NationStates Jolt Archive

OOC: Okay so I'm going to offer a little background on DUS as a nation. Then I'll post the introduction. Itineraries will be handed out after all of the delegates arrived.

The Dominion of Unseelie Sidhe is a new nation that has just been founded by the current King of the Unseelie Court, King Valin. This is the first time that a Sithen has created itself on an uninhabited piece of land. It is the hope of the people of DUS that they can run their nation without grave interruptions from outside parties. They would like to live harmoniously with the other nation of Fatal Terrain. Though the Unseelie would like to run DUS without disruption, they have no problem participating in international trade and the like.

Placement: http://www.atddm.com/prcnewmap.jpg
The Sithen runs under the whole of the nation. The main entrance to the Sithen is at the base of the foot hills, near the edge of the River. That is also where the Conference will be taking place.

Populous: The only legal inhabitants of the nation are Unseelie fey. This includes brownies, pixies, Driads, Sidhe, Fairies, Leprechauns, Sprits, Nymphs, and whatever other types I can think of. Inside the Sithen it's mostly Sidhe, with a few brownies and Fairies floating around. All the other fey live all over the country. There are also Sidhe, like Edan, who will move to other places outside the Sithen. (Volcanoes make good Sidhe forges)

Relation to Nature: The populous of the Dominion of Unseelie Sidhe retain a close relation to nature. While they would like to develop technologically outside of the Sithen, they do not want to greatly disrupt the flow of nature.

Sithen Architecture= The Sithen changes and adapts as the Sidhe or the Sithen itself pleases. One door might not always lead you to the same spot, so it's best not to wander off alone. The entrance to the Sithen is hidden to non-fey eyes. This means Elves can see the entrance. Humans are unaware of it. However, most other creatures can sense the entrance even if they can't see it. There are farms, fields, pubs, rooms, torture chambers, The Throne room. Anything that is required can be found in the Sithen. If the Sithen wants you to have it. Saying you wish to see how you look could result in mirror appearing. When the Sithen changes for you remember to compliment it's work. It is a living magical creature.

Magic and Technology Technology does not work within the Sithen. It's useless, don't try. Outside of the Sithen it works just fine. So cameras, jets, boats, etc should be fine. The magic of the Sithen should not affect the surrounding areas. However, the magic of fey living outside of the Sithen may be detectable at some points. This should not affect others.

Magic runs wild, though most are in control of it. There is no need to fear being hurt by it. Unless we want to hurt you.

Sidhe History: Sidhe are the name for the purest and most powerful fey. Higher elves are a kind of Sidhe. There are many kinds of sidhe. Leenan Sidhe seduce men to make them their slaves, if the men don't call for the Leenan Sidhe than she would become his slave. Among both the Seelie and Unseelie courts lesser fey and halflings tend to be looked down on. There are many still who look down on anything below a pure Sidhe. This can causes many problems. However, those who truly look down on non-Sidhe NEVER leave the Sithen.

Seelie Sidhe define themselves as "good and pure". They can be immensely cruel, and violent though. They would rather spend time with humans than the Unseelie. Seelie will never accept Unseelie borns into their court. The Unseelie are violent, dark, and sometimes malicious. However, they never claim to be good, unlike the Golden Court. Also, they are less likely to reject other Sidhe. Even if they are halflings or from the other court.

The oldest and most powerful Sidhe are those that humans once thought to be Celtic and even Norse Gods. When Christianity came, many of these Gods fell. Brigit was adopted into Christianity as a saint. Luagh turned into the first Leprauchaun. Many of the older ones claim neither court as their home.

Many humans become enthralled when they enter the Sithen. They usually need to have their eyes, hearts, and minds cleared of corruption before they can leave the entrance. However, some people (human or otherwise) become "fey struck". They are drawn in by the majesty of the Sidhe and usually can't function around them. This is very dangerous for humans. Humans who become "Fey Struck" are usually removed from the Sidhe. Though many will take advantage of this.

There is also a tendency toward physical affection among the Unseelie. Sometimes tender, other times harsh. They hug and touch a lot. It eases the mind.

I think that's enough information for the time being. If you need more just ask. This information is a collection of actual myth on Sidhe, and some ideas I nicked from Merry Gentry.

Hopes for the Conference: There are many things that the Unseelie are hoping to achieve from this conference. Primarily, it is the hope of the people and government of the DUS to learn about the cultures of the surrounding nations. They would also like to learn about technological advancements that could help develop the nation outside of the Sithen. The Unseelie would also like to offer their help to the peoples of Fatal Terrain. They can supply their neighbors with produce, grains, and meats that are organic and not gentically altered. These products are available year round due to the internal atmospheres of the Sithen in the gardens. There are also wooden and metal goods that the artisans of the Unseelie Court can make. This includes art, furniture, jewelry, and many other items.

You can still show up if you want. Just please arrive before 3am EST on October 5th. Thank you.

Edan of Fire and Blood, daughter of Brigit (http://inanna.virtualave.net/brigit.html) and Goibhniu (http://www.godchecker.com/pantheon/celtic-mythology.php?deity=GOIBHNIU) leaned back in her chair. There were about a dozen other sitting, standing, or pacing around the lovely tent that would serve as the registration post for the upcoming conference. Planning the conference had taken months, but there had still been many last minute issues that had kept many of the facilitator up quite late the night before.

Edan stifled a yawn with one leather gloved hand over her mouth. 10 am, the thought swirled in Edan's mind. Who starts a conference at 10:00 in the morning? She hadn't gotten to sleep until five that morning, and she'd been woken at eight to begin to wait for the delegates. She scanned the group for the umpteenth time to confirm that those who didn't look besides themselves with nerves, seemed to be as tired as she felt. I hope we can pull this off. It would be a poor show for them all to fall asleep before the delegates even arrived.

Edan's long crimson hair had been pulled into a braid down her back. It was hanging over the back of her chair, tied of with a blue ribbon. She closed her eyes and leaned back. The sun outside felt so good. She couldn't understand those who refused to exit the Sithen. The internal sun was nowhere nears as warm and comforting as the real one. Edan soon became aware of a gentle tug on her braid. She cracked open an eye to see Sela unraveling her braid methodically.

She smiled at the former Seelie. He was quite lovely. His hair and skin a gently crystal and gold. An ivory mask covered half his face, blocking the view. It was a pity. Sela was lovelier than many of the female Sidhe under that mask. It was rumored that he was kicked out of the Seelie court for being lovelier than the queen. Or trying to seduce her. The gentle combing of his finger soothed Edan greatly.

"What are you doing?" She asked with a lazy smile.

"I'm supposed to entertain the guests before the tours begin," explained Sela. He nodded to a flute sitting on the table.

Edan laughed softly. "I mean, why are you playing with my hair? It would be quite unseemly for the delegate to show up with you doing that."

Sela smiled dazingly. "Not to worry. Your plait was a bit messy, so I'm simply braiding for you again."

Edan murmured in the affirmative. It was still only half past. They had plenty of time.

As Sela was playing with Edan's hair, another member of the Royal Guard appeared. Gavin was a nervous young man. He was only 50 years old, which made him the youngest guard at the moment. Edan, at 300, was the closest guard to his age. There were a few others born between them, but they did not serve. Gavin had a tendency to defer to Edan, which she didn't really like. There were many other, more experience, guards helping with the conference. Can't he question them?

"Where is Aiden?!" The young man demanded the question in an all together much too abrupt way.

Edan sighed. "He's inside dealing with..."

"He should be dealing with this!" Gavin cried out in desperation. The young man had never met nonfey before, and he was obviously scared. However, he was being a bit rude.

"Gavin." Edan said his name harshly. The youth looked at her with wide eyes. "Aiden is our minister of Foreign Affairs. He has many things that he needs to organize for this conference. He cannot be everywhere at once. I am sure he will be along before registration ends. Now go."

Gavin shifted uncomfortably then ran off toward the group of Sidhe who were pacing.

Edan felt a harder tug on her hair, before Sela announced that he was finished. She thanked him and he sat at her feet practicing his flute.

Brawyn came over at the moment with a list.

"What's he doing?" She looked from Sela to Edan with a perplexed stare.

"Practicing his flute," replied Edan as Sela played a lovely melody. "He the entertainment for the opening."

Brawyn nodded smoothly. Her tri-colored green eyes scanning the grounds and he registration table.

"Nervous," ventured Edan as she stood up to stretch.

"We have seven nations confirmed, one unable to attend due to civil conflicts, one maybe, and quite a few non-responses."

"Maybe?" Edan arched a brow.

"The Argonians wanted to send representatives, but they were unsure if they would be able to so."

Edan shook her head. "That's is a pity. Argonia is one of our closest neighbors."

Brawyn nodded gravely. "Yes, but I'm more concerned about those who didn't RSVP showing up. We've already prepared the registration packages, the tour groups, the accommodations..."

"The planning committee made registration package for all the nations. We have extra goodies. The tour groups can easily be rearranged. We'd only be stuck on accommodations."

"They could always stay at your house," suggested one of the other guards.

"No they cannot," declared Edan as her watch struck ten.

A small blot of shadow, the barest bit of shade, and shadow grows for a moment darker, deeper and through it she drew near...

Just under six feet in soft soled boots of butter soft ebon suede the Lady of Cats Keep stood. On either side of her high, wide brow, auburn tresses - a mix of brilliant gold, rich copper and gleaming russet bronze - had been plaited with beads of polished lapis lazuli to frame her countenance. But most of her thick mane flowed loose as it tumbled in deep waves almost to her waist. The silken cascade softened her face. It was a strong face, unlined but mature and home to striking, wide set cinnamon gold eyes that saw much deeper than mere surface, with a level almost severe gaze.

The Lady looked human, for the moment, but there was a subtle difference about her that most could sense to one degree or another. To those with deeper sight, her forms shifted constantly, but most often settling into something feline, but unseen only sensed... Pride and power robed about her with an almost tangible physicality - for the Lady had ruled her people and well, for nearly thirteen thousand years. She had long left 'human' behind.

Shalamar stepped from the patch of shadow she had utilized in her Step. It was no effort for her to move between shadows, even from Realm to Realm, much less through simple earthly distances.

An unwind blew about her, gentle but lifting her hair and ruffling the dark ivory cape that lay across her shoulders.

A full sleeved, full collared blouse of fine silk lay beneath a doublet of midnight French velvet that glittered here and there with tiny jet beads. Pants that matched the doublet in hue and fabric tucked into her thigh boots, themselves clasped about with gold buckles. A broad sash of coppery silk wrapped a narrow waist and a sword rose visible over one shoulder. At her throat lay a Starstone, a Psi Matrix, fully the the width of a palm, no silk warding it...

She stood, looking about her with that keen gaze for a long moment, taking in the lands, the Sidhe, and things unseen but still present and discernable. Then she strode with a lithe, powerful stride toward the registration pavilion.

http://www.atddm.com/Shal1a.jpg

"Maddi, we're lost"

"No we're not. I know exactly where we are...but I do have to admit that where we are isn't where we're supposed to be." Madrigal Orel Shimada replied with mock hauteur. "We'll find it sooner or later, or you could fire up the Tom - Tom and down load some updated position maps, Tali"

Her oldest friend, Talishimma Aurora A'lurial Roth - they had grown up almost as sisters –shuddered, her great golden wings rustling softly. "If I do, it will just go on the fritz, like last time. You know machines don't like me."

Madrigal, daughter of Robyn and Kazuma Shimasa, two of Tanaara's famous Four Horsemen, laughed and shook her head. "Then don't complain that we aren't there yet. And besides it's only some machines. You're just sulking 'cause I won the coin toss." She grinned at her the memory of Tali's disappointment over that.

The Celestial had felt, due to her natural ability to fly, that she should pilot. Madrigal had disagreed and insisted on a coin toss, and won. Family luck she joked. Talisman, as most called her - Celestials seldom gave their names to non-family members, or friends known since very young, like Madrigal - pouted for nearly an hour before her naturally sunny, but ever so slightly cynical, disposition had reasserted itself.

"You get to pilot next trip we take; besides it would have taken too long to get you certified in this monster." Maddie added sensibly. The vehicle was a hybrid antigrav that was also a mobile palace, designed specifically for providing an Embassy on the move, and despite all it's technological innovations, it was taking all most all of Maddi's concentration to handle. And she'd had the special course in flying the jumbo rig.

"Wait... I think that’s the place." Tali leaned forward and pointed out the windshield. "That looks like none other than Lady Shalamar, and there is no other reason for a sprawling pavilion to be in the middle of nowhere.”

"I think your right. Good thing I was keeping us low and slow at tree top level. This doesn't correlate to our map references at all. Good catch, oh eagle-eyed one." Madrigal said appreciatively as she gently lost altitude and set the immense vehicle down with scarcely a flutter. But she sighed in relief once she turned the motor off.

This was her first assignment as an accredited diplomat for her nation and she had to admit to butterflies in her stomach, with wings bigger than her friends! Now to take a moment to get presentable and then it was show time. She was glad she had Talisman with her, acting as aide cum bodyguard.

Edan rose to her feet as Lady Shalamar arrived. She took her post next to Brawyn beneath the canopy of the registration tent. Brawyn smiled respectully, as Edan offered a small bow.

"Good Day Lady Shalamar. We were unaware that you were personally attending our little get together."

Brawyn deftly sorted through the dossiers that held the conference schedule, sublemental activities for the evening, the list of guards who were acting as guides, the titles of various minister, and other important information. She tucked a loose wisp of black hair behind her ear. She pulled out the folder and held it out.

"We are quite pleased you came," added Edan. "You are our first guest to arrive, actually."

The guards who were pacing seemed to do so more aggressively. Brawyn sighed. Edan shook her head.

"Everyone is dealing with their excitement differently," murmured another guard who was rearranging chairs at a banquet table that was sitting next to the tent.

Brawyn and Edan each offered another nervous smile. Where was everyone?

Celestial Maiden Starship
High orbit above Earth

Robin Cuellar stood in what was commonly referred to as the viewing room. A simply outfitted room with a large window that allowed the occupants to see with their own eyes whatever may be outside the Maiden. Robin had been somewhat uncomfortable about 'beaming' into space but she had been assured it was safe and it would be the fastest way for her to reach Unseelie Sidhe. It was simply a matter of beaming up, shifting orbit slightly to lock on to the the appropriate location and beaming down once again.

Standing at approximately five feet eight inches, Robin began to pace as she gazed upon the planet before her. Whilst she had proven herself on many occasions this would be Robin's first assignment since she was promoted to First Diplomat and she couldn't help but be somewhat nervous. Being the First held a higher standard of expectation from both her government and likely that of Unseelie Sidhe. Taking deep breaths, Robin paused as the comm activated.

"Miss Cuellar, we have a lock on the location. Ready to transport at your word."

Nodding to herself, Robin brushed back the curly dark red hair that hung to her shoulders and ran her hands down her tailored suit coat. She'd been in a presentable appearance since before arriving on the Maiden but that hadn't stopped her from checking every detail at least twice.

"Alright, I'm ready."

Closing her eyes, Robin exhaled one last time before her very core began to vibrate, heat travelling all over her body until she could feel nothing at all. Even with her eyes closed she felt as if she were surrounded by the brightest light she'd ever seen, heat battering away on her skin until she would melt. Abruptly it was all over and Robin felt herself on solid land once again, cool air surrounding her and the various odours of a forest reaching her nostrils.

Taking in a deep breath and opening her eyes, Robin allowed a moment to adjust to the light before making her move towards the registration pavilion. The beaming certainly had been accurate as she was less than fifty or so metres away from the pavilion, easily in sight of her hosts.

When Robin appeared the pacing guards stopped. They stared at her for a moment. She had appeared in a beam of light. They didn't know anything about technology, but beams of light to the Unseelie was usually a bad thing. It represented the Golden Throng. There were a few murmurs that arose from the some of the guards. Most seemed disinterested in the mode of the diplomats arrival, they were just happy she was there.

Brawyn excused herself politely from Lady Shalamar, leaving Edan to answer any questions. She focused her attention to Robin.

"First Diplomat Cuellar," she beamed when Robin was within earshot. "We're quite happy to see you've made it to our gathering safely."

With as much grace and precision as before, Brawyn pulled out the dossier for the Assington Diplomat.

"I hope your journey was not too unpleasant. If you have any questions please address them to any of guards." Brawyn extended her hand in a sweeping motin at the various guards. Some wore armor, some wore leather, there were a few in suits or just jeans. The group was split evenly between males and females. With the exception of Sela, who was entertainment.

He sat next to the tent playing sensually pleaing melodies. He smiled dazingly at the new arrival, nodding, before playing a wind song.

It was a beautiful day in most of the region, save for a few scattered thunderstorms brewing over the mountains of Tarlachia, however, they had no bearing on the path taken by the wind that swept through Turath, slowly at first before it curled and weaved its way swiftly over the lands at a speed that would have officially designated the wind to be washoff from a stock car race, or perhaps equivalent to the turbulent and violent winds of powerful devastating tornadoes; with the single most glaring fact contrasting against either examples: This wind moved of its own accord, despite the true winds moving in alternate directions.

Through the varying lands, it traveled swiftly, confusing more than a few people in its passing, but it never returned to harass them again. Those that thought it odd, soon forgot about it and resumed their normal activities. Atmospheric scientists would possibly catch evidence of the wind, but they would never figure out what it was coming from, or why it was there briefly passing them by.

At last, it fluttered through the meadows and forests of Unseelie Sidhe, swirling around the registration pavilion upon its arrival before swirling in a very tight circle of downward movement and solidified the auburn hair elven woman with piercing emerald eyes. Nothing escaped her attention, and she caught the gasps of surprise over the brief rogue wind.

A gentle hand swept across the surface of Lady Shalamar's upper arm and turned her attention to the elven woman (http://www.atddm.com/dress1a.JPG) standing next to her, dressed in a titanium white halter-top dress with a plunging neckline that bound together with a single strand of fabric beneath the lower curves of her bosom and pulled the two upper halves of her dress together, only to leave a tasteful triangle of skin shown beneath the connecting piece that gave a peek at her toned abdomen. It hugged her slender yet proportional curves, then swept loosely around her from her hips down to her feet.

The silent greeting with her old friend was brief, words not necessary between the two of them. She turned her attention now to Edan, a warm smile on her face as she met the younger elven female in her native language. "'Quel re. Amin Aeris Greenwood a' Tarlachia." She gave a customary nod of her head in respect to the younger female.

Edan offered a small bow to Aeris. She smiled as she greeted her.

"Saesa omentien lle, Aeris Greenwood a' Tarlachia. Lle maa quel." She smiled again, noting that a few were moving closer to observe the exchange. She riffled through the registration packages and handed Aeris hers. She then addressed her in English.

"We are so very happy you could make it. Aidan was hoping greatly that both you and Lady Shalamar would be arriving yourselves. He will be quite pleased to find you are here. As we all are," she offered a half smile as her eyes flashed to the group standing behind the elven woman. "Empress."

With that the nine of the other guards took knee. "Aaye, Aeris Greenwood a' Tarlachia."

Edan chuckled a bit at the display. She, Brawyn, and Sela each bowed smoothly again murumuring, "Aaye, Aeris Greenwood a' Tarlachia."

It was only young Gavin that stood, stunned and unsure at the reaction of the other guards. None of the Unseelie noticed, though.

It took but a moment to shut the monster moving palace down and for us to do a quick freshen up - and to wake up Abagail.

Abagail had come back from her honey moon completely exhausted - and not wanting to leave her husband. But agreeing to do one last diplomatic representation for Timzee had been the price she'd had to pay for getting her father and the TMZ Operating Council to accept her resignation of her commission. The TMX lost a fine young Colonel, that they’d destined for greater things and Travis had gained a lovely wife.

She woke with a yawn and a stretch, then hurried to make sure her appearance did Timzee proud. Her golden brown hair gleamed in the sun and her soft hazel eyes looked about her in a lively fashion as she followed Maddie and Tali out of the vehicle.

“Look Empress Aeris has arrived as well” She nodded to the regal Elvin lady standing next to Shalamar.

The two Tanaarans nodded as the trio set off side by side, looking about observantly as they moved towards those gathered just outside the pavilion. They were discretely armed as all Tanaaran tended to be – especially when away from home.- and well dressed though nothing as elaborate as Lady Shalamar or as eye catching as Empress Aeris.

Maddy was in a ladies variation of Kamishimo in spring hues, which suited her heritage and her looks. Her father had emigrated from Japan just before the attempted coup those many years ago. Tali wore a much more revealing outfit, but its minimalist coverage bothered her little. She could fight or fly in it and that was what mattered most to her. That it looked good on her was but icing on the cake. Abagail was in Timzees ‘relaxed officers outfit’- neatly pressed dark indigo jeans, a custom polo in the same hue with the TMZ flag on one shoulder and rank insignia embroidered on the collar tabs.

Madrigal had some of the mental donas, psionic gifts, but it was Talisman that drew the eyes, not only with her metallic gold feathered wings but the fact - which was rather unmaskable - that she had the full spectrum of Celestial Gifts, and in abundance

Tiergan had been standing with a few of the female guards. He'd watched as Brawyn and Edan had handled Shalamar. They were quite a good team. He hadn't expected the younger woman to have such skill. Then again, she existed outside of Unseelie culture for the most part. He'd visited her home on the mountain. It was a lovely place, and quite secluded. There was a doorway to her forge from there. She never entered the Sithen from the main door anymore. Probably think she's above it.

He shook away the arrant thought. There was no reason to begrudge the girl her birth, or her friendship with Aiden. Tiergan was well aware that was one of the few reasons that Edan had been willing to help. There were other reasons, he was sure, but that was one of the main. When Aeris arrived he'd been unsure who she was until Edan spoke her title. He'd quickly taken knee. It was his own fault for not learning more of the outside world. It had been 400 years since he'd last stepped outside the Sithen. He could have at least asked for news of the world beyond. It was foolish of him not to recognize the Tarlachian Empress.

He turned his head when her heard the sounds of something landing. He looked up and saw something he'd never seen before. A few other heads turned, and most looked confused. That Gavin boy looked petrified. Shouldn't have had him do this job. Brawyn and Edan seemed to be wrapped up in Lady Shalamar and Aeris. Everyone slowly got to their feet. No one moved towards the women who were walking forward. It was a little ridiculous.

Tiergan sighed. He took a step toward them.

"Welcome to the Dominion of Unseelie Sidhe. I am Tiergan of the River. I'm unfortunately not as knowledgeable about out guests as Edan and Brawyn are, but they are a bit tied up. If you'd state your nations, I can get you your schedules."

Behind the registration table, Edan and Brawyn shared a secret look. This could be a long registration period.

"First Diplomat Cuellar, we're quite happy to see you've made it to our gathering safely. I hope your journey was not too unpleasant. If you have any questions please address them to any of guards."

Robin returned a warm smile of her own, although she had noticed some of the others at the gathering gaping at her arrival. She could have arrived by more mundane means but her superiors had insisted it would was much quicker and would certainly leave an impression upon a people that were not as technologically advanced. Robin agreed but she also thought it may be somewhat unnerving and she did want to avoid offending her hosts.

"I'm glad to be here myself. My journey was quite prompt, although I'm still not quite used to being beamed around everywhere and I do apologise if I startled anyone."

Robin took a moment to gaze around the pavilion as she took her dossier, noting the presence of Aeris Greenwood, Lady Shalamar and some others she didn't quite know by name but recognised and would retrieve the necessary information from her black book before approaching them.

"Thank you, I'm looking forward to learning more about your people."

"You extra special sure we ain't gonna fall from the sky, Corporal Mira'ad?" The pilot asked hesitantly. Corporal Dala'ika Mira'ad opened her crimson eyes from her quick nap. She glanced towards the closed hatch that lead up to the cockpit. The young lieutenant and his warrant officer gunner/navigator were nervous. She could feel their anxiety in her mind just as if it were her own as well as hear it the pilot's voice over her headset.

It was an odd, custom headset made to fit her kind. Dala'ika was a vornskrari (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v35/jedierrant/Gold.png), a race of genetically-engineered bipedal caninoids. Her canine skull required a different style of protective ear protection and headset to fit over her pointed ears atop her head. She reached up and moved voice activated mic close her muzzle.

"Sir, the Counselor Bevu directed me on how to properly bless an aircraft and had me perform the ritual." The Counselor had barely hid her glee as she had Dala'ika crawling around the airframe requesting the mother goddess Mira's protection.

"You sure ya got the right one? I mean the Swallow's kinda an odd bird." The copilot offered up timidly. The Swallow (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v35/jedierrant/SwallowonLHD.jpg)was an ungainly bird. Some who had seen the American Osprey VTOL craft nicknamed the Swallow the 'Jet-sprey' because of its turbojet-powered vertical takeoff and landing capabilities. However while the Osprey had two engine nacelles that rotated to fulfill VTOL roles, the most of Swallow's wing surface rotated along with the engines. It was the first domestically designed aircraft Catawaba had concieved and with Tanaara's help, begun producing. It was showing off to detail one of the few operational Swallows to ferry around diplomats, but the Miraade wanted to impress.

Dala'ika sighed. "Chief dieties are bit more understanding than chief warrant officer. A CWO might want the exact, specific ritual spelled out and intended for a VTOL craft as compared to that of a plane or a helo."

A soft, yet firm woman's voice came off the intercom. "While your average omniscient diety can get the gist of it and understand our intentions gentlemen."

"Sorry for disturbing you, Counselor." The pilot apologized.

Dala'ika looked over at the woman sitting beside her. Couselor Lolimba Bevu was in her mid-thirties, her dark skin still looking youthful. However behind her eyes was a wealth of age and experience, but now there was also a twinkle in those old dark eyes. A smile crossed her bright youthful lips. "No, no, lieutenant, you did not disturb me. I expect we are almost there?"

She turned her head slightly away from Dala'ika to the giant of a man setting next to her. He had a close family resemblance to Lolimba. But while some might see Lolimba as dignified and noble with her strong facial bones and hair pulled up into a slightly severe braided top knot, the man next to her, her nephew Goran Bevu, was an edifice roughly hewn from the voclanic rocks of Catawaba. He brow was pronounced and shadowed his eyes and his skin was darker by shades than his aunt's. He was broad shouldered and resolute. Lolimba's smile grew when she faced her nephew. "Are we almost there, ad'ika?"

Goran nodded. He'd been the only one of the three passengers in the Swallow to not doze off. He'd been keeping track of the trip and thinking of the event ahead of them. "We have descended from cruising altitude, ge'buir."

"Ma'am, we're going to be setting down a good distance from the registration pavillion, just like you asked, in probably....five minutes." The copilot advised.

Lolimba nodded and settled down to rest for a little longer. Dala'ika and Goran exchanged a glanced over the counselor's resting form. The woman had, in fact, been...was...is...a bit older than her thirties. She had been quite elderly, that is until the personal physician and advisor to then Queen Mercedez Hexx of Tanaara, Daveed Roth, had visited Catawaba. Out of an extradorinary gift of kindness, Roth had used his miraculous gifts to turn back Lolimba's biological clock, regressing her body's age to her thirties. While she looked magnificently, those close to her worried that she was still getting used to the change mentally and physically. Goran, Lolimba's aide, and Dala'ika, her assistant, took it upon themselves to watch over her as much as the irrascible old/young woman would allow.

"Hold on, folks. We're going to be setting down." The pilot warned as the hydraulic motors sounded noising around them as the wings began to rotate.

A respectful distance from the pavilion, the Swallow swooped down towards the ground. With the wings nearing the vertical, the pilot flaired the craft, and the engines whine loudly as the Swallow came to a hovering halt. The nose dipped back down, and the craft hovered for a moment longer before rotating the nose away from the pavilion and lowering itself to the ground. The engines whine and thrummed down as the pilots ran through the shut down checklist.

After a few minutes and when the engines' fans were lazily spinning to a stop, the rear cargo door lowered slowly. Three people stood in the opening and began walking towards the pavilion. In the lead was the Counselors for Foriegn Affairs Lolimba Bevu. Her skirt woven in a swirling Bevu allit, or clan, pattern of blues and greens swished over her strong runner's legs. Her blue top was decorated with small shells sown in the same swirling patterns on her skirt. She held a traditional Taung fishing spear called a kakivak (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v35/jedierrant/spear.jpg)with its odd trident of one central spike and two inwardly curving tines (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v35/jedierrant/spearfishhead.jpg) and used it as a walking stick.

Flanking Lolimba to her right was Goran wearinga short kilt like garment called a kama that was decorated in the same Bevu pattern as his aunt. For a top, he wore a simple button-up khaki shirt. Flanking Lolimba to her left was Dala'ika, she wore a skirt like Lolimba's but her was decorated in the allit pattern of the Mira'ad allit which incorporated the Bevu pattern along with those of all other Taung allits for a seemlessly blended statement about the Mira'ad allit. Errant Mira'ad, the Alpha Miraade of Catawaba, was the Mira'ad allit miraade, its chief. The Alpha Miraade saw all allits as some part of his and paid tribute to them all.

Dala'ika tugged on her top to straigthen it. It too was very much like Lolimba's except for the difference in allit pattern. Dala'ika swept her clawed handpaws over her belt to make sure her top didn't cover over the .357 semi-automatic pistol and the kad, a Taung short sword (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v35/jedierrant/Bolo_ni_Maximino.jpg), on her hips.

She could see the Tanaarans and Timzees at the registration desk up ahead. She knew they'd have their weapons discretely concealed. She knew that Goran would be armed in exactly the same way as she was, and she'd heard whispers that some saw the Catawabans as no better than thugs because they always carried their weapons in the open to intimidate others. That was hardly the truth, alright maybe partially true. Catawabans believed for good or worse, a weapon openly displayed was a show of the wielder's good will. A concealed weapon in their culture was sly act that hinted a dastardly intentions. A openly carried weapon showed that you had nothing to hide and allowed others to take proper reactions to the weapon's presence. Whether that be to arm themselves, speak more courtesly, or know that they ever would be able to back up their words and deeds should a honor be challenged to a duel.

Dala'ika took a deep breath and pushed her worries aside as Lolimba slowed near the registration desk.

Brawyn smiled at Robin. "Did you come here directly or did you have to use relay points?" She tilted her head curiously, her eyes flashing with knowledge.

Edan saw the Catawabans appear, and her hands itched. She wanted to examine their aircraft, and she needed to look at those weapons. She wanted to see every strength and flaw they had. She wanted to examine the craftmanship, and see if they had any art to them. She wanted to play with the damn things.

However, she was busy with the registration table. She tugged on her gloves the way she did before she entered the forge. Of course these were just normal gloves she wore for formal events, and not her forge gloves. She bounced a little in her spot hoping to get a better look at the spear. She tilted her head ever so slightly to get a better view.

It was at that moment that Eilis grabbed the Catawaban dossier and ran it over to the Catawabans. She blocked Edan's view. The red haired sidhe glared at the other woman's back for a moment than returned her attention back to everything else that was going around.

Eilis smiled broadly at the Catawabans.

"Welcome to The Dominions of Unseelie Sidhe. Her is your dossier. It has all the information for the weekend. Do you have any questions?"

Eilis' skin was the color of light flickering through fallen leaves. Her hair was a mixture of browns, reds, oranges, and yellow. It hung loosely down her back. Her eyes were a simply shade of brown. Her dress was a lovely yellow and brown color, and looked to be made of leaves. Her smile was like the autumn sun.

"Did you come here directly or did you have to use relay points?"

"I was beamed from Assington onto a starship in high orbit and after a few minutes beamed down here. I won't pretend to understand exactly how it all works and why something can be done but another is impossible. I've only done it a handful of times and I'm still not particularly comfortable with it."

Robin had always been somewhat reluctant to embrace the technological advances that had emerged within Assington over the last hundred years or so. She was certainly amazed at the ingenuity and innovation of her countrymen but there were some things she just wasn't comfortable with. These days you could visit clinics that specialised in activating and deactivating certain genes in order to alter your characteristics, you could do almost everything save have yourself cloned and she had the feeling that would soon be an impossibility of the past as well.

Considered somewhat old fashioned by her peers, Robin enjoyed nature and the simple pleasures of life. She didn't require a car that could circumnavigate the planet or wish to select all the genetic traits that any of her future children might possess. Despite these attitudes, there were thousands upon thousands that embraced these advances and appeared to not be looking back.

"If you don't mind me asking... I was told that your Sithen disables technologies. Is that an intentional effect an unexpected consequence?"

"If you don't mind me asking... I was told that your Sithen disables technologies. Is that an intentional effect or an unexpected consequence?"

Dala'ika heard the Assingtonian question and turned to look at the red haired woman in the well-tailored suit. The vornskrari snorted and looked back at the Swallow. The third member of the craft's crew, a sergeant who acted as the loadmaster and engineer, was out looking over his 'baby' to ensure the exhaust manifolds hadn't transfigured into planters full of daisies. She sighed. They'd been assured that tech wouldn't cease functioning, but it was futile. The pilots and crew had aviation traditions of gremlins and rumor and legend of fae effect upon man's industry dancing in their heads and churning up concern.

To quiet fears, Lolimba had her bless the Swallow before they left Catawaba for the long flight to the Dominion. Dala'ika had no doubt that she had in fact blessed the Swallow in the traditions of the Taung. She had done the rituals after all, and that's what she'd intended. However, Dala'ika knew that Lolimba had done it to reassure the pilots. If she'd been genuinely concerned that the Swallow might fall from the sky, Lolimba would never have risked it and chosen a different mode of transportation. Dala'ika turned back to the sidhe representative standing before them.

While the female's becoming autumn visage was caught Goran's attention, it was largely wasted on Lolimba. The counselor's dark eyes stared sightlessly forward. Though blind from birth, the counselor smiled as the sidhe approached for she had more senses to make up for the lack of sight. She heard the representative's pleasant, crisp voice and felt about the bean si, if that was the right term Lolimba reflected, the cool, breeze of a comfortable day with a warm sun upon the face. Or at least that was the image she'd felt from people who'd described northern autumns to her. Autumn was quite different, if hardly noticeable in tropical Catawaba.

Lolimba leaned on the kakivak, really more a dramatic prop than something to prop her up. She did however use it like a white blindman's cane on occasion. "Yes, I do. It seems amiss that you know me but I don't know you. What is your name?" She held out her free hand to the seemingly young woman across from her. Goran leaned forward to accept the dossier from the representative and free up her hands for his aunt's greeting.

The Lady of Cats Keep smiled broadly at Edan's comment as she took the folder from the other Sidhe.

"Good Day Lady Shalamar. We were unaware that you were personally attending our little get together."

She chuckled "It's my treat to myself, a little out and about, meet and greet." She turned as Aeris literally blew in and grinned, genuinely glad to see her young friend. "Well look what the wind blew in. And you are looking spectacular this morning."

On the heels of the introductions the Catawabans arrived in their interesting, if endearingly ugly ships and the Lady of Cats Keep's grin went wry as she took in Edan's reaction. She knew the look.

"Itchy Inventors fingers?" Her voice was teasing but gentle. She wasn't mechanically inclined but she got the same look she was sure when she was delving into her own fascinations.


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

Maddie, Tali and Abagail stopped as they were approached by one of the Sidhe - they have been heading over to Shalamar and Aeris, to greet the older women - both of whom the three had known since their birth - some twenty four years for Maddie and Talisman and nearly forty for Abagail.

"Welcome to the Dominion of Unseelie Sidhe. I am Tiergan of the River. I'm unfortunately not as knowledgeable about out guests as Edan and Brawyn are, but they are a bit tied up. If you'd state your nations, I can get you your schedules."

Maddie nodded, her eyes taking on a twinkle as she noted his handsome face and fine figure. Both she and Talisman appreciated good looking men. "Good morning Tiergan of the River. I'm Madrigal Shimada, and this is Talisman. We represent Tanaara." She nodded to the golden winged Celestial then looked over at the officer on her other side "And this is Colonel Abagail Hardcastle of The Militarized Zone."

Abagail was fifteen years senior to the Tanaarans but she wore the age difference lightly, looking to be no older than her late twenties. She took the Sidhe in a little differently however - as to her eyes no one could match her new husband for attractiveness

"If you don't mind me asking... I was told that your Sithen disables technologies. Is that an intentional effect an unexpected consequence?"

Brawyn chuckled. "You know no one's ever asked that. All I can tell you is that it doesn't affect any of the lands outside the Sithen. Just all that resides behinds the doors of the mound."

"Yes, I do. It seems amiss that you know me but I don't know you. What is your name?"
"Forgive me," murmured Eilis reverently. "I am Eilis. I used to be a tree goddess."

"Itchy Inventors fingers?"
Edan blushed slightly. "Guilty as charged, m'lady. It's so very rare that I get to play with anything that isn't my craft. I can make swords that never miss there mark, but I can't make anything flies. I really want a chance to examine it. It looks...." she paused to find the word, "fascinating."

She smiled brightly. "It would be great to get a chance to learn more."

On the ground next to her Sela moved to lean against her leg. He continued to play his flute, beautifully. She played with his hair idly.

"I really love metal," she murmured touching her breast plate.

Edan was dressed oddly. Brawyn wore a simple black dress. Some of the guards wore leather, some armor, some jeans, some suits. Edan mixed it up a bit. She wore a lovely white peasant top with a silver breast plate acting as a bodice. She had on simple black dress pants, and lovely knee high archer boots made of soft leather. Around her neck there was a simple choker with the sign of Brigit hanging from it.

"Good morning Tiergan of the River. I'm Madrigal Shimada, and this is Talisman. We represent Tanaara." She nodded to the golden winged Celestial then looked over at the officer on her other side "And this is Colonel Abagail Hardcastle of The Militarized Zone."
Tiergan's smile brightened a bit as he noticed Madi appreciating in good looks. He winked.

"I'll just go get those for you all."

He ran to the table and searched for the documents. Eventually he found them. As he turned to walk back her heard Sela chuckle from below the table. Edan should keep a better eye on her little golden pet

He shook his head again. He really needed to watch his thoughts. He returned to the three women and presented Madi and Abagail with their Dossier's.

"Here you are, ladies."

The two younger Catawabans were sceptical of Eilis's claim that she used to be a goddess. Both of them didn't doubt the existance of gods, even as corporeal entities at points. They could not, however, comprehend how could stop being a god. Lolimba, on the other hand, took the comment in stride and was unphased by the idea that she was standing before a former goddess.

Shewrapped her offered hand back around her kakivak. "It is unfortunate that Jehovah's followers were little more than zealots during the height of their power. He is a good god, even if some of his followers have at times blown things out of proportion, or so Mira thinks." Mira was the mother goddess to all Taung, the chief diety in their religion. Lolimba was one of her alor, her shamanesses.

She shook her head. "Mira herself wavered at the edge of oblivion herself when Togovian colonizers and missonaries first began disrupting the worship and lifeways of my people. She managed to hold with the support of her believers, and she has played the long game these many years...until now. We owe a great deal to Mira for the country's independence."

Eilis smiled sweetly. She knew that Lolimba could not see it. But she was sure the other woman could feel it.

"I agree with what you say. The saddest thing we all saw was Brigit be reduced to nothing but their saint. Young Edan still feels saddened. She was born long after the switching of hands took place. Foster Mother of the Savior is not Goddess of the Sun."

She sighed softly. "The road to perdition is paved with good intentions."

"You know no one's ever asked that. All I can tell you is that it doesn't affect any of the lands outside the Sithen. Just all that resides behinds the doors of the mound."

Robin nodded in understanding. Considering aircraft and the sort were landing nearby she had suspected that it was only within the Sithen itself that her blackberry would cease to work but it was always best to be sure. Whilst she had been hoping for a somewhat more detailed answer, Robin also understood that every nation had its secrets and she wouldn't pry if the Unseelie weren't quite ready to share.

"Of course. I was just curious about my little toy here," Robin removed the blackberry from her pocket and displayed it to Brawyn. "I've found that many of my fellow countrymen have become quite dependent on such things and are quite lost when the technology fails. I prefer to keep as much information up here as I can."

As Robin spoke she tapped her temple, indicating she preferred to remember all the necessary information for her job rather than depend upon a piece of plastic and microchips. Of course she would use it when need be but she didn't need it like some of her other colleagues.

"I prefer to keep as much information up here as I can."
Brawyn tugged a small notebook out from under the table.

"I prefer using this. Then again, in the past 2 millenia it's hard to remember all my memories from recall alone."

She smile again. "I have hundreds of these little buggers. A few are magically enhanced. But Like a PDA, you never know if they'll hold your information for year or crash and burn after a few weeks."

She smiled.

"I prefer using this. Then again, in the past 2 millenia it's hard to remember all my memories from recall alone."

Robin wasn't phased by Brawyn's claim of age despite it certainly being a foreign concept to most Assingtonians. A lot of time and effort had been put into gathering as much information as possible about Unseelie Sidhe so there wouldn't be too many surprises and if the people of Assington could accept there were vampires wandering around that had been doing so for several centuries then they could believe there were other beings that could live longer.


"I have hundreds of these little buggers. A few are magically enhanced. But Like a PDA, you never know if they'll hold your information for year or crash and burn after a few weeks."

Smiling herself with a little chuckle, Robin couldn't help but shake her head.

"It seems it is hard to find reliable record keeping these days, technological or otherwise. On the topic of age, I am slightly curious as to what your people consider the age of an adult. In Assington we are considered legal adults at eighteen years, which is when we finish our compulsory education. Since your lifespan is so long do you have a longer childhood?"

Despite all the research conducted, little was really known about the relatively new nation to the region and Assington had so far little contact with them. Robin intended to change such and always found it was best to gather some information herself.

"On the topic of age, I am slightly curious as to what your people consider the age of an adult. In Assington we are considered legal adults at eighteen years, which is when we finish our compulsory education. Since your lifespan is so long do you have a longer childhood?"

"Legally," Brawyn put a lot of emphasis on the word. "One is an adult at the age of 20 here. However, many people are treated as if they are children long after they pass that age. Edan is 300 and most still treat her as one would a pre-pubescent. Gavin, our youngest guard, is treated like a toddler dressed up like daddy." She laughed softly. "I really shouldn't laugh, but it's quite funny in some ways."

"So, I suppose the best way to describe legal adulthood in DUS is to compare them to university students. Technically they are mature, adults with responsibilities and goals. Still, it's hard not to watch them carefully to be sure they don't fall and break themselves. Or break something else."

Edan gently smacked Brawyn in the shoulder, without looking at her. Brawyn laughed.

"See three centuries old and still not the least bit mature." This warranted another swat from the redhead.

Lolimba could indeed feel the 'younger woman' smile but then also her quiet anguish over times long ago. Her eyes closed for a moment and a scent rolled though the air on the breeze, the musky smell of a large reptile. Dala'ika's broad black nose quivered as she caught it and looked about before centering on Lolimba. It was about the alor like an aura.


After a few moments, Lolimba leaned foward on her kakivak and grasped the sidhe's wrist lightly and gave a comforting squeeze. "I know we have things to do today. Things you all have so much for us to enjoy, but if we could get time. It would be okay for me to give you a hint to how Mira has kept her godhood and been a Christian saint, putting her on a pedastal to regain some of the ground she lost four hundred years ago."

Lolimba gave a rare smile. "She says that it is not imperative that she keep her plans as close as she has in the past."

"See three centuries old and still not the least bit mature."

Robin nodded in understanding and couldn't help but smile herself. Edan likely found it irritating but Robin knew it was simply a matter of gaining the experience that would change the way one's elders treated them. Even if you were an adult at eighteen in Assington you weren't exactly expected to be the most mature person about, just responsible enough to deal with the consequences of your actions, legal and otherwise.

"I can't say I've ever met anyone that was three centuries old before but I believe Edan is doing a commendable job. I don't believe you'd ever encounter a similar function to this in Assington being hosted by someone viewed as too young and immature."

Speaking light heartedly, Robin realised that Brawyn was likely just stirring her colleague but Edan certainly did deserve credit for her work so far.

"By whose judgment is it said that maturity comes with age?" Aeris spoke as she neared Edan and the Assingtonians. "I myself am over a thousand years, yet my heart remains young as I please."

She turned now to Edan, a hand brushing the girl's chin, "Remain child-like, and yet maturing as you are. It makes you more beautiful, and the memories of long years will be just that much easier to bear." She gave her a burdened smile, "Don't let others dictate what you should or should not do. They've enough troubles of their own without taking on yours. You indeed are serving your guests well today, and that is commendable, given this is your first hosted conference."

She turned her emerald eyes to the earth beneath them and it seemed she were listening to it. She smiled slightly, glancing back up to Edan, "At some point, I'd very much like to speak to your Sithen. It is most intriguing." Not many could actually communicate with the natural world, but there was a higher propensity of elves having that capability. Aeris was one who possessed such a skill.

"She says that it is not imperative that she keep her plans as close as she has in the past."

Eilis shift a bit uneasily. The conference was to be light and joyous, she was unsure how it had shifted to the unpleasant conversation of godheads. She still mourned hers.

"Perhaps during free time this evening."

I don't believe you'd ever encounter a similar function to this in Assington being hosted by someone viewed as too young and immature.

An indignant remark danced on Edan's tongue at that comment. Despied how others may view her within her own nation, Edan still had to grace of many more years than most. More than that, she had been beyond the Sithen, in more ways than one in the past. She only just held it back. Then Aeris was brushing her hand on Edan's chin.

Remain child-like, and yet maturing as you are. It makes you more beautiful, and the memories of long years will be just that much easier to bear.

Edan smiled peacefully at this. The empress of Tarlachia was very soothing. She was so wise and lovely. It truly put Edan at ease. Edan watched as Aeris listened to the earth, looking at the ground. She observed intently.

"At some point, I'd very much like to speak to your Sithen. It is most intriguing."

Edan laughed let out a small titter. "I'm sure the Sithen would appreciate someone who could hear it's side of the conversation. I do believe it gets tired of the orders, and the people misunderstanding its actions."

"I really want a chance to examine it. It looks....fascinating."

"How reactive are you to steel, rion? I can send over one of our Medsuas. If I remember correctly the specifications the steel and iron useage is truly minimal." Lady Shalamar offered in reply to Edans earlier comment as the by play over Edan's maturiy died down.

"I'm sure the Sithen would appreciate someone who could hear it's side of the conversation. I do believe it gets tired of the orders, and the people misunderstanding its actions."

"I'm sure it does." Shalamar agreed with a chuckle.

Colonel Hardcastle asked, looking up from the folder that Tiergan had given her. "Is the Sithen an extra dimensional space? Some legends and tales I have heard speak of entire worlds 'underhill' as it is termed."

Maddie and Tali had been listening interestedly, taking quick glances in the folder, but keeping the majority of their attention on what was going on arround them.

"Is the Sithen an extra dimensional space? Some legends and tales I have heard speak of entire worlds 'underhill' as it is termed."

Tiergan thought about this for a moment. "I'm not sure what you mean by "extra-dimensional", but yes, there are whole worlds within the Sithen. A sun, and Moon, fields, lakes, houses. The center is a city."

He smiled again, doing his best to ignore the show Edan seemed to be putting on.

How reactive are you to steel, iron?
"Steel doesn't bother me, but iron does hurt severely. I would truly appreciate the chance to examine one of your Medusas." She offered a small bow. "It would be an honour."

Eilis shift a bit uneasily. The conference was to be light and joyous, she was unsure how it had shifted to the unpleasant conversation of godheads. She still mourned hers.

"Perhaps during free time this evening."

Dala'ika sensed the fae's discomfort and turned to Lolimba to say something, but she didn't need to. Lolimba felt the very same. She gave a pained smile. "Oh, I am sorry, dear. I see I've made an old woman's error." Her smile grew a little, a bit of humor forced into it. "I still haven't gotten used to being young again. When you're old, you have this desperate feeling that you need to pass on everything as quickly as possible lest some wisdom be lost, and many times you have to do it with no care given to the reciever."

Lolimba let go of the fae's arm and clasped her back around her kakivak. "It can wait much longer, another time, another day, and even from another person. Many alor, like myself and what Dala'ika here will soon be, know of what I speak. Just seek us out and know that it is a message of hope."