrality. "Laboratory one three seven. Miyamoto misfiring. Partial power failure, sector one." He disconnected from the network silently. "That could pose a problem."

"Isn't that where the classified research is ongoing?"

"Unfortunately. It looks like we'll be down for at least two weeks." He sighed loudly. "That was a rookie mistake," he said evenly. "I am surprised that Hunter would miscalculate in such an obvious way."

"How long has he been on the project?"

"Too long, apparently."

"He will be reassigned. Replacement candidates?"

"Aside from Kenji? And yes, I am aware that he's already overcommitted. What about Teresa Vartek?"

"From Logistics? Who'd replace her?"

"Her brother."

"Koro Vartek? Serph, he's only twenty-three. Isn't that a little young to be logistical manager for Valak city?"

"Probably, but I'm out of ideas. The President needs results before general elections. Otherwise..."

"I thought we got into this line of work to avoid politics."

"We did. But if David edges out Kara for the presidency, it makes things...difficult."

"Agreed. I'll talk to Kenji. Can you take care of Kiros?"

"Have for years."

Nari woke with a gasp, pulled from the cradle of sleep by the intensity of the nightmare. Or was it just a nightmare? The disorientation, the sense of confinement was so strong, so real. No, I was for the briefest flash in another's skin She decided after considering the troubling aspect carefully.

She unwound herself from the sheets and wrapped a quilted kimono about herself. Nari knew that she would need to meditate and them indulge her senses in a cup of frgrant tea before the would find peace enough to return to sleep.

Moving silently down the stairs she stood in in the center of the lofts main floor and Stepped sideways fully into the world of the kami. The surroundings took on a slippery, malleable texture, an altered aspect, then they faded from her consciousness as she settled down into meditation.

"I can see that, especially if you've been staying long in the capital. Traditionalists and all."

Daveed looked a little surprized, to hear that Shinji knew that he had a cheetah for a companion animal.

Tannis didn't. She figured that either the paladins had already checked up on them, or he didn't have any idea of whom Daveed had been talking about and just covered it well.

"Shinji, with you being a 'local' so to speak, do you have any recommendations for a good place to go dancing? My feet are feeling like 'tripping the light fantastic' this evening." She changed the subject. or maybe Paladins don't have a life outside the guild she wondered to herself.

The second was true. Both times. Shinji Machida was adept in discussing subjects about which he knew little. On this day, however, he felt he had run into an issue on which he knew nothing. Most in the Guild would readily equate dancing and combat training, save for the former's lack of being armed at the time. A bit dangerously, he plunged into the network, flailing about for anything that might be suitable. A few seconds of appearing deep in concentration, he returned brightly to the conversation.

"Which type of dancing does the Lady prefer?"

"Which type of dancing does the Lady prefer?"

Be nice Tannis told herself firmly He's cute...He's 'taken'...and so very young Tannis argued with herself and I 'win' -they don't have lives outside the Guild She bit down hard on the inside of her cheek to keep from laughing aloud.

"Tonight the Lady prefers something romantic. Classical ballroom dance. My gown just wouldn't stand up to a moshe pit, and my wings never do. Tangos and Waltzs, Foxtrots and Quickstep are what my tootsies need."

Daveed gave Tannis a knowing smile. He'd gladly dance with her, if Shinji didn't care to join them. If the young Paladin did, he'd sit back and enjoy watching them dance. Tannis was a very graceful dancer.

The young paladin's face lit up. Something I may be able to do...possibly. Shinji Machida was not one to shy away from a challenge. Granted, he had seen the way she had regarded the Chief earlier, but most got used to coming in second to Serph - save for a select few trained in combat. He had been the exclusive apprentice to the master of Valak himself, and such a bond could hardly last forever. Besides, it was hardly as if Serph lacked for options.

Desire won out. "I believe I may know of a place. Of course," he contined dramatically, "I am unsure whether the Lady would want to travel all the way to the Holy City." He grinned. In a land that possessed matter reorganization and teleporting technology, what impediment was geographic distance? "There is a certain type of dance performed there, originally a form of temple worship. Unlike some of the more rigid faiths out there, however, ours believes in exploring the senses more fully." Few could accuse him of subtlety.

**********************

Guild Headquarters
Valak

Aaron Hunter looked as if he were facing his own death. In some ways, the comparison was apt. "I apologize, Director, for my error," he intoned, head practically touching the floor. Kenji regarded him disinterestedly.

"The question remains as to how the error occurred in the first place."

Even in his stricken state, the researcher was taken aback. Kenji Miyamoto had deviated from protocol - apologies, especially sincere ones, were suppsed to be acknowledged. How else could one's honor even begin to be restored? "Lord Director," he began, quickly deciding to switch tactics before his career sank like the battleship Kevalia. "The reactor's containment field was miscalibrated. It was working within specifications last Wednesday..."

"Was it calibrated correctly on Wednesday?"

"Auto-sensors indicated..."

"Manually."

"No, Director."

Kenji sighed. "Understood." It may have been a 'rookie mistake', but it was one that even he could have made under the high-stress work environment that was the Miyamoto experimental construct. "Paladin Hunter, your work is needed on another project. Take the next week to consider which laboratory within the Guild might benefit most greatly from your expertise."

Aaron looked upward, relief evident despite his long training to suppress obvious displays of emotion. Reassignment was by far the best case scenario. "Thank you, Director." He didn't have to ask to leave, and he could have hardly done so with more speed.

**********************

Kiros pouted, to the degree that a large Jamaican man built like an American football linebacker can. "Well dat's jus' great den. Anybody else you want, Leader?"

"Since when are you back to calling me 'Leader', anyway?"

"Since you started stealin' my people. Not fair, ya?" Kiros stood and glared at the Chief Paladin. Serph simply motioned that the other man sit. To the surprise of neither, Kiros did so without comment.

"Besides," Serph pressed on, "don't you want a student committed to your division?"

Kiros's features softened considerably, though he remained skeptical. "Who'd you have in mind?"

The Chief blinked slowly. It was easy for many to assume that Kiros was slow. Nothing could have been further from the truth. Most of those who judged the dark-skinned paladin by his speech patterns tended to wind up in bad places. Staying on Kiros's bad side was nearly impossible, but he often forgot, conveniently, people who annoyed him. When one is the overseer of the logistical arm of the Guild of Paladins, forgetfulness came with severe penalties. Like not having anything shipped to its correct destination in anything remotely able to be considered 'on time'. So Serph was forced to play this one out carefully. He decided to start with total honesty. He hoped that 'modification' would be unnecessary.

"Koro Vartek." The logistical director brightened considerably, and after a suitable lag, Serph began to breathe again. "Good enough?"

Kiros nodded once, fiercely. "Let me keep dis one, ya?"

"I think that can be arranged." Serph stood and walked toward the door.

"'Ey, remember dat time...?"

"Absolutely." Serph smiled ever so slightly. "Sorry, Kiros. Have to deal with the rest of this mess before the day's over. You know how it is."

Another fierce nod.

Storage Room
Paladin's Guild
Valak, Krioval

Garu gives up her initial search for the exit, and returns to the ship, trying to re-activate the runes that had snatched her from her place in Abri and landed her, abandoned, in a place unknown. She feels the beginning of the edge of fear creeping up within her, and kills it quickly. She knows that this is not a situation for anxiety and frustration. Garu renews her search, resolving to make her way and survive, or face her eventual death calmly. Her magic illuminates matter and energy, the fabric of reality. The portal is now plainly in her view, and in the air she writes the runes that will send her through. Once she finds herself on the other side, it is only the passage of a few moments until she comes upon a man. She hopes, despite her power and the unlikely possibility that he can oversome it, that he does not see her. The man stands and turns his head toward her, his face suddenly animated by surprise.

Daveed's mental eyebrows rose as he watched a subtle but profound paradigm shift take place in Shinji.Oh ho, some one does live inside that slick armor

"There is a certain type of dance performed there, originally a form of temple worship. Unlike some of the more rigid faiths out there, however, ours believes in exploring the senses more fully."

Did he just?...hmmm, I think he did...Oh my you just got your teasing handed back to you ...Oh I don't think he's teasing, but bold as brass Tannis rested her chin on the heel of her hand, elbow propped firmly on the table. The look of delight that filled her face made her glow.

"I'l love to go dancing with you in in Valak. Exploring the senses should never be bound by such mundane concerns as distance"

Daveed restrained laughter as the oldest dance started. He liked Shinji, there were real depths to the younger man and a sharply intelligent mind hidden by a politicos' manner. "I told Professor Morita I'd give him a call back this evening and let him know if I was free to drop by and spend time with him discussing some recent findings.." Daveed bowed out gracefully, attending to the cheque discretely and pulling out his cel phone as he left.

Tannis watched him go, a fond smile on her lips, then turned back to Shinji, eye's dancing. "Are you an expert in this temple dance?" She asked wickedly.

She hopes, despite her power and the unlikely possibility that he can oversome it, that he does not see her. The man stands and turns his head toward her, his face suddenly animated by surprise.

The surprise is quickly replaced by a look of anger and disgust. His eyes are naturally red, and they appear to flash ominously. He speaks softly, almost growling. "Who dares come here?"

OOC: Let me know if this was meant for me. If not, please ignore.

**********************

"Are you an expert in this temple dance?"

He responded instantly, and without a trace of guile. "I wouldn't say I'm perfect, but nobody has complained yet."

**********************

"Transferred?" Teresa gave the messenger a distrustful look. "To which division?"

"I am unable to say...commander. I...uh...have this statement to deliver..."

She ripped the documents from the boy's hands. "One thirty-seven? Avatar research? But I'm not bound to one yet..."

The new Guild recruit shuffled his feet nervously. Many of the initiates had mentioned something about these 'avatars', though nobody knew for sure their nature. Some thought they were artificial intelligences, while others considered them to be a form of divine essence. He tried to subtly attract the attention of his superior, silently wishing to be dismissed so as to avoid hearing any more about the awe-inspiring forces.

"You're still here?" Teresa smiled slightly. "I apologize. You are free to go." She chuckled as he practically fled from her quarters. "Raw recruits these days."

Tannis let her eyelashes droop and she looked up at Shinji from under them as he replied without heistation.

"I wouldn't say I'm perfect, but nobody has complained yet."


"Perfection is something to be striven for but is so seldom achieved. And if no one has complained then I doubt I shall. So, shall we go, so that you might teach me this dance, let us explore the senses thoroughly?" Her dimples flashed as she spoke with an air that was at once serious and teasing.

Tannis liked Shinji far more than she had Serph, from what she had seen and sensed, though his surface slickness had put her off at first. She had been responding to the hunger gnawing at Serph, rather than the man. He was handsome enough but that means so very little. There is a darkness in him, a evil he has done and rejoices in rather than regrets. He isn't balanced, despite his power. Shinji is much more soothing to my senses. And I have ever been drawn to the fire that freezes She set those thoughts aside and devoted her full attention to Shinji. To do less would be dishonorable and an insult to him.

The pleasure their flirtaous banter was giving her shown openly in her face, she she extended her hand so he could in, gentlemanly fashion, help her to her feet.

The surprise is quickly replaced by a look of anger and disgust. His eyes are naturally red, and they appear to flash ominously. He speaks softly, almost growling. "Who dares come here?"


Garu's ears, covered, like the most of the rest of her, by thick cloth, grated at the man's speech until her magic started translating the language for her. Her mind repeated the sequence and she quickly understood what had been said.

Who dares come here?

She responds, her magic translating her speech into words he will understand.

"I am Garu. My ship did something unexpected, and landed nearby. Perhaps you can help me return to my home."

Possibilities flooded, rushed into her mind, just in case the man with the red eyes in his face chose to attack, waiting to be invoked in her defense. Taking into account the possibility that her magic would not work on him, she took a firm grip on her staff, and it was warm to the touch.

"Perfection is something to be striven for but is so seldom achieved. And if no one has complained then I doubt I shall. So, shall we go, so that you might teach me this dance, let us explore the senses thoroughly?"

Shinji took Tannis's hand enthusiastically, though he stopped short of pulling her from her seat. Best to let her stand at her liking, he decided. "As you like." One was left to wonder whether the sparkling of his eyes was from natural high-spiritedness, or whether the Guild had so effectively trained the young paladin to be, simultaneously, a talented entertainer and a polished diplomat.

**********************

"I am Garu. My ship did something unexpected, and landed nearby. Perhaps you can help me return to my home."

His anger diminished, though his gaze held its intensity. "This is not a place many foreigners go," he said, emphasis on the word 'foreigners'. "This is the ancestral land of the Andros tribe, and few enter it without express permission. Getting you out of here fast would therefore be mutually agreeable." The man had cringed ever so slightly upon mentioning the 'few' exceptions to what was otherwise standard tribal policy.

**********************

The young man finished his letter. Handwritten letters were rarities in Krioval, where information could be transmitted almost instantly across vast distances. Of course, the Miyamoto technology had allowed for physical objects to be similarly transmitted and reassembled, making a letter a small indulgence if one possessed sufficient credits to purchase a teleport.

...I have received word that Teresa has been promoted. It appears that I am to move into her position, and will be instructed personally by his Excellency the Lord Director Kiros Dekker in matters of transport in and around the White City. I understand that your work on the newly discovered plant species in the northern islands will keep you very busy this summer, but I do hope to see you in the autumn. It would make me pleased to show you some of the buildings that the Guild has just completed. Will I see you in September?

~ Koro

He didn't plan to see them in September. Maria and Philip Vartek were scientists of a particular focus, and distractions irritated both of them to no end. Eventually, Koro realized, he would have to take leave of Valak and visit the northern islands. That meant camping in the wilderness, without reliable electricity or running water. Never mind the GuildNet or holographics. The paladin scrunched his face involuntarily at the thought. Teresa would love the "chance to get away". Koro didn't understand the rest of his family - what in Valak was there to "get away" from? A knock interrupted his thoughts.

"Come in." Kiros did so, and the room shrunk dramatically. Koro was stunned into silence.

The director blinked repeatedly before speaking. "Koro Vartek, ya?"

"..."

"'Ey! I'm not dat scary," Kiros said, stomping the floor in emphasis. He quickly realized the total lack of reassurance in the gesture, and scratched at the back of his head while trying to come up with something better.

"I'm Koro Vartek. You're Director Dekker?" The younger man couldn't have spoken more softly.

"Dat's good, den. Let's get goin'!" The tone was friendly, and even though Koro wasn't completely comfortable, he realized the implications of being resistant so early in the training process. Still...

"Going?"

"Ya! Your new place! Can't have you runnin' da city from dis little room." Kiros laughed as he spoke. "You'll like it. Really."

"I am Garu. My ship did something unexpected, and landed nearby. Perhaps you can help me return to my home."

His anger diminished, though his gaze held its intensity. "This is not a place many foreigners go," he said, emphasis on the word 'foreigners'. "This is the ancestral land of the Andros tribe, and few enter it without express permission. Getting you out of here fast would therefore be mutually agreeable." The man had cringed ever so slightly upon mentioning the 'few' exceptions to what was otherwise standard tribal policy.

Garu listened intently, then replied quickly with her usual tactical assessment of the situation. "That is good. If I am to leave, I can use my magic to enact the possibility that myself and the ship are back in my home. But the nature of my magic is such that I have to be able to name fully both the place of origin and the destination to do so. So I'm going to need to know exactly where we are, wherever you take me so that I can leave."

Her grip on the staff loosed somewhat, but she was still keyed up to defend herself, her solid muscles relaxed and ready.

"That is good. If I am to leave, I can use my magic to enact the possibility that myself and the ship are back in my home. But the nature of my magic is such that I have to be able to name fully both the place of origin and the destination to do so. So I'm going to need to know exactly where we are, wherever you take me so that I can leave."

"Hmph. I am hardly at liberty to give you these coordinates, if what you have said is true." His brow furrowed, but his tone indicated anger had given way to minor annoyance. "I can take you somewhere a bit more publicly accessible, if that would suffice, and you can find your way back from there." He paused, eyeing the foreigner carefully. "My name is Hiroshi, of the Andros tribe, who own this land. Come with me." He extended a hand, though whether out of chivalry or suspicion would have been unclear to all but Hiroshi's closest comrades.

"As you like."

"I chose to follow your lead, teacher" She teased. Tannis's hand was as light as a feather against his as she stood with a flowing grace. Her instincts told her to trust Shinji - accept and enjoy him as he displayed himself. She didn't retrieve her hand as they left the restraunt for the star strewn night beyond.

"I chose to follow your lead, teacher"

Shinji returned the gesture as best he could, though his natural enthusiasm often caused him to temporarily release his grip long enough to gesture wildly in the direction of the White City. Eventually, he managed to summon a Guild liaison, who quickly arranged transportation to their destination.

Climbing into the vehicle, which levitated just above the surface of the broad avenue, Shinji was filled with all the trivia surrounding the Guild, and he effusively poured forth the knowlege, lest his body explode from trying to contain even the slightest interesting fact. So Tannis was barraged with "the Guild has the second-largest structure in the nation, just behind the capital", which blended into a description of the technology that had enhanced its construction, which further spiralled into its inventors, Kenji and Serph. Then it was how great Serph was, followed in short order by Valkai and the other directors.

Tannis would learn that Serph, despite being still young, was showing the first silvery strands of hair, that the musclebound Valkai had once nearly been killed by a mysterious illness years ago, that Kiros was an adopted Dekker, though his dark black skin and long, twisty dreadlocks gave that away to all but the most clueless. She would hear about the long-standing rivalry between Hiroshi and Serph, and how their unusually pale skin and unique eye color had made them stand out even within their own tribes. As his meanderings turned toward the subject of relationships, though, the young paladin's voice ceased suddenly, and he suddenly developed an interest in the architecture of the capital.

Even for Shinji Machida, there were apparently things that were best left unsaid.

Tannis listened with amused fasination. "So all the the Guild directors are utter paragons of perfection, without flaw despite any rivalaries, and the Guild is the best thing since the invention of the wheel? " She stated,not unkindly, and then smiled to herself at where he fell silent.

"And where does the most promising, enthusiastic, and knowledgeable young Shinji fit into all this apex of perfection?" Tannis asked softly as she wondered to herslef has she ever been that young and enamored. She knew that her more recent hurts had changed her, left her with her own wells of pain that silenced a part of herself.

Nari drifted in the otherworld, looking for any fellow travelers, but found nothing more than the traces left by a momentary rift, now closed. She guessed that was where the dream imagery had come from. Some one had inadverntantly traveled where they should have not have.

But there were no alarms sent from the net she had cast forth earlier, not yet.

Refreshed Nari exited the lonely peace of the otherworld and stretched, though her body never cramped after meditation.

"So all the the Guild directors are utter paragons of perfection, without flaw despite any rivalaries, and the Guild is the best thing since the invention of the wheel? "

The young man silently regretted his loquacity. His mind whirred at superluminal speed as he dissected the foreign woman's comments and her tone. She's just trying to be cute. Still, he hesitated to respond in kind - he had been trained directly by Serph, not that it had ultimately led him where he had wanted. There was security behind the aegis of the then-Director that had evaporated when the umbilicus was neatly severed with a promotion. Shinji decided that a bland statement might help him re-establish mental equilibrium.

"Not all of them." Let her deduce from that what she would, so long as it might buy him a few seconds. The Guild was his life, and the diplomat would follow its dictates fully, even in the face of such beauty. Not to say that there was no leeway in those dictates. The impish grin began to return. "For example, me. I'm far too inexperienced to do this job all that well."

"For example, me. I'm far too inexperienced to do this job all that well."

Tannis gave him a compassionate look, and spoke seriously without losing her light tone. "I sincerely doubt that Shinji." Then her voice became warmer, and gentler with sincereity and apology. "You, I feel, do an excellent job, and your loyality is admirable. And I am wrong to tease you about your fellow Paladin's imperfections. I'll leave off of that now, and I promise not to ask you about your hopes and dreams until we know one another better."

She smiled at him and turned to a safer subject. "But what is your every day life like? And how did the Paladin's Guild come about? I really haven't seen similar institutions in other nations."

"You, I feel, do an excellent job, and your loyality is admirable. And I am wrong to tease you about your fellow Paladin's imperfections. I'll leave off of that now, and I promise not to ask you about your hopes and dreams until we know one another better."

Relief. At least this wasn't going to become a Senatorial interrogation. Gods knew how Shinji felt about *those*.

"But what is your every day life like? And how did the Paladin's Guild come about? I really haven't seen similar institutions in other nations."

The vehicle gently lifted from the ground as it moved toward the waters separating the Kriovalian capital from the Guild city. "When new cities were formed, tribes were usually given leave to make their own security forces, so long as the king or queen could call on them when needed. About three hundred years ago, the Andros tribe founded a city to the southwest, called Andretara. The name is actually translated 'Andros Fate', and at the city center a monastery was constructed for the training of the city guard." He paused, trying to remember the sequence of events that had followed.

"The Guild didn't actually become a 'guild' until about a hundred fifty years ago, and the term 'paladin' is a Western import from about the same period. Still, the Andros tribe pretty much ran the Guild, until recently. Many felt that the organization needed to be updated to run effectively in the modern Republic." Shinji shrugged. "A bit on the less-than-exciting side, I guess, but that's about it. More interesting, I would suppose, is what the Guild is becoming."

"That is good. If I am to leave, I can use my magic to enact the possibility that myself and the ship are back in my home. But the nature of my magic is such that I have to be able to name fully both the place of origin and the destination to do so. So I'm going to need to know exactly where we are, wherever you take me so that I can leave."

"Hmph. I am hardly at liberty to give you these coordinates, if what you have said is true." His brow furrowed, but his tone indicated anger had given way to minor annoyance. "I can take you somewhere a bit more publicly accessible, if that would suffice, and you can find your way back from there." He paused, eyeing the foreigner carefully. "My name is Hiroshi, of the Andros tribe, who own this land. Come with me." He extended a hand, though whether out of chivalry or suspicion would have been unclear to all but Hiroshi's closest comrades.

"That is satisfactory, thank you." Garu hoped, as she held the hand of the man named Hiroshi, that her magic would work wherever he was taking her. As she walked along beside him, she tried not to look around at anything that members of the Andros tribe would not want her to lay her eyes upon. But she kept her magical senses processing her environment, just in case a threat arose.

Tannia didn't really understand tribal notions, so she let that slide. To her life was far more about unity that seperatness but the individual was what was Divine.

A bit on the less-than-exciting side, I guess, but that's about it. More interesting, I would suppose, is what the Guild is becoming."


She smiled broadly at that. It seemed she'd found someting he really felt strongly about. "And what is that Shinji? She made herself comfortable as the vehicle sped along. She would see the sights later. For now her attention was firmly fixed on her companion.