NationStates Jolt Archive

I am pleased to announce that Khenala and Sakkra will be conducting a student exchange program, so that both our peoples can learn more of one another and forge even greater relations between our two nations.

Twenty Khenalian students from the University of Khenala at Khenala Prime have been selected to attend the University of Hreer and Professor Lossa, Dean of Student Affairs for the University of Hreer has informed me that twenty Sakkrans have also been selected to attend our universities here.

It is hoped that this exchange can greatly benefit both the Sakkrans, as they prepare to join us with a colony on Titan, and my people as well, as we are greatly interested to learn the culture and history of our great allies.

http://members.aol.com/FumetsuGolf/andrew_ns.jpg
Andrew Seal
Prime Minister
Empire of Khenala

OOC: I tried this, as well. Didn't work. Too mny people wanted to trade. Here's what I suggest. Have either paper and a pen or a computer version, and as people exchange, write down names and countries right as the deal is made. It will save you loads of time.

The students gather at Docking Port 5, with a Monitor class shuttle being readied to transport them to Khenalan space. Their luggage is packed, and their eagerness is apparent. They are all neonates, noted by their lack of fully formed neck spines or dewlaps, and their bright-green scaling.

"Oh this is soooo exciting! You think there'll be any cute males around, Sshaan?"

"I doubt it Hhraal. Remember, they're mostly mammals there. No distractions of males around for you."

"Oh, poo"

The students continue to chatter amongst themselves, until Professor Lossa speaks up.

"Ahem! Now then, remember that this is an exchange program. Not only are you going to Khenala to learn, but you are also acting as impromptu ambassadors of our great Empire. So be on your best, and Hweer! None of your shenanigans! I will be watching for reports of you especially!"

A young male blinks his eyelids in mock surprise. "Who, me? I am nothing but a model student!'

There is a small eruption of giggling from the rear of the group. Lossa waits until it subsides, and continues. "Quite. Anyway, be bright, be alert, and most of all, be receptive. Now I must prepare for the incoming students from Khenala. I bid you good fortune, and good day. May the Emperor's Ancestors watch over you all."

"Ancestors be praised." they all say in unison. As Lossa goes to the lift, and the doors close, the one named Hweer speaks aloud. "I wonder if they serve Paroo on these shuttles?"

As a member of the Triumvirate, we are interested in joining this student exchange program. We are currently polling our institutes of higher learning for interested students... hopefully we can come up with some.

While we may not always agree, it's often a good idea to learn about others.

http://www.weirdozone.0catch.com/projects/nationstates/scolopendra/karel_melicharov.gifDoctor Karel Melicharov
Dean of Philosophy and President
University of Stonozka

<Transmission Type: Private Tightbeam Transmission>
<Sender: Prime Minister Andrew Seal, Empire of Khenala>
<Destination: Dr. Karel Melicharov, University of Stonozka>

Scolopendra is more than welcome to partake in the student exchange.

I can arrange our soon-to-be-leaving transport to stop in Stonozka before departure from Titan, if you'd prefer.

http://members.aol.com/FumetsuGolf/andrew_ns.jpg
Andrew Seal
Prime Minister
Empire of Khenala

That'd work. We've found enough volunteers to fill twenty slots. If this is successful, then we'll expand the program.

http://www.weirdozone.0catch.com/projects/nationstates/scolopendra/karel_melicharov.gifDoctor Karel Melicharov
Dean of Philosophy and President
University of Stonozka

***

Doctor Melicharov has our complete support in this endeavour. I will coordinate with the proper authorities to streamline the process.

http://www.weirdozone.0catch.com/projects/nationstates/scolopendra/al_rijil.gifAdvisor Al Rijil
Science Section (responsible for Education)
Federated Segments of Scolopendra

***

Jon looks over Rijil's shoulder after the last missive is sent. "Al, what's Melicharov talking about? I've been peeking all throughout this and they were positively swamped with requests."

"Well... Melicharov isn't the most open-minded in our halls of higher learning." Rijil leans back into his chair. "My learned guess is that his formation of statements in the negative was a poor attempt to inject his own politics into this."

"What's he doing as president of a liberal university, then?"

"He's an efficient administrator, and as this shows, able to put aside his politics... albeit grudgingly."

"Hmmm..." Hertzfeldt shrugs. "Fair 'nuff."

The shuttle Tortuu finishes its preparations for the trip, and the exchange students load on. The crew performs its pre-flight checks, and checks for clearance. The students sit in their inertia-dampening gel-cushioned chairs and await the launch.

"Attention passengers. In a moment we will launch. Please make certain your restraints are secure and any open containers are sealed."

The PA clicks off, and a moment later the Tortuu launches out of the dock at the Orbital Station, bound for Khenalan space.

At nearly the same time, the Khenalian State Commercial GravShuttle (KSCG) Three Suns lands safely in Stonozka, Scolopendra, and after collecting its student volunteers, immediately departs for Sakkra.

((OOC: Will post something more later, a bit time-constrained at work. :D ))

After some time travelling through the depths of space, rumors, as they usually do among close quarters with young people, began to spread.

"Supposedly," a young, red-haired Khenalian student began. "there is an important Khenalian government figure's daughter on board. She is coming with us to spy on the Sakkrans!"

"Don't be ridiculous," an older under-graduate fired back. "Sakkra is our one of our closest allies. So is Scolopendra. Why would we spy on them? That doesn't make any sense."

"Maybe she's just here to learn like everyone else!"

All eyes in the cabin turned towards the voice, belonging to a lovely young maiden with onyx-black eyes and flowing dark-blonde hair.

The girl said nothing further, merely turning back to her book. The strangest part about it, though no one said anything aloud, was that no one knew who she was.

...though there were whispers...

The shuttle Tortuu winds and maneuvers past the Asteroid Belt, making certain to avoid the Defense Grid. It then slows a notch and steadies itself, flying straight and true to Khenalan space. At this time, the passengers are permitted to walk about.

Hweer reaches into his pack, and pulls out a small flask. "Space travel makes me edgy. Nothing like a little of what the hu-mans call the 'Dutch Courage' to set myself right."

Gouua, a short female 2 seats behind him, raises up.

"Seriously, Hweer. Can you go nowhere without some 'crutch' to get you through the day?"

"No." With that, Hweer downs the flask as the Tortuu proceeds to begin requesting landing instructions from the Khenalan Docking Station.

Orders are passed through one of the Titan Aerospace Control Stations for the Sakkran vessel to land at the Spaceport in Khenala Prime.

------

Meanwhile, the Three Suns also safely navigates through the Asteroid Belt, making a beeline for Earth and Sakkran airspace, requesting similar permissions and instructions for landing.

Greetings Three Suns. This is Sakkran Space Control. We have you on our scopes and have uploaded instructions to the defense grid not to intervene. You may dock at berth 4, where a liaison is waiting to greet you.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Tortuu glides into Khenalan space and jockeys for position to dock at Khenala Prime. It lands and the students disembark from the shuttle, and take a look around.

Greetings Three Suns. This is Sakkran Space Control. We have you on our scopes and have uploaded instructions to the defense grid not to intervene. You may dock at berth 4, where a liaison is waiting to greet you.
Ledum Fawehinmi presses his deep-black face against the windows, watching the scene as the shuttle moves to dock. "Now this is a great chance."

Ioana Mondragon half-opens one of her eyes, black eyelashes going quite well with the sacks under her brown eyes. Stifling a yawn with a freckled white hand, she snickers. "Excited?"

"Of course. Meeting new cultures, learning from Lossa himself. He was on the S-14 expedition... seen a lot more than we probably will, I'm telling you."

"Ya... but..." Despite her best efforts, she yawns broadly. "If only the time lag wasn't so bad..."

"Heh," Ledum grins, broad white teeth gleaming, "you just travel poorly."

Ioana snuggles deeper into her seat and mutters, in Bulgarian, "Damn straight."

***

A smiling boy with dark yellowish skin and epicanthic folds over his eyes leans over the back of his chair, extending a hand to the Khenalan student sitting behind him. "Ken-Arok Bintang, sociology major. Lookin' forward to the trip?" He speaks in slightly accented English, somewhat quicker than common but still clearly understandable.

Khenala Prime Space Port

As the Tortuu lands, they get an impressive view. The Spaceport is located about 15 miles away from Khenala Prime proper, and in the distance as they approach they can see the huge buildings comprising the Khenalian capital.

It can easily be seen that the smallest building in the city is five stories tall. In the center, 5 large structures tower over the City, providing an ominous but impressive look. The five towers are equal height, being about 250 stories tall, arranged in a circle.

Upon landing, they are greeted by a woman of moderate stature, two Khenalian military officers standing to each side of her.

"Welcome to Khenala Prime," she warmly spoke to the students. "I am Jaenna Seal, Minister of Education." For anyone familiar with the Khenalian government, she is easily recognized as the Prime Minister's wife as well. "If you will make your way into the vehicles to my right, we can head to the University and get you settled in."

-----

On Board the Three Suns

The girl looked up from her book, somewhat suprised that someone was speaking to her after her outburst had calmed the Khenalian students (or frightened, depending on one's perspective).

She smiled at him, happy for the diversion. "Yes, quite looking forward to it. I'm also a sociology major, with a minor in Sakkran Studies."

She shook the extended hand. "My name is Rose. The pleasure is mine. You must be from Scolopendra. What part of it are you from?"

-----

Three Suns

"Confirmed, Sakkran Space Control. Docking at specified coordinates."

The Three Suns gracefully lands at the spaceport, sliding into berth 4.

The students rise, stretching lightly, before making their way towards the exit to leave.

On Board the Three Suns

The girl looked up from her book, somewhat suprised that someone was speaking to her after her outburst had calmed the Khenalian students (or frightened, depending on one's perspective).

She smiled at him, happy for the diversion. "Yes, quite looking forward to it. I'm also a sociology major, with a minor in Sakkran Studies."

She shook the extended hand. "My name is Rose. The pleasure is mine. You must be from Scolopendra. What part of it are you from?"
"I'm from Dariq, a suburb of Nuha under Greeting Island. It's an island just west of the zero-meridian that looks like a hand waving." Ken-Arok demonstrates, cupping his left hand, thumb slightly out. I was actually born in an undersea dome here." He points with his right hand at a spot between his thumb and forefinger. "Sure, I'm a Caves of Steel kid, but growing up with a fish-eye's view of Titan's oceans was pretty cool. I'm not officially a marine biologist, but I guess I could pass for one."

"So, other than supporting your major, what brings you on this trip? It'll be great to see how this culture works."

Three Suns

"Confirmed, Sakkran Space Control. Docking at specified coordinates."

The Three Suns gracefully lands at the spaceport, sliding into berth 4.

The students rise, stretching lightly, before making their way towards the exit to leave.
Ledum gently nudges the girl in the seat next to him. "We've landed, Io."

The indicated female snores gently.

"Hey." He nudges again, finally eliciting a half-opened eye.

"Ghh... wha?"

"We've landed. On the bounce."

"Gahhhh..." Leaning forward, Ioana stretches and yawns. "How do you do it, Led? You haven't slept in like thirty-six hours."

Grinning broadly, Ledum produces from his pocket a few green shoots wrapped in paper. Pulling off one of the leaves, he pops it into his mouth and chews on it. "Bay leaves... natural stimulant. Drug of choice for super-panic-study-sessions. Trust me, when we get our rooms, I'm going to crash like Narg."

"And here I was thinking you were some sort of posthuman." Ioana chuckles. "Gimme one o' dems."

The Scolopendran students follow the Khenalans out of the shuttle.

Khenala Prime Spaceport
Some of the students are looking about at the towering buildings like tourists from Nebraska on their first trip to Times Square in NYC. One seems to have taken an interest in Jaenna, and approaches, clawed hand over chest.

"Greetings Ms. Jaenna Seal, on behalf of my father Kaargah of the Hreer Weapon Works. I have heard of you and your husband from my father, and look forward to this exchange. I am Shaal, second of the first clutch."

The other students take a hint, and come introduce themselves to Jaenna, all with hands over their chest.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Liaison

As the Solopendran and Khenalan students disembark from the Three Suns, there is the figure of a light-brown female Sakkran, standing at 7' even, wearing the mantle of Student Affairs Coordinator, which is a brown-grey cloak with a red shoulder pad. She is flanked by two cadets bearing the insignia of Hreer University.

"Greetings, students. I am Sseetaa, from Hreer University. Professor Lossa had to return to the campus in order to oversee construction of a new dormitory. I am to escort you, and answer any questions you may have. And then we will discuss what the academic season will hold for you. We will go planet-side in a few moments, and land at Eeorouh Spaceport."

The Liaison

As the Solopendran and Khenalan students disembark from the Three Suns, there is the figure of a light-brown female Sakkran, standing at 7' even, wearing the mantle of Student Affairs Coordinator, which is a brown-grey cloak with a red shoulder pad. She is flanked by two cadets bearing the insignia of Hreer University.

"Greetings, students. I am Sseetaa, from Hreer University. Professor Lossa had to return to the campus in order to oversee construction of a new dormitory. I am to escort you, and answer any questions you may have. And then we will discuss what the academic season will hold for you. We will go planet-side in a few moments, and land at Eeorouh Spaceport."
The Scolopendran students look up... and up--nineteen of them do, at least. "Oi," Ioana mutters, "the size differential means more in person... they're like Shorty." Feeling particularly dwarfed, the Scolopendrans turn to the very same 'Shorty,' more appropriately known as Law-Student, a 209.6 centimeter (6' 10.5") Kzin-ret, for leadership.

Law-Student blinks. They are tall... when will that growth spurt kick in? Noting that everyone else is looking to her, she takes the initiative, stepping forward then bowing shortly. "I am Law-Student, Kzin-ret-child of M'sha, House of Grr'ogh. These are my peers from the University of Stonozka in Scolopendra. We are honored."

Sseetaa eyes Law-Student with a cock of her head, and then resumes her position. "Well met, Law-Student, child of M'sha of House Grr'ogh. I hope that this will prove fruitful to you and your peers, as it will prove fascinating to us." Seeing the students shifting a little nervously, Sseetaa decides to attempt to calm them.

"Do not be intimidated. We will extend every courtesy possible, and will do what you request to make your stay one of comfort. Come, the shuttle planet-bound awaits." She turns with a flick of her thick tail, and her claws clack on the metallic plating underneath.

The Scolopendran students again look to Law-Student for direction. "Hey... Law-Student..."--they never used her nickname in public--"what now?"

Law-Student looks over his shoulder and chuckles, a soft huffing noise. "We follow them, of course. Do not stand like prey, come!" Motioning with one orange paw, she turns back to follow Sseetaa; the rest follow in a disorderly gaggle, students looking about at the situation around them.

On Board Three Suns

"I'm from Dariq, a suburb of Nuha under Greeting Island. It's an island just west of the zero-meridian that looks like a hand waving." Ken-Arok demonstrates, cupping his left hand, thumb slightly out. I was actually born in an undersea dome here." He points with his right hand at a spot between his thumb and forefinger. "Sure, I'm a Caves of Steel kid, but growing up with a fish-eye's view of Titan's oceans was pretty cool. I'm not officially a marine biologist, but I guess I could pass for one."

"So, other than supporting your major, what brings you on this trip? It'll be great to see how this culture works."

She pondered the question for a moment before answering. "Well, part of it was to get away from my family for a while. They're vastly overprotective and try to shield me from everything. Because this exchange was open to any Khenalian student with sufficient grades, I was eligible and there really wasn't anything he could do as I am of age to make my own decisions. Though sometimes, I don't think he realizes that." She reflects on his earlier statements on his birthplace. "That's very interesting, that you grew up under water. I always like becahes and things, but can't really imagine living my life underwater. Though Khenalians tend to like having a birds eye view of everything, I suppose. Beaches are nice, though. Was living underwater any different than living topside?"

-----

Khenala Prime Spaceport

Some of the students are looking about at the towering buildings like tourists from Nebraska on their first trip to Times Square in NYC. One seems to have taken an interest in Jaenna, and approaches, clawed hand over chest.

"Greetings Ms. Jaenna Seal, on behalf of my father Kaargah of the Hreer Weapon Works. I have heard of you and your husband from my father, and look forward to this exchange. I am Shaal, second of the first clutch."

The other students take a hint, and come introduce themselves to Jaenna, all with hands over their chest.

Wearing a slightly bemused expression at the method of greeting, she follows suit and greets them in like manner.

"It is my pleasure to meet you all. We are honored to have you stay here in our capital and that you have decided to learn more of our ways, our history, and our culture. We have prime accomodations ready for you at the University and we hope they are satisfactory. If there is anything you might need, please do not hesitate to let us know."

The vehicles she gestured to are quite large, each able to hold about four Sakkrans comfortably, even with their larger frame and taller stature. They are lined up in a row, each on a single rail, but it appears to hover slightly off of the rail without actually touching it.

-----

The Liaison

A Khenalian boy who appeared to be in his early twenties raised his hand cautiously. "I have a question. Are there any Jugg matches going on right now?"

The question elicited a slight chuckle out of the remainder of the Khenalian students.

One of the cadets, a bright-green neonate, clears his throat. "If I may, sirrah?"

"Of course."

The cadet puffs his chest, and begins as if he were delivering a national address."The Jugg season lasts for four months out of the calendar year. As of this time, the regional matches are in session as teams jockey for position on the score charts. During the semester break is when the championships will occur. This is because it is a national event, and warrants an educational holiday. Plus, the teams need to rest and recuperate from their injuries for a short time."

Sseetaa nods her head slightly. "Thank you, Cadet. Very well orated." She stops at a docking bay hatch, which has red signaling lights on. Constructor suits are carrying loads into the hatch, and technicians with Resin Beetle escorts are chattering about maintanence schedules on crafts in their berths.

"Ah, they are still performing maintanence on the outbound shuttle. I can field more questions if anyone has them?"
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
At Khenala Prime

As the students climb into the cars, the one named Hweer is heard to exclaim "Magnetic Levitation transports, perhaps? Very cool. I have to ask my uncle to have one designed."

Shaal turns with a baleful glare. "Shush Hweer. At any rate, Sirrah Jaenna, I am wondering what the itinerary is for this exchange?"

(OOC: Oh yeah... duh. Sorry, Khen.)
On Board Three Suns
"Was living underwater any different than living topside?""
Ken-Arok shrugs. "Wouldn't know. Probably more fish."

Liason
"Ah, they are still performing maintanence on the outbound shuttle. I can field more questions if anyone has them?"
"Um, I've one." Cadet Third Class Bondayehr (currently in civvies albeit almost overly rational ones, pants with cargo pockets and a simple T-shirt) raises a fist tenatively at first, then slightly higher. "No offense, but we were only given the most cursory of briefings. Any cultural taboos we should be made aware of, so we don't bump into them in more... um... unstructured environments?"

Cultural taboos? There are very few that I know of. There are some certain ones, however. Never go into the Nest Pits of the Black Swamp unless escorted. Only those about to bear a clutch of eggs, and their Nurses may enter there otherwise."

Sseetaa puts one clawed hand on her chin, as she thinks. "Ah, yes. While it is not strictly enforced, it is customary to refer to one you address by their title first when seeking their attention. After the intial courtesy, you may adopt more casual tones. Also, it is unwise to directly address one of the Order of Rhagg. They are a very ancient religious order, and held with the utmost regard. Even the Emperor heeds their advice. They can be known by the robed hoods covering their eyes, as they have taken a vow of blindness."

"And one other thing. Never, ever grab a Sakkran male by the base of his tail. That is grounds for death, as the genitalia of our males is located there, as opposed to the crotch of most species. But that will be covered in the Biological Anatomy classes."

The airlock door pings green, and slides open. "Ah, the maintanence is complete. Come now, let us board."

On Board Three Suns

Ken-Arok shrugs. "Wouldn't know. Probably more fish."

She laughs a bit at that one. "I guess that's true enough." She noticies the other students filing out. "Well, I guess we should head out with everyone else, lest we get left behind. Wouldn't want to miss our ride." She gives him another slight smile, before making her way off of the ship following the other students.

-----

At Khenala Prime

Shaal turns with a baleful glare. "Shush Hweer. At any rate, Sirrah Jaenna, I am wondering what the itinerary is for this exchange?"

"Well, to start we will be conducting you to the University Dormitories where you can all get settled in, and for the rest of the night you are free to either rest or enjoy the City nightlife.

Tomorrow we will begin your orientation and the first of your classes, of which you are free to select."

With that, she climbs into the front vehicle and they proceed through the City.

-----

The Liaison

Having no neigh seven-foot-tall K'zin to look up to, the Khenalian students look around for their tallest member, all eyes turning to a relatively average looking boy standing at about 6'2".

The boy blinked a bit. "Don't look at me. I left my stilts at home."

This elicited another slight chuckle from the students, as they boarded the craft.

At Khenala Prime...

As a group, save for one, the students decide rest is a better course of action as they all suffer from travel-lag. They retire to their dorms, and prepare for tomorrow.

Except for Hweer. At the mention of 'night life' his head picks up. He decides to see what tha downtown section of Khenala Prime has to offer in the way of fun.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

At the University

The shuttle from the Orbital Shipyard lands at Kastaa Airfield, the only airstrip long enough to handle the shuttle landing. The shuttle comes to a full stop, and the passenger door opens. The belly cargo door also opens, and Constructor Suits unload the cargo on massive palettes.

The Airfield's lobby is a bustle of activity, with travellers, merchants and couriers racing about. A tall, sienna-colored Sakkran in a black long-coat stands at the exit of the lobby, holding a sign that syays "Student Exchange". Behind him are a pair of modfified Newt transports. The cannons and missile rack have been replaced with a satellite feed and transmission system.

http://home.earthlink.net/~peterpank/NewtTransport.JPG

Cultural taboos? <explanation>
Cadet Bondayehr nods. "Thank you, ma'am." Note to self--listen closely to titles. Pretend that you're around cadre at all times.

One shuttle ride later...
A tall, sienna-colored Sakkran in a black long-coat stands at the exit of the lobby, holding a sign that syays "Student Exchange". Behind him are a pair of modfified Newt transports. The cannons and missile rack have been replaced with a satellite feed and transmission system.
"Looks like an obvious place to head over to." Timofeyev Bondayehr looks over his shoulder as he begins to outpace the rest of the group, obviously enthusiastic about everything. Sweet! Get to ride in an APC... looks stripped but, hey, safety first, right? "Heh, Ledum, where's your spirit? On the bounce!"

Ledum shrugs at the skinny cadet, suppressing a wry smile. "Honestly, this is the first time I've been away from Stonozka."

"Ouch. I'm sure you'll adapt."

While still obviously nervous, the Scolopendran students seem to calm down as they realize nothing is going to swoop down and eat them and, with some definite ground rules established thanks to Sseetaa's answers, they now know what, at most, not to do. Also, with the obvious objective of the modified armored personnel carriers, they move with more of a sense of purpose, albeit stringing out in an interesting measure of enthusiasm versus trepidation. Bondayehr is far ahead, followed in short order by a few more students including Ledum, followed by Law-Student (who is a little rear of center) and a small gaggle including Ioana taking drag.

Khenala Prime

As a group, save for one, the students decide rest is a better course of action as they all suffer from travel-lag. They retire to their dorms, and prepare for tomorrow.

Except for Hweer. At the mention of 'night life' his head picks up. He decides to see what tha downtown section of Khenala Prime has to offer in the way of fun.

The students are taken to a rather large, 40-story building near the downtown area of Khenala Prime. The student dorms occupy the top ten floors. The dorms seem more fitting for a lavishly equipped hotel than a student dormitory area, and are prefurnished with the expected arrival of the Sakkrans. Steps have been taken to ensure that the temperature and humidity levels are similar to those in Sakkra itself and that any special requirements sent by the Sakkran Education Department have been met.

The Downtown Area is full of life, massive parties taking place in several buildings along a street known as the Avenue of Light. Numerous types of music can be heard blaring out of several buildings, with many youths being seen darting in and out of various clubs. There is a noticibly moderate police force in sight to make sure that nothing gets out of hand, though for the most part there is no trouble.

The first night passes with much in store for tomorrow.

-----

The Liaison

The Khenalian students take notes on what not to do, though none of them had planned to intentionally grab a Sakkran male by his genitalia.

Gasps of awe are heard as the Newt Transports come into view, many of them hoping to catch a glimpse of one up close, but not expecting to actually ride in one. Not much trepidation is seen, as the Khenalian students follow their Scolopendran counterparts into the transports.

OOC: Everybody together? Good. Heh heh.

IC: The modified transports, when seen up close, are smaller than the military-grade transports. It is 45' in length and 10' high to allow for easier navigation along the roads. (A single lane, 2 way road is usually about 28' wide.) The access doors slide open, showing plush air-line style seating with collapsable tables in front of each seat. The seats are obviously made for those having tails, as the backrest has a large notch cut into its side, with a cushioned sling wrapping from the back of the seat to the side. Dim lighting is used inside the transport, and a large holo-vid unit is positioned in front of the seats. It looks able to fit about 30 human passengers in comfort.

As the students take their seats, the driver cues in the SatCom Uplink. The holo-vid units come online, with the title of "Approved by the Imperial Council of Education" coming on screen. The face of Professor Lossa comes on.

"Welcome, students, to the Empire of Sakkra's Educational System. We hope your stay will be enjoyable and stimulating. I am here to give you a brief overview of the sights we will be seeing, and the institution you will be attending. So sit back and relax."

*Fade to scene showing a three-story structure. There are neonates filing in and out, bearing datascreens. The structure has cuniform carvings etched into the walls near the door*

"This is the main building of Hreer University. Your first stop as we get your accomodations set, and register you for your classes. All students pass throught these doors. It is also where all student records are kept, such as medical history, familial contacts, and your educational progress."

*Cut to another building, which looks similar to the first, but is domed and stands about four stories high, with walkways between buildings mid-height*

"And here is the student dormitories. This is where you will be staying during your enrollment. These buildings can house upwards of 3,000 students at one time. Each room comes equipped with a heat chamber, holo-vid unit and the standard living accomodations. A detachment of cadets is always on hand, to ensure your security and safety."

"They've got a Det, eh?" Timofeyev smiles. "I'll have to see if they're willing to entertain questions, compare cadet life among cultures."

"Damn, Tim," Ledum chuckles, "you are such a military fanboy."

The cadet shrugs with a smirk. "It's officially 'enthusiasm,' but... yeah."

"So, who has our rooming assignments?" Ioana asks no one in particular.

Law-Speaker scratches the back of her head. "I am sure that will be sorted out once we arrive."

"Better question," Timofeyev suggests, "is why we're riding around in modded APCs."

"Maybe it has to do with those large Newts we keep hearing about. I've been wondering, Tim--how did you get on this trip?"

"I asked at the Detachment if I could go. Went up through HQ in record time and was eventually accepted. Seeing how I can continue my studies, they've no problem; in addition, from working with the Sakkra cadets, it works as a OAD-ET PDT and so--"

"Could you try that again in English?" Law-Speaker snickers.

"I'd do the Hero's Tongue if I knew it, Shorty. Anyhoo, it classifies as an Operation Aerospace Directorate-Earth Theater Professional Development Training assignment. Translation, I'm getting paid in addition to my standard Aerospace Directorate stipend."

Law-Speaker hrrumphs goodnaturely. "You cadets get everything."

"Your tax dollars at hard work; not like tuition's that high anyway thanks to socialized education. 'Sides, Kzin-ret of Sky Marshal M'sha, I'm sure you had a nice slot signed up."

Law-Speaker chuckles with a shrug. "That form of service is not for me, no matter what my mother does, Son of Sergeants."

The rest of the Scolopendrans snicker at the good-natured needling between the two; being in the same general vicinity with them was a preferred pastime for bored students wanting to see a friendly debate. Rarely agreeing on anything, they still seemed to get along perfectly well.

The orientation vid continues...

"Some of the sights that field trips will take you to see are the Whispering Savannahs, where the refugee Hrubbans live. At this time, they are being integrated into our society in a way that would fit them best. What that is is for them to decide."

*Cut to scene of a long, golden, rolling savannah. Several 5 to 6' tall cat-like people are constructing dwellings of wood and resin. Several large herbivorous animals are eating leaves off the trees in the background*

"There is also Eeorouh Spaceport, where we have the famous EM Peashooter Launch Facility. This is where the Chief Imperial Engineer, Jouuha is stationed, busily making our technological leaps possible."

http://home.earthlink.net/~peterpank/launch.JPG

"And of course what semester would be complete without a trip to our famous Black Swamp, where the Sakkran Newt resides. We'll be studying the habits of this 6 meter long creature. But don't get too close. They've been known to drag more than one unsuspecting victim to their doom."

http://home.earthlink.net/~peterpank/species2-9947.jpg

"There will be many other interesting sites to see during your time here. Enjoy yourself!"

With that the orientaion holo shuts off, and Seetaa announces "We have arrived at the dormitory. Professor Lossa will greet you on your entry into the building, and help with any questions you may have."

Bondayehr looks back at Law-Speaker, who turns very quiet at the mention of the Hrubban. Nah, I'll talk to her later about it. Best to stay on the bounce right now. "We'd best get moving..." Hopping to his feet, he slings his pack back over one shoulder. Only way to lead is by example...

Ioana taps Law-Student lightly in the arm; the Kzin-ret comes out of her reverie with a jolt, looking around nervously before taking on a preternatural (and wholly assumed) calm. "Sorry."

The human girl hands the Kzin her pack from under the seat. "Not a problem."

"Thank you."

The students file out as directed, Bondayehr out in front. Great,[i] he thinks to himself, [i]I get to be the first to possibly screw up... oh well, onward and forward into the great unknown, eh?

Somewhat groggily, the Khenalian students make their way towards the dormatories, following the Scolopendran students. For some of them, it is very evident that the time-change from Titan to Earth is catching up with them, and so they don't have much by way of comment.

Though many of them did take note of the Sakkran Newt, and had extensive plans to avoid close contact with them, as none of them had any desire to become dinner for a six-meter long lizard.

OOC: ((Sorry for the short posts, its 0500 here. :) I'll post something more substantiative tomorrow...er..today.))

The Dormitory appears to be a three-story structure from the outside, with walkways joining all the buildings in the dorm at the third level. One may wonder How do thousands of Sakkrans fit into those little buildings? Stepping inside, however, shows that the structure extends for about 600 meters into the ground.

Walkways and bridges stretch from one end of the cavernous area to the other. Resin Beetles and artificial full-spectrum UV emitters give light throughout the area. Massive stalactites, of at least 20' in diameter, are hollowed out to add to the structures. Some have even been converted into lodging, with more than a few neonate heads peering from windows at the exchange students. Many 3" tall figures in a wide variety of exoskeletal patterning seem to be at work throughout the complex, wearing tiny tool belts and miniature goggles.

Professor Lossa steps forward and greets the students. "Ah, greetings. My apologies for not being able to greet you personally on your arrival, but a new wing has just been completed, and I had to personally inspect it for structural and acoustic validity. This is where you will be staying. Allow me to escort you there, and watch your step."

Bondayehr whistles, looking over a railing. "Niiice."

Ledum points out some of the small insectoids. "Hey... those are Minis... they must be some of the ones that moved to Sakkra. Whoa, aliens on Earth. This trip is getting better and better every minute." When Lossa steps out, Ledum goes completely dumb, eyes gleaming with the peculiar glow of hero worship.

Being addressed so suddenly, most of the students turn rather quiet. Looking around, Cadet Bondayehr shakes his head internally. No need to be shy, people. Turning back to the Sakkra, Timofeyev suddenly remembered why everyone went quiet all of a sudden. Okay, pretend he's an officer. Title. Professor. 'Sir?' 'Doctor?' No, when in doubt stick with proper title. "Thank you, Professor. We are honored by your concern."

Looking back to the crowd, Timofeyev makes the universal 'work with me here, dammit' face, eliciting short bows from the entire group except for Ledum, who is too busy staring at his hero. "You all heard the honorable professor, let's stay on the bounce."

Note to self: In after-action report, suggest that an official head-of-travel is named to act as group spokesperson. Even though this is great training, don't want to give the impression that cadets run the institutes of higher learning... almost nothing could be further from the truth.

Lossa looks at a datapad for a moment. "Ah, Student...Timofeyev, is it? It takes a moment to recognize a face these days, with everyone trying to find lodgings."Two Resin Beetles swoop low, and hover. Lossa produces a small stone for each, and they begin munching away at them contendedly.

The Professor walks and talks a bit. "It is always good to carry small mineral rich stones about for them. The Beetles tend to be migratory, unless they have a food supply handy. Since we use them for lighting and many other things, we like to keep the hives nearby. Micah is their favorite, next to obsidian."

They come to an especially tall column, seemingly reaching from the bottom of the shaft to the top. A door slides open, revealing a 30' x 30' x 12' foot space with a platform. "The lift. Mention your level, and it will bring you there." A small console with 3 buttons is on the left side of the entrance, and Lossa speaks into it. "Alshai Wing."

Lossa looks at a datapad for a moment. "Ah, Student...Timofeyev, is it? It takes a moment to recognize a face these days, with everyone trying to find lodgings."Two Resin Bettles swoop low, and hover. Lossa produces a small stone for each, and they begin munching away at them contendedly.
The human looks slightly surprised at being made, and responds like clockwork thanks to training. "Yes, sir. Cadet Third Class Timofeyev Bondayehr, Scolopendran Aerospace Directorate." Oi, that was militaristic. Why'd this have to be 'prepare for field training' year?

The Professor walks and talks a bit. "It is always good to carry small mineral rich stones about for them. The Beetles tend to be migratory, unless they have a food supply handy. Since we use them for lighting and many other things, we like to keep the hives nearby. Micah is their favorite, next to obsidian."
Note to self: Carry around rocks for the beetles. The cadet leading the way as the de facto leader of the group, the Scolopendrans keep up with Lossa, nodding as they assimilate information.

The lift comes to a slow stop, and the doors slide open. Costructor suits without operators are lined up along one side of what seems to be a domed area, with doors and bridgeways spanning the area. They are about 3 stories tall, with each story being 20' high. Wide spiral staircases lead up to all the floors, tapering as it rises, and fusing into the top of the dome. A small park is set in the center, with a running water fountain providing moisture and mild humidity to the area.

"Here is your wing. There are 60 rooms total, 20 rooms to a level. Your image will appear on the door you're assigned to, until you activate the voice authorization. This is done by speaking your name into the security console, and then breathing on it."

A small group of five bright-green cadets march single file to the Professor. The lead one speaks. "Cadet Armsman Groou with report Professor Lossa sir!Inspection complete sir! Structural and acoustic stability is confirmed! Residences are ready for habitation sir!"

The Professor assumes a stiff and formal manner. His jaw sets and his posture is impeccable. "Very good Cadet Armsman Groou. Your squad may return to the barrack and rest. Orders will arrive at 0600. At ease! Dismissed!"

"Yes sir!" The cadets smartly toe-turn 45 degrees and march off to a small guard house to the left of the dorm rooms.

Lossa turns to the students, and his manner softens dramatically. "When addressing a Cadet, it is good to use their official title first, then their specialization. In your rooms there will be holo-vid units with a sub-program in them. The program will have briefings on insignias, ranks, medals and the like to help you discern the difference between them all."

Lossa walks to the park in the center of the dome, where some construction crew members are having a light lunch. "For instance, Cadet Armsman Groou had the insignia shaped like a serpent. There was one pip on the spinal part of the insignia. That denotes a Cadet Corporal. The more pips, the higher the Cadet rank. The large central pip denotes the Cadet is entering into the Imperial Defense Forces proper. No large central pip denotes the cadet is planning on a civilian career. All Sakkrans, male or female, go through the 30 year cadet training."

Lossa looks around the expanse of the dome, and inhales deeply. "Ah! There is no smell like that of freshly hardened Resin. Your rooms are ready. Go ahead and make yourselves comfortable. In the morning, registration procedures will be explained. You will have one standard week to register for your classes. Do you have any questions before I return to my duties?"

Bondayehr blinks at the tin-soldier act of the Sakkra cadets. Smeg, sounds like thirty years of field training. He suppresses a shudder. Note to self: Study and learn Sakkra cadet rank structure to avoid... misunderstandings if/when I have to deal with them. "Well, sir, what areas are authorized/unauthorized for us? Also, what are the rules about associating with cadets, being one myself?"

Ledum thinks of several thousand questions, most having to do with S-14 or some ongoing research project he heard about from a friend. None are appropriate to the situation and he doesn't find the strength to ask.

Ioana lets her gaze wander around, trying to find her room.

Law-Student yawns into her sleeve.

"Ah, yes. Unauthorized areas are marked clearly. At this point, though, the only areas not accessable by the student body, or the general public for that matter, are the labs in the Imperial Wing. Those are for students working on thesis projects, and contain many volatile chemicals. In order to use those facilities, many forms involving non-responsibility clauses have to be signed, cleared and notarized."

"As for pan-cadet relations....that's really for the parties involved to decide. Keep in mind that all Sakkrans have to go through cadet training once they become neonate age. If one is a cadet now, it does not mean they will remain military personnel afterwards. So experiences can vary widely."

Spying Law-Student yawning into her sleeve, Lossa fixes his other eye on her. "Did you have a question, Student?"

Khenala Prime

The night passes rather uneventfully for the students (save for Hweer, who was most likely up for a majority of the night). They are awakened in the morning by a slight medley being played on their information consoles located in each room. On each console reads a message:

"Good morning, Student <name>. The time is currently 0700. The first item on your schedule this morning is:

0815 - Student Orientation

Please report to the 50th-Floor Auditorium Dome in the adjacent University Building. You can reach the building by taking the Skybridge located on the 30th Floor. If you get lost, please do not hesitate to consult an Information Kiosk, located conveniently throughout each floor."

The message closes with the insignia of the Khenalian University system.

-----

The Liaison

Rose takes careful note of Lossa's words on the Sakkran cadet ranking system. Though she has a fleeting familiarity with Sakkran military designations in general, it could use some brushing up, and she plans to make extensive use of the holovid units.

She glances over at Timofeyev momentarily. "He appears to be the head of the Scolopendran student delegation.", she thinks to herself. She would have to make a point to speak with him later. She was here primarily to learn about the Sakkrans, but Sociology was Sociology, and she would take all the learning she could get. Plus, it didn't hurt that he wasn't bad looking, and with the sheltered life forced upon her by her father, she could use some interaction with members of the opposite sex.

She was sure that he'd be furious if he found out that she had left Khenala Prime, and she could only hope that her mother could stall him for a while. Besides, at this point, there was no turning back.

Several Khenalian students pale slightly at the mention of "volitile chemicals", worries of contamination spreading throughout the dormitory structure flying through their heads.

Rose, seeing the worry on their faces at the mention of this, decides to intervene. "Professor, just to clarify, I would assume that we are in no danger from any of the goings-on in the Imperial Wing, correct?"

Many students sigh in relief at her question. While many of them had the same fear, none of them wished to voice the question for worry of being perceived as weak by the others.

Lossa turns to address the Khenalian exchange students. "Oh, no no. The Imperial Wing is above ground, and a kilometer away in a shielded complex. There is no threat of danger here.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
On Khenala Prime

As the message closed, Shaan rose out of her heat chamber. She brought up a canister of dried Paroo and poured herself a cup with hot water. "SSsssssssshhhhraaaaaa!" A fine rest. The stay here will be comfortable, at least.

She put on her gown, and proceeded to head over to the adjacent building and the Auditorium Dome, where most of the other Sakkrans were. Including Hweer and a couple of his associates. They had the look of ones who spent an hour too long out getting drunk. they could be heard whispering to each other "By the Pits, I feel like a vice is on my head."

Spying Law-Student yawning into her sleeve, Lossa fixes his other eye on her. "Did you have a question, Student?"
"Hrm?" Law-Speaker looks up, blinks, and suddenly realizes. "No, Professor. I am more tired than I expected."

With no more actual questions, the Scolopendran students wait to be dismissed and filter out to their rooms--Ledum requiring a bit of 'encouragement' from Timofeyev--finding their faces and activating the security system.

Most of the students simply crash on what resembles a bed most; but Bondayehr putters around a bit, unpacking and basically getting a feel for the accomodations before falling asleep in a chair.

Morning seems to come sooner than some may hope.

An almost cheerful female voice sounds. "Good Cycle, Students. It is 0700, and registration will begin in one hour. If you like, I can bring up a map from your dorm to your destination." Should they look, the holo-projected image is a blank ovoid.

Bondayehr leaps out of his chair, runs across the room, stretches an arm out to his old white alarm clock radio... and pauses. Waitaminute, I forgot to set that. Waitanotherminute, it's not even plugged in. Note to self: Find adapters.

***

Law-Student half-opens one eye and stretches luxuriously, hopping lightly out of the bed with a massive yawn. Scratching her back, she does some morning exercises.

***

Ioana grumbles, rolls over, and goes back to sleep.

***

Ledum would throw open a window if there was one available, but instead merely gets ready quickly, throwing on whatever clothes come to hand. Enthusiasm is an understatement in his case.

***

Timofeyev looks at the clothes he unpacked last night in his closet. Hrm. Gotta wear something... Thumbing through the available options, he continues to think. Hum... registration... look presentable... can switch to usual later...

Drat. Left my dress clothes at home. Guess that leaves my uniforms.

Looking at his blues, Timofeyev grumbles to himself. Gotta press these; those wrinkles don't help anything. Thumbing over, he checks his grey pixellated smoke-cloud patterned fatigues. Hey, these don't look half-bad. Fair 'nuff.

***

Law-Student finishes her morning clean-up and, after adjusting her simple-enough clothing, holds her stomach as it rumbles. Need food. Grabbing her communicator and portcomp, she steps out the door.

***

Timofeyev tucks the laces of his combat boots in and stands up. Nice pressed appearance, utility belt aligned and equipment affixed, boots shined, pants bloused... outstanding. Taking his cover in hand, he walks out and looks up at Law-Student. "Good morning, Shorty." He smiles broadly.

"Heh. Going official today, Cadet?"

Cadet Bondayehr shrugs. "Most appropriate thing I had ready. You doing all right, L-S?"

"How do you mean?"

"The Hrubban." Bondayehr watches Law-Student's reaction before proceeding. "You passed around the InterRelate reports you got from your mom, so I know what it means to you."

Law-Speaker nods quietly. "I will have to think on it."

"Thought so. If you need anyone to bounce ideas off of, just ask. Where's the other two of our little clique?"

Ledum bounces up from behind. "Hey, lookin' nice, Tim. What's the occassion?"

"Registration, Led. Where's Io?"

"Dunno. Her door was locked when I walked past. She's probably sleeping in."

"Geez. Let's give her the wakey-wakey." Timofeyev stalks down the corridor, thick-soled boots surprisingly quiet, friends in tow. Arriving at Ioana's room, he looks back at his friends and shakes his head. "She'll hate me for this."

"She already does, Tim."

Cadet Bondayehr slams his palm against the door repeatedly. "Wake-up call for Ioana. Drop the dreams and grab the jeans, time to roll out!"

Some mild, muttered cursing in Bulgarian and several minutes later, Ioana opens her door, blinking the sleep away. "I hate you, Tim."

The cadet shrugs. "Yeah... didn't want you to miss registration. On the bounce, Io. Now, who's got the map?"

Ledum leads the way over to the designated registration area, now a rallying point for the Scolopendran students. Law-Student and Cadet Bondayehr, in simple civilian clothes and smoke-cloud camouflage respectively, take de facto command, making sure everyone is there before setting them loose to figure out what's going on.

The course schedule is displayed on a large holo-unit, allowing all to see it clearly. It is in the main entry, where a press of thousands of Sakkran neonates are crowding about quietly. Datapads are lifted and pressed as the available classes scroll.

Section A. Preperatory

01: Basic History

02: Basic Mathematics

03: Basic Literature

04: Basic Combat

05: Basic Artisanship

06: Basic Computer Operations

07: Basic Sciences

Section B. Applied

01: Myth and Reality

02: Survival in the Wilderness

03: Architecture

04: Metals and Sculpture

05: Animal Taming and Lore

06: Advanced Hand Combat

07: Riflery and Heavy Weapons Operation/Maintanence

08: Your Body and You; Making the most of it

09: Hack or be Hacked; Advanced Computer Operations and Security

10: Biology and Xeno-Biology

Section C. Advanced

01: Great Writers and Story-Tellers

02: Foreign Culture Studies

03: Extra-Planetary Architectural Concepts

05 Vehicular Mechanics and Engineering

06: Astoromy and Astro-Physics

07: Specialized Hand and Melee Combat and Tactics

09: Military Technologies and Theory

10: Psychology and Xeno-Psychology

(The list goes on and on)

Hrm... weapons training. Could get a head-start for field training-- Bondayehr remembers archive footage of an old standard M.I. suit getting thrown through a few trees thanks to firing a Sakkran Chunk Projector in mid-air. Then again, Sakkra combat styles are probably not conducive to being learned by humans. Applying for standard second-year aerospace engineering courses, he finds himself with some slots left.

Looking down at the portcomp still attached to his utility belt, he grimaces. Ah, no OTC classes. Colonel Johnson was nice enough to give me the textbooks and the lesson plans to study while I'm down here--joys of distance learning--but it's a simple enough class. She also got me a copy of the field training guide to practice with so when I get back I won't be behind the power curve... still, what should I do here? Survival training? Looking up, he tries to find a Sakkra cadet... before remembering that, thanks to their compulsory training, anyone should do. Walking over to one student who doesn't appear as busy as the rest and looking up, Bondayehr deploys his best gregarious smile. Title first. "Hello, Student. I'm Cadet Timofeyev Bondayehr." He bows shortly. "I don't wish to intrude, but I've almost filled up my class schedule but still have some slots left, and would appreciate some advice--assuming you aren't too busy."

Law-Student looks at the scrolling list, and signs up for Basic Combat on a whim... in addition to history and philosophy courses. Never being one to back down from a challenge, she plans a double-major before going on to law school.

Ledum and Ioana sign up for their classes, both surprised at the number of combat and survival courses offered until they remember that, given the mandatory military training of neonates, those were probably mandatory classes. "I sure hope we don't have to sign up for those," Ioana grumbles.

Ledum nods. "Not my thing, really. Sure, I'll do my bit in the CDC, but I'd much prefer a job in science than the military... or the Triumvirate diplomatic corps. That could be interesting."

Walking over to one student who doesn't appear as busy as the rest and looking up, Bondayehr deploys his best gregarious smile. Title first. "Hello, Student. I'm Cadet Timofeyev Bondayehr." He bows shortly. "I don't wish to intrude, but I've almost filled up my class schedule but still have some slots left, and would appreciate some advice--assuming you aren't too busy."

The young female looks at Timofeyev almsot absent-mindedly for a moment. "Hmmm? Oh, oh yes. Greetings Cadet Timofeyev Bondyehr. I am Apprentice Sshrrakaa. I would recommend B:02. Survival in the Wilderness. It will teach you how to survive in almost any climate. You never know when that could be useful."

"Another subject that will be interesting; B:08. Your Body and You. I hear it rumored that one of General Gaarm's hatchlings is teaching that course. Learning to focus the mind and body to become one."

"She raises up a notch and puffs her still-forming dewlap, showing a light pink color. "I plan on being an architect for the Titan colony, so i'm taking Extra-planetary Architectural Concepts. My last instructor steered me in this direction. It teaches building with unfamiliar materials to suit unfamiliar climates. Last semester, one student constructed a bungalow on a lava flow as his thesis project for Organic Architecture. His technique was brilliant. How he made pontoons and stilts from igneous stone i'll never know. But it prompted the creation of this class."

As Sshrrakaa speaks, Timofeyev quietly repeats her name to himself while looking at her, serving the dual purpose of putting a name to a face and practicing the pronunciation. Aw, bloody hell. I'm bad with names to begin with... "Thank you, Apprentice Sshrrakaa. I was pondering the survival training myself. I might at least sit in on B:08, as I'm not sure how Sakkra biofeedback would work on human physiology..."--he smiles broadly with closed lips (They aren't Kzin, but I'm not going to chance it)--"...but I'm willing to try.

"Titan, eh?" Bondayehr nods. "Hope you get there... it's a nice place... and a bungalow on a lava flow? That's a new one on me." Looking down, he unfolds his portcomp long enough to finalize his schedule, adding survival training--Oi, that's gonna be a bitch--and Your Body and You--Heh... I'm gonna stick out there--to the list. Shutting the computer and letting it hang at his side again, he looks back up at the female Sakkra. I wonder when it's acceptable to stop using titles. "I'm looking forward to this semester, Apprentice Sshrrakaa. The opportunity to immerse oneself in another's culture doesn't happen often. What is the local opinion of the student exchange?"

Law-Student smiles. "He just moves right in, doesn't he?"

"Social chameleon." Ledum mutters. "Wish I could do that."

"Well, what's stopping us?" Ioana snickers. "He's got the right idea at least... connect with the natives and all."

Law-Student's stomach rumbles again... and rather loudly, too. Ledum and Ioana look up at their friend... and, not for the first time and not for the last, suppress the instinctual fear of large furry animals with sharp teeth who seem hungry.

"Okay," Ioana mumbles, "first step is to feed Shorty. Led, go grab Tim and see if we can get direction to some eats."

Sskrrakaa looks quizically at Timofoyev for a moment, then snaps up again. "Ah, yes. The exchange. Well, popular opinion is its-business-as-usual for the majority of the students. We have exchange students coming every other semester to learn our combat techniques. And you can just call me Sshrrakaa now. The formality is done. You only need to refer to the title once to acknowledge the other's achievment."

She hears Law-Students stomach growl, and cocks her head slightly. "Ah. You may want to speak to the student affairs division about your meal plan. We only need to eat once a week. From what I understand, mammals must eat far more often, and you will need that reflected on your meal cards. Otherwise, it will be foraging for your food for you."

Timofeyev brandishes his camouflaged forage cap with a grin. "Foraging? Can do... and thanks for the assistance on titles, Sshrrakaa."

Ioana walks up. "Hey, Tim, time to feed the tiger."

"Yes, Student Ioana,"--the best way to lead is by example--"We heard her from here." Seeing Io's odd look at the title, Bondayehr winks and gives his best 'play along, dammit' look while waving over the other two members of the group. "Apprentice Sshrrakaa, this is Student Ioana Mondragon,"--he indicates the freckled, pale Io with one hand--"Student Ledum Fawehinmi,"--his hand moves to Led--"and Student Law-Student." Finally indicating Law-Student with a sort of final flourish, he smiles before turning to the group. "Friends, this is Apprentice Sshrrakaa, the stranger whose kindness we must rely upon in this strange, alien land." He lets his voice take on a overly-cultured air, obviously done in sport.

Looking back up to Sshrrakaa, he nods. "Could you please point us in the direction of the Student Affairs Division? I don't think I can much afford to lose any weight." Bondayehr grins and looks down at his skinny, 175.25 centimeter (5' 9"), 60 kilogram (around 125 lbs) frame.

Sshrrakaa opens and closes her mouth with a loud *clop* sound. (An approximation of a chuckle. Well met, Student Ioana, Student Ledum, and Student Law-Student. I will upload the location of the Student Affairs Division on your datapads. It will activate a homing device that will point you in the right direction. I will, of course, require your datapad ID signatures for the transfer."

Keys are pressed in a rapid succesion, and the comps of the students beep with confirmation of data reception. Sshrrakaa looks and and displays red on her dewlap. "We will meet again, Timofeyev, in the Survival course."

Timofeyev chuckles. "As long as I don't become an example of emergency sustanance, I'll be glad to see a familiar face. Shine on, Sshrrakaa."

His friends bowing shortly to Sshrrakaa as he turns to them--Oi, they do play along well--Bondayehr smiles. "Well, to the S.A.D., for victuals and provisions!" Leading the way, open portcomp at his hip, the four tromp through the halls, getting lost on occasion but enjoying the view and generally making an adventure of the whole thing.

"Here we are, according to the map." Bondayehr closes his portcomp with an air of finality and accomplishment. "Onwards and forwards."

It can be reasonably assumed that all Scolopendran students eventually make their way to the S.A.D..

OOC: It can also be reasonably assumed that they have stated their case in terms of dietary needs, and a well-prepared Flank of Newt is given to Law-Student to ease his rumblings.

"Feeling better?" Bondayehr smirks in a friendly way after watching the resident Kzin-ret pack away a large quantity of meat.

Law-Student nods with a broad smile. "Quite."

"So, now what do we do?" Timofeyev looks around.

"Maybe find some sort of student center," Ioana suggests, "try to mingle."

"Sounds good. Let's roll."

Khenala Prime

The Auditorium Dome is a large, crystaline dome at the top of the University of Khenala building. Facing the Northeast, one can get a clear view of the lower-lying parts of the City, while in the opposite direction one sees higher and higher skyscrapers reaching up, essentially dwarfing the University building itself.

The Auditorium is large enough to seat about 3,000 people, and it bustles with activity, several large screens on each wall giving off various teachers profiles, class schedules, and events that the University will be undergoing for the following school year.

At the front is a raised stage, with seating for several dozen people, apparently to address the student body at large. There appears to be an area reserved for the twenty Sakkran students near the front, with each seat being designated for each Sakkran student by way of a name placement on each individual seat.

The throng of students soon come to order as Education Minister Jaenna Seal takes the stage.

"Welcome one, and welcome all to a new school year. By far, the furtherance of education This year, we are honored by the presence of twenty exchange students from Sakkra." she gestured towards the seating area for the Sakkran student delegation, followed by much applause.

"They too seek to further their knowledge in our institutions of learning. Twenty of your own number have journeyed to Sakkra in a like exchange, and hopefully, the knowledge that our Guests accumulate here and what your fellow Students learn in Sakkra, our Nations, and our World will be the better for it."

She gestures towards the walls of the Auditorium, where there are several desks, and information kiosks se set up to begin student scheduling, apparently manned by other students adorned in silver robes. "As you may know from previous years, the class schedules and listings are on the video monitors throughout the auditorium. Please speak with the Student-Guides on your class selection, or any questions you might have and they will assist you with your decision. They are the silver-robed members of the student body and will finalize your class selection for the semester."

With that statement, the numerous Silver-Robed students nod their head, and make other gestures to draw attention to themselves. They are gathered about the various screens scrolling class schedules and appear to be assisting a few students already.

"You are the future of our nation, the future of our world, and beyond. The knowledge you gain here you will use to shape the worlds of tomorrow. Omentura novalis." With those words, Jaenna bows her head, crossing one of her arms diagonally over her chest in the typical Khenalian blessing. The students do the same, and begin making their way to the various Student-Guides to plan their classes.

A silver robed individual makes his way towards the Sakkran student gathering. "Greetings, Students. My name is Jonal Valandil. As you are honored guests among our student body, I have been designated specifically as your Student-Guide for the year. A Student-Guide, in case you are not familiar with the title, is a senior student chosen to guide other students throughout the year. Much like a "Counselor" in other nations, we feel that there can be no other person to assist with the needs of a student than a fellow student. As I, like my father, take an immense interest in Sakkran culture, I specifically requested that I have the honor of being your guide for this year, and I am very happy to have the pleasure of assisting you." The raven-haired boy, appearing to be of 19 years of age, smiled brightly. "Are there any preliminary questions before we begin your class selection?"

-----

Sakkra

The Khenalian students ponder their class selection very carfeully, many of them choosing history and culture related classes, and a few of them selecting the military-themed classes.

Rose decided to be very liberal in her class selection, choosing "Psychology and Xeno-Psychology", "Basic History", and "Architecture", which were obvious Khenalian favorites, but she also decided to go out of the norm (for her, in any case), selecting both "Basic Combat" and "Survival in the Wilderness". All Khenalians learned basic forms of self-defense in their Secondary School courses, but most University level classes didn't offer very many military themed courses, instead leaving those classes for the Khenalian Space Academy which was jointly the prime military training center for the Khenalian Armed Forces.

Satisfied with her course selection, she decides to mingle, or at the very least observe both the Sakkran students and the Scolopendran students that accompanied her on this trip. In many cases, one can learn the most merely by watching.

Finding themselves in the student center analog, the group of four Scolopendran students looked about, somewhat at a loss as to how to proceed.

"So, what's the plan?" Bondayehr stretches slightly in his fatigues. "I've been making too many decisions as of late."

"Fan out and see what trouble we can get into." Ioana nods decisively.

"Works for me. Hey, there's some Khenalans over there. Off I go to learn more!" Bondayehr pivots on one bootheel and tromps off to talk to anyone who'll listen.

Ioana wanders about until she finds a group of Sakkra watching something. Let's see if Tim's trick works. "So, what are you watching... erm... Students?" She smirks. "Still getting used to the whole title-thing."

Law-Student, for the first time in recent history finding herself as the shortest person in the room, wanders about somewhat aimlessly.

Ledum gets left behind. Aw, man, I should really be more outgoing. Sitting down, he idly berates his shyness.

Khenala Prime

"Greetings Student-Guide Jonal. I am Apprentice Shaal, Speaker for our group. We have noticed a lack of body conditioning training in the schedule. What would you recommend to substitute that?" There is a slight pause. "Also, we may have deifferent dietary needs than your own people. Who would we speak to to bring this to light? And lastly, for now, where can we go for open space? The tall buildings are excellent, but a bit claustrophobic to us."

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sakkran Student Center
Bellowing and quiet hooting is heard from the ones watching a holo-feed. One of the Males raises his spines slightly at Ioana, then lowers them. "Ah, one of the hu-man exchange students. I am Student Ghhaar, and this is the regional Jugg Match for Hreer. These are the finalists for this city, and whoever wins goes on to the Championship."

He turns back around, and hoots low as a lightly armored Sakkran, holding a large skull, is entangled in a net made of chains. "I have 20 Teeth riding on the Dirges to win this one. If the Grunts win, i'm broke for a standard week."

A moment later, another lightly armored Sakkran has grabbed the skull, and begins running the opposite way. This one gets a chest full of wooden staff, and is knocked down. "Hroooooooorrr! Now that is the way to win!"

Khenala Prime

Jonal takes a moment to look up at the class schedules, also noticing the lack of physically strenuous (to a Sakkran, in any case) classes save for standard sport selections.

"Hmm, it appears you are right, Shaal. I'm glad you brought that up."

He turns back to them. "We do offer a variety of sports classes, mostly the same as what you would find on Earth, save for a few variants. But I would assume you would be looking for something more...invigorating, yes? We do have joint classes available with the military for more...strenuous activities. I can sign you up for that, if you wish."

He paused for a moment, gathering info on his data pad. "As far as your dietary requirements, our Cafeteria spans the entire twentieth floor, and has a variety of restaurants as well. The Cafeteria is free to students, but the restaurants are actual businesses. The data pad in each of your rooms, however, is a special pass, and should you desire to eat at one of them merely take it with you and it will show that you are guests of the governement and your expenses will be paid. If I recall correctly, there are several Sakkran restaurants on the Twentieth, so you may eat there if you prefer. But the Cafeteria can mostly get you whatever you want in sufficient quantity."

He smiled brightly. "I knew in advance that you might ask about open space. Many visitors to our city do tend to get claustrophobic, but for some reason we Khenalians are fond of tall buildings." He shrugs a bit. "In any case, we have numerous arcologies all over the City, with several near the University. The arcologies mimic the various climates and topographies of Earth. In fact, our Swamp Arcology was designed using topographical scans of parts of Sakkra." At that, he smiled. "Not too many people know that. We also have City parks that are available for your use. In case it wasnt mentioned before, the City is open to you all day, all night. Your data pad contains a full interactive map, and is voice-interactive should you have any questions on how to find anything."

He looked around at the various responses to his words. "Any other questions?"

-----
Sakkran Student Center

Rose sees the group of Scolopendran students, and their subsequent split-up. As they split up, she does spot Ledum sitting by himself. Seeing that he looks a bit down, she approaches him, and attempts to make small talk.

"How do you do? My name is Rose. Are you enjoying yourself?"

-----

Timofeyev approaches a group of chatting Khenalian boys.

"This is too cool. 'Riflery and Heavy Weapons', 'Surviving in the Wilderness', 'Advanced Hand Combat'! You can't get these classes back home without joining the military!"

"You do realize, Rune, that these arent normal physical classes. These are Sakkran classes. Sakkrans arent your size in the slightest. Have you seen an unmodified Sakkran Powered Armor? They are huge! I'll bet you 50 Meseta that you're out of the class within the week with several broken bones."

-----

A shy, somewhat timid girl approaches Law-Student. She doesnt appear to fear Law-Student, precisely, but merely appears apprehensive in approaching her. Finding the resolve to do so, she finally speaks. "Pardon me, you're K'zin, aren't you? You see, I'm writing about K'zin Interaction In Scolopendran Society as my thesis and, well, to be honest, I've never met an actual K'zin." She smiled lightly, still a bit nervous, but glad to have overcome her original apprehension. Now she hoped that Law-Student wouldn't rip her head off in annoyance, and calmly awaited a reply.

Sakkran Student Center
A moment later, another lightly armored Sakkran has grabbed the skull, and begins running the opposite way. This one gets a chest full of wooden staff, and is knocked down. "Hroooooooorrr! Now that is the way to win!"
Ioana flinches. "Looks inordinately painful. I guess there are lots of injuries in the Jugg matches." Watching the proceedings on the screen, she seems somewhat at a loss. "Sorta the same appeal as bullfighting, I guess... though I guess it'd make more sense if I knew the rules. I suppose those guys there"--she points out the lightly armored Sakkrans--"are supposed to take that skull thing somewhere. I'm just not sure where the goals are."

Rose sees the group of Scolopendran students, and their subsequent split-up. As they split up, she does spot Ledum sitting by himself. Seeing that he looks a bit down, she approaches him, and attempts to make small talk.

"How do you do? My name is Rose. Are you enjoying yourself?"
Ledum jumps up out of his reverie, somewhat surprised. "Err... Ledum Fawehinmi." He sticks out his hand. "Ahhh... I guess so. As much as I usually do in these situations." He manages a nervous little smile. "Umm... are you? I don't recognize you; are you one of the Khenalan students?"

Timofeyev approaches a group of chatting Khenalian boys.

"This is too cool. 'Riflery and Heavy Weapons', 'Surviving in the Wilderness', 'Advanced Hand Combat'! You can't get these classes back home without joining the military!"

"You do realize, Rune, that these arent normal physical classes. These are Sakkran classes. Sakkrans arent your size in the slightest. Have you seen an unmodified Sakkran Powered Armor? They are huge! I'll bet you 50 Meseta that you're out of the class within the week with several broken bones."
Cadet Bondayehr chuckles, and folds his hands behind his camouflaged back, standing at ease. "I have seen unmodified Sakkran armor--our Mobile Infantry assault armor is actually based on it--and I'd tend to agree." He smiles broadly. "Took a trip to a SMS base over the summer and the M.I. let us handle some of the weapons. Those ninety-millimeter Chunk Projectors are insanely heavy weapons; I opted out of those classes because the weaponry is probably incompatable. As for hand-to-hand, do you really want to deal with two-point-five meter saurians who have strength, speed, agility, claws, and teeth over you?" He holds up his hands and flexes the fingers, speaking with an emphasis on showing his teeth, to illustrate his point.

"A friendly Sakkra suggested survival training; I pass on that suggestion if you want field training. Anyway," he extends a hand, "Cadet Timofeyev Bondayehr, Scolopendran Aerospace Directorate. Are you having an OUT-standing trip to a foreign land?" After putting special emphasis on the 'OUT' (an inside OTC joke), he smiles broadly.

A shy, somewhat timid girl approaches Law-Student. She doesnt appear to fear Law-Student, precisely, but merely appears apprehensive in approaching her. Finding the resolve to do so, she finally speaks. "Pardon me, you're K'zin, aren't you? You see, I'm writing about K'zin Interaction In Scolopendran Society as my thesis and, well, to be honest, I've never met an actual K'zin." She smiled lightly, still a bit nervous, but glad to have overcome her original apprehension. Now she hoped that Law-Student wouldn't rip her head off in annoyance, and calmly awaited a reply.
Law-Student raises a furry brow--one of many human gestures picked up by the K'zin of Scolopendra--at the girl's reticence. Such nervousness around ratcats was no longer common in Scolopendra, the Tibetan Extraction a generation in the past. Looking down at herself, Law-Student smiles softly. "Yes, I believe I am K'zin." Smiling broadly, she chuckles--a sort of huffing sound through the nostrils--softly. "I am Law-Student, Kzin-ret child of M'sha of House Grr'ogh," she says as she extends one orange-and-white-furred hand in greeting, "and you may now say you have met an actual K'zin. How can I help you?"

At the Student Center
Ioana flinches. "Looks inordinately painful. I guess there are lots of injuries in the Jugg matches." Watching the proceedings on the screen, she seems somewhat at a loss. "Sorta the same appeal as bullfighting, I guess... though I guess it'd make more sense if I knew the rules. I suppose those guys there"--she points out the lightly armored Sakkrans--"are supposed to take that skull thing somewhere. I'm just not sure where the goals are."

"It is painful indeed. In between regional bouts, the teams rest for two standard weeks to recuperate from their wounds. Before the Championship, it is an entire month of rest."

"As for the goals, they are positioned at opposite ends of the field, guarded by what is called a Fence. The lightly armored ones are called Quicks. The Quicks must negotiate a field full of hostiles, with the aid of their team-mates, and get past the Fence. If they place the Jugg, which is what the resin-coated skull is, on the Post, the match is over. The matches have been known to last for hours sometimes."
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Khenala Prime

Shaal takes notes on her datapad, then looks at the othe rstudents, then at Jonal. "I think that will cover the questions for now, save one. We will most likely spend a good deal of time in the Swamp Arcology between classes. These joint military classes. Can you describe them somewhat?"

At the Student Center

"It is painful indeed. In between regional bouts, the teams rest for two standard weeks to recuperate from their wounds. Before the Championship, it is an entire month of rest."

"As for the goals, they are positioned at opposite ends of the field, guarded by what is called a Fence. The lightly armored ones are called Quicks. The Quicks must negotiate a field full of hostiles, with the aid of their team-mates, and get past the Fence. If they place the Jugg, which is what the resin-coated skull is, on the Post, the match is over. The matches have been known to last for hours sometimes."
Ioana nods, and watches the match with more interest, understanding a bit more. "So it's like a no-holds-barred form of capture-the-flag. Nifty. I suppose strategy and coordination play a large role. If someone gets too badly hurt to continue, can someone switch in or does the team have to keep going without that member?"

Ioana nods, and watches the match with more interest, understanding a bit more. "So it's like a no-holds-barred form of capture-the-flag. Nifty. I suppose strategy and coordination play a large role. If someone gets too badly hurt to continue, can someone switch in or does the team have to keep going without that member?"

"If one of the team members is unable to continue, the team must play without a replacement. There are strategies to combat that disadvantage, such as a defensive surrounding maneuver to get the Quick in position, or the Catapult maneuver, which is my favorite to see. In essence, the Quick can launch itself off the back of one of their team members, and try for an aerial Post. These strategies are only allowed when one side is disadvantaged."

"If one of the team members is unable to continue, the team must play without a replacement. There are strategies to combat that disadvantage, such as a defensive surrounding maneuver to get the Quick in position, or the Catapult maneuver, which is my favorite to see. In essence, the Quick can launch itself off the back of one of their team members, and try for an aerial Post. These strategies are only allowed when one side is disadvantaged."
"What isn't allowed, other than only Quicks can carry the Jugg? Obviously there have to be limits. What if the Quick gets disabled... instant loss? Then protecting it would be important, probably by intercepting the other side."

"What isn't allowed, other than only Quicks can carry the Jugg? Obviously there have to be limits. What if the Quick gets disabled... instant loss? Then protecting it would be important, probably by intercepting the other side."

"The Quick must continue, even if they had a broken leg. Of course, the other team members would have to redouble their efforts to protect the Quick. Only if it was impossible to continue for the Quick, then the match would be called a draw."

"The Quick must continue, even if they had a broken leg. Of course, the other team members would have to redouble their efforts to protect the Quick. Only if it was impossible to continue for the Quick, then the match would be called a draw."
"That makes sense. If taking out the Quick makes a draw, then there's no advantage for teams to target the Quicks except for intercepts and whatnot. Coolness. I know the Championship is yearly, but when are the matches normally held? Is there a sort of schedule?"

"There is indeed. As you will see in the Student Schedule, there is a 2 week semester break. This is when the Jugg Matches are held. It is, after all, a national holiday week. Only essential personnel are required to work, and even then they can take shifts to see their home-team play. The Student Schedule is in your rooms holo-unit. Your class schedule should already be inputed into it from the University's database."

"There is indeed. As you will see in the Student Schedule, there is a 2 week semester break. This is when the Jugg Matches are held. It is, after all, a national holiday week. Only essential personnel are required to work, and even then they can take shifts to see their home-team play. The Student Schedule is in your rooms holo-unit. Your class schedule should already be inputed into it from the University's database."
"Great!" Ioana grins. "I hope no one minds if I hang about and watch to the end of this one..." Her voice fades out uncertainly, looking about questioningly.

The six wide-shouldered Sakkrans regard her for a moment. Tympanums can be seen vibrating slightly, and necks pulse a bit.

The one called Ghhaar rises up, and moves aside. "We see no reason why not. Sit, and enjoy some Paroo as you watch!"

Ioana brightens as she's invited into the fold, joining in the festivities with relish.

Shaal takes notes on her datapad, then looks at the othe rstudents, then at Jonal. "I think that will cover the questions for now, save one. We will most likely spend a good deal of time in the Swamp Arcology between classes. These joint military classes. Can you describe them somewhat?"

Jonal ponders the question for a long moment before replying. "Well, I am not well versed in the actions of our military. But I can tell you this: A majority of our government funding for defense goes towards the general Triumvirate Combined Services. We do keep a military, though it isn't as large as that of our neighbors. With sizeable funding going to a smaller force, they are much better equipped and very well trained.

"I do know that the training takes place in the Mountain Arcology, a multi-acre facility recreating several particularly treacherous moutnain ranges found on Earth. but the exact extent and details of the training I am unsure on. I will find out more information, but I am told that is quite strenuous.

"The Swamp Arcology is actually very close to the University, ten minutes away on foot. The Mountain Arcology is about half an hour away from the city by MagLev. Transportation to both will be arranged."

-----

Sakkra Student Center

Ledum jumps up out of his reverie, somewhat surprised. "Err... Ledum Fawehinmi." He sticks out his hand. "Ahhh... I guess so. As much as I usually do in these situations." He manages a nervous little smile. "Umm... are you? I don't recognize you; are you one of the Khenalan students?"

Rose smiled a bit as well. "Yes, I hail from Khenala Prime. I'm sorry to bother you, if I am intruding. I'm merely at a bit of a loss as to what classes to select, and wanted to get an idea of what everyone else was choosing. A lot of the military-based classes seemed a a bit...intimidating, to say the least."

-----

"A friendly Sakkra suggested survival training; I pass on that suggestion if you want field training. Anyway," he extends a hand, "Cadet Timofeyev Bondayehr, Scolopendran Aerospace Directorate. Are you having an OUT-standing trip to a foreign land?" After putting special emphasis on the 'OUT' (an inside OTC joke), he smiles broadly.

The hand is accepted firmly in a shake from the two boys.

"I am known as Rune Walsh. This is my friend, Ranel Shadowhawk."

Ranel's facial features appear to be nearly the exact opposite of an albino, with jet black hair and eyes, and skin colored a dark brown. Rune is much lighter in contrast, with hair a shade of blue that resembles the sky, with crystal-blue eyes to match. Both are somewhat tall, standing at or around 6' and are athletic in build.

"Pleased to meet you. Yes, we are truly enjoying ourselves. The University was swamped with requests to come here, we're very lucky to have been chosen."

Rune turned from Ranel to look at Timofeyev. "So they suggested the Survival Training? Did they give you any indication of what, exactly, the class entailed?"


"In any event, its a once in a lifetime opportunity.", Ranel replied. "I don't intend to pass it up."

-----

"I am Law-Student, Kzin-ret child of M'sha of House Grr'ogh," she says as she extends one orange-and-white-furred hand in greeting, "and you may now say you have met an actual K'zin. How can I help you?"

She smiled a bit nervously, as if she were a junior reporter on an important interview. She didn't want it to seem that way, however, she wanted to approach Law-Student as a friend, not as a subject to examine. "I dont really want it to seem like an interview. I just saw you wandering a bit and thought I'd take the opportunity to introduce myself. For my thesis, I'm just trying to find out how easy or difficult was the integration into Scolpendran society for K'zin in general. I understand that your people hailed from the Tibetan mountains, on Earth? Was there any culture shock? Any reticience on the part of the Scolopendran people? They seem really nice to me; well, the ones I have met, anyway."

She paused a moment, and laughed nervously.

"Forgive me, I'm getting carried away with questions. I tend to do that."

Rose smiled a bit as well. "Yes, I hail from Khenala Prime. I'm sorry to bother you, if I am intruding. I'm merely at a bit of a loss as to what classes to select, and wanted to get an idea of what everyone else was choosing. A lot of the military-based classes seemed a a bit...intimidating, to say the least."
"I thought that too." Ledum scratches the back of his head. "And naw, you aren't intruding. I'm emphasizing on Sakkran culture and history; I mean, can't pass up the chance, can we?" He chuckles nervously. "Professor Lossa seems like a... gracious host so far, don't you think? I can't wait to speak with him in person, if I get the chance."

The hand is accepted firmly in a shake from the two boys.

"I am known as Rune Walsh. This is my friend, Ranel Shadowhawk."

Ranel's facial features appear to be nearly the exact opposite of an albino, with jet black hair and eyes, and skin colored a dark brown. Rune is much lighter in contrast, with hair a shade of blue that resembles the sky, with crystal-blue eyes to match. Both are somewhat tall, standing at or around 6' and are athletic in build.

"Pleased to meet you. Yes, we are truly enjoying ourselves. The University was swamped with requests to come here, we're very lucky to have been chosen."

Rune turned from Ranel to look at Timofeyev. "So they suggested the Survival Training? Did they give you any indication of what, exactly, the class entailed?"

"In any event, its a once in a lifetime opportunity.", Ranel replied. "I don't intend to pass it up."
Timofeyev, a slight and slender 5' 9" as described earlier in just-baggy-enough-to-be-comfortable smoke-cloud fatigues looks up at the two. "Quite the luck grabbing these seats, no? I think it's a great chance... as for survival training, the basics are probably universal. We'll probably be taught how to determine what's edible and what isn't; how to get water and food; building shelters; possibly a bit in the way of evasion and signaling techniques. All good stuff to know."

He looks down at his boots momentarily before looking back up. "Indeed it is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, but what made you decide to take it? Me, I'm one of those sorts who wants to know and see everything. It's my first chance to get off Titan and see... well... the Universe." He grins with a shrug.

She smiled a bit nervously, as if she were a junior reporter on an important interview. She didn't want it to seem that way, however, she wanted to approach Law-Student as a friend, not as a subject to examine. "I dont really want it to seem like an interview. I just saw you wandering a bit and thought I'd take the opportunity to introduce myself. For my thesis, I'm just trying to find out how easy or difficult was the integration into Scolpendran society for K'zin in general. I understand that your people hailed from the Tibetan mountains, on Earth? Was there any culture shock? Any reticience on the part of the Scolopendran people? They seem really nice to me; well, the ones I have met, anyway."

She paused a moment, and laughed nervously.

"Forgive me, I'm getting carried away with questions. I tend to do that."
Law-Student looks down at her still-extended hand, retracts it, and laughs--something sounding between a hiccuping roar and someone coughing up a lung--and gestures to a seat. "Not a problem. Let us sit and talk like friends; not stand on ceremony so." Sitting down herself, she smiles broadly. "Besides, I do not know your name, Ms. Interviewer. That is arguably the most important part of introduction." She smiles as softly as she can to indicate that it's just a mild joke, bat-wing ears forward and alert.

"I was born on Titan, but my people are from the highlands of Tibet. Ever since I was a tiny K'zin-ret I have seen no reticience on the part of my human peers... but I was born five years after the extraction and so I do not remember it." As she speaks, she folds her massive hands with a smile. "My mother talks a great deal about it. We must do what we can to preserve our culture and history. I would be glad to teach what I know; in teaching one learns better."

She shrugs. "Understand that all this is secondhand. I will not embellish, as it is not my story. I may remember incorrectly, however."

Khenala Prime

The Sakkrans look at each other, and tympanum can be seen wavering.

"The Mountain Arcology training sounds promising. We hope it is akin to the Gratt Cliffs in Eeorouh. This is sounding more like familiar territory for some. For me, the Whispering Savannah is my home, and it's long stretches of open air. But I believe we will try to go along with your standard eductaional practices, and get our conditioning on our own with free time. This Mountain Arcology sounds prime for that purpose. Do we have to reserve time to gain non-class access?"
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hreer University Student Center

A member of Student Affairs enters the center, and signals with a low bellow for attention.

"A new class has recently been made available for registration. It will be posted on the boards as Augmentation Engineering and Mechanics. Section is TBA. That is all."

"I thought that too." Ledum scratches the back of his head. "And naw, you aren't intruding. I'm emphasizing on Sakkran culture and history; I mean, can't pass up the chance, can we?" He chuckles nervously. "Professor Lossa seems like a... gracious host so far, don't you think? I can't wait to speak with him in person, if I get the chance."

"I, as well. I have a minor in Sakkran Studies, and hope to have a permanent post here sometime in the future. Our ambassador is getting rather old, and I think he wants to spend time with his son"--she quickly adds as an addendum--"so I've heard, anyway."

"Lossa is a great host, and beyond that, a brilliant man. My father admires him greatly. I simply have to find out what classes he is teaching. Have you finalized any classes, yet?"


-----

Timofeyev, a slight and slender 5' 9" as described earlier in just-baggy-enough-to-be-comfortable smoke-cloud fatigues looks up at the two. "Quite the luck grabbing these seats, no? I think it's a great chance... as for survival training, the basics are probably universal. We'll probably be taught how to determine what's edible and what isn't; how to get water and food; building shelters; possibly a bit in the way of evasion and signaling techniques. All good stuff to know."

He looks down at his boots momentarily before looking back up. "Indeed it is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, but what made you decide to take it? Me, I'm one of those sorts who wants to know and see everything. It's my first chance to get off Titan and see... well... the Universe." He grins with a shrug.

Ranel sighed. "We all have survival training as children, we spend the course of about three months in the Mountain Arcology with only the barest of essentials, but I am sure its nothing compared to what the Sakkrans go through. They don't eat for weeks at a time. Don't think I can handle that.", he chuckled lightly, patting his stomach.

"Ranel, you claim starvation after only hours without food. I dont think you'd be able to even comprehend a day without it, let alone weeks."

Ranel gave a light glare at Rune. "Well I guess we'll just see then, won't we?" He turned back to Timofeyev. "So, the Aerospace Directorate, huh? Training to join one of the TYCS ships?"

-----

"Law-Student looks down at her still-extended hand, retracts it, and laughs--something sounding between a hiccuping roar and someone coughing up a lung--and gestures to a seat. "Not a problem. Let us sit and talk like friends; not stand on ceremony so." Sitting down herself, she smiles broadly. "Besides, I do not know your name, Ms. Interviewer. That is arguably the most important part of introduction." She smiles as softly as she can to indicate that it's just a mild joke, bat-wing ears forward and alert."

Great going, not even 5 mintues into the conversation and you're already making a bad impression., she chides herself in thought, going off into her spiel and not even seeing the extended hand.

"Where are my manners? I am truly sorry. I am known as Chrysala Nightchilde.", she bows a bit at the end of her introduction, then listens carefully as Law-Student speaks about the extraction.

"Interesting. Does your mother speak at all about the beginning? The days after the extraction? Forgive me if I am intruding into subjects I should not, but I must admit that while I know of the extraction and the reasons behind it, I am a bit ignorant of the history of what happened directly after it."

-----
Khenala Prime

"The Mountain Arcology training sounds promising. We hope it is akin to the Gratt Cliffs in Eeorouh. This is sounding more like familiar territory for some. For me, the Whispering Savannah is my home, and it's long stretches of open air. But I believe we will try to go along with your standard eductaional practices, and get our conditioning on our own with free time. This Mountain Arcology sounds prime for that purpose. Do we have to reserve time to gain non-class access?"

Jonal replies. "The Arcologies are open to all citizens, and by extension, to you, at all times. You need merely travel there, and its expanses are yours to travel. Certain segments of the Mountain Arcology are retsricted for Military use, however, those areas are clearly marked. And if you are used to the plains, fear not, we do have a Grassland Arcology outside of Khenala Prime city limits. It, too, is not too far away by MagLev. We recognize that in a City this large, nature is more often than not too far away to be enjoyed by the citizens. It is for this reason we designed and built the Arcologies, self contained regions of different climates and terrain, to bring nature to the City. I am sure you will find them satisfactory."

Hreer University Student Center
A member of Student Affairs enters the center, and signals with a low bellow for attention.

"A new class has recently been made available for registration. It will be posted on the boards as Augmentation Engineering and Mechanics. Section is TBA. That is all."Ioana raises an eyebrow. "Augmentations? Are talking about chroming people?"

"I, as well. I have a minor in Sakkran Studies, and hope to have a permanent post here sometime in the future. Our ambassador is getting rather old, and I think he wants to spend time with his son"--she quickly adds as an addendum--"so I've heard, anyway."

"Lossa is a great host, and beyond that, a brilliant man. My father admires him greatly. I simply have to find out what classes he is teaching. Have you finalized any classes, yet?"She talks a lot about parents. Maybe that's a cultural thing? "Yes, most definitely brilliant... I haven't finalized all my classes yet, just to leave some options open. Really, my goal is to have something to do with extrasolars, so I'm working on xenobiology and xenopsychology mostly. Maybe get an ambassadorial post to S-14 or something."

Ranel sighed. "We all have survival training as children, we spend the course of about three months in the Mountain Arcology with only the barest of essentials, but I am sure its nothing compared to what the Sakkrans go through. They don't eat for weeks at a time. Don't think I can handle that.", he chuckled lightly, patting his stomach.

"Ranel, you claim starvation after only hours without food. I dont think you'd be able to even comprehend a day without it, let alone weeks."

Ranel gave a light glare at Rune. "Well I guess we'll just see then, won't we?" He turned back to Timofeyev. "So, the Aerospace Directorate, huh? Training to join one of the TYCS ships?""Nothing quite so extreme." Timofeyev shrugs. "Instead of one long-duration survival trip it's usually a week-long survival trip every year or so once we've been taught the basics--like a fire drill--and it's usually done through the civilian militias. Me, I'm ordered to eat so I can stick in mass regulations. Still, if I can make it through this, it's one less hoop to jump through later.

"Most of the troopers taught by the Scolopendran Military Services second out to the TYCS; while a posting on one of them wouldn't be too bad I have to admit that Galaxy Exploration Command is more of where my interest lies. First tour I hope to get a strategic defense installation slot, nice and dull so I can work on my higher degrees inbetween drills; then hopefully, armed with more degrees, I can second out to the GEC."

"Where are my manners? I am truly sorry. I am known as Chrysala Nightchilde.", she bows a bit at the end of her introduction, then listens carefully as Law-Student speaks about the extraction.

"Interesting. Does your mother speak at all about the beginning? The days after the extraction? Forgive me if I am intruding into subjects I should not, but I must admit that while I know of the extraction and the reasons behind it, I am a bit ignorant of the history of what happened directly after it."
"Do not apologize," Law-Student raises one hand slightly, "I am not offended, Chrysala Nightchilde. As my mother says, 'You fear the K'zin. This is good.'" She shrugs and continues to smile, tips of her lips upturned. "I do not wish to inspire fear, but it is a form of respect and I respect it.

"Yes, she talks about it. She thinks it is the most important part. You do know the Patriarch was killed, yes? How our culture was designed, he and he alone had the deepest knowledge of our secrets. Our culture was also very rigid, very organized. He was the tip of the pyramid, supreme leader. When he and his successors were assassinated... we lost guidance. My people were not taught initiative back then. We were lost, confused, in an alien land surrounded by people who had shamed us by doing for us what we could not do ourselves yet still respected us greatly although we had nothing.

"My mother was a young K'zin-ret in all this. She said that it was confusing, being nothing and yet held in high regard. The Scolopendrans were infinitely apologetic and infinitely helpful... to a culture that regards personal strength above all, this was well-nigh an insult. We did nothing, because we could not, and we could not agree even which direction to look. Yet just being alive presents opportunities. A few of us began to reach out, to try and make new connections for themselves. My mother joined the Scolopendran military. Advisor Speaker-to-Animals"--she says the name with an odd sort of respect--"took classes and continued being a diplomat. He was even accepted into the higher government twenty years ago, just after I was born.

"We transformed duty to Patriarch to duty to state. It served the same role as teacher, leader, and protector, but we learned that the relationship between ruler and ruled is... reciprocal. The essential reason we had a Patriarch is because it worked for us; when it ceased working, we were forced to adapt."

She chuckles slightly. "My mother always laughs when she thinks about going from supporting a chauvinistic monarchy to defending egalitarian democracy. The idea was alien to her, she said, but it said that she was no lesser than her brother simply because she was K'zin-ret and he was K'zin-tosh. We stopped feeling insulted and worthless when we learned that, in this culture, we were intrinsically valuable. All we had to do was act on potential.

"Take the initiative."

She talks a lot about parents. Maybe that's a cultural thing? "Yes, most definitely brilliant... I haven't finalized all my classes yet, just to leave some options open. Really, my goal is to have something to do with extrasolars, so I'm working on xenobiology and xenopsychology mostly. Maybe get an ambassadorial post to S-14 or something."

She smiles. "Sounds like a job to aspire to."

As the Sakkrans announce the new class, she looks up. "Augmentation Engineering? Hmm, I wonder what that is all about?"

"Nothing quite so extreme." Timofeyev shrugs. "Instead of one long-duration survival trip it's usually a week-long survival trip every year or so once we've been taught the basics--like a fire drill--and it's usually done through the civilian militias. Me, I'm ordered to eat so I can stick in mass regulations. Still, if I can make it through this, it's one less hoop to jump through later.

"Most of the troopers taught by the Scolopendran Military Services second out to the TYCS; while a posting on one of them wouldn't be too bad I have to admit that Galaxy Exploration Command is more of where my interest lies. First tour I hope to get a strategic defense installation slot, nice and dull so I can work on my higher degrees inbetween drills; then hopefully, armed with more degrees, I can second out to the GEC."

Rune nods. "Yes, a number of our aspiring scientists are greatly yearning for the opportunity to go extra-solar. The possibilities out there are endless."

Ranel looks towards Timofeyev once more. "How long does your training with the Aerospace Directorate have to be before graduation?"

She chuckles slightly. "My mother always laughs when she thinks about going from supporting a chauvinistic monarchy to defending egalitarian democracy. The idea was alien to her, she said, but it said that she was no lesser than her brother simply because she was K'zin-ret and he was K'zin-tosh. We stopped feeling insulted and worthless when we learned that, in this culture, we were intrinsically valuable. All we had to do was act on potential.

"Take the initiative."

Chrysala stands wideeyed as Law-Student recounts K'zin history.

"Fascinating. Well, for your culture to have come so far, and to have integrated so well into Scolopendran society in a single generation is nothing short of astounding. For example, change on Earth is often long, drawn out, and brought about with great difficulty. Why, the way your people fit into Scolopendran society, its as if you belonged there all along."

She smiles. "Sounds like a job to aspire to."

As the Sakkrans announce the new class, she looks up. "Augmentation Engineering? Hmm, I wonder what that is all about?""Sounds like they're talking physical augmentations--Shodeywork--y'know, stuff like cyborg parts and what not. I wonder if they're just talking cybernetics or whether bioaugmentation is included."

Rune nods. "Yes, a number of our aspiring scientists are greatly yearning for the opportunity to go extra-solar. The possibilities out there are endless."

Ranel looks towards Timofeyev once more. "How long does your training with the Aerospace Directorate have to be before graduation?""Well, AD training is done concurrently with university education. It's basically an additional set of classes. Over four years, it totals out to... hrm... sixteen credit-hours without counting the residual 'homework' involved like uniform upkeep, cadet wing jobs, and additional taskings. Inbetween second- and third-year we get sent to field training, which is basically just boot camp. After we graduate, we get sent to mission-specific training depending on whatever job we're doing, and the time on that training varies with the complexity of the task."

Bondayehr shrugs. "It's tough, but at least it gives me some sense of purpose."

Chrysala stands wideeyed as Law-Student recounts K'zin history.

"Fascinating. Well, for your culture to have come so far, and to have integrated so well into Scolopendran society in a single generation is nothing short of astounding. For example, change on Earth is often long, drawn out, and brought about with great difficulty. Why, the way your people fit into Scolopendran society, its as if you belonged there all along."
Law-Student smiles. "We had help. The Break did not hurt the process either. Our most dedicated, those who adapted, were on the colony ships to Titan. When the Mediterranean Scolopendra disappeared and the multiverse took its place... all those that refused to adapt disappeared. An unnatural form of natural selection." She shrugs. "It made all of us stronger in the end."

As the Sakkrans announce the new class, she looks up. "Augmentation Engineering? Hmm, I wonder what that is all about?""Sounds like they're talking physical augmentations--Shodeywork--y'know, stuff like cyborg parts and what not. I wonder if they're just talking cybernetics or whether bioaugmentation is included."

One of the students in the lounge is looking up the description.

"Ah. The Augmentation Engineering is a class based around the concepts of Augmentation Armor design and engineering. Armor balance, interfacing, and effectiveness are explored. Students will design an Augmentation Suit from parts, build, and then operate it. Tours of the Hreer Weapon Works will be taken during this course, and discussion will follow."

OOC: More later. Just got in from hospital.

One of the students in the lounge is looking up the description.

"Ah. The Augmentation Engineering is a class based around the concepts of Augmentation Armor design and engineering. Armor balance, interfacing, and effectiveness are explored. Students will design an Augmentation Suit from parts, build, and then operate it. Tours of the Hreer Weapon Works will be taken during this course, and discussion will follow."

OOC: More later. Just got in from hospital.
(OOC: Ouch. What's up, if it's any of my business?)

Timofeyev looks around. "Did someone just mention powered armor? Sweet."

OOC: The mantle of fatherhood has been layed upon my shoulders. The mother is recuperating from near kidney and liver failure during the pregnancy. I am staying by her side, but come home from time to time to keep the house in order, answer messages, and of course, keep my posts going. Heh heh.

(OOC: Oi.

Congratulations on the first and condolences on the second... I hope she'll get well.)

"Sounds like they're talking physical augmentations--Shodeywork--y'know, stuff like cyborg parts and what not. I wonder if they're just talking cybernetics or whether bioaugmentation is included."

Rose nods at this explanation. "Sounds interesting, though I would love to learn about cybernetic augmentation, I would prefer to keep my person the way it is."


One of the students in the lounge is looking up the description.

"Ah. The Augmentation Engineering is a class based around the concepts of Augmentation Armor design and engineering. Armor balance, interfacing, and effectiveness are explored. Students will design an Augmentation Suit from parts, build, and then operate it. Tours of the Hreer Weapon Works will be taken during this course, and discussion will follow."

Rose frowned at this. "Hmm, apparently the Augmentation Engineering refers to the construction of Powered Armor." She glances down at her class schedule.

"Well, I have a few more openings, and most of my classes thus far are based in history and sociology. I suppose an Engineering class couldn't hurt. Plus, I've always wanted to tour Hreer Weapon Works, and I suppose this gives me the chance."

She looks up at Ledum from her datapad. "How about you?"

----------


Well, AD training is done concurrently with university education. It's basically an additional set of classes. Over four years, it totals out to... hrm... sixteen credit-hours without counting the residual 'homework' involved like uniform upkeep, cadet wing jobs, and additional taskings. Inbetween second- and third-year we get sent to field training, which is basically just boot camp. After we graduate, we get sent to mission-specific training depending on whatever job we're doing, and the time on that training varies with the complexity of the task."

Bondayehr shrugs. "It's tough, but at least it gives me some sense of purpose."

Rune nodded, thuroughly interested.

"Fascinating. What year are you now? Been to boot-camp yet?"

Ranel perks up at the mention of the Augmentation Class. "Alright! We get to build our own Powered Armor! I'm definitely signing up for that one."

----------


Law-Student smiles. "We had help. The Break did not hurt the process either. Our most dedicated, those who adapted, were on the colony ships to Titan. When the Mediterranean Scolopendra disappeared and the multiverse took its place... all those that refused to adapt disappeared. An unnatural form of natural selection." She shrugs. "It made all of us stronger in the end."

"I've heard about that take on reality.", Chrysala says, grinning, as this is obviously a subject she loves to discuss. "Do you ever wonder, though, if the Scolopendra that 'disappeared', still exists? I mean, with what may have happened, its obvious that it must exist in some way, shape, or form in some type of alternate reality. What do you think has become of those who 'refused to adapt', as you say?"

Rose nods at this explanation. "Sounds interesting, though I would love to learn about cybernetic augmentation, I would prefer to keep my person the way it is."

Rose frowned at this. "Hmm, apparently the Augmentation Engineering refers to the construction of Powered Armor." She glances down at her class schedule.

"Well, I have a few more openings, and most of my classes thus far are based in history and sociology. I suppose an Engineering class couldn't hurt. Plus, I've always wanted to tour Hreer Weapon Works, and I suppose this gives me the chance."

She looks up at Ledum from her datapad. "How about you?"Ledum shakes his head. "Nahh... powered-armor isn't really my thing. It can be interesting, but I really don't have a need to learn how to design the things. I'm sticking mostly to anthropology; it'll be more useful in my goals than engineering."

Rune nodded, thuroughly interested.

"Fascinating. What year are you now? Been to boot-camp yet?"

Ranel perks up at the mention of the Augmentation Class. "Alright! We get to build our own Powered Armor! I'm definitely signing up for that one.""Not yet." Bondayehr taps the rank on his shoulders, a blue chevron with two stripes. "I'm just a Cadet Third Class--second-year--and this year is basically dedicated to get cadets like me prepared for field training. I'm sure hanging around the Sakkra will not be a disadvantage." He chuckles.

"Too bad about that armor class... all my slots are filled. So many things to do, so few hours in the day."

"I've heard about that take on reality.", Chrysala says, grinning, as this is obviously a subject she loves to discuss. "Do you ever wonder, though, if the Scolopendra that 'disappeared', still exists? I mean, with what may have happened, its obvious that it must exist in some way, shape, or form in some type of alternate reality. What do you think has become of those who 'refused to adapt', as you say?"
Law-Student shrugs, smile falling. "Anything on that subject is conjecture. Whether they live in an alternate reality or not, they may as well be dead to us. Thus we treat them as dead."

"Although, from their eyes, it would look like their colony fleet disappeared. It was a last attempt to escape their enemies. Without resources and with the ire of the world against them... no matter where they exist now, they are probably dead."

A pair of Cadets make an entry into the student lounge. One is still bright green, and has a newly-forming dewlap. No large central pip is evident on her uniform. The other is a slightly darker shade of green, with a crest just starting to form. He has a large central pip on his uniform.

They make their customary greetings to other students who address them, and then get some foul-smelling beverage and take a seat, watching the Jugg Match with mild interest.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Khenala Prime

"MMmmm. That Mountain Arcology sounds fine. We thank you in advance for transportation arrangements. But what is the scholastic year looking like? Are there major holidays we should be made aware of? And will you be informing us of any cultural ceremonies that may occur?"

Timofeyev notes the entrance of the cadets before returning to his conversation. There's no pressing need to meet anyone in particular yet. Ioana is too entranced by the match to really notice, Law-Student is concentrating on her conversation with Chrysala, and Ledum is still sort-of lost in his own thoughts.

Ledum shakes his head. "Nahh... powered-armor isn't really my thing. It can be interesting, but I really don't have a need to learn how to design the things. I'm sticking mostly to anthropology; it'll be more useful in my goals than engineering."

"The same is true for me, I suppose, however, while my desired career has nothing to do with engineering, it certainly can't hurt to know. These classes dont come along every day in Khenala, and I dont know if I could pass it up. Who knows? It might come in handy someday."

"Not yet." Bondayehr taps the rank on his shoulders, a blue chevron with two stripes. "I'm just a Cadet Third Class--second-year--and this year is basically dedicated to get cadets like me prepared for field training. I'm sure hanging around the Sakkra will not be a disadvantage." He chuckles.

"Too bad about that armor class... all my slots are filled. So many things to do, so few hours in the day."

"Yeah, ours are pretty much filled too.", Rune replied, disappointment edged in his voice. "I wonder if they'll find a way to have us extend our stay once this school year is over? Even better, I wonder if my University of Khenala credits will transfer." He frowns at this, looking down at his datapad and entering a few keystrokes to remind him to ask someone of import at a later date.

Law-Student shrugs, smile falling. "Anything on that subject is conjecture. Whether they live in an alternate reality or not, they may as well be dead to us. Thus we treat them as dead."

"Although, from their eyes, it would look like their colony fleet disappeared. It was a last attempt to escape their enemies. Without resources and with the ire of the world against them... no matter where they exist now, they are probably dead."

Chrysala looks somewhat grim at that harsh take on reality, normally preferring to look for the positive in all things, but conceded in her mind that Law-Student was most likely right.

"A grim outlook, but most likely true. Still, sometimes it is nice to ponder what might-have-been. On the bright side, in this multiverse, as you put it, Scolopendra is a prime example of what nation can do when people, even of different backgrounds, work together. I suppose that is something to be proud of."

-----

Khenala Prime

"MMmmm. That Mountain Arcology sounds fine. We thank you in advance for transportation arrangements. But what is the scholastic year looking like? Are there major holidays we should be made aware of? And will you be informing us of any cultural ceremonies that may occur?"

"Well, we do have various state holidays, and such, but the only thing at the top of my head that I can think of is the week-long Festival of the Suns, which is a large celebration of our culture and heritage. The University is closed for that week, but there numerous events throughout the country."

A light chime is heard throughout the building, as various students finish up their selections and head out of the Auditorium Dome.

Jonal looks up at the sound of the chime. "Ah, that signals the beginning of our mid-day meal.", he says, turning to the Sakkran students. "If you'd like, I can escort you to the cafeteria-level where you may dine, if you prefer. I am aware that you have different dietary requirements than Khenalian students, but I trust that has been taken care of before your arrival. Education Minister Jaenna is very thurough."

"The same is true for me, I suppose, however, while my desired career has nothing to do with engineering, it certainly can't hurt to know. These classes dont come along every day in Khenala, and I dont know if I could pass it up. Who knows? It might come in handy someday." "It could, I guess, but anything 'might' be handy in some obscure situation." Ledum shrugs. "I'm just not interested enough."

"Yeah, ours are pretty much filled too.", Rune replied, disappointment edged in his voice. "I wonder if they'll find a way to have us extend our stay once this school year is over? Even better, I wonder if my University of Khenala credits will transfer." He frowns at this, looking down at his datapad and entering a few keystrokes to remind him to ask someone of import at a later date."I'm glad I got those concerns out of the way before I left." Bondayehr shrugs.

Chrysala looks somewhat grim at that harsh take on reality, normally preferring to look for the positive in all things, but conceded in her mind that Law-Student was most likely right.

"A grim outlook, but most likely true. Still, sometimes it is nice to ponder what might-have-been. On the bright side, in this multiverse, as you put it, Scolopendra is a prime example of what nation can do when people, even of different backgrounds, work together. I suppose that is something to be proud of."
Law-Student nods, and smiles quietly. "It is, and we are. I apologize for being grim at times. It is a national trait. If I may ask," she chuckles, huffing softly, "what has made you so interested in my people?"

"It could, I guess, but anything 'might' be handy in some obscure situation." Ledum shrugs. "I'm just not interested enough."

"Well, it reminds me of an old saying, 'A nation is best known by its ability to make war.' What better way to learn of the Sakkran mindset than in the construction of its weaponry? Don't get me wrong, the Sakkrans have numerous qualities besides the ingenious design of their weapons, but I want to...immerse myself in the culture. All aspects of it. I guess that would include engineering and weaponry. Besides, I do plan on spending quite a bit of time here. And I tend to find that obscure situations tend to happen more often than I'd like." She smiles once more. "I'm going to go confirm the rest of my classes. Hopefully I'll see you in some?"



"I'm glad I got those concerns out of the way before I left." Bondayehr shrugs.

"Yeah, I would have, but I was a "last minute" selection to come here. I had been on the waiting list and fortunately for me, one of the other students was forced to decline participation about 2 hours before departure. So here I am."

Law-Student nods, and smiles quietly. "It is, and we are. I apologize for being grim at times. It is a national trait. If I may ask," she chuckles, huffing softly, "what has made you so interested in my people?"

She ponders this for a moment, before answering. "I wish I could tell you exactly. Something about your people intrigues me. You're so...unique. The Sakkrans are, too. That's one of the main reasons I'm here. This is already the second day and I've learned so much. It's like the possibilities here are endless for someone as interested in Xeno-psychology as I am."

"I'm going to go confirm the rest of my classes. Hopefully I'll see you in some?"
"Maybe." Ledum shrugs. "We'll see. Have a good day, Rose." The conversation terminated, Ledum wandered about the center, seeing what there was to see and basically getting situated.

"Yeah, I would have, but I was a "last minute" selection to come here. I had been on the waiting list and fortunately for me, one of the other students was forced to decline participation about 2 hours before departure. So here I am."
"Lucky you... if you need to get that done, please don't let me keep you."

"I wish I could tell you exactly. Something about your people intrigues me. You're so...unique. The Sakkrans are, too. That's one of the main reasons I'm here. This is already the second day and I've learned so much. It's like the possibilities here are endless for someone as interested in Xeno-psychology as I am."
"Heh," Law-Student chuckles softly, "I think you would get along rather well with Ledum. He is also studying xenopsychology and is interested in the... unique.

"I remember him telling me that the diplomatic officer assigned to the embassy in Sakkra is K'zin. She would remember the extraction. I could contact her and see if she is willing to answer a few questions. Is that an acceptable idea?"

"Maybe." Ledum shrugs. "We'll see. Have a good day, Rose." The conversation terminated, Ledum wandered about the center, seeing what there was to see and basically getting situated.

Rose nodded, and departed, wandering the center to see if she could find any Sakkran professors to speak with about her class selections.


"Lucky you... if you need to get that done, please don't let me keep you."

Rune nodded. "It was good talking to you. Hopefully I'll see you around!" He reaches out to shake Bondayehr's hand before departing with Ranel.

Ranel nodded his affirmation as well. "Yeah, I'm pretty sure we'll have at least SOME classes together. Nice meeting you."

"Heh," Law-Student chuckles softly, "I think you would get along rather well with Ledum. He is also studying xenopsychology and is interested in the... unique.

"I remember him telling me that the diplomatic officer assigned to the embassy in Sakkra is K'zin. She would remember the extraction. I could contact her and see if she is willing to answer a few questions. Is that an acceptable idea?"

"Wow, that would be great, yes! Thank you for your help. This has been...quite educational."

Rune nodded. "It was good talking to you. Hopefully I'll see you around!" He reaches out to shake Bondayehr's hand before departing with Ranel.

Ranel nodded his affirmation as well. "Yeah, I'm pretty sure we'll have at least SOME classes together. Nice meeting you."
"Nice meeting you too." Bondayehr nods to the retreating Khenalans, then goes to pester the large group around the viewer. "Ah, Jugg Matches. Hey, Ioana. Find a new sport?"

"Shut up. Watching." She doesn't break eye-contact with the screen.

Bondayehr smirks. "Apparently so."

"Wow, that would be great, yes! Thank you for your help. This has been...quite educational."
Law-Student smiles. "I will see what I can do. Do you have anything else to ask, or should we see what entertainment is available?"

Law-Student smiles. "I will see what I can do. Do you have anything else to ask, or should we see what entertainment is available?"

"That souds like a plan. Got any ideas?"

"That souds like a plan. Got any ideas?"
Law-Student chuckles. "If wandering around aimlessly is a plan, then yes. We could also impose on the unique"--she winks at the word--"Sakkra, if need be."

Standing up, she stretches her arms and yawns, sharp white teeth flashing in the light. "First, so much talking makes one thirsty. I wonder what there is to drink."

"That souds like a plan. Got any ideas?"
Law-Student chuckles. "If wandering around aimlessly is a plan, then yes. We could also impose on the unique"--she winks at the word--"Sakkra, if need be."

Standing up, she stretches her arms and yawns, sharp white teeth flashing in the light. "First, so much talking makes one thirsty. I wonder what there is to drink."

"Have you ever tried Paroo? It packs quite a punch. The first time I drank it I was studying for an exam and was subsequently up for the next 48 hours.", she muses. "It definitely perks one up."

"Have you ever tried Paroo? It packs quite a punch. The first time I drank it I was studying for an exam and was subsequently up for the next 48 hours.", she muses. "It definitely perks one up."
Law-Student smiles broadly. "I am always willing to try something new, but I like my sleep. Keeps the shine in my coat. Lead on, Chrysala."

Timofeyev looks over--Law-Student tends to stand out in the croud, being red-orange--and smiles to himself. Looks like someone found herself a friend. Nice.

Jonal looks up at the sound of the chime. "Ah, that signals the beginning of our mid-day meal.", he says, turning to the Sakkran students. "If you'd like, I can escort you to the cafeteria-level where you may dine, if you prefer. I am aware that you have different dietary requirements than Khenalian students, but I trust that has been taken care of before your arrival. Education Minister Jaenna is very thurough."

"Why, yes. We'd like to see this cafeteria. It has been a standard week since we last ate, and our stomachs are beginning to make us aware of this." The grouping of students nod their agreement while checking their datapads for their class registrations.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Lossa stands at the entrance for the student center, looking over the students at their activities. Aah, it is nice to see everyone preparing themselves. Ah, I see the exchange students are socializing nicely. Good, good. He then stands and clears his throat.

*Ahem* "I would like to announce that all classes are now filled, and registrations are closed. Please confirm your registrations, and clear any errors, at the student affairs office in the morning."

There are only two common responses, and a third less common response, to being in the presence of one's hero. The first, the kind preferred by the gregarious type, is to begin fawning and throwing away all reason in excited gasps of "It's you!!!" like the introduction of some poorly translated video game. The second, the one that seems more common, is to take the countenance of wildlife in halogen lights and simply stand there, staring, devotion running through the mind but very little else running through the body.

The third response, most uncommon indeed, is to simply treat said hero like anyone else who ever walked the Earth. Most reasonable, least common... a commentary on 'rational' beings indeed.

Ledum, not being gregarious enough for the first response and not self-assured enough for the third, merely stands and stares at Lossa with the same sort of worshipful gaze most often found in Renaissance paintings of the Madonna and Christ.

Ioana just keeps watching the Jugg match. Yeah, yeah, classes full. Fix later. Okay. Cool. Whoa, look at that!

Timofeyev looks over his shoulder, nods curtly, and pulls his portcomp up from his belt. Flipping the lid, he ticks off points on the screen as he checks a list in his lead. "Yep, all cleared and by the book." Until someone inevitably screws something up, just like every semester. He shuts the portcomp with a resounding *click* of finality and a smile of accomplishing something.

Seeing the two cadets idly watching the Jugg match, and noting that they didn't seem too interested, he decides to take a chance. Stepping up, be bows shortly. "Good afternoon, Cadets. How goes your day?"

The cadets look up slightly, never moving their heads, but focusing with one eye. The male speaks up a sthe other has a mouth full of food.

"The day continues as it ever does, Student. With drills, vigilance and practice. This semester has, however, shown to be slightly less prone to incidents than usual."

The other one swallows her food. "Ah, you are one of the exchange students, yes? How do you find yourself so far?"

Timofeyev looks around with a grin. "I don't think I could be mistaken as a native. Cadet Third Class Bondayehr, Scolopendran Aerospace Directorate. I'm settling in well enough, all things considered. Meeting new people, getting ready for classes, acclimating to a new climate."

Stretching slightly, he wonders momentarily if they think smoke-cloud camouflaged battle utility uniforms are standard Scolopendran student wear. Eh, no need to get finicky about titles. "A good day, by any estimate. If I may ask, what do you mean by 'incidents?' My mind thinks 'training accidents,' but maybe I'm just morbid."

The male cadet chuckles. A sound like whiff escaping his nostrils. "Sometimes there are those that think themselves the alpha of the groups. Probably an early mating rut. But they have to be made 'tranquil' before things get out of hand. And so we keep the peace here. It's how we earn our tuition. The ones that are getting too excited about the Jugg Match; we have had dealings with them before. And so I have been assigned to watch them."

The cadet focuses with his eye again on Timofeyev. "I am Cadet Corporal Ggess, Imperial Defense Forces. Before me is Cadet Private Dheera, Imperial Void Navy. We are pleased to meet cadets of other species."He stands and salutes as does Dheera, left hand over chest with fingers splayed.

Recognizing the gesture, Cadet Bondayehr snaps to attention--bootheels together, toes set fourty-five degrees apart, fists along seam of pants--and salutes snappily, simply bending his right forearm up from the elbow at it's position of attention and bringing the tip of his fingers to the edge of his glasses, back of the hand canted slightly forward. Being the one saluted, he holds it for a brief moment and drops it, returning to a more at-ease stance.

"Always pleased to meet other cadets and other species," Timofeyev grins, "and meeting cadets of other species is twice the honor. So, if I understand correctly, Sakkran cadets act as a sort of security force for universities? Interesting."

He suddenly makes a connection between the ones that are getting too excited about the Jugg Match and the fact that Ioana is in said group watching the Match too intently to be concerned with her own safety. "Do you mind if I join you? I've a fellow Scolopendran national over there"--he points--"who doesn't have enough sense to keep herself safe in case things go awry. Being the only cadet in the exchange group, it's my tacit duty to keep everyone in some semblance of safety."

Well, that's not completely true--not like SADHQ is asking me to actively protect anyone--but it's how I feel about the issue.

The cadets look at the direction of the pointing finger. A young human female almost submerged completely in the Match. "We would be glad to have you join us. There will be a round of mild ale to be had for our vigil."

A particularly robust Sakkran rises up roaring, apparently incensed by something happening at the match. "Filthy tricks! The Dirges have bribed someone! Who else could overlook that obvious foul!"

"Ghaar! Sit down and seal your jaw! It was a good play!" Another Sakkran rises, and raises his crest up fully. Ghaar follows suit, with his crest raised. "You would support such dis-honor, Kkrell of the vrelt-eaters!"

The smell of combat pheremones is now heavy in the air, and is beginning to cause a disturbance among the males and females in the vicinity.

"Oh, by the Horde! it was too good to last." The cadets rise up, pulling on some heavy-duty gloves of unkown ends.

"Bloody hell." Bondayehr stuffs his battle utility uniform cover on his head, feeling it to be appropriate at the time, and moves to intercept Ioana. Looking up at the Sakkrans momentarily, he knows fear.

Shit. Shitmegjoderchengagotterdammerung--he curses quite the multilingual compound word in his head before he regains control--Hey, I'm small. Fast. They won't be looking down at 5' 9" height. Gulping, he crouches slightly to heighten his natural 'advantage' and rushes in to grab Ioana.

Ioana, meanwhile, is distracted long enough to notice that there are several very large, very angry reptilians around. She doesn't quite seem to get the idea that the situation is dangerous quite yet as her mind adapts from passive game-watching mode to active staying-alive mode.

Law-Student sniffs the air and looks over at the Jugg match. "We will wait and see if we are needed."

Ledum has wandered too far off to know exactly what's going on, but from the reactions of the Sakkra around him he figures something's up.

The one called Kkrell crouches low and lets out a long, loud Hhsssssss! "Vrelt-eater!? When I am done, you will wish you could eat even that!"

He leaps at Ghaar and tackles him, crashing past the chairs the others were sitting on, and destorying a table full of beverages. The occupants rise up swiftly, and butt into each other, setting off a new series of hostile feelings.

As Ghaar gains his footing after some more rolling and crashing, Ggess presses a button on his gloves, and proceeds to slap Ghaar on the back of the neck. A short spark is emitted, and Ghaar falls flat on his face. Ggess fits some wrist restraints on him, and looks to find Kkrell.

Dheera is already behind Kkrell, and manages to fit him into a pair of wrist restraints before he even realizes it. "Any noise from you, and we'll taze you as well. Now tranquil yourself."

Cadet Bondayehr finds himself leaping over a fragment of table, polished combat boots glinting, under a Sakkran arm. Shoulder-rolling to his left, he lunges over a chair and tackles Ioana from her position, rolling both humans into a tumbling heap on the floor. "Sorry, permission to touch?" With a burst of adrenaline, he rolls to his feet, hoists her under his arm and runs off to a relatively safe distance before putting her back down.

"Umm..." He rubs his shoulder, probably certain to bruise after that roll. "Sorry about that, Io."

Ioana gasps for air and blinks at him momentarily. Looking around his shoulder at the Sakkran fray behind him, she blinks some more. "What do you expect me to do," she finally manages, chuckling nervously, "yell at you for saving my life?"

"Oh, I'm sure it's not that much..." He rubs the back of his neck, blushing slightly. Stupid modesty. "Just doing my job. Ah, Shorty!" he calls, completely failing to remember where he is. Law-Student looks over, furred brow raised. "Take care of Io for me, I'm going to see if the other cadets need help."

The cadet transfers the shaken human to the confused K'zin and trots back to the stalled fight. "Scolopendran citizen extracted safely. Anything I can help with at the moment?"

Ggess is hauling an unconcious Sakkran over his shoulder, with Dheera close behind. "We have apprehended the two who started this ruckus. They will be detained until a review can be done. The security office has been notified, and are sending other cadets."

"For your safety, we suggest not going in that room. They will beat each other stupid for a time, and then calm themselves. However, we would ask if you could make certain the hostilities do not spill out from beyond this room. The Cadets will be here in a few moments."

"Ack." Cadet Bondayehr nods, automatically going into Scolopendran military shorthand. "Acting."

Note to self: Obtain some sort of long staff- or baton-like weapon with taser capability. If required to take up a security role, I'm somewhat at a disadvantage.

He looks to see if the door can be closed, and if so, closes it; if it can be barred or locked he takes that precaution as well. Whether it can be or no, he stands beside the door at parade rest, keeping a vigilant eye out and trying to look imposing.

He probably manages to look tense, because he is. As for imposing... that is up to the two-meter-plus beholders to determine.

Law-Student smiles broadly. "I am always willing to try something new, but I like my sleep. Keeps the shine in my coat. Lead on, Chrysala."

"Well, I believe the student cafeteria was somewhere over in this direction--"

She is interrupted by the now escalating brawl with the two Sakkrans.

Law-Student sniffs the air and looks over at the Jugg match. "We will wait and see if we are needed."

Chrysala nods. "Right, though I don't know what use I will be." She had a fleeting thought of being ripped to shreds by a pack of angry Sakkrans, but put the image aside, willing to step in if necessary. "Look, over there. That girl, is she going to be OK in the middle like that?" There is no time to answer, as when she points over to Ioana, tensions escalate between the two Sakkrans and she stands watching Timofeyev tackle her out of the way and bring her over to where she and Law-Student were standing.

"Ah, Shorty!" he calls, completely failing to remember where he is. Law-Student looks over, furred brow raised. "Take care of Io for me, I'm going to see if the other cadets need help."

Chrysala glances over to Ioana. "Are you all right? That fall looked pretty nasty."

=====

Khenala Prime


"Why, yes. We'd like to see this cafeteria. It has been a standard week since we last ate, and our stomachs are beginning to make us aware of this." The grouping of students nod their agreement while checking their datapads for their class registrations.

Jonal leads the students out of the Auditorium Dome into a rather large elevator/lift, which takes them to the Cafeteria-Level. Upon emerging from the lift, the students see the very large dining area, which can easily seat several hundred people at one time, the "kitchen", of sorts, takes up a majority of the floor, and to one side there is a row of several different restaurants featuring cuisine from various Titan nations, different styles of Khenalian cooking, and, as Jonal promised, a Sakkran restaurant.

The level is filling up quickly, as the chime had marked the beginning of the mid-day meal.

Chrysala glances over to Ioana. "Are you all right? That fall looked pretty nasty."
Ioana pulls up her sleeve, revealing a slight scrape. "Um..." Looking back at the room that Cadet Bondayehr currently guards, she shakes slightly. "It's nothing. Could've been worse... muchly so."

Law-Student puts one hand on Ioana's shoulder. "You are all right now, Io."

"I... I think I need to sit down now." The freckled girl sits down heavily, shuddering quietly.

"Hrm." Law-Student looks over at Bondayehr, then down at Io. He is seriously outclassed in his task, but he is right; she needs to be taken care of.

Cadet Bondayehr simply remains standing where he is, idly looking at the Sakkra around him. "Nothing to see here, the situation is under control. Please move along, Students."

The crowd of students loos at the room with the noise, and then at Cadet Bondayehr. It almost seems like they aren't taking him very seriously. but then the crowd seems to part from the rear heading forward. A juggernaut of a Sakkran sporting Drill Seargent stripes makes his way to the doors that Timofeyev is guarding. His white-scaled chin on his lower jaw bristles with jutting teeth, and his eyes are menacingly small. He is flanked by Cadet Dheera, and another female cadet.

"If you will open that door, Cadet, I can establish order here."

Bondayehr really doesn't mind not being taken seriously. Bemusement or fear, any excuse to keep them from trying to get past me is a good excuse to me. Seeing the gargantuan Sakkra, he somehow manages to keep his bearing... no matter how much his eyes want to bug out.

Oi, he's big. Good timing, too. Rembering his quick briefing on Sakkran rank, he nods. "Yes, Sergeant." He quickly undoes the latch, opens the door, and immediately steps aside. No one with an ounce of sanity stays in front of Jagernath longer than is absolutely necessary. Standing beside the door, he continues to maintain overwatch as the Sakkran's enter.

He probably wouldn't be useful in the room anyway.

A deafening roar could be heard behind the door, followed by "What in the Pits is wrong with you all? Are you addled?!? This is a University! Not the Breeding Pits! Get your asses to the detention center or i'll have your hides. NOW!!

The silence is quite pronounced, and the Sakkrans in the student center file out, heads hanging low, flanked by the cadets and followed up at the rear by a chiding Sergeant. "Pathetic. PATHETIC! I should strip you all of your apprenticeships and have you back at Cadet Private fourth class! Obviously your Commanding Officers did a poor job of discipline!"

The Sergeant turns back to Bodayehr. "Good job, Cadet. I'll be watching you." He turns back to the students in his control, and continues marching them while chiding, never missing a beat.

Cadet Bondayehr nods curtly. "Thank you, Sergeant. I am glad I performed acceptably." Repressing a shudder on the 'I'll be watching you' statement--I wonder if that's actually a good think... context, Tim, in context it is good, no matter what your culture thinks about that particular phrase--he sees the Sakkran sergeant off before removing his uniform cover and starts looking around for Cadets Ggess and Dheera.

The cadets Ggess and Dheera can be seen escorting the detainees to the processing center. The room is still open, however, and students begin filing in to take advantage of the now empty accomodations.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Meanwhile, on Khenala Prime

As the Sakkran Students take their seating at the restaraunt serving their native dishes, they begin comparing notes and observations on the architectural stylings and people of Khenala Prime.

A full-sized Newt Roast is brought out, with servings of boiled Paroo, steamed Kansee vine root, Vrelt nuggets and all the appropriate dipping sauces,

Bondayehr decides that, although it may not be the wisest idea, he should probably tag along a safe distance behind. If I get stuck with security details, then this will probably be a little important. Before following, though, he makes a quick detour to the table with Law-Student and Ioana. "Io, Shorty..." He looks at the Khenalan, doesn't recognize her, and nods a greeting. "How's the sitch?"

Ioana stares at the table and shakes slightly before looking up with a weak grin. "As well as could be, I guess..."

Timofeyev gently grips Law-Student's forearm, looking up at her. "Take care of Io, 'kay? Sorry I can't stick around, but I've gotta carry this through to the end."

Law-Student nods shortly, and the Scolopendran cadet jogs after the Sakkran detail, staying a good three or four meters behind them.

(Come in Khenala Prime. We're losing your signal. Heh heh)

(OOC: I'm going to feel bad if I hijacked him out of his own thread. Besides, I actually respect the guy. Wait, that's my out-loud voice, isn't it? :oops:

So much for being the heartless, uncaring one.)

((OOC: No no, you aren't hijacking at all, Scolo. I've just been a bit busy as of late and havent been able to post at work, like I normally do. Hopefully that will change within the next few days or so. :) ))


Khenala Prime

After speaking with a few of her aides, Jaenna Seal spots the Sakkran students eating in the Cafeteria Level. She walks over to the Sakkran students, standing before their table. She nods respectfully before speaking. "Greetings, Students. I truly hope you are enjoying your stay here? I understand that today may seem...uneventful, with the selection of classes being the main focal point today, however, over the next few days as your classes begin that will change greatly. Think of this as the calm before the storm. Did any of you have any questions, or concerns?"

=====
Sakkran Student Center

Rose approaches Chrysala, Ioana, and Law-Student. "I saw the outburst. Are you okay?", she asks, looking to Ioana with a face of concern.

Chrysala furrows a brow for a moment, glancing at Rose. She seems so..familiar, but I can't place her face.

=====

((OOC: I know its not much, but I'll be building more upon it, trust me.))

Rose approaches Chrysala, Ioana, and Law-Student. "I saw the outburst. Are you okay?", she asks, looking to Ioana with a face of concern.
"Well," Ioana mumbles back, "I did almost get stuck in a brawl between two-meter-plus reptilians..." She shudders, leaning in slightly to Law-Student, who wraps a comforting friendly arm around her. "Other than being scared out of my wits and having a decent scrape on my shoulder, I'm fine." The scrape mentioned slowly oozes blood, barely staining her thin light blue shirt.

Khenala Prime

"I'm not certain. For the most part we've signed up for the sociology and engineering courses, and of course the athletics courses. I guess I myself am just curious about the registration confirmation process, and any courses that you might suggest to round out the academic semester?"

"Well," Ioana mumbles back, "I did almost get stuck in a brawl between two-meter-plus reptilians..." She shudders, leaning in slightly to Law-Student, who wraps a comforting friendly arm around her. "Other than being scared out of my wits and having a decent scrape on my shoulder, I'm fine." The scrape mentioned slowly oozes blood, barely staining her thin light blue shirt.

Rose appeared slightly relieved that she was all right, but noticed the blood stain on her shirt. "I am relieved you are not seriously injured, but it does appear you are wounded slightly. Perhaps we can find you some medical attention?"

Chrysala nodded in affirmation. "Well, it doesn't look that bad but you should still get it taken care of none-the-less."

=====

((Sakkra, I'll have a reply for you soon. :) ))

Rose appeared slightly relieved that she was all right, but noticed the blood stain on her shirt. "I am relieved you are not seriously injured, but it does appear you are wounded slightly. Perhaps we can find you some medical attention?"

Chrysala nodded in affirmation. "Well, it doesn't look that bad but you should still get it taken care of none-the-less."
"Hrm." Ioana looks down at the slowly darkening red on her shirt then gingerly pulls it from her shoulder, exposing a raw patch of skin oozing blood. It isn't more than a mere fraction of a millimeter deep except for a few deeper scratches, but it looks painful.

She mumbles distantly, looking at her shoulder like maybe a still-life photograph of a mushroom. Complete detachment. "I don't feel a thing. Just too tense."

Law-Student grumbles. "Hmm... maybe medical attention is best." She looks around for whatever might approximate.

***

Ledum pauses in his wanderings. Haven't I been in this bit before? Looking around, he has no idea where he is. Great. I'm lost.

***

Bondayehr keeps following the Sakkra, doing his best to not intrude.

One of the students that were lounging in the student center previous to the 'excitement', notices the small, out of place band. Seeing the red stain on Ionia's clothing, and the raw exposed wound he ambles forward.

"So you hu-mans do have red-colored blood. Interesting. Your blood must be iron-based then." He reaches into a small pouch on his side, and produces a thin package, 4 inches wide and long with a red X on it.

"It's a synth-skin patch, in case you aren't familiar with our med-tech. It reads DNA from a wound, and matches melanin levels, sjin structure, platelet count etc, and duplicates it as well as skin tone. It also releases small doses of adrenaline. Speeds up healing nicely, and almost with no scarring."

He removes the patch from its container. It looks like a white square. Placing it on the wound, he rises up again. "Should take effect in a few." The patch shifts colors a bit after a couple of seconds. It then settles on Ionia's skintone, and seemingly blends in with her skin, concealing the wound to the point that it almost appears as if there never was one in the first place.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

From where Ledum is standing, he can see a gated and walled structure close by. The cuniform language has pictures of instruments on it, with several low-roofed dorms inside the wall. A small group of female Sakkrans is heading out bearing cased instruments of some manner, laughing with that *clop* sound they make as the mandible connects with the upper jaw.

One of them spies Ledum, seemingly lost. "Oh, look. Must be one of the exchange students we were briefed about."

"Seems a bit lost. Should we escort him?"

"Of course! Let's take him to the club!"

One approaches Ledum, as the others whisper to each other. This one has silvery scaling, and stands at about 6'7"

"Hello, Student. Are you lost? We're going to play at the festival at the club Thundd tonight. You may come if you wish, or if you have pressing business, we can escort you."
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

After a bit of walking, the Sakkran security detail arrives at the detainment center. A heavily walled structure surrounded by guards in light tactical armor, carrying EM Mass Driver personal cannons.

Through the gates and into the complex, it seems everything is strict business here, as it should be. Patrols of three march about the complex, watching everything. Soon they arrive at the processing center, and a clerk is working the desk. "These ones again? Ok, Ghaar. You know the procedure. Fill out this pad, and we'll need statements from witnesses. That would be you, yes Cadet?" The clerk points a pad at Bondayehr.

He removes the patch from its container. It looks like a white square. Placing it on the wound, he rises up again. "Should take effect in a few." The patch shifts colors a bit after a couple of seconds. It then settles on Ionia's skintone, and seemingly blends in with her skin, concealing the wound to the point that it almost appears as if there never was one in the first place.
Ioana blinks, jarred out of her shock by the patch just blending in. "Umm... yeah. Iron-based. Hemoglobin and all that. That patch-thing is... impressive."

She looks up (an ever more common response) at the friendly stranger as she returns her slightly stained shirt to its normal operating position. "Er... thank you again... um... Student." She hopes the title is appropriate as she extends a hand in greeting. "Student Ioana Mondragon... I'm, uh, grateful." She chuckles. "Sorry for being a little out of it... sorta surprised is all."

* - * - *

One approaches Ledum, as the others whisper to each other. This one has silvery scaling, and stands at about 6'7"

"Hello, Student. Are you lost? We're going to play at the festival at the club Thundd tonight. You may come if you wish, or if you have pressing business, we can escort you."
Ledum looks (unsurprisingly) up. "Hello, Student. Umm..." He looks around, the scenery still not matching up with anything resembling a mental map. "...yes, I'm lost." He grins weakly. "Figures I'm the one who gets himself misplaced on his first day of exploration."

Looking over at the group tittering to themselves, he grins a bit broader. Hey, exploration. That's right... the only way you discover stuff is by getting lost in a controlled manner... cool. "Sure, I'd be honored to come along. By the way, my name's Ledum Fawehinmi. Most people just call me Led."

* - * - *

Through the gates and into the complex, it seems everything is strict business here, as it should be. Patrols of three march about the complex, watching everything. Soon they arrive at the processing center, and a clerk is working the desk. "These ones again? Ok, Ghaar. You know the procedure. Fill out this pad, and we'll need statements from witnesses. That would be you, yes Cadet?" The clerk points a pad at Bondayehr.
As he follows the detail into the miniature fortress, he tries not to ogle at the light powered armor. Jeebus H Hyskos, they take security seriously around here! The detachment back home has a rock in front of it.

As a pad is pointed at him, Bondayehr comes to attention. If they take this seriously, he sure as hell is going to as well. "Yes, sir. I observed the incident." With no other input, he waits for someone to tell him what to do or thrust a pad of paperwork at him. Hmmm... I wonder if this classifies as a civil involvement and I have to contact SADHQ about it... ah, hell. They're gonna send me so much paperwork...

"It is alright. That could be the adrenaline kicking in too. tends to pick a being up from a state of shock." He clasps the hand gently. "I am Student Ssrrag. Studying biology and xeno-biology here. This is my final year before I enter an Apprenticeship in the Medical Sciences."

* - * - *

"Very well Student ledum, we will call you Led. If you carry my instrument, we can call you a roadie and you can gain free entry to the club." She then holds a small case made of greyish- blue resin out with one hand.
* - * - *

As a pad is pointed at him, Bondayehr comes to attention. If they take this seriously, he sure as hell is going to as well. "Yes, sir. I observed the incident." With no other input, he waits for someone to tell him what to do or thrust a pad of paperwork at him. Hmmm... I wonder if this classifies as a civil involvement and I have to contact SADHQ about it... ah, hell. They're gonna send me so much paperwork...[/quote]

The pad is veritably pushed into bondayehr's hands. "Fill this out fully and return it to me please." As the pad is prompted, it seems all report paperwork is on-screen. Everything except the witness's identity is asked.

"It is alright. That could be the adrenaline kicking in too. tends to pick a being up from a state of shock." He clasps the hand gently. "I am Student Ssrrag. Studying biology and xeno-biology here. This is my final year before I enter an Apprenticeship in the Medical Sciences."
"Good thing you were around then, I guess." Ioana forces a little chuckle. "Do things like this... happen often?"

* - * - *

"Very well Student ledum, we will call you Led. If you carry my instrument, we can call you a roadie and you can gain free entry to the club." She then holds a small case made of greyish- blue resin out with one hand.
Ledum takes the nameless musician's case like some sort of holy relic, carrying it gingerly but firmly. "Thanks. Always wanted to be a roadie."

* - * - *

The pad is veritably pushed into Bondayehr's hands. "Fill this out fully and return it to me please." As the pad is prompted, it seems all report paperwork is on-screen. Everything except the witness's identity is asked.
After-Action Report:

While I was conversing with Cadets Ggess and Dheera, the group watching the Jugg match became heated. The one called Ghaar complained about a foul and was told to be quiet by one identified as Kkrell. Ghaar then said something about 'vrelt-eating' to Kkrell, and both stood, making aggressive gestures. Ggess and Dheera moved to intervene while I positioned myself to rescue a Scolopendran citizen in the crowd.

As Ggess and Dheera apprehended the instigators and I escorted the Scolopendran out, they told me to keep others out of the room and stay out myself. I followed their directions, and thus saw nothing after this point. No one entered or left between the detainment of Ghaar and Kkrell and the entrance of the Drill Sergeant.

After filling in the blanks, Cadet Bondayehr checks for completion then hands the pad back. "I've filled it out to the best of my ability, sir. Will that be all?" He thinks for a moment, then decides that the clerk would know better than he does. "Also, seeing how this is arguably an international incident thanks to my involvement"--he taps the FSS AERO DIRECTORATE nametape on his left breast--"should I contact my home detachment in Stonozka and inform them of the situation?"

Khenala Prime



"I'm not certain. For the most part we've signed up for the sociology and engineering courses, and of course the athletics courses. I guess I myself am just curious about the registration confirmation process, and any courses that you might suggest to round out the academic semester?"

Jaenna nods at the question. "Allow me to explain. Each of you has been issued a DataPad, which is essentially your link to the University Central Processing Unit. Class registration, schedules, and even homework assignments are retrieved through this Pad. The list of classes, while available on the many screens in the Auditorium Dome, is also available on your DataPad. Once you have decided on a class, merely confirm the selection on your DataPad and your space will be reserved in the class. Furthermore, the DataPad is a Khenalian's link to the surrounding world. It is a personal communications device, and also acts as currency, being directly linked to one's personal banking account. Everyone is assigned one at adolescence and its use is genetically coded, meaning no one else can access the DataPad of another. Hence, they are extremely valuable and used everywhere. We try to keep things efficient.", she says, with a light smile.

"As far as what classes I recommend, I would assume that most of you are here to partake in our culture and learn of our ways. I would suggest our History and Mythology classes, many of you may find them interesting. Jonal also informs me that you are interested in joint classes with our military. Rest assured that I am setting that up for you, and arranging transportation to and from the Arcologies to revolve around your class schedules.

"I understand that today may not seem to eventful for you, but rest assured that the remainder of the year will be very busy, and that you may grow to miss the tranquility of the first few days. Should you need anything, I or your Student-Guide Jonal are available for you at any time.

"Any other questions?"

"Good thing you were around then, I guess." Ioana forces a little chuckle. "Do things like this... happen often?"

"Far more often than it used to. It seems the annual Rut will be upon us. During this time, nearly all infrastructure ceases for a couple of days as an empire-wide mating season goes into effect. It happens every 100 years when certain solar alignments are right. The next alignment should happen in 5 years, but in that time, all bets are off as far as acting civilized goes. It is reccomended that non-Sakkrans vacate the Empire for that time."


Ledum takes the nameless musician's case like some sort of holy relic, carrying it gingerly but firmly. "Thanks. Always wanted to be a roadie."

"I'm Kweel. Studying music and acoustic engineering here. These are Kkaai, Shaam and Sskooh." The case feels light and smooth in Ledum's hands.

The one known as Kkaai approaches. "Student Led, where are you from? "


After-Action Report:

While I was conversing with Cadets Ggess and Dheera, the group watching the Jugg match became heated. The one called Ghaar complained about a foul and was told to be quiet by one identified as Kkrell. Ghaar then said something about 'vrelt-eating' to Kkrell, and both stood, making aggressive gestures. Ggess and Dheera moved to intervene while I positioned myself to rescue a Scolopendran citizen in the crowd.

As Ggess and Dheera apprehended the instigators and I escorted the Scolopendran out, they told me to keep others out of the room and stay out myself. I followed their directions, and thus saw nothing after this point. No one entered or left between the detainment of Ghaar and Kkrell and the entrance of the Drill Sergeant.

After filling in the blanks, Cadet Bondayehr checks for completion then hands the pad back. "I've filled it out to the best of my ability, sir. Will that be all?" He thinks for a moment, then decides that the clerk would know better than he does. "Also, seeing how this is arguably an international incident thanks to my involvement"--he taps the FSS AERO DIRECTORATE nametape on his left breast--"should I contact my home detachment in Stonozka and inform them of the situation?"

"That will be all." He looks at the statement briefly, and utters a low whistle. "Vrelt-eater. No wonder Kkrell went berserk." He turns again to Timofoyev.

"As far as an international incident, it may be best if you contact your detachment. But that is up to you to decide. As far as we are concerned, you are free to go and enjoy your stay here. Your responsibility in this affair is at an end on our end of things."
>>>>>>>

Khenala Prime

The students look around at each other and at the data pads, double-checking everything and signing up for any spaces they may have open.

"No, I don't believe there are questions from us. How about you? Do you have any questions or requests of us?"

Hweer seems to be enjoying the Kansee Vine root, and has some dangling from his mouth as he watches and listens. "I got the mythology class all bottled up. Heh." Food sprays slightly as he speaks.

"The next alignment should happen in 5 years, but in that time, all bets are off as far as acting civilized goes. It is reccomended that non-Sakkrans vacate the Empire for that time."
Ioana doesn't look very thrilled at that thought, and Law-Student is merely impassive. "Nothing society-smashing, I hope."

"I'm Kweel. Studying music and acoustic engineering here. These are Kkaai, Shaam and Sskooh." The case feels light and smooth in Ledum's hands.

The one known as Kkaai approaches. "Student Led, where are you from?"
"Scolopendra, Student Kkaai, back on Titan. I'm from Rull, originally, a city centered on the eastern tip of West Continent... where LaRhiannon was and Sakkra Titan is now. I moved to Stonozka, the capital, when the U of S gave me a full scholarship. Pretty nice place. The topside of Rull is definitely greener, having more of the rainforest-climate of West Continent rather than the steppe quality of the topside of Stonozka.

"Anyway, since the colony is just a few kilometers away, I figured I'd come study at the motherland to get a different angle on things." Led grins broadly. "I'm definitely finding it interesting, though a little disorienting."

"As far as an international incident, it may be best if you contact your detachment. But that is up to you to decide. As far as we are concerned, you are free to go and enjoy your stay here. Your responsibility in this affair is at an end on our end of things."
Cadet Bondayehr nods. "May I have that in writing, sir? I doubt I'll be recalled over this, but a statement to the effect that no such thing is needed will at least make my people's job easier."

Ioana doesn't look very thrilled at that thought, and Law-Student is merely impassive. "Nothing society-smashing, I hope."

Oh no, no. In fact, we are doubly productive for a time afterwards. It lasts for a week, and then the euphoria sends the people into a creative frenzy. All that energy has to be directed towards pursuits, and it normally is.

"Anyway, since the colony is just a few kilometers away, I figured I'd come study at the motherland to get a different angle on things." Led grins broadly. "I'm definitely finding it interesting, though a little disorienting."

"Yes, I could see how it would be. I wonder how our students are faring on Khenala Prime. I understand they build upwards, instead of downwards. Very odd. Very .... claustrophobic to us."

Several turns along twisting pathways leads them to a low, domed structure with students flowing in slowly.

Cadet Bondayehr nods. "May I have that in writing, sir? I doubt I'll be recalled over this, but a statement to the effect that no such thing is needed will at least make my people's job easier."

"In writing it shall be." The clerk pulls out a datapad and enters his statement. It is then downloaded into a micro-hardrive which has a universal PDA adapter. This is handed to Timofeyev. "When you send your report, attach this document to it. It contains my genetic coding, our version of a digital signature."

Oh no, no. In fact, we are doubly productive for a time afterwards. It lasts for a week, and then the euphoria sends the people into a creative frenzy. All that energy has to be directed towards pursuits, and it normally is."No offense, but I'm glad it'll happen after we leave. I don't wanna show up and then suddenly have to leave again just because the planets are aligned some weird way."

"Yes, I could see how it would be. I wonder how our students are faring on Khenala Prime. I understand they build upwards, instead of downwards. Very odd. Very .... claustrophobic to us.""Well, being on the Ring means they don't have much 'downwards' to work with. You'd probably like it on Titan. Lots of subsurface habits... most of them are, actually. We started digging for the colonization effort before the place was terraformed and never really stopped."

Several turns along twisting pathways leads them to a low, domed structure with students flowing in slowly.

"In writing it shall be." The clerk pulls out a datapad and enters his statement. It is then downloaded into a micro-hardrive which has a universal PDA adapter. This is handed to Timofeyev. "When you send your report, attach this document to it. It contains my genetic coding, our version of a digital signature.""Thank you, sir." Cadet Bondayehr secrets away the hard-drive in his left chest pocket, unsealing the molecular geckoweb seam with one finger, slipping in the drive, and closing it again with a quick swipe. "That'll be most helpful... and if that will be all, sir, I'll return to my group... supposing, of course, that I have no more assignments."

The cadet shrugs. "Part of the reason I got authorized to even be here is to see what Sakkran cadets do, and if I wouldn't be a liability, I'm willing to learn about cadet duties and maybe assist in a few." Security detail wouldn't be too bad as long as there was some way to level the playing field.

"Well, being on the Ring means they don't have much 'downwards' to work with. You'd probably like it on Titan. Lots of subsurface habits... most of them are, actually. We started digging for the colonization effort before the place was terraformed and never really stopped."

They enter the domed structure, and the interior looks like a public house, but much wider. Several tables have students lounging on long divans and sipping drinks. There is a bar present, with a small Hrubban slinging drinks. Resin Beetles hover with a low humming sound, casting atmospheric light throughout the place.

The central area has a dais platform, with sound equipment set up. This is where the group is heading. All the while, the conversation continues. "I can understand that, I suppose. One of my hatch-mates has gone to Khenala Prime. After he gets situated, i'm sure some correspondence will follow."

Kweel opens her case, and pulls out a long-tubular instrument with soft sliding pads on what could be thought of as frets. The others do the same. Their instruments look similar, but of varying lengths and widths.

The cadet shrugs. "Part of the reason I got authorized to even be here is to see what Sakkran cadets do, and if I wouldn't be a liability, I'm willing to learn about cadet duties and maybe assist in a few." Security detail wouldn't be too bad as long as there was some way to level the playing field.

"That will be all here Cadet. Our cadet security detail apprehends, and delivers the offenders into our custody. Then they return to their posts. Cadets Ggess and Dheera are being returned to their post at the Student Center as we speak."

Kweel opens her case, and pulls out a long-tubular instrument with soft sliding pads on what could be thought of as frets. The others do the same. Their instruments look similar, but of varying lengths and widths.
Ledum tries his best to be helpful; lacking direction, he sits down and watches, relatively unsure of himself... but not any moreso than usual. He does note the Hrubban at the bar and looks attentively at the instruments, never seeing anything like it at the moment.

"That will be all here Cadet. Our cadet security detail apprehends, and delivers the offenders into our custody. Then they return to their posts. Cadets Ggess and Dheera are being returned to their post at the Student Center as we speak."
"Understood, sir." Cadet Bondayehr nods, turns, and returns from whence he came, looking professional all the while. He does his best to not actually think about what happened because, honestly, it scares the holy hell out of him.

The students look around at each other and at the data pads, double-checking everything and signing up for any spaces they may have open.

"No, I don't believe there are questions from us. How about you? Do you have any questions or requests of us?"

"At this time, I have no questions, and only request that if you should need anything, please do not hesitate to contact me. On a side note, I have arranged for transport to the Swamp Arcology after you have all chosen your classes, and it will be waiting for you on the Ground Floor of the University Building.

If that is all, I will leave you to finish your meal."

After giving a slight bow, she departs.

The meal is finished, with a resounding round of burping following, signaling the end of a satisfactory meal. Hweer is heard to exclaim "Not quite how my sire fixed boiled Guat spleen, but still quite delicious."

The Sakkran group heads down to meet with the vehicle escorting them to the Swamp Arcology.

*THWAP*

Cadet Bondayehr rubs his head and readjusts his cover. "What the... a low ceiling in Sakkra? Who'd a thought it?" Rubbing his head some more, he shrugs. "Not even a bump. I guess I got lucky."

(post to come soon) :D

OOC: It lives .... AGAIN!

Ledum tries his best to be helpful; lacking direction, he sits down and watches, relatively unsure of himself... but not any moreso than usual. He does note the Hrubban at the bar and looks attentively at the instruments, never seeing anything like it at the moment.

Kweel finishes tuning up. "Led, if you could tell me what this sounds like, i'd appreciate it." Kweel then focuses on her instrument, and begins playing while the others continue setting up.

It's a low baritone sound that raises in pitch as the slide is maneuvered down. Kweel's claws stroke circles at the base of the indtrument. A long, mournful tone resounds out of the instrument, sounding almost like a gregorian chant.

"Understood, sir." Cadet Bondayehr nods, turns, and returns from whence he came, looking professional all the while. He does his best to not actually think about what happened because, honestly, it scares the holy hell out of him.

Returning to the Student Centre, if that is indeed what the cadet does, he finds all is as if nothing had ever happened.

Kweel finishes tuning up. "Led, if you could tell me what this sounds like, i'd appreciate it." Kweel then focuses on her instrument, and begins playing while the others continue setting up.
Led simply stands in amazement. "It sounds wonderful, but kinda sad. Like monks chanting... sorry," he grins sheepishly, "I'm not sure what it's supposed to sound like. I like it, though."

Returning to the Student Centre, if that is indeed what the cadet does, he finds all is as if nothing had ever happened.
Bondayehr surveys the room. Situation nominal? Well, that's a relief at least.

He looks around for Ggess and Dheera; failing that, he mingles a little.

Led simply stands in amazement. "It sounds wonderful, but kinda sad. Like monks chanting... sorry," he grins sheepishly, "I'm not sure what it's supposed to sound like. I like it, though."

"Really? Excellent! It is part of a song handed down my family line from generation to generation. I am the twelfth generation to receive it. It's the meditation song of the Order of Rragg, our only religious order still in existence."

One of the others begins tuning their instrument, a slightly higher pitch version of Kweel's instrument, but it lends itself to staccato rhythms on certain strokes. Kweel accompanies after a short time, followed by the other members one at a time. It sounds like a midieval festival song.


Bondayehr surveys the room. Situation nominal? Well, that's a relief at least.

He looks around for Ggess and Dheera; failing that, he mingles a little.

Dheera and Ggess are nowhere to be seen, but seem to have replacements in the form of two cadets of slightly burlier stature. One seems to have a chin that is inordinately large in comparison to his face.

"Really? Excellent! It is part of a song handed down my family line from generation to generation. I am the twelfth generation to receive it. It's the meditation song of the Order of Rragg, our only religious order still in existence."
Led tilts his head curiously. "I've never heard of the Order of Rragg. If it's any of my business, what do they believe?"

Dheera and Ggess are nowhere to be seen, but seem to have replacements in the form of two cadets of slightly burlier stature. One seems to have a chin that is inordinately large in comparison to his face.
Bondayehr simply finds an empty seat to decompress in, closing his eyes momentarily. It's been a rough day.

Led tilts his head curiously. "I've never heard of the Order of Rragg. If it's any of my business, what do they believe?"

"The Order of Rragg is a very reclusive sect, iinvolving veneration of our ancestors and their spirits. They are the only surviving religion we have today. Their primary beliefs involve knowledge for knowledge's sake, acceptance and humility. They are voluntarily blinded so that they may 'see' what lies beneath the material world."

Kweel haunches down, and gets a wistful look on her face. "Many centuries ago, there were what you would call 'missionaries' paying visits to our lands. Interest sprang up in this form of diety worship called Christianity, but did not last due to conflicting views. A civil war almost erupted amongst the seperate religions, until the Order of Rragg levied their fist of influence. It was shown that these views had no place in our society, since we were not meant to be the receptors of these views. Your Jesus was, after all, warm-blooded in nature. When queried what Christianity held for us, the missionaries and priests had very non-convincing statements."

"And so these religions were eschewed, due to its inability to take into account the views of other species. We were labeled heathens, and the Christian church attempted to use force to ensure their beliefs took hold here. Suffice it to say, they met with dramatic failure."

"Ugh. Yeah, my people hail from western Africa and so we know all about missionaries. Scolopendran culture itself is Mediterranean, so there's a few thousand years of 'my God is better than your God even though He's the same God' there. I'm glad we got over that." Led frowns. "Human history isn't the best, I'll admit."

* - * - *

Timofeyev stretches a little and goes looking for flyers concerning cultural stuff like concerts or plays or the like. I'm here, so I might as well check out the culture.

"Well, who's history ever looks good, really?" Kweel returns to her instrument, and looks at the others for their readiness. When everyone finishes tuning up, they begin playing. It's a light, toe-tapper of a ditty, but with ear-vibrating baritones.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The flyer has a small map with directions on how to get to one of the local clubs, feturing folk-songstress Kweel and Co.

"Well, who's history ever looks good, really?" Kweel returns to her instrument, and looks at the others for their readiness. When everyone finishes tuning up, they begin playing. It's a light, toe-tapper of a ditty, but with ear-vibrating baritones.
Ledum sits back attentively, waiting to see what else there is to see. Ready to learn, help, or both as the case may be.

The flyer has a small map with directions on how to get to one of the local clubs, feturing folk-songstress Kweel and Co.
Bondayehr finds Io and Law-Student and shows them the flyers. "What we need is to decompress... so who's game?"

They decide to go ahead--why not?--and bring along the Khenalan if she's game.

OOC: Should probably put this on hold until Khen posts up, yeah?

Khenala Prime

After some traveling time, the Sakkrans are brought to a rather large dome, that starts at ground level and continues up for as high as the eye can see. After passing through a gate entering the dome, the doors to their GravTrain open, and they find themselves in the dome, surrounded by acres and acres of pristine Swampland. The atmosphere about them is warm and humid, much like one would find in a swamp on Earth.

A few structures can be seen within eye's distance. To the right is a building which clearly appears to be an Information Center, in the distance are a few groups of homes, belonging to scientists and staff who live on the Arcology and tend to its upkeep.

There are several paths, unpaved, but clearly made for traffic that head into the depths of the Arcology.

A tall, thin man dressed in Khaki shorts and shirt approaches the group of students, a slight smile on his face. "Pardon me, you must be the Sakkran students. We have been expecting you. Welcome to the Swamp Arcology.

-----

Sakkra

Chrysala nods eagerly, after reading the flyer. "I'd love to! Count me in."

OOC: Know this isn't much of a reply, but hopefully it'll get the ball rolling again. :-)

OOC: Bumpage

"It seems quite authentic. thank you for permitting us in, Keeper......" The student lets the sentence hang a bit, waiting for a name to be dropped.

"It seems quite authentic. thank you for permitting us in, Keeper......" The student lets the sentence hang a bit, waiting for a name to be dropped.

He finishes the sentence for them. "Johan. Johan Coruscus. I am the Head Scientist and Groundskeeper for the Swamp Arcology."

He looks about the area, proudly, as if admiring a child. "We have done our best, using Earth as our model, to recreate the great swamps of the world here, in our Arcology. It is teeming with the same plant and animal life one would expect to see on Earth. Perhaps what one would expect to see even in the great Swamps of Sakkra." He smiles, wistfully. "When we first came to the Ring, it was hard to decide just how we would experience the "outdoors", per se. When we were on Earth, most of Khenala's living space was underground, leaving the vast lands untouched and unscathed. When we came to the Ring, we could only build up; hence, the need for these Arcologies. They are completely enclosed habitats of life. The best that Science and Technology can bring us, aside from Earth herself."

Shaal surveyed the surroundings she could see. Her head nodded in respect to Grounds Keeper Coruscus. "You and your people have done very well, Keeper Johan. I can smell the sap and the blooms of the Kansee Vines from here." She took a deep breath, and released. "MMmmmm, it smells like the tea my sire used to make. So will there be a guided tour of this arcology?"

Meanwhile, back at the University

A round of applause in the from of high hooting ensues after kweel and her troupe finish their third song. Kweel stands and addresses the audience. "This is one that Kkaai had written, a little close to her heart. And so she will sing it. It will be translated into Basic, for our exchange students benefit." At this she lifts up her instrument, as the shortest (at 6'3") member of the troupe takes center. The playing almost sounds completely acoustic, because it is. The players supply backing vocals.


This is the last day of
our acquaintance....

I don't need you
laying in somebody else's chambers.....

I'll talk
but you won't listen to meeeee-eeeee...

I know your answer
already

I know you don't love me
anymore...

You used to hold my hand
when the boat took off....

12 years a-go
there seemed just so much mooo-oooore

And I don't know what
happened to our love

For days and days our friendship
has been wasted....

Only leading to
finalizing details...

12 years ago
the seed was plaaanteeeed

Since then you've taken me
for granted

(It loops back around once and then concludes with a slow musical number)

As Kkaai takes a short curtsey, the crowd seems completely silent for a moment, and then begins to hoot uncontrollably with foot-stomping interspersed.

The Scolopendrans and Khenalan find themselves treated to foot-stomping when they step in. Bondayehr removes his cover and scratches the back of his head with a raised eyebrow. "Remind me again why I thought this was a good idea..."

Law-Student peers about and motions towards the stage. "Led is sitting there off to the side."

Io raises an eyebrow and stands on tip-toe, trying to see. "Really? Where?"

"I guess that means we stay, then." Timofeyev stows his cover in his left cargo pocket. "Let's find someplace where we aren't too obvious."

Shaal surveyed the surroundings she could see. Her head nodded in respect to Grounds Keeper Coruscus. "You and your people have done very well, Keeper Johan. I can smell the sap and the blooms of the Kansee Vines from here." She took a deep breath, and released. "MMmmmm, it smells like the tea my sire used to make. So will there be a guided tour of this arcology?"

Khenala Prime

"Well, if you'd like, yes. But one of the major reasons for the arcologies are to allow citizens to escape the burdens of City-life. The Arcologies are expansive, allowing one to escape from the world for as long as one wishes, and to become one with their surroundings. While I suppose a tour would be possible, I believe that the benefits of the Arcology would be lost upon you."

At that, he gestures to a group of personal transport vehicles, somewhat larger than a golf cart, and it looks to be able to seat four humans of average size comfortably, though probably two Sakkrans would fit in a vehicle at best. "If you would like, you can explore the Arcology on your own. There are areas where you could rest, hike, or even admire the wildlife and fauna. Keep in mind that the topography of this arcology has basis in the great Swamps of Earth." He smiled. "I wouldn't be too suprised if at some point, you find yourself on...familiar ground."

He faced them completely once more. "I will leave the decision up to you, however. If you would like me to accompany you, I would be more than honored."

The Scolopendrans and Khenalan find themselves treated to foot-stomping when they step in. Bondayehr removes his cover and scratches the back of his head with a raised eyebrow. "Remind me again why I thought this was a good idea..."

Sakkra

Law-Student peers about and motions towards the stage. "Led is sitting there off to the side."

Io raises an eyebrow and stands on tip-toe, trying to see. "Really? Where?"

"I guess that means we stay, then." Timofeyev stows his cover in his left cargo pocket. "Let's find someplace where we aren't too obvious."

Chrysala smiled a bit. "Seeing as how a large majority of the occupants here are Sakkran, and we are not, I would surmise that there are few places that we could be where we wouldn't be 'too obvious'."

She glanced around the room. "Perhaps we could join your friend? I would surmise that if he is sitting in relative peace, that he is in an area where we can avoid getting trampled by a crowd of excited Sakkrans.", she said, chuckling a bit at her small joke.

Das Club
Kweel rises and gestures with an outstretched hand. "Thank you all. Thank you. Now for something a little livelier. Found an old human recording, and we think we have it down pat. Let's give it a go!"

With that, she sits back in her seat and begins 'strumming' her instrument in a circular motion at the base, her claws never leaving the instrument. It sounds much like a heavy-bass banjo (sick as it may seem). The end result is what appears to be a fast-paced irish reel (it's a kind of dance).

The Arcology

"Your accompaniment would be more than welcome. However, I think that a tour on foot would be the best route. It would be good to swim in the rivers here, I am certain. Moisten up the scales and all that."

One of the other students pipes up. "Besides, if it's anything like the swamps from the homeland, we'll leave those carts in the dirt!"

She glanced around the room. "Perhaps we could join your friend? I would surmise that if he is sitting in relative peace, that he is in an area where we can avoid getting trampled by a crowd of excited Sakkrans.", she said, chuckling a bit at her small joke.
Timofeyev shrugs. "Well, he's on the side of the stage, and most places don't appreciate people just climbing up on there. Let's just find someplace available. Law-Student, if you would be so kind?"

The K'zin-ret uses her height to survey the area, then points out some location. "Over there. Follow me." The Scolopendrans follow the ratcat, who turns occasionally to make sure that everyone (including Chrysala) isn't far behind, and eventually everyone makes it to a table near the front with a decent view.

Led looks out at the crowd and blinks at the characteristic orange-and-black moving through the sea of Sakkra. As he follows that shape, he also sees some red-haired human far more pale than should be legal and someone wearing odd grey camouflage that the eye simply refuses to make sense of. Then there's someone he definitely doesn't recognize, but he waves a little anyway with a smile.

"Mmmm." Bondayehr chuckles. "Irish. If I weren't deathly afraid of dancing in public and in uniform, I just might follow the lead of my Irish blood."

"Irish blood?" Ioana scoffs. "Dammit, Tim, you're part everything."

"Yeah, I know. One-hundred-percent Scolopendran mongrel. Wouldn't have it any other way."

The Arcology


"Your accompaniment would be more than welcome. However, I think that a tour on foot would be the best route. It would be good to swim in the rivers here, I am certain. Moisten up the scales and all that."

One of the other students pipes up. "Besides, if it's anything like the swamps from the homeland, we'll leave those carts in the dirt!"

Johan laughs, heartily. "I would not doubt it, friend Sakkrans. Very well, I will join you. I have lived in the Arcology since I was a young boy, and each time I enter its depths it is more invigorating than the last." He smiles again. "Shall we depart?"

Shaal manages to get a question in amongst the excited hotts of the other students. "Keeper Jonas, when you say that many of the fauna from the swamps are present, would that include specimens from the Black Swamp? The swamp newts are notoriously ferocious after all."

The other students stop and turn, awaiting the reply.

Timofeyev shrugs. "Well, he's on the side of the stage, and most places don't appreciate people just climbing up on there. Let's just find someplace available. Law-Student, if you would be so kind?"

The K'zin-ret uses her height to survey the area, then points out some location. "Over there. Follow me." The Scolopendrans follow the ratcat, who turns occasionally to make sure that everyone (including Chrysala) isn't far behind, and eventually everyone makes it to a table near the front with a decent view.

Led looks out at the crowd and blinks at the characteristic orange-and-black moving through the sea of Sakkra. As he follows that shape, he also sees some red-haired human far more pale than should be legal and someone wearing odd grey camouflage that the eye simply refuses to make sense of. Then there's someone he definitely doesn't recognize, but he waves a little anyway with a smile.

"Mmmm." Bondayehr chuckles. "Irish. If I weren't deathly afraid of dancing in public and in uniform, I just might follow the lead of my Irish blood."

"Irish blood?" Ioana scoffs. "Dammit, Tim, you're part everything."

"Yeah, I know. One-hundred-percent Scolopendran mongrel. Wouldn't have it any other way."

Chrysala makes her way through the crowd, trying not to disturb any dancing Sakkrans with her movements, while simultaneously trying to avoid being crushed or trampled.

As she follows Law-Student through the crowd, other Khenalian students, having seen the flyers, begin to make their way into the club, some nodding their head to the beat of the music, others merely observing, for the moment.

After the music stops, all the performers rise. "We will now take a break for fifteen minutes. Drink hearty!" One of the troupe rises and heads for the bar, which the Hrubban barkeep already seems to have prepared. "Got the usuals lined up for you ladies tonight. Fine music, I would say. Fine music." They gather around Ledum at the side of the stage, holding pitcher-sized mugs of a deep red liquid.

Kkaai takes a good swig of her drink, and turns one eye on Ledum. "Do you play any instruments, Led? Or know of any songs from your home?"

Led shrugs. "I sorta play the theremin. I'm not in a band or anything... I'm not even really talented, not like you. Just a hobby. As for songs..." He nods with a grin. "I know a few."

Bondayehr smiles. "Looks like Led's found some people to talk to."

Shaal manages to get a question in amongst the excited hotts of the other students. "Keeper Jonas, when you say that many of the fauna from the swamps are present, would that include specimens from the Black Swamp? The swamp newts are notoriously ferocious after all."

The other students stop and turn, awaiting the reply.

Leading the hike as he speaks, it is not long before they cover several miles. He heads into the depths of the arcology, the surrounding area much like the Everglades in Florida, and slowly but surely, the terrain appears to become more Sakkran-like in nature. By now, the students should see familiar sights of their swamps at home, minus any signs of civlization or development.

Johan nods his head in response to the question. "That is correct. We do have some particularly ferocious animals on the Arcology. Particularly dangerous ones are cordoned off in their own seperate area, with precautions in place. The animals from the Black Swamp posed a unique problem, there were few creatures that could be matced in ferocity than a swamp Newt, but we managed to make sure they could never harm the populace of the Arcology. Should they leave or attempt to leave a designated area, we have placed a transponder inside their body to release a powerful tranquilizer, which if released will alert a member of the Arcology staff so that we can move the animal back to a safe area for both itself and the Arcology populace.

"Are there similar precautions taken on Sakkra? I mean, I do see that you all are obviously much stronger than an "average human", but surely you have little ones to protect, no?"

"Well, we would be grateful if you would tell us of a song. We would not pressure you into actually singing it." Kkaai takes another swig of her drink, slight trickles of it drip around her lip-less mouth, staining it red.

"Tell you of one how?" Led raises an eyebrow. "Lyrics, history, why it was written... and what kind of song in particular?"

(OOC: Damn. Gotta find songs.)

At the Arcology

Shaal and the others are looking about, gauging authenticity. They appear pleased, as the females show a pinkish tone on their newly formed dewlaps, and the males raise their tiny crests half-high.

"Well, in Sakkra, the Birth Pits in the Black Swamp are sacred ground, and as such are patrolled constantly. Many skulls hang there of those who once attempted to enter to steal the hatchlings. However. the wildlife in the Black Swamp is allowed to roam unchecked aside from that. It is a right of passage for a neonate to wrestle a Swamp Newt unarmed aside from natural weaponry, and defeat it without killing it."

"It is a long standing tenet that we do not protect ourselves from our own stupidity. We are told not to enter the deepest parts of the Swamp until it comes time for the Rite, and shown why. Any that decide to enter afterwards bear the burden of their ignorance. It is not the fault of the Newts that intruders wander into their territory. they are merely doing what is natural to them."

Several of the students wander into a brackish pool, and begin swimming using their strong tails; their arms and legs tucked at their sides. "Aah, it feels just like home."

At the Club

"Well, perhaps some lyrics and what they stand for. Interpretation would be the word, I think. Perhaps something from a childhood? A ..... "lullabye"? Is that correct? We don't have them here."

(OOC: Grr, I don't know any Ibo lullabies and would suck at writing any.)

Led blushes a little. "I remember a few, but most of them don't have much in the way of meaning. Hmmm." He scratches the back of his head and mutters a few things. "Well, I've heard of 'Swing Low, Sweet Chariot' being used as a lullaby. That's actually got some background, basically being an allegory for the African emancipation movement in the... hmmm... old United States around 1850 or so. I remember some other English ones my mom taught me, but they're kinda meaningless... that or have long lost their original meaning."

He goes into a short rendition of the aforementioned song, blushing a little bit and twirling his hand to indicate the refrain instead of repeating it. "Heh. I'm not much for singing in public."

<reply forthcoming today :)>

<<Awaiting the reply>>

At the Arcology

Shaal and the others are looking about, gauging authenticity. They appear pleased, as the females show a pinkish tone on their newly formed dewlaps, and the males raise their tiny crests half-high.

"Well, in Sakkra, the Birth Pits in the Black Swamp are sacred ground, and as such are patrolled constantly. Many skulls hang there of those who once attempted to enter to steal the hatchlings. However. the wildlife in the Black Swamp is allowed to roam unchecked aside from that. It is a right of passage for a neonate to wrestle a Swamp Newt unarmed aside from natural weaponry, and defeat it without killing it."

"Interesting. Now, I assume that hatchling theft is a high crime, but who would attempt to do so? Fellow Sakkrans? Foreigners?"


"It is a long standing tenet that we do not protect ourselves from our own stupidity. We are told not to enter the deepest parts of the Swamp until it comes time for the Rite, and shown why. Any that decide to enter afterwards bear the burden of their ignorance. It is not the fault of the Newts that intruders wander into their territory. They are merely doing what is natural to them."

"I agree with this sentiment. We wish to preserve the natural habitats of the animals within the arcology as much as possible. As such, we have areas designated as "do not trespass". The state, however, bears responsibility for those fools who decide to forgo the precautions set in place, and so additional precautions have been taken. I am pleased to say that fortunately we have not had any incidents, but who knows what the future may bring?"

Several of the students wander into a brackish pool, and begin swimming using their strong tails; their arms and legs tucked at their sides. "Aah, it feels just like home."

He smiles at the comment. "Thank you. Your approval is the ultimate compliment for our achievements here. Now if only I can get the Menelmacari to appreciate our Forest Arcology, I can die a happy man."

"Interesting. Now, I assume that hatchling theft is a high crime, but who would attempt to do so? Fellow Sakkrans? Foreigners?"

"There has been a history of foreigners who attempt to snatch the hatchlings for purposes onknown. Under interrogation, it has been revealed that some nations will pay a high price to get DNA samples of us. s for it being a high crime, hatchling theft is a capitol offense punishable by death in the most humiliating way possible. WHat that is is determined by the Emperor.



"I am pleased to say that fortunately we have not had any incidents, but who knows what the future may bring?"

"Loathe as I am to say it, as you have been most accomodating, the future likely brings trouble. Murphy's Law, as you humans call it, seems to be a prevailing force in the universe."

Now if only I can get the Menelmacari to appreciate our Forest Arcology, I can die a happy man."

"Good fortune to you on that. Even in the most remote sections of the Whispering Savannahs, the Menelmacari tendency towards delay is legendary. It comes with never dying I suppose."

"There has been a history of foreigners who attempt to snatch the hatchlings for purposes onknown. Under interrogation, it has been revealed that some nations will pay a high price to get DNA samples of us. s for it being a high crime, hatchling theft is a capitol offense punishable by death in the most humiliating way possible. What that is is determined by the Emperor."

"Ah, I think I remember reading about some nation attempting to collect non-human DNA... Botox...or Bollocks, I think it was. Not too sure. In any case, I'm not suprised we took quick action to ensure that none of their citizenry are welcome here in Khenala. We do not condone this at all. Besides, Khenala does have its share of non-human citizens and we will, of course, protect them to the fullest as we would with any citizen."

"Loathe as I am to say it, as you have been most accomodating, the future likely brings trouble. Murphy's Law, as you humans call it, seems to be a prevailing force in the universe."

"Indeed, you are probably correct. One can only take as many pecautions as possible and hope for the best. I can only pray that what we've done will prevent any accidents and prepare myself to deal with the accident, and the consequences, should one happen."

"Good fortune to you on that. Even in the most remote sections of the Whispering Savannahs, the Menelmacari tendency towards delay is legendary. It comes with never dying I suppose."

He gives off a hearty laugh at that. "Perhaps when one lives forever, one can take all the time one wants."

Johan glances up at the "sky" of the arcology, the simulated sun beginning to set and cast a crimson glow about the area. About him, the entire arcology seeems to change. Nocturnal animals beginning to emerge, the sounds of nocturnal insects begin to echo through the expanses of the Swamps.

"It amazes me everytime. With the onset of night, its like an entirely different world."

Shaal begins sniffing the air as the other students emerge from the waters. "It certainly smells convincing. Hopefully the nocturnal predators are also located safely in those confined areas you spoke of? At night in the Black Swamp, your nose and ears are more valuable than your eyes."

Shaal begins sniffing the air as the other students emerge from the waters. "It certainly smells convincing. Hopefully the nocturnal predators are also located safely in those confined areas you spoke of? At night in the Black Swamp, your nose and ears are more valuable than your eyes."

"Yes, the precautions we have taken with the creatures of the day are also applicable to the nocturnal animals. And while my olfactory senses aren't as strong as yours, I'd imagine, I am quite keen to the sounds around me.", he says, grinning slightly. "Year after year of life in the Arcology will do that."

SHaal eyes Jonas respectfully, with lowered lids. "I am quite certain that is the case. However, it has been a full day, and I need to rest. If you don't mind, could we head back? I would hate for me to slumber during the first sessions of class."

SHaal eyes Jonas respectfully, with lowered lids. "I am quite certain that is the case. However, it has been a full day, and I need to rest. If you don't mind, could we head back? I would hate for me to slumber during the first sessions of class."

Johan nods. "I understand completely. If you'll follow me, we'll head back to the main entrance. Transportation back to your dorms has been arranged."

With that statement, he leads the students back along the path they took to the entrance, where they are transported back to the University.

The first full day in Khenala has passed.

((OOC: I'll wait for things to finish up in Sakkra (if they havent already) and we can move on to Day 2. :) ))

OOC: Let's get the classes in session.


Orientation comes and goes without much ado. The first day of classes begins at Hreer University.

Section B. Applied

02: Survival in the Wilderness

04: Metals and Sculpture

08: Your Body and You; Making the most of it

Section C. Advanced

03: Extra-Planetary Architectural Concepts

05 Vehicular Mechanics and Engineering

07: Specialized Hand and Melee Combat and Tactics

These are the classes first on the roster. Directions to their meeting areas are on the student's PDAs.

02: Survival in the Wilderness
Following the map displayed on his portcomp, Cadet Bondayehr makes his way to class, again in the prim-and-proper cadet routine with fatigues. Even though he pressed his Class B's the previous day, they'd probably be inappropriate for a class titled "Survival in the Wilderness."

Coming to a likely spot, he looks down at his map and then back up at the class location. Well, this is it... or as close to it as possible. The homing device hasn't done me wrong yet... He isn't overly concerned with the portcomp being damaged in whatever SitW class contains; the Scolopendran TME Industries PC/P-210 portcomp is arguably the first portible computer expressly designed to operate after being run over repeatedly by a thirty-ton armored fighting vehicle.

He looks around for a familiar face. Sshrrakaa said she'd be in this class... at least one friendly face. Should come in handy.

And indeed Sshraakaa is there, as well as about 1 dozen other Sakkrans, and a piebald Hrubban male with a dreadlocked mane of hair going all the way down his back. The meeting area is near a small park at the center of the University.

A (comparitively) wiry Sakkran male with slate-grey scales is at the fore of the meeting area. His voice is light, yet firm.

"Welcome to Survival in the Wilderness. The goals of this class, if you will note your syllabus, is to teach you to survive healthily in any adverse environment using a minimum of tech, if any at all. I am Ranger Kkriil of the Border Guard. This is not a military instructional, but designed for any interested. As such, dress uniform (nods to Bondayehr) is optional. If there are questions, you may ask at the appropriate time."

A clawed hand is raised, and Kkriil turns swiftly. "The time is not now." The hand retreats. "The class will commence in segments, and will continue when I am satisfied that you have all learned at an adequate level. Flora and Fauna identification will be the first on the agenda, and is a vital part of this instructional. Now is the time for questions."

The same hand rises again, and Kkriil gives a nod of assent. Sshraakaa is the questioner. "Ranger Kkriil, will we be put in peril during this class?"

The Ranger paces a bit. "THere will be minimal risk in this class until the end. Your Final Exam will be to be placed in an environment of my choosing, where all you learn here will be tested. A beacon-collar will be put on you at this time, with a bio-monitor. This way, we can keep tabs on your location and health. Any in distress will be evaced immediately. Any other questions?"

As he enters the little meeting area, Timofeyev makes sure to position himself near Sshraakaa. Listening intently, he chuckles internally at 'the time is not now.' Oh, how familiar that concept is. Fair enough... and uniforms nonoptional. Was expected, but it's good to be noticed.

At the mention of the final exam, he grimaces to himself. Oooh... that's going to suck. I don't have much meat on me as is, so I'm gonna have to be damn good in this class if I don't want to get drummed out in short order. He thinks to himself for a moment--I wonder if this is universal enough that I won't be at too much the disadvantage--then decides it to be irrelevant and remains silent, hands folded. Pay attention and discover if it will be universal or not.

The Hrubban male twiddles with his mane a bit. "Ranger Kkriil, what manner of equipment are we expected to bring?"

"O'car, is it? Well, the equipment will be anything you may find in the campus merchant's quarter that is not a higher technology. Knives, skins and an assortment of gear is found there. Pistols, rifles, EM disonance fields, TacSoft armor and the like are not allowed. If it cannot be made with a simple blade, you can not bring it."

He continues on after giving the eye to the students, scanning them head to toe. "This is not a Sakkran survival class, but a more generalized one. Teeth and claws are not an advantage. Wits and resilience are. Think, observe and remember, and you'll be fine. More questions?"

Timofeyev thinks of something then raises one fist and waits to be recognized. Upon recognition, he nods his head in respect and then continues. "Ranger Kkriil, is there any outside reading or other study that you would suggest? If simple hand-made tools it should be, then I might as well get a head start on manufacturing them."

The Ranger nods at Bondayehr. "There is indeed some reading. The syllabus contains the basic texts required for this course. The texts are found at the University Library, available for loan throughout the semester. To note, however, aside from some practice sessions, all construction will be done in the field."

"On top of this, however, is the book on loan to us from the Scholar Rraas's personal library, On the Pilgrimage of Rraal. It's a duplicate of the original tome, and details the journey of a Neophyte that covered all the regions of this land in the year 800 PrA (Pre-Ascension). Notations are made on tools, their construction and use during his pilgrimage. This book is on reserve, and while it may not be withdrawn, it is available for viewing by any who wish to use its bounty of knowledge."

"Are there any other questions?"

Sshraakaa raises his hand again. "Will this class even extend to the Kkress Mountain Ranges?"

After a brief pause, the answer is given flatly. "Yes."

There is a flurry of murmuring amongst the Sakkrans then, and more than a few concerned looks.

Bondayehr makes mental note of the book's title. Excellent. I'll study that and take notes... make lots of practice things, too. Best to be ready before going out into the field. He looks up at Sshraakaa and thinks momentarily. Must buttonhole her after class... seems like a high-flying type. See if we can't work it out to both read up on this ancient text together; work as a group, two heads, and all that.

After giving an overview of the course throughout the semester, as well as showing holographic displays of the environments that will be used, that lasts for a couple of hours, Kkriil prepares to close the days session.

"And so that workload will be light at first. Your first assignmnt is to begin getting the texts assigned and read the first chapter of each. I will see you all again next week."

Bondayehr follows Sshraakaa out, doing his best to catch her attention. "I was thinking during class. Seeing how On the Pilgrimage of Rraal may find a bit of use soon, it may be wise to look over it together. It'd be more efficient on our schedules and we could absorb the information faster... exchange of ideas and the advantages of working in a group, you know. I figure if we're going to get dropped off in the middle of nowhere--which is bad enough for tweedy little me to begin with--and you have to deal with high-altitude mountain ranges, then it would be best if we're prepared as much as possible beforehand."

"'Sides, if your schedule's free," he smiles, "we can get down to the library and knock out this first assignment."

Sshraakaa nods assent. "It is basically what I had planned already. You may not be familiar with our physiology, but we enter a state of torpor at 38 degrees farenheit. Prolonged exposure to temperatures below that, such as near the peaks of the Kress Ranges, is fatal. I was planning to pore over the Tome in order to find out how this Rraal managed such a feat."

"It is agreed then. We shall meet at the University Library in .... two hours?"

Timofeyev nods with a broad smile, then sets his watch in a series of beeps. "Two hours it is, Sshraakaa. See you there."

<post forthcoming later today>