"A Quest Of Friends"

[Thundertail]

A QUEST OF FRIENDS

(Introduction…)

The nocturnal rumblings of the array of waterfalls that framed Waterfall City and gave the metropolis its’ namesake was gradually overcome by the morning rustlings and rumblings of the city’s inhabitants, rousing and beginning their daily tasks as they have done every day the city was founded. Skybax presently filled the air on their way to their appointed errands, carts were being prepared and loaded as their various saurian propulsion systems were hitched up and fed; and in building after building, citizens of Waterfall City began to wake and stir, for it was like the city was coming back to life.

Storefronts opened for the day and children were soon seen scurrying to their various classes around the city, criers ran through the streets pronouncing their morning news while human and saurian alike paused their doings to listen; and all throughout the city municipal buildings opened their doors for the day. The great doors to the Waterfall City library swung open thanks to unseen handlers, as did the even greater doors of the Waterfall City council chambers; and even the lesser doors of spas and eateries, whose owners professed pleasures of more than the gastronic variety.

Many citizens merely stepped out of their homes and drank in the glory of the day before going on to their daily business; but for a few that were dwelling here, the day would mark the beginning of an extremely interesting time in their lives…
_

TAG: Any and all!

[Thundertail]

IC: Bentfeather and Tebo Lewis, Waterfall City Library.

The lively bluish Microraptor flitted among the shelves and scroll niches along the aisle in the Waterfall City library, scanning tomes as he passed. A smallish bespectacled boy was trailing him, brandishing both a book trolley and a wheeled ladder; and having difficulty maneuvering both around corners at the same time. The flying creature never wavered in his search, switching from the left-hand shelves to the right-hand ones; then he perched on the end of the scroll he was searching for to wait for his rather clumsy apprentice.

“Ice moves faster than you!”, the Microraptor squawked. “You are having trouble, this I view.”

“They should have made these aisles wider…”, the boy said as he grunted.

“Or the ladder narrower, Tebo…”, Bentfeather said with a saurian grin. "With time gains strength. You will grow.”

Tebo pushed the cart ahead with one arm before trying to manipulate the ladder. “Are you sure this is how librarians start out?”, he shoved the ladder around the corner at last.

“Of all things there are beginnings.”, Bentfeather told him. “Bring the ladder here, for I found my winnings!”

It had only been a few days since he applied for this apprenticeship, and already Tebo was getting used to Bentfeather’s instructive rhyming. He sidled the ladder up against the shelf and ascended as far as the ladder would allow, which was still twenty feet lower than his mentor’s perch! Seeing the dilemma, Bentfeather pulled and yanked at the end of the scroll in it’s niche; and braced his talons against the ancient wood of the fixture for leverage, grunting in a Microraptor way, orange head plumage rising with his excited effort as the scroll inched it’s way out of the hole. Suddenly the scroll popped free, sending both him and it flying out; but the Microraptor caught air and flapped to a near by table as the scroll continued it’s fall. Tebo raised a hand and caught the scroll by sheer luck, for his poor vision made him hesitate until the scroll was mere inches from his face before grabbing it. He gasped as he descended the ladder and placed the scroll on the book trolley.

“We must hurry without delay.”, Bentfeather said as he hopped onto the trolley, straightening out his head plumage as he spoke. “We have three meetings of scholars to accommodate today.”

“Who are they, and why are they so important?”, Tebo asked as he first hefted the ladder around the next corner before attending the cart.

“One is a meeting of the Natural Geometry guild. I heard they have some new theories filled.”, Bentfeather explained as he rode the trolley. “The Archaeological guild wishes to delve into ages past. They have a new artifact cast.”, he had Tebo pause at a new section of bookshelves. “The debate Club has water to discuss. Personally, I do not see the fuss!”

As Tebo chuckled at the last comment, Bentfeather took wing again and scanned the tomes in this section; and fortunately the books he wished were at normal human heights. Tebo pulled out the books one by one at Bentfeather’s disgression and stacked them on the trolley; and when it was filled to capacity, he rolled it out into the library proper.

There were several alcoves set up in the library for private study, where large tables and writing material could be used; and in the far back recesses of the library were closed rooms where people could debate and not disturb the rest of the patrons. As Bentfeather went over the tomes and sorted them for the areas they were to go to, Tebo placed the books prominently on the tables to be used; then they were off to other parts of the library where these meetings were to take place. Many hours later, as the time for their guests to arrive, Tebo’s final task was to provide each area with carafes of water; and provide refreshment for them as they wished.

All too soon their guests of honor began to arrive. The large Triceratops, female Parasolophus and array of Dromeosaur aides all dressed in regal affairs arrived first, and Bentfeather knew the head of the Archaeological guild on sight! He wheeled into view and bowed at their feet, then silently led them to their study area so their meeting to begin; for these important people appreciated one not to speak unless spoken to. Tebo ushered in a tall male human and two burly Troodont aides, also in the group from the Archaeological guild; and followed his mentor to that area as well. After that the Debate club showed up as one, humans and Stenochysaurs dressed in white robes with either blue or red stripes on them, each color denouncing either they were for or against the subject. Bentfeather led them into the private rooms in back before their rather loud debate could begin!…

_

OCC: I thought this could be a lead-in while we’re waiting for more players. I’ll continue this plot in the next post.

OCC-2: A slight modification was added to the above as I forgot one of Bentfeather's idiosyncracies!

TAG: Any and all!

[Thundertail]

IC: Tebo Lewis and Bentfeather, Waterfall City library.

After Bentfeather led the Debate club into their chambers of the Waterfall City library, Tebo informed him that members of the Natural Geometry guild had arrived; and they wasted no time in greeting them in the main foyer. Natural Geometry was one of Bentfeather’s favorite pastimes, mathematically discovering geometric patterns from things of Nature; and a precursor of the way buildings and other things were designed on Dinotopia. He loved the subject, even better than poetry sometimes!

“I greet you, most esteemed scholars!”, Bentfeather bowed at the Protoceratops leader named Hood, and winked at his female Microraptor assistant Whitemane. “Your domain is this way, if you follow…”

“Still spouting poetry, I see…”, Hood commented as Bentfeather rode his frill.

“I always had a knack for prose myself…”, Bentfeather said, but was cut short by Whitemane.

“Well, keep on practicing and you’ll get it right sooner or later!”, she giggled. Bentfeather did so awkwardly.

“Ahem…”, he continued a moment later as they entered the study area. “What new formulae have you discovered. Your last one I barely recovered!”

“We had an awesome find at Turtletail Cove last year.”, Hood said as he took a Protoceratops-size resting couch. “We discovered that the sea cucumbers there have a more complex fractal structure than the magnolia. What a boon to architects everywhere!… Once we parse the mathematical matrices, that is.”

“Truly a find worthy of note!”, Bentfeather was amazed, but Tebo stood perplexed. “Have you come to confirm what you wrote?”

“The guild wants us to construct a paper on the find.”, Whitemane said as she mounted a miniature treadmill reading machine. “They want us to cross-reference it with similar finds.”

“They can’t be satisfied with just the simple facts…”, Hood groused. “Oh well. Guess it’s time to hit the books!…”

“We will leave you to your devices…”, Bentfeather said, and Tebo cut him short this time.

“If you require anything, refreshments or any other thing; please let us know…”, the boy said and bowed.

“Thank you, son.”, Hood said.

“I never knew you had an apprentice, Bentfeather.”, Whitemane commented.

“The library deemed I have an assistant.”, Bentfeather told them. “He is pretty young and very much innocent.”

“Well, don’t let him drive you crazy, young human!”, Whitemane giggled and bent to her work; and this the pair took to mark their leave.

With nothing better to do, Bentfeather landed on Tebo’s shoulder and accompanied him toward the kitchen in the far back rooms of the library, riding the book trolley when they arrived at it. Tebo began filling pitchers of water and seeing about any cakes or other food for their guests while Bentfeather absently examined the ancient pump that brought water from waterfall-fed cisterns far below the city. Once Tebo was done with his chore and the cart was filled with pitchers, carafes and waterskins - along with several plates of pastries - they both left the kitchen and went on their rounds once again.

Their first stop was the chambers that were occupied by the Debate club, shouting voices were heard even through the thick oaken door. Ignoring this, they both set their minds to the task; and it was Bentfeather who knocked lightly before Tebo slowly inched the door open, and both were inundated with shouting argument! Both teams were congregated on either side of the table within, their current speakers between them shouting at the top of their lungs, touting or praising the values of water. No one there was paying attention to the intrusion, but glares from both parties told of the intensity of the debate!

For the sake of the other library patrons, Bentfeather had Tebo quickly shut the door before trying to speak. “Your refreshments have arrived…”, no response! “Hello…, I’m alive!”

The argument went on as Tebo quickly set out the refreshments, ignoring all the unused to shouting; not knowing if he was making any noise himself setting things up as there was so much other noise in the room. Bentfeather looked from one faction to the other, trying to get the gist of the argument; for even these proceedings brought forth constructive conclusions, but could find no order in the arguments these two speakers were saying. At last many of the members noticed the pair as they were leaving, and the lead speaker with blue stripes halted them with a hand.

“Let us get an opinion from an unconcerned bystander…”, said the human, and all fell silent and nodded. “Young man, what say you about water?…”

“Well,…”, Tebo began to back toward the door, but Bentfeather’s coaxing eyes made him look at the speaker. “Well sir, Water is good when you are thirsty, and it makes the food grow…”, he thought a bit. “But I don’t much like baths, and I don’t much like being caught out in the rain…”, Tebo looked at Bentfeather for approval, and saw him nodding; so therefore he relaxed a bit.

“See?… Water is both good and bad!”, said the speaker, but was drowned out by the Stenochysaur speaker in red stripes cut him short.

“True, but is it more good than bad, or more bad than good?…”, said she, and the room erupted once again!

“Water, water everywhere!… And nary a drop to drink here!…”, Bentfeather shouted as he landed on the table before them, head plumage beginning to rise. “We merely came to refresh your voices. Not to give my apprentice choices! We will leave you to your devices, and go on to other places…”

Bentfeather nodded to them and indicated that Tebo gather his things and leave the room, which the boy gratefully did! Bentfeather presently followed him right before the door closed, and set back down on the trolley; he sighed as he straightened his plumage once more, and eyes Tebo knowingly as the boy smiled at his preening. Down another aisle and to the right stood another study area, the one presently occupied by the members of the Archaeological guild. They entered the area and stayed on the periphery of the shelves; Bentfeather scanning activity as he waited for the right moment to move in and do their duty - they were a private lot!

The gruff Triceratops worried over what his Dromeosaur assistants were doing as he lowered a heavy obelisk-like artifact to the table with his beak, where the female Parasolophus extracted a piece of parchment and rub coal dust over the now wrapped item. The human and the two Troodonts merely sat at the other table and waited for the results. As the artifact was unwrapped, the paper that wrapped it now had a fine coating of black dust, and the indentations that were imbedded in the stone now shone whiteness on the paper. Very carefully did the Parasolophus extract the paper and flatten it on the table, where the twin Dromeosaur aides examined it closely with their keen eyes. His part in the task being completed, the Triceratops slumped back and looked around; and seeing Bentfeather and Tebo standing there, nodded that they could approach.

“Enter, but please keep silent…”, the Triceratops boomed softly. “My staff needs silence in order to work.”, both nodded acknowledgement.

Beginning at the table occupied by the human and his counterparts, Tebo filled carafes and set fresh glasses to the nodding trio, who were still staring at the progress at the other table. Bentfeather indicated a bowl of fruit to be placed at the center of this table, and Tebo complied once he was finished filling their glasses. Bentfeather hopped onto the table to make sure the placements were just right, and then turned to the activity going on at the other table. His love of Archaeology nearly surpassed his love of Natural Geometry, and as he watched the Dromeosaurs examine the coal tracings of the paper, he swore he could make out hieroglyphs in the light and dark splotches - even from this distance! His head plumage inched up the more fascinated he became, and his feet moved forward on the table without his knowledge. Before he knew it, Bentfeather found himself sprawled on the floor!

The human sitting there let go a tiny chuckle while his cohorts hissed to each other and pointed at the comical sight. At the disturbance the rest at the other table jerked their heads up and looked in their direction. Tebo scurried to where his mentor fell and picked the slightly dazed creature up, rubbing small spots to Aleve any pain. The Triceratops sauntered over and addressed the sitting human.

“What is this all about, Phineas?”, he boomed.

“Well, sir Mondor, the Microraptor fell off the table, and…”, Phineas said.

“And you laughed when you knew we require SILENCE!?”, Mondor bellowed.

“Oh sir…”, stammered the now coherent Bentfeather. “It was not his err… I saw your progress and my desire me it bested.”, he indicated the obelisk as he straightened his head plumage. “Archaeology is my pet subject. I wished to look if none objected.”

“You are a gracious host, Bentfeather.”, Mondor said. “But this artifact is supposed to be a secret!”

“Oh Mondor!”, the Parasolophus turned and said. “Since he is so interested - and obviously learned on the subject - should we not let him see for himself?”

“But Angee, no one’s supposed to know!”, groused Mondor as Angee beckoned the Microraptor over.

“This obelisk was taken from a cave on a tiny islet twenty miles north of the Outer Island. It has some interesting markings…”, Angee said as Bentfeather examined the stone. “It marks the place where an epic journey could be made…”

“The marks look like Transition Script.”, Bentfeather commented. “A language of which is no longer writ…”, he looked further. “I see it says: ‘ The hand will point the way’; and the other dialects there, what do they say?”

“Those dialects say the same thing.”, Angee pointed out all four sides. “Below is some kind of instruction, and what we think are co-ordinates.”

“To where?”, Tebo asked despite himself.

“We didn’t know until we discovered the island.”, Phineas said as he stood. “Captain Bort and his crew found it as a result of an ancient map.”, he indicated the Troodont next to where he had been sitting. “The island had a strange rock formation. Like a finger pointing out to sea…”

“The records show that a Will Dennison discovered it.”, Mondor put in.

“Of those records I read well!”, Bentfeather said. “It told of a channel through the reef shell!”

“But as you know, time changes everything sooner or later.”, Bort said as his head bobbed. “We made soundings many leagues from the island, and could not find the channel that almost took Dennison home.”

“We thinks the coral overgrew the area, closing the channel forever.”, piped the second Troodont. “We were goink to try soundin further, but the storm overcame us…”

“Once word reached us, we took efforts for safety.”, Mondor told them. “We kept the obelisk, but destroyed the island so nobody else would find the place and be put in danger.”

“Captain Bort commissioned a hefty supply of dynamite aboard his vessel.”, Phineas said. “The island is no more than a sand bar by now!”, he chuckled. “By the way…, Our fee?…”

“You will be duly reimbursed, I assure you.”, Mondor told him as the human sat back down. “Now, let’s get busy deciphering the rest of it…”, he returned to the other table.

The Dromeosaur assistants, by this time, had returned to their deciphering; and Bentfeather flapped to the trolley cart to be out of their way. As the Archeological experts slowly returned to their previous business, Tebo and Bentfeather both sighed and left the area. They made many rounds to their guests that morning, filling water and acquiring paper and other needs as seen fit; and then all three groups began to make their leave.

Bentfeather saw them all off at the main doors of the Waterfall City library; both he and the boy bowing regally as each group left the building, and then Bentfeather informed Tebo that they had to clean up the group’s areas and put all the books away before lunch! Nearly two hours later Tebo Lewis trudged into Bentfeather’s office, mentor on his shoulder and carrying their catered food…
_

TAG: Any and all!

[Thundertail]

IC: Bentfeather and Tebo Lewis, Waterfall City library.

After a long morning catering to three of Waterfall City’s most prominent groups, both Bentfeather and Tebo Lewis relished the time they had for lunch; for after such a hectic morning, the rest was a welcome relief! Tebo raised a fork of the pasta combination he had ordered, then chased it with many bites of dark bread laced with Mammoth butter; washing it down with cold Jinka tea while he watched his mentor eat. The metabolism of a Microraptor is high-strung at best, and requires a lot of food for their size; and Bentfeather’s twin portions of crickets and carrots (Both parboiled to his liking!) were piled high and nearly weighed as much as he did, half of which was already in his stomach!

Tebo began to reflect on the past few weeks, and the introduction to the library and this tiny saurian before him; and he also remembered the rest of his life before coming here. He had reason to be happy and grateful, but also reason to feel that the fates had dealt his family a bad deal in life. He came from poor stock and his parents lived in poor conditions; and he felt he didn’t deserve to be in a nice place as this, learning and doing things his family had never heard of before. Soon his appetite left him, and he resolved to twirl the last piece of pasta around with his fork; grunting back a stomach rumble, and hoping Bentfeather didn’t notice his bad manners. No words were spoken during this activity, but Bentfeather’s head hackles rose and fell in thought, making Tebo grin occasionally as he looked up and watched his mentor eat. Bentfeather smiled slightly and slicked back his hackles before speaking.

“What bothers you, my friend?”, he asked. “Are you sad because the meal is at an end?”

“Oh, it’s the way I acted with your important friends!…”, Tebo spouted. “I made a fool of myself in front of them!…”

“A fool of yourself you did not make.”, Bentfeather got up and said. “Integrities like that are hard to shake.”, he leaned in. “My friends like those are a strange lot, it’s true. No normal person was there but you!”

“But I didn’t understand anything of what they were talking about…”, Tebo looked down. “Any of them!”

“The world of knowledge is a world of wonder, my friend.”, said he. “Those who are uneducated blunder in the end.”, he saw the boy’s confusion. “We of the Library guild provide knowledge unsurpassed. Can you see our benefit at last?”

“I know that.”, Tebo said. “But I never really did good in school.”

“Learning knowledge is at times more difficult than discovering knowledge.”, said Bentfeather. “What were the obstacles that blocked your bridge?”

“Lots of things…”, Tebo shifted his seating. “My eyes aren’t so good, for one. The other kids used to tease me because I wore glasses.”, he thought. “I guess the worst of it was my folks could not afford any better.”

“But now you are here, among the secrets of the ages!”, Bentfeather’s hackles began to rise once again. “Every bit of knowledge is contained in these pages!”, he looked around. “Math and poetry, prose and data, maps and drawings…! All at your fingertips!”, he took a step toward the boy. “Now you can learn everything you can desire!…”

“It all seems so wonderful here.”, Tebo looked down suddenly. “But all the information in the world is useless if I can’t see to read it…”

“Let me see your spectacles, if I may.”, Bentfeather reached. “Perhaps I can think of another way…”

Tebo tore off the second hand spectacles and offered them to the Microraptor, who looked through them from both sides and tested the vision by waggling his spindly fingers through them. He then looked deeply into the boy’s eyes from that distance and compared what he saw to how the boy’s eyes reacted. Once done he offered them back, and Tebo roughly shoved them back onto his sloping nose.

“These spectacles are not for you.”, Bentfeather told him. “You have no glasses that are new?”

“My parents could not afford new ones with the right prescription.”, Tebo explained. “But the eye doctor had a set someone left with him. He said they were pretty close to what I needed. He gave them to me free since we were so poor.”

“Now I see…, But you do not.”, bent feather began to pace, then stopped. “I have an idea! Want to know what?”

“What is it?”, the boy asked, grinning since Bentfeather’s head plumage stood straight up.

“For apprentices who see graduation, I must give a presentation.”, said the Microraptor. “Mine I’ll give a bit early, and don’t think I’m too surly. The Optometrist in town is a friend of mine, your new spectacles I am buying.”

“But sir!… They’re too expensive!”, Tebo balked.

“Apprentices of mine must be in perfect health!”, Bentfeather told him, finger raised. “They should not worry about a benefactor’s wealth. I will contact him this evening, and tomorrow you he will be seeing.”

“I don’t know what to say…”, Tebo stammered, pushing his plate aside. “What can I do to ever repay you?”

“The knowledge here is free to have. All I ask is you learn it.”, Bentfeather told him, smoothing back his hackles. “I will be here for you if you need help, but you might not if you can see what you read.”

“I will, sir!… I will!”, Tebo got up and gathered the dishes, putting them on a sideboard for other assistants to bring to the kitchen. “Sir Bentfeather, how did you get so smart?”, he said at last.

“My tale is a tale indeed. It’s rough and rocky, so take heed…”, Bentfeather went on to describe his life, from being last hatched of four eggs, three sisters admonishing him for the fact; and all the Postal Bird friends ha had made. He told of his love of reading and learning, and how he moved from where he was hatched to Sauropolis, and then to Waterfall City. His love of learning earned him apprenticeship here in the library, and at last as a full master; but not after many expeditions in the field. He told of his other endeavors, from being a substitute teacher when others were out sick; and told many things about the Dinosaur Olympics, as he was one of the judges for the event! He told of the later years, where he volunteered at the library and tended other cultural enterprises around town. Surprisingly, Bentfeather did not speak in rhyme for most of this. “…And then the Library Guild suggested I get an apprentice, and here you are!”

“And you’re saying that MY life could be so fulfilling?”, Tebo asked.

“That and more, but all lives are different.”, Bentfeather told him. “Your achievements can be just as good, but they will be YOURS, no one else’s. You are doing fine so far, son; and I must tell your parents.”, he looked square at the lad. “Might you tell me where they can be found?”

“Well, my mom and dad live by Mosasaur Harbor. Me too…”, Tebo Lewis said. “My mom helps with her sewing to repair the dock workers clothes when they get torn. My dad is captain of one of the passenger ferry barges, the Celocanth, the one with the blue and white striped awning. We live across the harbor from Fountain Street.”

“That so?”, Bentfeather digested the information. “I will see them at my first convenience.”

“I noticed something about you.”, Tebo said. “When you speak earnestly, you do not rhyme your words.”

“I was always good in poetry.”, Bentfeather said. “When I rhyme, it focuses my mind and makes me seem more worldly.”, he looked concerned. “If you wish me to stop that, I will.”

“No, it’s all right.”, Tebo told him. “Without the rhyming, you wouldn’t be you!”

“And if you did not say that, you would not be you, either!”, Bentfeather got close and touched his palm. “Worry not, little one. You will learn!”

“And you should learn to be calmer…”, Tebo reached and smoothed his head hackles with a finger. “You just may live longer!”…
_

TAG: Any and all!

[Thundertail]

IC: Tebo Lewis and Bentfeather, Waterfall City library.

Just then they both roused from their talk and got up from Bentfeather’s desk, Tebo pushing in the only chair in the room while Bentfeather swept the top with a miniature broom. They left his office and went into the library proper, where the usual groups of patrons were milling around the aisles; and studiers were diligently at tables, working on this or that subject. With very little more to do that day, Bentfeather got their next assignments while Tebo gathered a spare book trolley; and soon they were busy among the shelves, collecting stray books to be put back on the shelves where they belonged. Not a word was said about what they discussed at lunch, for what transpires between an apprentice and his mentor is a private matter - and everyone knew this.

As before, only in reverse, Bentfeather would read the title of each book or scroll, and indicate to Tebo which shelf it went on; and the boy would place them where it was indicated. Tebo’s poor eyesight made it difficult to know exactly where the literature went without Bentfeather’s guidance, and this did little to boost his confidence; but between the two of them, the whole library was clean of errant books. As early afternoon turned to late afternoon, and as they completed their forth circuit of the library, the Stenoychosaur teller at the checkout desk named Tilly called them over, and looked around desperately before speaking to them.

“Bentfeather, I wonder if you could do me a favor…”, Tilly asked nervously.

“Your eyes seem wild!”, Bentfeather said. “How can we help you, child?”

“It has been a busy day, as you know.”, said she. “In all that has been going on, I shirked one of I disagreeignments.”

“What happened?”, Tebo asked.

“I was supposed to go into the city today and collect on some delinquent books and scrolls.”, Tilly told them. “I had to stay here and check out books all day, so I never got the chance!”, she looked around. “I’m in so much trouble!…”

“Have no fear, my girl!”, Bentfeather proclaimed. “Collections we are not accustomed to, but we will give it a whirl!”, he twirled on her desk before flying back to the trolley.

“You’re a lifesaver!…”, Tilly said as she handed them a small paper with several names and addresses on it, the titles beside them showed which tome or tomes they still possessed.

“And we won’t tell anyone!…”, Tebo told her conspiratorially as he took it from her hand. “Promise!…”

Smiling as they left the reception area of the Waterfall City library, Tebo and Bentfeather wound their way through the aisles and shelves; stopping to park the trolley cart near a service area before leaving the patron area of the library. Rounding a corner, where the areas made for the workers of the place; Tebo opened a door to some skinny stairs and descended them with Bentfeather on his shoulder, giving him directions on which way to go. They came out to a dimly lit corridor in the basement of the library, stacks of crates containing paper, other writing materials, books and other supplies lining the hall; Tebo getting his bearings in the unfamiliar area while Bentfeather related all the time he spent in these very corridors as an apprentice.

Soon they came to a set of double doors, and large doors built to accommodate large carts; where the library received their supplies, Tebo figured. Near this area a group of pushcarts designed for outdoor use which were much larger than Tebo’s book trolley upstairs were seen in a row, of which only two seemed not in need of repair; so Bentfeather indicated they choose the one with pastel blue and green paint jobs, a matching umbrella-like awning and sporting signs that they represented the Waterfall City library. Tebo complied, pulling the much heavier cart from where it was parked; but he only moved it a foot or so when the cart was pulled back abruptly, seemingly of it’s own volition!

“HERE!… What goes on here?!…”, came a rumbling voice from behind the cart; and the voices owner rose up, revealing the domed head of a Pachycephalosaur! “I saw this cart first!”

“Sorry…”, Tebo said, taken aback as Bentfeather sprung from his shoulder to land nearer the creature. “I didn’t know…”

“Ah, it’s miss Daisy!”, Bentfeather exclaimed, bowing. “I hadn’t seen you all day today!”, he looked. “And how are you this afternoon? We need this cart, so you’ll have more room.”

“I need it too, you know.”, she said, looking at the pair with the permanently disdainful look all of her tribe have. “I must deliver books to those who can’t come to the library. I was just greasing the wheels - they squeak, you see…”

“We need the cart to collect some books as a favor.”, Bentfeather told her. “Perhaps we could use this cart together.”

“I don’t see why not.”, Daisy said. “If some of your stops are near where I got to stop.”

“Perhaps this is so…”, Bentfeather turned to Tebo. “Son, hand her our scroll.”, Tebo did so in a shy way.

“It’s ok, human. I don’t bite!”, Daisy chuckled as she grabbed the scroll. “Are you his apprentice? I heard he had one now…”

“Yes ma’am…”, Tebo said, but backed away slightly anyway.

“It seems we DO have a few identical stops after all…”, Daisy said after a pause to read. “It’d be nice to have company for a change…”

“And a rare treat to be graced by your presence.”, Bentfeather bowed regally, Daisy’s face turned to a sneer - their form of smile. “Your strength most welcome in case we meet any menace!”

“In THIS town?…”, Daisy asked theatrically. “Even the boy could take care of ‘em!”, she stared at him viciously. “What’s yer name?”

“Tebo, ma’am…”, he told her “Tebo Lewis”

“Are you the son of Captain Lewis, of Mosasaur harbor?”, she asked and he nodded. “I ride with him every morning, and back again every night!… I know him well,… And I think I saw you once or twice too!”

“Oh,…”, was all Tebo said.

“I think it’s time to leave by and by…”, Bentfeather spoke up. “The sun is getting low in the sky.”

“You worry too much, sugar!”, Daisy told him, then turned to Tebo. “Don‘t you think?…”, Tebo shrugged and took the other handle of the pushcart, helping the Pachycephalosaur pull it out of it’s slot.

At the loading dock doors, Daisey paused and scrolled the door open; then she and Tebo pushed and pulled it outside, pausing to close the door once again. They made it to the main square in front of the library and down a topiary lined lane to a small bridge over a cargo chute and into the city proper. As Tebo took up the rear of the cart to push and Daisey the front to pull, Bentfeather switched from riding on an awning support to Tebo’s shoulder. He whispered things in rhyme about Pachys and how to act among them: don’t look at them straight in the eye because they consider it a threat, don’t bow while looking at them because that’s a threat too and many other things that Pachys are known to be offended by; but they also have excellent hearing, and she turned toward them.

“We also hear very well, and it’s impolite to talk about us behind our backs!”, she said, then smiled in her own way. “But I understand how folks act, and ain’t offended by any of that!”, she continued her pulling.

“Please, sir Bentfeather!…”, Tebo winced. “Shhhh…”

The pushcart trundled down the cobbled streets, passers by nodding in greeting and many saying it out loud; and at last made it to one of their destinations. A youngster, the boy said, had lost the book from school; but found it and was going to return it next week, so he guiltily handed it to Tebo and trudged back into his house. Daisey’s first stop was at a small hatchery and doctor’s office near Rosy Morning Promenade, switching their outdated medical journals for new ones. Just up the street Bentfeather had to collect a fine because the people who moved from Steep street to where they were now had lost many books in the move. At the Waterfall City council chambers, all three had a lot to do; for Bentfeather had to gather many scrolls the council members had left there, and Daisey had to drop off many legal journals the Mayor asked to have copied.

Their early evening tour of the city continued on like that, and after thirty three stops between the two errands; they all were glad to be on the return leg of the journey. Even so late in the day the people they passed greeted them and chatted briefly to one or all of them if they knew them. The stone bridge met them just as the sun touched the top ramparts of Aqua Stadium across the way, and by the time their shadows touched the stone steps of the Waterfall City library, they all knew that they made it back to their ackedemic home. Tiredly they trudged the now extremely heavy pushcart into the loading bay, extricated their loads of books and scrolls and moored the pushcart back into it’s slot. Daisey gave her leave and tiredly ascended another set of stairs that came out just off the kitchen while Bentfeather and Tebo wrestled their books upstairs, where Bentfeather handed Tilly the now completed list.

They were both tired and wanted to go home, but their hunger bade them to ask another library worker to get them some food. While they were waiting they talked about the people they met, and Bentfeather asked of the things Tebo might have learned from them; and when he said that he never noticed anything he had to learn from them, Bentfeather scolded, saying there was lots to learn whether he knew it or not! Before this conversation made Bentfeather’s hackles rise, something light pounded against the closed window in Bentfeather’s office. It was a Postal Bird, and from the intensity of the creature’s knocking, Bentfeather knew it was important! He had Tebo open the window for him.

“Postal Bird 614 reporting as per orders of the High Council of Waterfall City.”, 614 said without preamble save for shaking the cobwebs from his head when he hit. “I am to address sir Bentfeather Microraptor from the Waterfall City library.”

“I am Bentfeather, fine flyer.”, he replied. “What does the Council desire?”

“You are to receive a person to tutor, and instruct in the ways of Dinotopia.”, 614 recited from memory. “You will prepare yourself immediately, for she will arrive from Canyon City in a few days.”

“But I already have a student to teach!”, Bentfeather told him. “People from Canyon City already know our speech!”

“I’m not supposed to say this…”, 614 said. “But this person is a Dolphinback…”

“A Dolphinback, you say?… I find this news is swell!”, Bentfeather’s plumage went up immediately! “I will show her our ways, and so can she as well!”

“The Council requires you not speak a word of this to anybody, but prepare yourself anyway.”, 614 looked at Tebo. “Will he tell?…”

“Not a word, sir!”, Tebo told the bird, who nodded and theatrically flapped back out the window…
_

TAG: Any and all!

[Thundertail]

IC: Bentfeather and Tebo Lewis, Waterfall City library.

When news arrived on Dinotopia, it usually the best or the worst it could possibly be, but this news about a Dolphinback arriving in Waterfall City in a few days had both potentials to consider. True it was great news that a Dolphinback had survived the dangers of the Razor Reef, and it was even better news to Bentfeather that he would be privileged to help train her; but the best news of all was the knowledge of the outside world she would possess, and especially all the stories she could tell! The only drawbacks Bentfeather could think of was that he had already chosen an apprentice and helper for this tenure at the library, and Tebo was standing there right in front of him, just closing the window. Another problem would be where to accommodate the waif in this big city, for his apartment a few blocks away was cramped at best for creatures of human stature, but just right for tiny individuals such as himself. And of the matter of teaching her the ways of Dinotopia, he would have to come up with a whole new curriculum for her as well as Tebo if both were to be instructed together. Oh!… The ramifications of such news was setting his mind swimming once again - and setting his hackles to rising once more! He smoothed them back and saw the worried look on Tebo’s face.

Tebo mulled through the news the Postal Bird told them as he closed the window, for he had heard that Dolphinbacks were sometimes dangerous. They do not know the ways of Dinotopia, and introduce many strange and dangerous ways, but most of the time they gradually settle down and fit in over time. This was compounded by the other things revealed to him today. The fact that Bentfeather would get him his badly needed new spectacles so he can learn and one day be a master librarian, as well as the instruction he had given him whether Bentfeather knew it or not. He assumed his assignment would be to read and learn everything in the library, to commit it to memory and become super smart like Bentfeather. The perplexed look on his face turned into one of determination as he looked over and saw his mentor smiling at him.

Both admitted that the news was quite a shock, and hoped the knock on the door was their Eveningmeal. It was, delivered by the name of Molly Fergusson, who was the head of the library’s Copy Department and also doubled as library cook. It was important to copy old books, scrolls and other tomes and documents from time to time because sometimes the literature wore out, or someone had need of copies for groups. Molly ruled over her dozen Stenoychosaur and Dromeosaur copiers, whose writing and calligraphy skills were unsurpassed in their day. Molly smiled broadly and asked what they were discussing, for she loved gossip. Bentfeather told her it was a secret, and would tell all when the time was right, an answer she accepted; then asked if they needed anything copied and Bentfeather said no in his own way.

Both looked at the roughly closed door for a second in mild dismay, for Molly Fergusson was an extremely strong human; then looked at each other, seeming to have the same thought between them. Both nearly leapt at the tray, which contained a medley of grubs, lettuce, beans and herbs for Bentfeather and a combination of sliced fruits and vegetables steaming hot for Tebo. Both were ravenously hungry, but neither knew it until just now; for their jaunt around the city had worked up a considerable appetite! They chewed in silence for many minutes, trying to have a conversation about how good the food tasted and expressing their emotions of the imports of the day; and when both plates were all but empty, Bentfeather got Tebo’s attention before speaking.

He told his apprentice not to speak a word of this to anyone, and to go to his home for a good night’s rest; Tebo vowed silence, and quietly left Bentfetaher’s office after finishing his meal and placing all their dishes on a sideboard. Tebo gave him a wink as he closed the door and began his long journey home.

Bentfeather watched his apprentice leave his office, then sank to thinking the moment the door closed. He thought that having one person to teach would be hard; but the fact that the Council deemed he could teach TWO of them - and one being a Dolphinback - must have meant they had every confidence in him to do this task. What a burden for such an old and tiny dinosaur such as himself! Rooting through his desk and drawing out writing supplies, he took stylus, ink and parchment and began writing down what might be necessary to accommodate the situation.

The Dolphinback would need a place to stay, but his tiny apartment a few blocks away would be unsuitable; and he could not ask Tebo’s parents to take on someone as unpredictable as she, and Tebo may not take kindly for a strange female living with him, either. She might know the basic education all humans are taught, like her own language, how to write it and read it, and the average aptitudes of both math and science. She would have to be taught the dinosaur footprint language, how to read and write it; and lessons on how to speak basic Saurian - and maybe other saurian tongues if she had aptitude for it. He guessed the most difficult thing of all for her to get over was the culture here, the fact that dinosaurs and humans live in harmony, the perhaps crude forms of technology they had by comparison to what she was used to. He knew that their philosophy on life was a lot different than theirs, and such differences might spur traumas no one here might be able to handle. As Bentfeather finished jotting down all these notes, he concluded that he would not be able to gather all of this in time for her arrival! He concluded that he would have to gain audience with the High Council, to gather more information on her and ask help in preparing for her arrival; then he rolled the paper up, put it in his bag and took off for his apartment for the night.

Bentfeather’s sleep was troubled with the news he had gotten today, but he went to sleep almost immediately for the exertion he had gotten today; and he woke to the glimmer of sunlight reflecting into his apartment window from the Sunstone tower, which was aligned perfectly with it to wake him every morning. The darkened streets below were deserted as it was still very early, but Bentfeather made a beeline to the Waterfall City library by sheer habit; flitting into the only open window along the side and flitting through the rows of shelves to the reception desk and the dozing male human keeping night watch there.

Jake woke with a start at Bentfetaher’s squawky callings, his squarish green and blue brimless cap framing his brown features and curly dark hair; and he groggily asked what he was doing there. Bentfeather explained that he was going to do errands this morning, and left a note for Tebo when he arrived. Tebo was going to do library chores until he returned. After Jake opened the main doors for him as he flitted out the door, Jake took the note and sat back down to continue his nap.

The streets were still empty when he left the library, but the current population was far from Bentfeather’s mind as he flew through the streets of Waterfall City on his way to the first of many errands he was to make today. He had promised Tebo that he would get him his new spectacles, and he was on his way to the only Optometrist in town; and everyone knew that Doctor Ramses lived on Fountain street, right within Fountain Square.

In the relative dark, Bentfeather nearly went through the fountain that gave the area it’s namesake, but missed for the gurgling noise it perpetually made. He landed on a stone bench to get his bearings in the gloom, and saw the doctor’s office just up the street; and a dim light shone through the door, indicating that doctor Ramses was an early riser as well. He went to the door and hung onto the door’s window frame for support before knocking - he didn’t have the strength to pull the heavy bell mechanism - and listened to the stirrings inside. Soon the window darkened, and it opened to reveal an extremely lanky human with balding hair and long brown Muttonchop sideburns; rumpled pajamas and cap indicating he had just gotten up.

Doctor Ramses greeted who ever was at the door with hostility, for Bentfeather flitted off into the darkness when the door opened abruptly; but quickly flew back into the light to explain who he was. The doctor invited him inside and asked why he was here, fearing that Bentfeather might want glasses! Bentfeather corrected him, saying he was there on behalf of Tebo Lewis; a name the doctor recognized, and divulged that he had already had those glasses made up. Ramses explained that he felt sorry for Tebo and his poor conditions, but feared his pride at receiving yet another gift from him as he already gave him the glasses he already wore. He said he was waiting for an opportunity to give the new ones to him too, but the chance never came up.

Inwardly thanking his good fortune, for now Tebo needn’t have another examination; but outwardly praising the doctor for his charity and empathy for the boy, Bentfeather examined the spectacles as they were handed to him. After settling on a price of a hundred Drachs, doctor Ramses threw in a small leather case to put them in for free; and as Bentfeather placed the right amount of coins on the table, he placed the glasses in his bag before flitting out into the early morning light…
_

Tebo Lewis looked back as the door to Bentfeather’s office closed behind him. His apprenticeship contract said that he was to take alternate weeks sleeping at the library and at home, and this started his ‘home-week’; but this was least important on his mind as he walked out the library doors and down the wide marble steps in the dark. His mind was filled with both the wisdom he had accumulated so far under Bentfeather’s tutelage as well as the things that were revealed to him today, the latter he had to keep a secret while the former he figured he could talk about in front of his parents if the subject came up. He shifted his second-hand spectacles up on the bridge of his nose once more and continued through the streets, noticing poor eyesight and the dimness of the city just beginning to go to sleep seemed like the same thing.

The walk through the city took a while, and he met and greeted quite a few people and saurians along the way; and soon he came to the headway of Mosasaur harbor by early evening. Only a few barges were still on the water, taking travelers back home from their daily ventures; but most of them were moored in their slips, and their barge pullers and their crew were already home, he guessed. After many turns along the harbor side walkways, he came to his building, a warehouse structure with many apartments in the upper floors; and took the alleyway between his building and the inn next door to the side entrance, where he climbed to the third floor and knocked on the door to his parent’s place. When it opened, his mother greeted him with a surprised kiss.

Raina Lewis led her son into the kitchen, where she offered to fix dinner and he refused, saying he ate at the library. Tebo asked where his father was, and she said Tobias was still at the paddocks, bedding down Randy, their Ankylosaur friend who pulled captain Lewis’s ferry barge. Tebo’s mother asked how things were going at the library, and he said they were going great; relating how his opinion was asked at the meeting of the Debate club, and how he hated taking baths! This reminded her to remind him to take a bath, and Tebo gave a kid-like groan as he turned to go to his room.

Just then his father walked through the door, and he ran to give him a hug; then began to tell him about his day, leaving out the secret parts. As Tobias was relating to Tebo his day ferrying passengers all over Mosasaur harbor, their nanny Matilda the Dromeosaur, came in with Tebo’s baby sister, Marie; but she was so fussy Tebo could only give her a chin tickle before Matilda said she needed changing and went into the other room. As Tobias went to eat his Eveningmeal, Tebo begged leave and went to his room at last.

Nearly collapsing on his all too familiar bed, Tebo sighed and mulled over the day; eyeing the familiar things in his room and trying to relax after such a busy time of late. He never knew that, when he went out to get himself employment as he was barely old enough to do so; things would change so drastically for him, but was glad they turned out for the better so far. He heard that he was very lucky to have found a position that could bring him the prestige of chief librarian one day, and to be exposed to all the knowledge and the high ranking people the position could expose him to. It was also very scary, for the way he was treated at school spawned his rather shy outlook of himself; and he really didn’t think he could be any good at it, but the only thing he had a mind to do was at least try.

He rolled over, trying to sleep but being haunted with the uncertainty of having that Dolphinback in his presence soon, for he was sure he wasn’t prepared for such an encounter; but on the other hand, Dolphinbacks were rare and not many people knew how to handle them either! Chuckling at that thought, Tebo drifted off to sleep at last; and woke the next morning to the sounds of Matilda doing her morning cleaning in the hall outside his door. He sprung up from bed and got ready as quickly as possible, sprinting out the door before his mother could offer him a plate of Morningmeal.

Running through the streets of Waterfall City, and ignoring everyone in his wake as well as the mild chaos he left behind; Tebo Lewis made it to the library in record time, panting as he trudged up the great stone steps. The doors opened and he stepped inside, but was stopped by Jake at the front desk; who handed him a note by Bentfeather, and sighed as he read that he was to do library chores until he returned. He asked aloud to no one where to begin, and Jake suggested he swab the front reception area because the group of Triceratops patrons yesterday evening had evidentially been out in the mud!

Moments later Tebo wiped his brow and dipped the mop once more, wondering where Bentfeather had gone, and what could be so important that he leave him like this; but quickly remembered about the new Dolphinback, and assumed that the business concerned her. He bent to his work once again, and when he raised his head once more; the blurry form of Bentfeather flitted past, barely missing his pupil on the fly! Tebo dropped the mop and chased after his mentor…
_

TAG: Any and all!

[o8jedi]

IC: Hazen Baker, Musicians' Inn, Waterfall City

Even while standing outside the Inn, there was tonal cacophony. To the untrained ear, it may have sounded like noise, but to Hazen Baker, it was intoxicating. He could focus on a certain instrument and follow its simultaneously familiar and foreign melodies. As the hustle and bustle of city life swarmed around him, Hazen would while away an hour or two standing outside, guitar case in hand, wondering how he should enter the building and seek a jam. As he learned quickly, however, the odds of them finding musical common ground would be difficult to say the least. He grew up on rock and roll, something entirely foreign to Dinotopia in general. He had picked up a few melodies from his listening sessions, but the best he could do back at his residence was to pick through them slowly and irregularly, which frustrated him as much as his lack of spine.

He sighed as he started to head back into town. Class was going to start again and he hated to be late at all. After leaving his guitar in a cubby he sat down in class. It was rather embarrassing for him to be sharing the same class with what would be called second-graders back home, however he had since learned that a pair of similarly-aged Dolphinbacks, like himself, had to go through the same process. At least they had each other to relate to. All he had was himself.

To be totally honest, it was boring for him. The only relevant courses were Saurian grammar, Spelling (given the footprint alphabet) and Civics, but he was also forced to endure the other basic courses. To add insult to injury, he would often be called upon to answer questions because he wasn't paying enough attention. Regardless of whether or not he got the answers right, the little children would have a chuckle at his expense.

Once the day was done, his instructor, Mrs. Denholm asked him to stay after class. He hadn't done anything wrong so he was slightly puzzled. The class had left and he asked in his best broken Saurian, "What it is that I did bad?"

She smiled and replied in English, "Nothing, young man. Although you could stand to pay attention more..."

Hazen wasn't used to not speaking Saurian in class, which surprised him. "O-okay. I'll try my best to pay attention."

"Hazen," she began as she sat down behind her desk, "I can see that you're not fit to be in this class. Any one with eyes can. I've discussed this with the headmaster and we feel that it may be better for you to resume a more personalized style of teaching."

"Ma'am," Hazen replied, "with all due respect, all I heard during my first few months here was that I had to go to Waterfall City for proper instruction. Now that I am here, I'm doing what I must."

"Dolphinbacks before you needed this environment in their studies so they could be better acclimated to Dinotopian life. You, on the other hand, would probably be more comfortable with instruction aimed at your more developed mind and your several months among us already."

Hazen chuckled. "So am I skipping a grade then?" Mrs. Denholm gave him a puzzled look. "It's, uh, it's a common practice back at home," he explained. "Sometimes, children exhibited a 'gift' of sorts and they would be moved ahead to a higher grade of education."

Mrs. Denholm stood up. "Try to think of this more as private instruction." She put a hand on his shoulder and led him to the door. "You should receive a message from one of the librarians shortly."

Hazen nodded. "Thank you, Mrs. Denholm," he said, "I did learn quite a bit here."

She smiled back at him. "Take care, young one. Breathe deep."

"Seek peace," Hazen replied with a bow. With that, he left the classroom, retrieved his guitar, and made his way back to his quarters.

[Thundertail]

IC: Bentfeather and Tebo, Waterfall City library.

Bentfeather lost no speed getting to his office that morning, heavy sack on his tiny shoulders pounding his chest with every beat. His maneuver with Tebo at the entrance told the boy to follow with all due haste, and looking back he saw his message had been well received! Both raced through the aisles of books, Tebo dodging around Mizzy Stenoychosaur and making her spill her books; and both came to rest panting as the office door closed behind them.

“Where did you go, sir?”, Tebo panted. “I got your note…”

“I see library work you do not savor!”, Bentfeather said. “I left you here to fulfill a favor.”

“Was it about what we discussed last night?”, asked Tebo.

“Though we did discuss it a time or two, the favor I spoke of was one for you!”, Bentfeather smiled. “Doctor Ramses made your glasses as a labor of charity, and I purchased them as a gift of felicity…”

Bentfeather reached around and produced a leather case, folded it open and slid it to the sitting boy. Tebo slowly reached for the case and extracted the spectacles, examining them from all angles before removing the old, useless glasses on his face. Both pairs appeared to be the same size, but as the old ones were framed in wood and lenses were larger and oval; these new ones were framed in brass and had smaller round lenses. He put the new ones on and Bentfeather watched the look of revelation spread across his apprentice’s face.

“It’s all so clear now!”, Tebo said looking around. His gaze stopped at the only green book in the shelves of red-bound books to Bentfeather’s left and read the golden spine typing: “The tree and me…”, and Bentfeather nodded.

“And now you see perfectly!”, Bentfeather said. “No more excuses for shirking the assignments from me!”

“This is the best present ever!”, Tebo looked around, then rose to look out the window. “The waterfalls are so beautiful!…”

“They are, and you are worth it.”, said Bentfeather. “Now on to other business, so please sit.”, he did so.

“Yes?…”, Tebo got attentive.

“I’ve come to the conclusion that I would need more information on the Dolphinback before I can plan to help her.”, Bentfeather went to his miniature resting couch on the desk and sat. “There are matters concerning accommodations and other concerns that I may need help on, and today I wish to go to the High Council and the Mayor to illicit more information and help.”

“I can help.”, Tebo told him. “What do you want me to do?”

“Help you shall, but not in those ways.”, Bentfeather said. “You may accompany me there, and be I disagreeistant while there…”, he thought a moment. “But not like that.”

“What do you mean?”, Tebo asked.

“There is a saying that clothes make the man. The better he’s dressed the more credibility he holds.”, said Bentfeather. “Since we are going to the High Council, you’ll need to dress a bit better.”

“But these are the only clothes I have!”, Tebo nearly got up. “They’re my best change!”

“All we can do is look around…”, the Microraptor said as he got up. “Perhaps someone here has some clothes…”

Bentfeather got up and flapped out the door, and Tebo lost no haste in following; leading the boy back out to the reception desk. Jake was still there, taking a book from a little human girl while signing the book off in a ledger, then looked up and smiled at them both once he recognized them.

“Well! I see all is in order…”, he said. “How can I help you?”

“Tebo and I are to go to Council today.”, Bentfeather said. “However, his manner of dress is less than gay.”

“He means my clothes are too shabby for there…”, Tebo said and bowed.

“It is, huh…”, Jake thought a moment. “Maybe I have a spare change! Let’s go to my room.”, Jake lived at the library, in the spare quarters way in back upstairs.

“If the cloths you mention are like what you have on, that will do just fine!”, Bentfeather said. “He would never fit in cloths of mine!”, both humans chuckled.

“In walked Mizzy pushing a book trolley, and Jake got her attention. “Oh Mizzy! Could you sit in for me?”, he became gentle. “I have to do something…”

“Of course Jake! Anything you want.”, Mizzy went behind the desk, then looked at Tebo. “…And you be more careful!”

“Sorry…”, Tebo remembered bumping into her.

Jake led the way out of the reception area, Bentfeather perched on Tebo’s shoulder; and made his way past the bookshelves and study areas, way in back near Bentfeather’s office and the back stairs. Up them they went and eventually came to a short corridor with many smallish doors lining it. He opened the last one on the left and went inside, revealing a Spartan bed and other accoutrements fit for a bedroom. Jake went to a tiny closet near the slit of a window and began to rummage through quite a few outfits. He eventually pulled out a crimson vest with rose patterns embroidered on it and a mint green tunic.

“These don’t fit me any more.”, Jake explained. “Should fit you fine, Tebo… My pants might be too long.”, then he thought a moment and pulled a red and green hat of African design much like the one he wore from the dresser. “An added touch!”

“A marvelous ensemble!”, Bentfeather said. “Try it on, Tebo… And don’t dawdle!”

Jake and Bentfeather left the room, and the door opened a few moments later. The boy definitely looked better now, even though the hat made his hair spill out around it. Both Bentfeather and Jake looked him over and nodded to each other at the results; and overall, Tebo liked the look too! The clothes were a definite improvement over the old ones he put on this morning, even though nothing could be done with the drab tan pantaloons and his father’s hand-me-down jackboots; but the colorful combination might definitely impress the court, getting Tebo to begin to think to wear it all the time.

“Marvelous, marvelous! Jake has excellent taste in clothes!”, Bentfeather said as he transferred himself from Jake’s shoulder to Tebos. “Now we must hurry before the Courtroom doors are closed!”

“And you may keep them.”, Jake called after them. “They don’t fit me any more anyway…”, he smiled at their backs and presently went back to his post.

Out in the street, Tebo walked with all the regality he could muster. With his new attire and his important mission at the Council chambers, he could not help walking proud. Bentfeather noticed his gait as well, and smiled at this waif that only a few weeks ago faced a life of living on the streets, but now had a whole world opening up to him through his own meticulous tutoring. People that passed by noticed the pair, and greeted them by bowing, saying good morning or giving the pair a respectable distance. The Librarian Guild medallion that hung from Bentfeather’s neck glinted in the sun, giving even himself a sense of regal air; which he had Tebo make a detour to his office to collect before leaving the library, and onward they traveled through the city to their destination.

At the courthouse doors they were stopped by the court guards at the door, and after explaining their purpose here for the third time was finally let inside. A human aide by the name of Mungo said he would announce their presence as they waited by the inner chamber doors, and what seemed like an hour later they were admitted; being told by Mungo to sit at some bench seating near the back of the chamber. Bentfeather knew to look and act as regally as possible while here, and not to make a sound unless asked; but Tebo did not as he looked around the room and gawked at all the regally dressed humans and saurians collected there, mouth open and making amazed sounds. Bentfeather shoved at his face and shushed him as he hopped to the seatback of the bench seat to Tebo’s left.

The proceedings went on all around them, delegates discussing this or that city issue; debating on what should be done and waiting for the court’s decision before the gavel the Mayor held fell, settling the matter. Not long after that the Mayor noticed Bentfeather and Tebo sitting there, the former with a look of regal patience and the latter a look of sheer boredom; and as silence fell in the chamber one more time, Mayor Emil Masteson addressed them.

“I see we have some late arrivals…”, said he. “Sir Bentfeather Microraptor and guest. May I inquire why you are here?”

“Mayor Masteson, distinguished members of the court. We came concerning a Postal Bird message we received last night.”, Bentfeather said as both rose and bowed. “The news he brought gave us quite a fright!”

“I see…”, the mayor said. “That is a matter most private. If you would, please see me in my chambers at first recess.”

“Yes, your honor.”, said Bentfeather as he bowed again, Tebo following suit. “We will go there, and inquire what that message was for.”, they sat.

The rest of the morning the court discussed matters far and wide, expressing their opinions on subjects both far-reaching and trivial; proceedings that always fascinated bent feather as this was how things got done on Dinotopia, but seemed to bore poor Tebo to death! Mercifully for Tebo, mayor Seville called recess nearly an hour later; and they asked directions from Minch after Bentfeather caroused with several of the saurian delegates. The Mayor’s chambers were lush and lavish, a huge desk the centerpiece of a room lined and partitioned off with silky drapes and lavish tapestries, leaving many avenues for the Mayor to enter the place as Tebo sat, Bentfeather taking his shoulder. They waited as Tebo fidgeted and Bentfeather’s head plumage rose and fell; but quickly regained themselves as the Mayor rushed in with an armload of scrolls with Mungo at his heels with a stack of papers for him to endorse, and sat as everything was arranged on his desk before noticing his guests.

“Bentfeather, old friend!”, Emil smiled. “How are you today?”

“Fine, your honor.”, said Bentfeather as he hopped to the desk. “I hope you are doing well too.”

“I see you have picked your apprentice.”, the Mayor looked at the boy. “And how are you, son? What‘s your name?”

“Fine, sir… Tebo, sir…”, Tebo was barely heard.

“A shy one!…”, Emil chuckled. “Well don’t worry, Tebo. I do not bite!”, he winked, then turned to Bentfeather. “Do you have any questions concerning your new charge?”

“Well sir, actually quite many.”, said bent feather. “Since she is so new, she will need to stay somewhere, for one. There is also…”, Bentfeather was halted by the Mayor’s hand.

“Please do not concern yourself on those matters.”, Emil said. “All of that has been arranged for her.”

“Perhaps you may divulge details on her.”, Bentfeather went on. “I must create a curriculum for her to learn.”

“That I may be able to help you on…”, Mayor Emil Masteson rummaged through the paperwork on his desk until Mungo expertly drew out the Dolphinback’s dossier. “Ah! Here it is!…”, he cleared his throat before reciting. “Her name is Sarah Warner, from the United States. She is seventeen seasons old, and quite curious about Dinotopia. She will be put up at the Harborside Inn, 134 Harbor Way…”

“My parents and I live in Warehouse 135, right next door!…”, Tebo blurted, then hung his head as he was out of line.

“Excellent, lad!”, Emil smiled. “Then if you may, you can show her to her quarters!”, he thought. “Um, how well do you know the city?”

“Well sir, I lived here since I was a little boy…”, Tebo said with shyness.

“Then you know the city well!”, he turned to Bentfeather. “If it doesn’t cut in too badly with his study, would it be possible to have him be her guide?”

“Of course, your honor.”, Bentfeather agreed. “With this, Tebo may broaden his horizons. Do you want to, Tebo?”

“I guess…”, Tebo said, then got bolder at his mentor’s stern look. “I mean Yes, Most definitely!”

“That’s the spirit!”, Emil chuckled, then looked at Bentfeather. “And now I’d like to tell you of another matter you may help the court on.”

“By all means! What is it?”, Bentfeather said.

“There is this other Dolphinback, a young man who has been on Dinotopia for some time.”, the mayor said. “He is learning, but doesn’t seem to be fitting in here.”

“You wish me to tutor him too?”, Bentfeather asked.

“He needs guidance to bring focus in his life here.”, Emil told him. “He has a penchant for playing the guitar, but he is somewhat moody at times. He feels alienated in his classes because all the other students are far younger than him.”

“Sounds like how I felt in school…”, Tebo said. “Only for different reasons.”

“Oh…, I’m sorry to hear that!”, Masteson said, returning back to Bentfeather. “Anyway, his name is Hazen Baker, age twenty-five. A bit old for beginner’s school, but he needs to learn the basics, as all Dinotopians do.”

“I agree, and I think I may be able to help the young man.”, Bentfeather said, hackles raising in thought. “At first I thought one apprentice was enough. Now it looks like I’m going to have a class!”

“I’ll arrange the tutoring sessions to be separate, if you wish.”, mayor Masteson said. “Or you can arrange it any way you want.”, he saw them out as they rose. “We of the court thank you both for your assistance in these matters… And good luck with your apprenticeship, Tebo!…”

Thank you, your honor, for your time and your words…”, Bentfeather bowed, Tebo following suit.

As they slowly made their way through the procedures of departure in the courtroom, they at last made it out into the avenue in front of the building. From there they both lost no time making it back to Bentfeather’s office in the Waterfall City library; for they both knew there was a monumental amount of things to prepare for…

_

TAG: Any and all!

[Thundertail]

IC: Tebo Lewis and Bentfeather, the Council of reason, Waterfall city.

The next day or so was so full of activity for Bentfeather and Tebo Lewis that they barely had time for regular library work, for preparing for two new students was a monumental task even for larger and more experienced people. Bentfeather searched tomes and scrolls, trying to come up with the perfect subjects both of them could understand; and was finally beginning to gain headway. Though all the other problems common to a library were happening all around him, he ignored all that and concentrated on his task. With Tebo Lewis and his new spectacles, he rarely needed help in locating where the books and scrolls went in the library, and did his job as an apprentice without much need of Bentfeather’s help. Adhering to Bentfeather’s instruction to learn everything he can, Tebo began reading snippets from nearly every book and tome he put away; and was quickly absorbing the knowledge and wisdom in those publications. He also helped out in many other aspects of running the library, even up to working a shift at the front desk; greeting every patron, answering questions on where books were and everything concerning the clerical side of working the desk.

But through all this, Bentfeather and Tebo never forgot their commitment bidden by the court; and through the separate windows they had happened to look through that fateful day, the vision of the Sky Galleon coming in for a landing on the roof of the Aqua Stadium, where the Waterfall City Skybax Rookery was housed, both knew the time had come to go to the Courthouse for a very important appointment. No words were said as they entered Bentfeather’s office, where Tebo donned his good clothes and Bentfeather put on his Library Guild medallion along with a satchel of material to be used in the courtroom; and out the door they went. They saw the fanfare building in the city streets, and especially near the entrances to Aqua Stadium; for they heard that along with their charge, the mayor of Canyon City was also present. Instead of joining in with the throng, Bentfeather suggested they continue on straight to the Council chambers instead, and Tebo jokingly commented that they might now get a good seat!

As they climbed the wide stone steps leading to the tall, arched doors that were open; both noticed that many other dignitaries and their assistants were there already, and they nodded to many of them as well as chatted greetings as they passed by. Inside even more of them milled about the reception area, court aides passing out various refreshments; and the takers on those were few. Bentfeather chatted with the few high ranking people there he knew, Tebo present as Bentfeather’s perch - and not really understanding much of their prattle; and within twenty minutes or so, word had gotten around that the entourage from the Sky Galleon was just arriving. This was evident from all the noise and cheering beginning to well in the streets, and as it grew deafening outside; the delegates knew to cease their chatting and pay attention to the ceremonial entrance that was about to take place, loosely forming an aisle down the main foyer to the Council chamber doors, half on one side and half on the other.

Saurian trumpets heralded the arrival of the precession outside, and the Mayor of Waterfall City made his entrance first; which was soon followed by the Mayor of Canyon City, and then a few other delegates that came with the Canyon City mayor along with some others that none in the crowd of onlookers recognized. As these people entered the main chamber, being led to their places by valets within; the rest of the delegates and guests were allowed to enter, and the mild chaos of finding seating gave way to the hushed murmur of people and saurians waiting for this meeting to commence. Mayor Emil Masteson climbed to his podium and waited many moments before pounding his gavel to gain order in the court chamber, and presently all fell silent.

“This session of the High Council of Waterfall City shall now commence.”, said he, voice booming throughout the high rafters. “Mungo, would you read off the minutes of this meeting?…”

“Yes, your honor…”, Mungo bent to a scroll. “Ladies and gentilebeings of the court. This, the twenty-seven hundredth annual meeting of the High Council of Waterfall City, Dinotopia and environs is now in session.”, he looked around the room, then read on. “The first issue we will discuss trade and security issues mitigated by outlaw activities along all trade routes. Other issues include actions and punitive measures to insure safe travel. But first and foremost the court wishes to welcome Mayor Altos Hersea of canyon City…”, he rose, and applause erupted.

“Mayor Hersea!… So glad you can make it!”, Mayor Masteson said as the applaud died down. “How are things in Canyon City?”

“Not too bad, your honor…”, Mayor Hersea replied casually. “We’re keeping the Pteranodons at bay, but the Skybax are a little antsy.”

“How so?”, Emil asked.

“They wonder when the food rations will increase.”, Altos said. “They are beginning to forget not to bite the hand that feeds them!”, he shook his hands theatrically, causing laughter.

“Well, don’t you worry.”, Emil told him. “The harvest in the Northern Plains should nearly be finished by now. You’ll get your shipments!”

“I’m sure I will.”, the Mayor of Canyon City said as he sat.

“Please read on, Mungo.”, the Mayor of Waterfall City told him after regaining order again.

“Continued minutes include the introduction of a Dolphinback to our midst.”, Mungo said, and gasps erupted. “Her name is Sarah Warner, from the United States.”

“Please rise, miss Warner…”, the Mayor of Waterfall City instructed. “And please receive my personal welcome to Dinotopia!…”, the people and saurians let off resounding cheers!…

_

TAG: Sarah, any and all.

[o8jedi]

IC: Hazen Baker, 2187 Canal Street, Waterfall City

The sun was rising and Hazen sat cross-legged at the edge of his bed. His window afforded him a great view of the city, with the One Earth globe off in the distance. As shadows from high parapets and towers streaked the city before him, he smiled, listening to the din of the crashing waters and, if he strained, the musical noise from the Musicians' Inn. On the floor was his guitar case. The stickers on the lid had mostly faded away due to many hours in the sun and rain, leaving faint impressions of their former selves. Half-slung over his shoulder and half-resting on his lap was his prized guitar: a cherry red Epiphone Casino. Even though he wasn't playing it at the moment, the fact that it was out and at the ready was calming to him, perhaps even more so than the white noise that the distant falls offered.

After several moments in reflective silence, he adjusted the guitar on his lap and started plucking notes, finding the first note in a melody he picked up earlier today while standing outside the Inn. He didn't hum to himself as he plucked the instrument for the note was locked in his mind. It didn't take him long to find, but quickly discovered that the melody he heard in his head as proving itself to be exceptionally complex for his untrained, human hands to replicate. With a groan, he decided to try instead to figure out the chord progression and also realized that the chord inversions and textures were probably not suitable for solo guitar to effectively render. Another groan and Hazen flicked the strings, giving a short, abrupt A major. Well, almost. The humidity of a city perched on the precipice of a major waterfall wreaked havoc on his guitar's ability to stay in tune, and, he tightened the G back into position. Taking a breath, he closed his eyes and played a C-sharp. As he started playing a melody, he could almost hear the original recorded version in his mind. He felt at home again as he mouthed the lyrics to that tune and he was so entranced that he didn't notice Dullclaw quietly open his door.

The Troodon Dullclaw, the owner and landlady of the boarding house Hazen was staying at, was gracious enough to take him in once he and his traveling companion Patel Lewis parted ways. To earn his keep, however, he had to take on a large number of chores and moments like these were rare. Fortunately for Hazen's playing, Dullclaw recognized this and she stood at the threshold. She couldn't say she cared for the tinny, metallic sounds coming from the guitar (if one could call it that with all the knobs and appendages coming out of it!) however her tenant seemed to enjoy it and that was enough for her.

Upon the completion of his tune, he glanced up and saw Dullclaw. "Oh, no! I'm late for the dishes, aren't I?" he said in English. He hurriedly undid the strap and started to pack the guitar up.

"Do not worry yourself," said Dullclaw in Saurian. "You do have a long day ahead of you, especially since you don't have class anymore. More time for you to get them done."

Hazen nodded. "I know," he said again in his native language, "But I have to fill up my days somehow. I'd rather keep myself busy doing hours of dull, mindless chores than spend hours in this room doing nothing." Hazen wondered if he made a faux pas and looked at his landlady. "I-I didn't mean it like that!"

Dullclaw's jaw tightened slightly in an expression of minor annoyance. "Since you are getting ready, I'll let that remark pass, Dolphinback." Without another word, she left, closing the door behind her.

Hazen sighed, "Manners," he told himself.

As he locked the case and slid it underneath the bed, he heard a fluttering from outside. He glanced at the window and saw one of the postal birds landing on the sill. It cleared its throat and then spoke: "Master Hazen Baker?"

"Yes," Hazen said as he walked closer.

"I have a message from the Waterfall City library: You are to head to the Council chambers and wait for your new instructor. He is a Microraptor that answers to the name 'Bentfeather.'"

"Bentfeather," Hazen echoed. "How will I recognize him?"

"He has a peculiar manner of speech. He rhymes."

Hazen found that trait to be peculiar indeed. "Well, that would make him stand out, I suppose. I'll be there shortly."

"One other thing," said the bird. "The Council is currently in session. It would be advisable if you remained outside and waited for adjournment."

Hazen nodded. "Thank you." After putting on his waistcoat and jacket, he started downstairs and started to the door. "I have to go to the Council," Hazen explained without stopping, "I will meet my new instructor." Unfortunately, Dullclaw couldn't get in a word edgewise as he was out the door before the sentence was even finished. Even if she did, Hazen probably would not have paid it much heed.

As he made the long hike to the Council chambers, Hazen did his best to groom himself. He knew the importance of first impressions and he wanted Bentfeather's first impression of him to be a good one.

Tag: Any and all.

[Thundertail]

OCC: Some of this post and perhaps the next will resemble scenes from ‘Dinotopia, the movie’. (Godmods by permission.)
_

IC: Bentfeather and Tebo Lewis, the High council chambers of Waterfall City.

Bentfeather watched the proceedings intently, for he was fascinated by court processes and the results they almost always produced for Dinotopia; but Tebo Lewis looked somewhat bored as he sat there among all the high dignitaries and hoped not to offend anyone, he just clapped when everyone else did and basically followed suit. Both guffawed at the Canyon City mayor’s comment about his Skybax trouble, and they now waited diligently for their part in this session to begin. When Bentfeather heard mayor Emil Masteson announce Sarah Warner’s name, he knew their time was nearly nigh; for just after the ceremonial introduction and indoctrination into Dinotopian society, they would thusly meet at last. Bentfeather perched on his seatback, head plumage rising and falling in anticipation of what was to come next.

As the applaud extinguished itself, the Mayor had already gotten down from his podium at the head of the hall; and hustled forward to meet Sarah personally. ”Well met, my dear!… Well met indeed…!”, he shook her offered hand.

At a glance toward Mungo, who was over by a table near the side that contained many thick books; Mayor Emil Masteson continued. “It is now prudent that I tell you a tale, miss Warner; about the way our tiny island community came about.”, he began to walk toward that table. “If you will follow me…”, he said softly, and she did.

“Sixty five million of your years ago, great beasts came about; and ruled the land for eons.”, the mayor began so all could hear. “But a terrible darkness engulfed the land, sending dread to many. Led by king Othgar, they were led to the caves of the World Beneath to escape the wrath the darkness brought forth. There, and with Othgar’s guidance, a great civilization came about; and peace reigned over all who lived there, and intelligence and enlightenment were the norm. As time passed, the darkness was lifted; and brave souls ventured forth to find a world renewed, and the rest followed to reclaim the land above once more.”, they stopped near the table.

“As the age of man manifested itself in the world, humans arrived on Dinotopia; and they struck a symbiosis with the intelligent dinosaurs they found here.”, Mayor Emil Masteson told her. “As time went on, even more arrived; and it was up to those humans already here to help them find a home.”, he opened the book closest to them, to where the page was marked. “In these tomes are the names of the ones that have found their way to these shores, lowly castaways set adrift on the winds of fate. They number in the thousands!…”, he smiled at her. “They have made themselves a home here, and we are their humble descendants!…”, cheers rose up, and wouldn’t die down for many moments.

“If you would, miss Sarah Warner; please sign your name so you may join these wayward castaways, and become one with us, and live as a true Dinotopian…”, Mayor Emil Masteson ceased talking and stood back to witness the signing.

As the Mayor ended his speech, Mungo had prepared a quill pen and an inkwell, dipping and blotting before offering it to the girl. Before Sarah took the pen, she thumbed a few pages back; and took on an impressed look when she saw all the signatures. Back at the marked page, she looked down to the last entry and saw the last one to sign was a man named Hazen Baker; and then left her signature on the line below his, and the room erupted with cheers and applause when they saw the pen lift from the page. She turned to see the Mayor clapping loudest of all!

“Well done, miss Warner!… Well done!…”, Mayor Emil Masteson said when the applause ebbed enough to hear, then continued the ceremony when things fell silent once more.

“A new world has truly opened up for you, Sarah; and we are all here to help you settle in. You will be given accommodation in town, and be instructed in our languages and writing before starting a life of your own; and you will soon meet your saurian Life Partner, a friend for all the days of your life.”, he looked around, pausing Bentfeather and Tebo from rising with his eyes before continuing.

“And now, miss Sarah Warner; if you would, could you please give an account of yourself, of the things that happened to you so far?”, the Mayor of Waterfall City inquired…
_

TAG: Sarah, any and all.

[DinoGirl]

IC: Sara Warner, High Council Chamber, Waterfall City

Sara was all really dazzled by the proceeding. The parade and having her name announced was sheer embarrassment. She kept quiet, staying near the mayor least she get lost in the crowd. He was a nice man with a good sense of humor and was very kind to her.

The fine clothes of the people and the overall sense of refine amazed Sara. They were so colorful and different that it seemed from another world. Even the dinosaurs wore some sort of fashion item. Overall, it was a bit much for her to take in. She listened to the history of the land intently, holding in the many questions she had.

When it came time for her to sign, she almost tripped in her eagerness. Had her friend survived? Had anyone else from the wreaked ship found this incredible place? Thoughts like these raced through her mind. Before adding her name, Sara paged through the time-aged book. Name after name filled the pages and she was awestruck by how many people had found their way to the land of dinosaurs.

On the last name she paused. Hazen Baker? It was an unfamiliar name. Sara searched frantically for her friend Nicole's signature. The one she had envied, with it's fancy loops and heart shaped dot above the "i". Sara searched in vain. With a long suffering sigh, she scrawled her name under Hazen's. She wondered if he had gone through the same as she had.

Behind her, the room erupted in applause and cheers which startled Sara from her thoughts. It was a bigger shock when Mayor Emil Masteson asked her to speak.

"My account? Well.....", she looked up shyly at the watchful faces of dinosaurs and humans alike. It took a long moment before she could speak again. "I guess it started with my 17th birthday....", and she launched into a long tale of how her parents had surprised her with a cruise trip. Of how her friend Nicole had been invited to come along and the fun days they had together.

When finally she came to the part about the storm, she slowed down, fighting back the feelings of loss. "A strange storm came up one day. Nicole and I had been playing on the bow of the ship, replaying a scene from Titanic,"she gave sad laugh. "Suddenly, the skies turned dark and it started to rain. We tried to move but we were trapped on the bow. Enormous waves crashed over us. We tried to hold on but a rouge wave caught the ship on it's side. It threw us into the water."

Sara's mind was no longer in the Council room. She was fighting the waves with her friend, trying to keep each other from sinking. Every wave felt like a mountain, every drop of rain tried to blind her. It was an exhausting fight that they could not win. Sara's grip on her friend had loosened and they were pulled a part by the monstrous waves. Nicole called out to her and she cried back.

Her last image was that of her friend being carried away and the cruise ship sinking into oblivion....

"When I finally woke up, I was safe. A couple of skybax riders had found me and treated my wounds. When I was able to travel, they took me to Canyon City and I learned the island I had landed on was a place called Dinotopia", she finished.

Sara was amazed at how quiet the room was. She bowed her head shyly, wondering if she had did okay. The story had taken a lot out of her, and with sheer will did she manage to stay standing.

Tag- whoever is patient enough to respond

[Thundertail]

IC: Tebo Lewis and Bentfeather, Waterfall City council chambers.

“A fantastic tale, a most wonderful story!”, Mayor Emil Masteson said as the clapping died down from Sara Warner‘s little speech. “And now child, it is time for you to get acclimated into Dinotopian society.”, that was when he nodded to Bentfeather. “I would like for you to meet one of your instructors and his assistant…”

Bentfeather motioned for Tebo to rise; and as he did, Bentfeather hopped up and landed on his shoulder. He whispered to the boy to go into the aisle and approach the mayor and miss Warner. Then he had him bow while he bowed as well. Sarah Warner expected Tebo to speak first, but looked surprised to see the Microraptor speak in English instead, and smirked at his squeaky voice!

“A most humble greetings to you, miss Warner. It‘s so good to see a new face!…”, said Bentfeather. “It is an honor to make your acquaintance in this hallowed space…”, he bowed again. “My name is sir Bentfeather Microraptor, from the Waterfall City library; and I am at your service as tutor for your stay here. We are all friends, so have no fear.”, at his prompting step on Tebo’s shoulder, the boy spoke as well.

“…And a humble greetings from me as well, miss Warner.”, Tebo’s voice wasn’t heard by the delegates in back. “I am Tebo Lewis, apprentice librarian and assistant to sir Bentfeather. I will assist him in your tutoring, and have been assigned by the court to show you around the city.”

After Sarah replied in kind to both greetings, shaking both their hands and Bentfeather bowing to kiss the hand; the Mayor continued. “Yes! And there is a lot to do. A lot to prepare for. Right, sir Bentfeather?”

“Indeed there is, your honor.”, Bentfeather replied. “And it might be prudent to start them right away!”, he looked at Sarah. “So if you would collect your things and follow us, we will show you to where you will stay…”

Sarah Warner nodded and went to her previous seat, picking up her bags and returning as giant waves of applaud and cheering welled up throughout the council chamber. At Bentfeather’s smile, all three of them bowed at the delegates as the Mayor returned to his podium above. They regally walked to the back of the courtroom, where the Corythosaur guards opened the chamber doors and followed them out into the reception foyer. Other aides got the outer doors, and the trio stepped out into the bright sunshine just outside the building.

As they began to descend the great stone steps, Bentfeather and Tebo Lewis noticed a nondescript young man sitting on the bottom courthouse step, next to the base of one stone gargoyles that guarded the courthouse; and as this man heard the doors open, he turned to look before getting up to face them as they reached the cobbled sidewalk. The guards who had followed them to the door saw this man too, and stood defensively at the doors; waiting for any trouble that he may cause.

Tebo Lewis, Sarah Warner and Bentfeather froze where they were…

_

TAG: Sarah, Hazen, any and all!

[o8jedi]

IC: Hazen Baker, Outside the Waterfall City Council Chambers

As Hazen strode up to the massive palace that housed the Waterfall City court, council, and executive mansion, he could tell by the closed doors that they were still in session. The few open windows leaked the intermittent sounds of applause. Apparently, speeches were being conducted. That was one thing that Dinotopia had in common with the outside world: politicians who love to hear themselves talk. Not knowing when the proceedings would be over, Hazen sidled over to one of the large gargoyles that framed the steps to the doorway. He sat down on the step and leaned against it and whistled a little tune to himself to while away the time.

A few applause breaks later, he heard the doors behind him open and he stood up. Coming down the stairs were a young boy and a girl with what appeared to be a bird perched on the boy's shoulder. Once they reached the sidewalk, Hazen approached them. "Excuse me," he said, "I got a message from the library that I was to meet someone here. Do you happen to know a Microraptor named 'Bentfeather?'"

All at once, what he thought was a bird began to speak and, after introducing himself as Bentfeather, Hazen shook his head out of disbelief. "I'm sorry, sir. I hadn't expected . . ." He sighed and said, "I'm Hazen Baker. A postal bird delivered a message that I was to meet you here to help in my studies."

Bentfeather introduced the other two. He shook the young man's hand, greeting him with a "Breathe deep." Once the girl was announced as a fellow Dolphinback, Hazen smiled. "Welcome, Sara," he said, "There are a great many things to learn, but we shall both find our place together. You see, I am a Dolphinback, as well."

After more pleasantries were exchanged, Bentfeather, on top of Tebo, led the way and Hazen happily followed.

[Thundertail]

IC: Bentfeather, Tebo Lewis and friends. Waterfall City.

All three relaxed as the stranger explained himself, for Hazen Baker was the other student Bentfeather was supposed to tutor; but nobody told any of them what the young human looked like, or that he was going to be waiting for them outside the Council chambers! As the Corythosaurus guards heard who he was and that all was well, they stood down and went back inside the Council building. Bentfeather regained his wits first, and thusly was the first to comment.

“Well sir, I expected to see you sometime tomorrow…”, he looked at him and smiled. “But meeting you today brings me no sorrow!”, he indicated each of the others in turn as he introduced them all. “I am sir Bentfeather, of the Waterfall City library; and these two are my apprentice Tebo Lewis and Dolphinback Sarah Warner, in case you wish to make inquiry…”

“I wonder why they wanted him to wait here?”, Tebo asked. Nobody knew.

“They treat us like mushrooms…”, Bentfeather replied. “They keep us in the dark and expect us to normally resume!”

After everyone laughed a little at the humor, each greeted one another in their own way; and then they stood regarding each other for a moment before Tebo spoke next.

“Um, do we have a lot to do today, or what?”, he smiled. “I was supposed to show Sarah where she is to stay in Waterfall City, and then show her around the city before escorting her to the library.”

“And I am to interview the both of you…”, Bentfeather said. “To see your personalities and your records up for review.”

“We have a preliminary education curriculum already set up.”, Tebo said. “After we evaluate you, your true schedules can be made.”

“It is a long walk to where we go, and it is a pleasantly sunny day.”, said Bentfeather. “I’m sure we will all get well acquainted along the way!…”, he pointed, and eventually they all followed their new instructor being propelled atop Tebo…

_

TAG: Hazen, Sarah, any and all!

[o8jedi]

As Tebo led the way, Hazen fell into formation, standing next to Sara. "I must admit, Bentfeather, that I haven't visited the Library much. Once during a field trip, actually. I am impressed, however, with the sheer size your collection. I can't help but wonder how the Library at Alexandria at its height might have compared, in terms of published works. Would you happen to offer works that might have found their way here like, say, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer or the sonnets of Shakespeare?"

Once Bentfeather finished relaying his tale, Hazen turned to the newcomer. "Where exactly did you say you were from?" When he learned that she was American, his eyes went wide. "Really?! My plane crashed before January, I know I've missed a lot. By now, Obama has been inaugurated. What has he done?" He glanced away, catching himself slightly. "No, wait, it's still only a year or so into the presidency, I shouldn't be hasty. What is he trying to do? How is his public opinion of him? How bad is the resistance from the conservatives?"

Hazen glanced over to Bentfeather and Tebo, who seemed a bit puzzled. "I'm sorry," Hazen said. "I came here a month or so before the inauguration of President Barack Obama, our nation's first African-American president. I put in a lot of energy into following his campaign and I wanted to know of the fruits of his labor."

[Thundertail]

IC: Tebo and Bentfeather with friends, Waterfall City, on the way to the library.

“We have all sorts of literature at our great library, not only the things you might think would be there; but works created solely by saurians.”, Bentfeather told Hazen as they walked out of the square where the Council chambers were. “Think of the wisdom passed on by Brokenhorn the Wise, or the poetry by sir Paddlefoot, who was a Freshwater Partner with Magnolia…! We have works by many people from the Outside World, and all the glory of all the sciences ever conceived!…”, Bentfeather didn’t notice this, but Hazen had turned his direction to other things. He thought the boy was silent with awe until he heard him striking conversation with Sarah!

Tebo walked ahead of the other two humans, Bentfeather on his shoulder listening to his two new pupils talking; not really following what they were saying, but figuring that they had to see if they some common ground to be acquainted by. Tebo wasn’t paying any attention to the conversation at all, concentrating mostly on navigating through the crowds of people and saurians that milled about them as they were going against the flow of pedestrian traffic; all while relating the architecture and layout of the buildings they were passing.

“Ah, my city!…”, Bentfeather began, trying to break the two behind them from their quiet conversation. “Waterfall City is the hub of trade, education and government on Dinotopia. It is our capitol city, a center of culture and art… Truly a jewel in the crown of our fantastic island state!…”

The tan buildings of Greco/Roman design, many with oval stained glass windows along the upper floors loomed more than two hundred feet over their heads; but though they were only three storey buildings, they were designed for medium sized dinosaurs and their human counterparts. Tebo pointed out the buying and selling abundant as they wound their way through Commerce Square, and commented on the various garb the humans wore, which was complimentary to their saurian Partners. Unfortunately, all this information was falling on deaf ears as the two this information was for had their attentions focused on other subjects!

Finally Bentfeather had had enough! “If you would excuse our brashness; but this tour is for you, not us!… Please pay attention to what Tebo has to say or I’ll have one of you two lead the way!”

After he acknowledged Hazen’s apology, he continued. “I’m sorry for having you do this, but miss Sarah is going to need to know where everything is.”, he looked at Hazen. “I’m sure you two can catch up on news later, but for now you both have an appointment at the library.”

“Sir Bentfeather, I think the library has maps of the city for Sarah to use…”, Tebo responded. “I mean, if she doesn’t want me to be her guide, I’ll understand…”

“But you must!”, said Bentfeather. “The court has put you in their trust. If you refuse their will, they will never rely on you again; and you will be degraded among men.”, the Microraptor paused to hear Sarah Warners plea…
_

TAG: Sarah, any and all!

[o8jedi]

IC: Hazen Baker, Waterfall City

Hazen bit his lip as Bentfeather chastised him. Sheepishly, he glanced to the road, conceding how rude he was to interrupt the tour with his exuberance. Once the tour resumed, Hazen motioned for Sara to go ahead.

"I'll bring up the rear," he said quietly to her with a somewhat disappointed sigh. Way to screw that up, Hazen thought to himself. So much for first impressions.

For the rest of the tour, Hazen stayed in back, stewing over his blunder in contemplative silence. Goodness knows that he was trying his best to become properly assimilated to this new culture, but between his ignorance of some subjects and his stubborn adherence to deep-seeded habits, he was having a rather difficult time with it. Inevitably, Bentfeather pointed out the Celestial Dome, where the Code of Dinotopia was housed. Hazen had been told the Code during his studies and one statement rang in his head: "Others first, self last." He pinched the bridge of his nose, remembering that he had skipped out of his chores for Dullclaw and he knew he wouldn't hear the end of it that night. With his luck, she'd harangue him for the rest of the week! With a heavy sigh, he quickened his pace, ensuring he wouldn't fall too far behind the rest of the group.

Not that the tour was all bad. Although Hazen had spent the better part of a couple months living within Waterfall City, he hadn't really taken the time to appreciate the institutions and the general placid atmosphere from the ground level. Between his schooling, his chores at the boarding house, and his nervous appearances outside the Musician's Inn, Hazen was always focused on getting from point A to point B. Perhaps letting one's focus float freely once in a while may not be such a bad thing. Furthermore, Bentfeather's trivia added a bit of color to the leisurely walk. Hazen almost forgot about his earlier blunder by the time it was over.

TAG: Sara, any, and all

[DinoGirl]

IC: Sara Warner, streets of WaterfallCity

Sara took in the figure of Hazen. So this is the owner of the signature. When the court guards had reacted to seeing him, she had been a bit frieghten. As she looked at him now she altered her thoughts of him. He wasn't the normal perfect looking teen. He had messy brown hair and an old pair of glasses. Sara didn't mind the flaws, in fact, she had always been friends with the strangest of people. Together they walked through the streets, obsevering old buildings and listening to Bentfeather give a detailed tour as they walked.

Of Tebo and Bentfeather, She found the microraptor's rhyming funny. It was hard for her to keep a straight face when he talked. It had been a double shock when she first learned he could speak English. Just when I was getting use to a dinosaur speaking at all, Sara laughed inwardly.

Tebo was a rather awkward looking boy. He was often Bentfeather's walking perch. Overall he was nice and quiet, his glasses gave him a dorky appearance that screamed he was a library assistant.

As they walked, Sara tried to take in the strange names and buildings. They looked like modern Roman buildings, with their stained glass windows and stone structure. It was like walking in a warped history book. This time including dinosaurs.

To Hazen's questions she said, "I'm from South Carolina. Ever heard of Myrtle Beach?"

She continued talking, not hearing Bentfeather. "Yup, President Obama is in charge now and is still set with his "change" policy. I haven't been following it that much. Politics aren't very interesting" As an afterthought she added, "Lately the economy had been going down for some reason. I'm not sure if that was his fault or not. That's how my parents managed tickets for a cruise, discounts and all."

Finally Bentfeather broke their conversation. Sara ducked her head in shame and gave a quick apology.

When Tebo offered to give be her guide, Sara could only shake her head at causing so much trouble. "I would be most greatful if we could continue the tour together. Splitting up would be a hastle. I promise to listen to your teachings, sir Bentfeather, if we could continue on."

She hoped she had phrased it right and hadn't insulted Tebo. She had just been so relieved that she had someone to connect to and didn't wish to cause trouble. To her imense relief, they carried on with the tour. Stopped infront of the Codes of Dinotopia which their guides pointed out.

Sara's bravery had returned by then she ventured to ask one of her many questions. "Do we really have to sing everyday?"

Tag- any and all

[Thundertail]

IC: Tebo and Bentfeather with friends, Waterfall City, just getting to the library and going inside.

At last the pair of Dolphinbacks were acting how Bentfeather liked it, for Sarah Warner was listening intently to Tebo as he described the city to her as well as asking a few questions as she walked. Hazen Baker was walking at her side, listening to what was going on; and he watched the routine things going on all around them, and mercifully he was keeping relatively silent! As Tebo Lewis described the sights as they passed, little did he know that they were taking the long way around the city at the Microraptor’s direction; he would point the direction to go, but Tebo thought he was being shown shortcuts back to the library.

“To sing every day brings happiness to all hearts…”, Bentfeather told Sarah as she asked about one of the Codes while they stared up at the giant obelisk. “With happiness like that, it keeps sorrow apart.”

“Actually it is a metaphor.”, Tebo chuckled. “It actually means to keep a cheery disposition throughout the day, and others will do so because of it.”, Sarah nodded.

“I like my rendition better, you bet.”, Bentfeather said. “There is no better views than those of a poet!”

At long last the group made their way towards Seedpod street and the Hall of Seedpods and Plants, pausing at the building so Tebo could describe everything that used to go on in there; which was catalogue and find use for all the diverse plants found on Dinotopia, but now that that project was completed housed venues for many other types of events - even though the two arboretums the building contained was maintained by a crew of botanists. Passing up the street they came upon Steep Street, and the domed house that contained the living and study quarters of the famous Arthur Dennison at the top of the hill. Once Tebo spent many minutes telling of all the amazing feats and contributions made by the man and his son, they continued east along the waterfall side of Mosasaur Harbor.

Tebo was giddy with pride, for he knew this area the best; and went into great detail on how nearly all trade goods were shipped from all over Dinotopia to finally make it’s way here before distribution throughout the city. Over the Serenade bridge they passed many larger saurians and had to give a wide berth, and then ever westward toward the Aqua Stadium, which could be seen in the distance. As they made the turn onto the Stone bridge and out into the Juggler’s Plaza at the front of the library did Tebo know that he had been tricked somehow, and looked at Bentfeather suspiciously.

“And now the tour is over for the day.”, Bentfeather told them. “But there is more business inside, if you will stay.”

“If you need any more directions to where you need to go, just tell me and I’ll be glad to guide you there - either of you.”, at Bentfeather’s direction, Tebo climbed the steps and got the door as the pair of newcomers followed them up.

Inside there weren’t many patrons, but the library was well staffed today anyway; Stenochysaur and human clerks abustle with various chores, especially the cataloguing and shelving of the new shipment of books from Wimple Springs. Bentfeather flew off ahead and landed at the reception desk, where Tilly was busy stamping paperwork for the books borrowed from the last group of patrons; and lifted her slender head at Bentfeather’s sudden flapping landing.

“Any news for me, Tilly?”, he asked. “I hope there’s none, for my task today is a dilly!”, the last part he whispered to her!

“Not a thing, Bentfeather…”, Tilly scanned her paperwork. “Nope, nothing…”, she bent to her work once again.

“Thank you, dear…”, Bentfeather said as he saw his charges approach. “Follow me…”, he said and flapped off deeper into the library.

Tebo was about to trot off after his mentor, but saw that Sarah and Hazen was looking about the shelves in awe; so he matched his pace to theirs, regardless of Bentfeather’s apparent eagerness. They had several questions concerning the library, how it was founded and the number of works the place contained; and many more that Tebo did his best to answer, all the while leading them deeper into the library where Bentfeather would surely be waiting for them in his office. After a few moments, deep in the bowels of the library, they crossed the threshold of Bentfeather’s office; and saw the little Microraptor sitting on his resting couch atop the human sized desk, eyeing the trio sheepishly as they entered.

“Sorry sir.”, Tebo said for them. “I guess they were taken by the grandeur of the place. Hazan might have visited here once or twice, but I’m sure miss Warner has never been here before.”, he placed the satchel he had been carrying since the courthouse down on the desk, contents untouched since he had helped place them in there from this very office. “They asked a few questions…”

“I see…”, Bentfeather began extracting the paperwork with Tebo’s help. “And now I must welcome you to my sanctum sanctorum, a little place I sometimes call home.”, he looked around. “Please! Sit!”, at this Tebo pulled the chair out from behind the desk and placed it so now there were two chairs at the head of the desk. “We can talk better if we’re all comfortable…”, he nodded at both and smiled.

Bentfeather bent to examine one of the documents. “Miss Sarah Warner, you will begin classes tomorrow at Mrs. Denholm’s schoolhouse, and you will be enrolled as a Beginner student.”, he looked for her reaction, then continued. “Thanks to Hazen Baker’s removal from her class, she now has an opening for you!”

After consulting more paperwork, Bentfeather extracted a few documents she would need. “This is from Canyon City, telling their account of you. Give that to Mrs. Denholm for her records… This is an enrollment form, of which you should fill out and give to her as well… Here is a court request for miss Emily Freedom, landlord of the Harborside hotel, where you will be staying, entitling you to room and board as a student. You may give that to her when you meet her…”, he looked around and smiled at her mild bewilderment.

“And that is about it!”, he said at last. “You are dismissed for the day. Tebo will lead you to your new quarters, as he is also dismissed for the day.”, Bentfeather got up and reached for her hand. “Once again, welcome to Dinotopia, welcome to Waterfall City… And welcome to all the knowledge I can impart to you!”…
_

IC: Bentfeather with Hazen, the Waterfall City library.

Tebo helped Sarah gather her new paperwork, then escorted her out of Bentfeather’s office; out into the library proper beyond, and Tebo knowingly closing the door behind them. Once Bentfeather’s keener hearing noticed their footsteps dwindle to silence, he looked back at Hazan Baker; the boy’s gaze alternately eyeing the office accoutrements and the tiny dinosaur before him, waiting for what came next.

“Are you well, my friend?”, at Hazen’s nod Bentfeather continued. “This is good, and I bet you’re wondering what is to become of you. I am curious too…”, the Microraptor flitted off the desk and landed on an empty shelf at the back of the room, empty save for an ancient phonograph that played cylindrical recordings, small collection of record cylinders near by. “Do you like music?”

As Hazen Baker adamantly described the ways he loved music, Bentfeather got to work setting up the ancient device. After using the crank that was gigantic compared to him, Bentfeather wound the device until his miniscule strength could not wind it any more; then he unhooked the crank, letting it drop to the shelf. He then wrestled the record cylinder already on the machine off with some effort, then selected another from a small collection of them on the shelf. Once Bentfeather affixed the cylinder onto the machine, he switched it on and waited for it to get to speed before lowering the tone arm to the cylinder. The bullhorn of the device produced tinny sound, but the melody of the ancient guitar sonata shone through; which was laced by melodious bellowing of an unknown saurian. Hazen listened intently for many moments before Bentfeather spoke next.

“Isn‘t it beautiful?…”, Bentfeather asked blissfully. “This music is almost three hundred years old.”, he said softly so he could listen to it too. “It is played by Pegasus Omaphrani, a Dolphinback from Greece; and accompanied by Watercress, his Stegosaur Partner.”, he listened some more and smiled. “Great things can come from newcomers to our shores, and I think great things can come from you as well.”

Hazen commented about the music, and then Bentfeather flapped to the desk and spoke some more after the piece was over. “You know, Pegasus went through all that you are going through today. He too could not fit in; but once he settled down and accepted his fate, he grew in talent as well as stature. He became a great poet and musician, and is still famous to this very day.”

He saw Hazen mull this over and continued once he looked at him again. “I know it is hard to let go of the past you once had. To give up the only home you ever knew, and find another in a place as strange as this.”, he walked up to face him. “Your past was all that you had in the world, and it may seem better to you than the life you found with us, but I do not say that you must forget the past just to be cruel… “, Bentfeather took a serious vein. “The past you once had is gone forever, and this is a fact you must face.”

Hazen tried to protest, but couldn’t find proper words; but gradually relented and asked what he was to do. Bentfeather began to tell him a few things: “Being a Dinotopian takes the greatest of commitment, and be done with the fullest of hearts”, said the Microraptor. “It takes performing tasks seriously and with responsibility.”, as he was saying this, his hackles rose. He smoothed them down, sighing, then continued.

“Perhaps the thing you need is to get involved with something, a cause that you can be proud to make a full commitment to”, Bentfeather got eye to eye with Hazen. “Along with your tutoring, I will explore the many possible fields you may be interested in; and perhaps help you find the one you think you would be best suited at…”, he consulted the paperwork at his feet. “You will start tutoring tomorrow, after Noonmeal. Please do not be late!”…
_

TAG: Hazen, Sarah, any and all!