"A Quest Of Friends"

[Thundertail]

OCC: We’re moving ahead to the concert!…
_

IC: Bentfeather, Tebo and their students, Waterfall City.

YOU ARE INVITED

To a gala event of song and pageant
like Waterfall City has never seen!
To be held at the Hall of Seedpods
And Plants, One Seedpod street,
on Mid-spring Day at sundown…

Bentfeather read his concert invitation one more time to make sure the right date was at hand as he rummaged through his wardrobe at home, choosing his best crimson cape and lacing it to his neck; then flapped to his umbrella stand and found his walking stick crafted from pure silver, handle of which shaped into the form of a snarling Tyrannosaur. He folded his invitation into the accompanying envelope and flapped out the door, swerved to avoid a passing Iguanodon in the street and made haste through the air until he reached the steps of the library. Excitement oozed through his very being in anticipation of what he and his cohorts was about to experience, for the concerts this time of year were most joyous of all, and the players who played them had practiced all year with new and secret material only Maestro Ludwig could create, for he was the best of his day!

“Sir Bentfeather!… So nice to meet you this evening!”, Tebo said as he walked up the steps, Sarah Warner by his side. Both were dressed in the finest garb Bentfeather had ever seen on them! Tebo was dressed in African garb, much like he always wore these days; but what he wore was twice as colorful and nice. Sarah was wearing a beautiful lime green gown with red and gold bangles. Both bowed at their mentor.

“Greetings, sir Bentfeather.”, Sarah said sweetly. “Lovely evening…”

“Indeed it is, especially when it is lovely as you…!”, and then Bentfeather looked them over and the fine garb they wore.

“You both look fantastic, a finer couple if ever there was one!”, Bentfeather bowed in return from the stone stair railing where he had perched. “Your mother’s work could not be vaster! From a tailor’s trade, she must be master!”

“It was the best her shop could come up with on short notice.”, Tebo told him modestly. “It was fortunate that she had the time…”, he looked around. “Where’s Hazen?”

“He will show up, I guarantee.”, Bentfeather said as he switched perches to Tebo’s shoulder. “His expressions at Ludwig’s studio was one of glee!”

“But isn’t it getting late?…”, Tebo inquired.

“You are a worrier of great renown.”, Bentfeather scoffed. “By my guess, it’s barely sundown.”

As all checked the sun’s position and looked around, the nondescript figure of Hazen Baker came walking into view amid the crowd of humans and saurians; but his usual nondescript features were made much less so by the handsome garb he now wore, for he had also visited Tebo’s mother’s tailor shop as well. He smiled as he approached the group, and they all exchanged brief niceties about how each was dressed before setting off through the crowds toward the center of town; alternately chatting with each other, or any passer by who chose to greet them as they walked. As the last rays of sun dimmed in the crevices between the buildings, the Prime Sunstone in the Sunstone Tower was set alight; creating a dim ambiance amid the now igniting streetlamps.

As the group rounded a corner near Seedpod street, they did not need to be told which building they were to go to; for the Hall of Seedpods and Plants was lit up like a marquis sign, lamps accenting each feature of the building and the twin atrium domes shining like a pair of sapphire shaded brass lamps in the night. All of the Waterfall City’s elite were milling about the main entrance, saurians and humans done up in their finest garb; and jewelry bedecking both genders glinted in the dimmer light outside, and polite chatter could be heard from these people as Bentfeather and company approached.

“Well, well, well…!”, said a voice from behind. They turned as one and instantly recognized the mayor of Waterfall City! “I see you all made it…!”, he offered his hand and shook the hands of all four, who bowed as one.

“Esteemed mayor…! A pleasure to greet you at such a fine event!”, Bentfeather said for all of them. “Let us all go inside before the seating is all but spent!”

“Ah, but first there is someone I would like you to meet.”, mayor Masteson looked around. “Oh dear…! Come meet the newcomers!…”, presently an older lady of the mayor’s approximate age gracefully came from the midst of female human dignitaries and flowed toward them in finery fit for a queen, and took the mayor’s hand. “Um,… I would like you all to meet Matriarch Draea, my wife!”

“An honor we are not worthy of, my Matriarch!”, said Bentfeather, kissing an offered hand.

“A pleasure…”, Tebo said, doing the same. Sarah and Hazen merely stood and bowed.

“And how are the newcomers?”, Draea pronounced regally. “Welcome to the island, miss Sarah Warner… And I heard a lot about you, Hazen Baker…”, she smirked at Bentfeather. “Tebo’s uncle Patel visit’s the hatchery often!”

“This is the first time in a year she’s left the hatchery…”, the mayor said conversationally. “I can’t seem to pull her away!…”

“So, Patel told me he was the one that brought Hazen to Waterfall City.”, Draea informed. “He said you needed a lot of explanation of our ways, didn’t you?…”

As Hazen began to tell of his previous adventure, Tebo asked. “You never told me you knew my uncle.”, he looked at Hazen. “How is he?… He never seems to visit us…”, and Hazen replied to the question.

“I think it’s getting late.”, mayor Emil Masteson announced suddenly. “The concert should start soon…”

“Yes yes, we should go.”, Bentfeather took the mayor’s cue. “I, for one, plan to enjoy the show!”

The mayor and matriarch departed from their presence just then, pulled aside by yet more well wishers standing on the curb near the street; and as Tebo shrugged, Bentfeather directed them all to the door of the building. They got behind a knot of people and saurians about to ascend the steps and waited for their turn to do likewise; but heavy footfalls could be heard behind them, accompanied by an attention getting feminine bellow. They all turned and saw an extremely old looking Triceratops bejeweled from nose horn to an elaborate shawl over her back. Atop the ornate nose horn stood a pink and yellow Archaeopteryx, equally bejeweled and coiffed; and spoke in human with a whistling quality which was quite beautiful to hear.

“Pardon us, your grace…”, this she directed at Bentfeather. “I am Avalon, aide to Lady Raggedfrill… My mistress would like to make an enquiry…”, both bird and saurian bowed regally.

“Most certainly, noble ones!”, Bentfeather bowed as well, and so did the other three.

“Lady Raggedfrill is head of the Textile Guild, and female of great power in all social circles.”, said Avalon. “She would like to know if miss Sarah Warner would like to accompany her at tonight’s concert.”, she smiled at Sarah, and so did Lady Raggedfrill. “She has heard of her great progress, and would like to know more about her…”

“Well Sarah… What do you think?”, Bentfeather asked softly.

“I don’t know… Maybe…”, she replied.

“It’s all right, child.”, said Bentfeather. “It is sometimes exciting to meet new friends.”

At Lady Raggedfrill’s rumblings, Avalon continued. “I just wish to make your acquaintance… Never fear. I don’t bite!”, both females chuckled.

Sarah looked at Bentfeather, and then at Tebo for support; then she slowly moved toward the tanklike creature and the pretty feathered one. Her widened eyes as she examined the large female before her told of her uncertainty, but gradually she turned and smiled. Bentfeather nodded triumphantly as Lady Raggedfrill rumbled some more.

“Fear not, Sarah…”, Avalon translated. “We shall have a nice chat…!”, with this they turned away.

“Well boys…”, Bentfeather eventually said as Sarah and her new friends faded into the crowd. “It’s our turn to go inside.”…
_

TAG: Hazen, any and all!

[o8jedi]

IC: Hazen Baker, en route to the concert, Waterfall City

Hazen felt uncomfortable in his new set of clothes. It wasn't that they didn't fit properly (on the contrary, Tebo's mother was a skilled seamstress and they fit like a glove), it had more to do with the fact that he looked like Jeff Daniels in Dumb and Dumber. His tuxedo was sky blue from the top hat to the tailcoat to the cummerbund to the pants to the spats. Sky. Blue. He knew how much Tebo's mother worked on it and he didn't have the courage to explain to her how men's fashion had advanced over the course of the past hundred years or so. Still, he had to admire the embroidery work that went into it. The lapels were lined with a silver design and spotted with tiny sequins. He pushed his glasses up his nose after reflecting on that cloud's silver lining.

With the invitation in his pocket, he strode over to the Hall of Seedpods and Plants, glancing around to see if he could find anyone familiar. Unfortunately, the wide assortment of humans and Saurians in their finest apparel made things all the more confusing for him. Fortunately, he spied a familiar set of librarian's clothes. Tebo. He walked toward them with a smile on his face in anticipation of the event tonight. When he got closer, he recognized Bentfeather and Sarah. He took off his top hat and gave a bow.

"Good evening, gentlebeings." He turned to Sara and said, "I must say you look fantastic tonight." Sara smiled, flattered by that compliment. After several moments of small talk, Hazen was surprised to see not only the mayor, but the matriarch as well. He made an effort to keep out of the conversation, but Draea pressed him into conversation, mentioning his traveling companion Patel.

"Yes," Hazen replied. "He and his Partner's mate Oxidia found me when I came ashore. I spent many weeks traveling with him, learning first hand about Dinotopian life. And he is right about my needing more instruction, which is why Bentfeather here has taken me under his wing, literally and figuratively." He heard a few chuckles from the assembled.

Tebo then spoke up, asking about his uncle. Hazen replied, "Patel is doing fine," he explained. "Business is still good and both he and his family are in good spirits. If he does drop by for a visit, be sure to let me know, alright?"

After a few minutes and parting ways with Sara, the party entered the hall, showing their invitations at the gate. Unfamiliar with the layout of the hall, Hazen followed Tebo and Bentfeather, occasionally glancing around at the architecture. Columns and buttresses were styled after trees and vines, flowers accented the wainscoting. Even the wallpaper had a botanical feel.

Once they found their seats, Hazen sat down and surveyed the area. The larger Saurians ringed the perimeter of the concert hall and an assortment of humans and comparatively-sized Saurians sat in the center. Turning his attention to the stage, he saw a few musicians warming up, but it was still largely empty. He grabbed a program and set to translating it to himself, not only to pass the time but to learn more about the pieces, the composer, and the orchestra itself.

TAG: Any and all.

[Thundertail]

OCC: …Actually 08jedi, the interior is a bit different…
_

IC: Bentfeather, Tebo and company, the Hall of Seedpods and Plants, Waterfall City.

As the last of the guests invited to the Mid-spring concert entered the hall of Seedpods and Plants, Bentfeather, Tebo and Hazen climbed the wide stone steps to the building and went inside. The foyer, displaying material on what the hall used to be used for in glass cases along one wall, was crowded with people and saurians waiting their turn to take their places in the first atrium beyond a set of saurian sized double doors beyond. Already the humidity from the atrium could be felt by all, as the plants within and the giant domed skylight still held the heat of the now ended day. Fairly soon it was their turn to enter, and all was amazed at the architecture that awaited them; for it was like a bit of the outdoors brought inside, jungle-like flora proliferated everywhere!

The huge atrium was like a stadium, done up like a theatre in the round, seating placed nearly haphazardly amid the potted and freestanding foliage, tiny signs at the bases of most arrangements read “NO GRAZING“. The green glassed in dome of a ceiling sported a quartet of huge Sunstone chandeliers, which produced most of the soft light; and Sunstons sconces illuminated the darker nooks and smaller Sunstone lighting illuminated the musician’s music stands. The space sloped downwards like a bowl, and all around were occupied spaces where the musicians sat; spaced evenly around the atrium amid the foliage to take best advantage of the acoustics of the place; and the seating was amid these players, where one could sit next to them and hear their favorite instrument best. The thick plants partially obscured these players, and yet the players could easily see the tall podium down at the center; and on that podium Maestro Ludwig could be seen just stepping up to it, impeccable black tuxedo adorned his Stenoychosaur form as he placed tonight’s music on his stand and examined the first piece.

Hazen, Tebo and Bentfeather was ushered to a row of six human sized seats, an aid bringing a perch stand for the latter that sported a resting couch his size atop it. As the players quietly limbered up their instruments, all in the room were gradually seated; and Bentfeather smiled at his charges like a schoolboy in anticipation of the show they were about to experience. The Microraptor then spied Sarah three quarters of the way around the atrium, large three-horned dignitary by her side and tiny pink and yellow feathered aide perched on the nose horn; and pointed Sarah out to Tebo and Hazen, whom she didn’t see waving for the crowd. Many moments later the crowd became silent, and so did the players as sir Ludwig tapped his wand on the podium before him; then he cleared his throat and made his announcement that the concert was about to begin.

“Ladies and Gentilebeings, friends of all kinds!…”, Ludwig said so all could hear, but didn’t use his strongest voice for the acoustics of the place. “Welcome to the three hundred and fourth Mid-spring concert of Waterfall City… This first piece I’m sure all of you will know, for it came from the outside world many centuries ago; and as it was popular many hundreds of years ago, it still is today…”, he looked around at his musicians to see if they were ready, then waved his wand as the players began to play…
_

OCC: Since it would be nearly impossible to describe the music playing now, I have found many pieces that could be adapted for a Dinotopian concert. The first piece as well as the last could have possibly been easily found washed up on shore, and adapted for Dinotopian musical instruments, and composed as such over the centuries. The pieces in the middle, however, would take a lot of imagination to have them be fit for a Dinotopian concert; and yet their tempo changes and unusual textures the saurians would no doubt compose there, and even though the lyrics would have to be changed or omitted entirely, I think they would be most appropriate on Dinotopia. (The videos that go along with these pieces are a bit freaky, though! ~LOL~!) So please bear with me with these pieces I’ve chosen, and use your imagination where appropriate; and most of all… Enjoy!…














(If these links do not work, See ‘Rainy Basin Resort’ for U-Tube songs gleaned for the concert.)
_

IC: The concert, Waterfall City.

The crowd sighed and murmured as they recognized the beginnings of the “Blue Danube Waltz”, some swaying to the flowing music; but most of them were held captive in the rigor of attentiveness. When it was over a score of minutes later, the atrium erupted in waves of polite applaud; and the approving grunts and calls of every saurian present. At this interlude Bentfeather looked over and saw Sarah talking to Lady Raggedfrill through Avalon, both nodding politely and gesturing in animated chatter; however, Bentfeather’s lip-reading skills were all but nonexistent, so he could not tell what was being said through the still applauding crowd. Maestro Ludwig did not wait for the crowd to completely cease their adulations before starting right off on his next number, the first part of three that he composed himself, and it was a surprise to everyone when the band members started back up again!

After an attention-getting crescendo, a lively round of flute and mandolin wafted around the space; first clockwise and then counterclockwise, building until the whole orchestra was participating. Then suddenly the beat crashed down, and a more traditional beat arose; just as lively and full of hope as the last; and this went on for many minutes before the flute and mandolin could be detected again, rising in and out of the main melody; fading to near nothingness until a more somber melody took it’s place, and this went on for many minutes more before an equally somber, and yet hopeful, melody replaced it out of the second movement’s ashes. The whole arrangement ended with a hidden diva nearly chanting hopeful wishes to all in saurian.

What welled up at the conclusion of the concert was rousing and well appreciated applaud and cheering, rising and falling as each musician stood to take their bows. As maestro Ludwig made his bows, the attendees stood as well, accolades and cheering never ebbed for many moments as the conductor climbed down from the podium and bowed low to the crowd.

“Thank you…, thank you, one and all…!”, said he as he turned to the human saurian tuba player and handed him the wand.

As Ludwig walked the rest of the way to the crowd to personally greet and gain praise, the tuba player gathered many stringed instrumentalists, whom began playing soft background chamber music for the still lingering crowd. Ludwig shook every hand he came in contact with, and his praise was met from all around him. As the crowd began to finally disperse, it was then that Bentfeather decided it would be the least hazardous for them to make their exit as well; but as they were half way to the exit, a lumbering figure following a girl in mint green attire and an Archaeopteryx on her shoulder came into view through the crowd.

“Sir Bentfeather!…”, Sarah Warner called. “That was great, wasn’t it!”, she said when the crowd parted enough to stand face to face. “Um,… I got something to tell you…”

“What is it, child?”, Bentfeather asked. “Your eyes are wild!”

“Well, I decided to spend the night at Lady Raggedfrill’s enclave…”, she replied, then turned to Tebo. “That means you do not have to walk me home.”

“Well dear, if that is what you want, so be it.”, Bentfeather told her. “She is a female of great renown. She will treat you well!”

With that Sarah shook first Bentfeather’s hand, then Hazen’s; then surprised them all by giving Tebo a light pack on the cheek! As one, Triceratops, Archaeopteryx and human looked at each other and smiled; then turned as one toward the exit. Tebo’s sheepish look made Hazen and Bentfeather smirk and chuckle as they waited for their turn to exit the Hall of Seedpods and Plants…
_

TAG: Hazen, any and all!

[o8jedi]

OOC: Oops. Nice music choice, btw. I love prog rock.

~~~~~

IC: Hazen Baker, the Hall of Seedpods and Plants, Waterfall City

The clicking of baton on podium, pulled Hazen away from the program notes as Ludwig made a few introductory remarks. Hazen adjusted his position on his seat and put a hand to his face, waiting for the first notes to be played. No sooner had horns began to play than he smiled, recognizing Strauss' immortal waltz. He exchanged a few knowing glances at Tebo and Bentfeather before looking back at the orchestra, nodding his head to the 3/4 time of the Viennese icon. At the coda, Hazen leaned back in his chair, again smiling, and began to applaud, tempted to give a standing ovation. Hazen maintained his applause until a percussive string of notes came forth. He immediately stopped and resumed his music-appreciation pose.

This piece was simultaneously familiar and unfamiliar to Hazen. Its use of polyrhythm and countermelody reminded him of some of his favorite progressive rock bands from back home, but it wasn't pretentious or overly cerebral. It was still accessible. The piece became more atmospheric and Hazen closed his eyes. As the music simultaneously stimulated and relaxed him, he fought the urge to fall asleep from sheer concentration. Then the piece shifted into a major mode. He blinked a few times, coming out of his meditative state.

He followed the music as it wafted around, impressed at this unorthodox, but satisfying way of presenting music. It was inclusive and inviting. Furthermore, it allowed for a surround-sound aspect like putting a favorite record on headphones. No other live presentation at home had ever successfully integrated that aspect of recording. Once the piece was completed, Hazen had no qualms about giving a standing ovation.

"Bravo!" he shouted to the orchestra. After several minutes of applause, Hazen made his way over to Ludwig to offer his congratulations for an outstanding premiere and a fantastic concert overall. Ludwig promptly reminded him about his first lesson. "I won't forget," Hazen said as he went to rejoin Bentfeather and Tebo.

Once he regrouped with the other two, Sara approached and expressed her desires to stay with Lady Raggedfrill. Hazen smiled as he bid her farewell. Then, his eyes popped wide when she gave Tebo a kiss. Once the shock wore off, Hazen grinned and chuckled to himself.

"Well, well," he said, "looks like someone's got a girlfriend." He gave Tebo a playful punch in the shoulder like an older brother would. He filed in line as they shuffled out the door. "Well," he said, "the night is young. Perhaps we could enjoy a nightcap or two?" he suggested, blissfully unaware of the concoctions that may or may not exist on Dinotopia.

TAG: Any and all.

[Thundertail]

IC: Bentfeather, Tebo, Waterfall City library.

The next morning grew bright and sunny, with a slight breeze coming off the waterfalls to the north; making a fine start to an excellent day. Even though Bentfeather had gotten up and traveled his short distance to the library, Tebo ran through the city with rather strange news that needed telling; but he didn’t stop at the front desk of the library as he was supposed to do, but ran to Bentfeather’s office out of breath. Bentfeather looked up from his administrative paperwork with a start as he waited for Tebo catch his breath.

“Sir… Bentfeather…”, Tebo said, clutching his knees. “I saw… something… I must tell you…”

“At ease, boy!”, Bentfeather said. “Your distress brings me no joy!”

“Something at the inn!…”, said Tebo. “Sarah has moved out!”

“What are you saying, boy?”, Bentfeather got up.

“I went to the harbor side inn to collect Sarah to take her to Beginner’s class…”, said Tebo.

“Sarah went to spend the night at Lady Raggedfrill’s enclave. “, Bentfeather reminded. “You know that.”

“There were people there, with a cart.”, said Tebo. “The landlady said they were there to collect miss Warner’s things, at Sarah’s request. She guessed that it was on Council’s orders.”

“This is most strange…”, Bentfeather thought. “Did she say anything else?”

“Only that Sarah kept her room clean, but never did any chores there.”, Tebo told him.

“Hmmm…”, Bentfeather paced on his desk. “I wonder what this is all about…”
Out in the sky between the buildings, a lone Postal Bird fought the northern breezes that had gotten magnified by their travel between the buildings; and he flapped and wheeled to maneuver to his assigned destination. It wasn’t far as his aerie was at the head of Pliosaur canal, but his ruffled tail feathers and grunting flaps had told of an arduous flight anyway. Postal Bird 249 lined up with the window to sir Bentfeather’s office and plummeted through it, landing on his belly on sir Bentfeather’s desk. He skidded to a stop and groaned as he began to get up, Bentfeather rushed over to assist.

“Are you all right, noble flyer?…”, said he. “I saw your flight path was dire!”

“Y…yes, my friend… I‘m all right…”, 249 ruffled his feathers as he stood on his own, then turned to Bentfeather officially. “To sir Bentfeather Microraptor, from Lady Raggedfrill, the compound at the hall of Hadrosaurs and Ceratopsians.”, the bird eyed Tebo warilly.

“I am he.”, Bentfeather said. “Please proceed.”

“I am to inform you that miss Sarah Warner has taken permanent residence, and will be hosted by lady Raggedfrill for the duration of her stay.”, 249 recited from memory. “It is also stated, and endorsed by the high council, that she will also be tutored and educated by lady Raggedfrill for said time period. Therefore your services concerning her will no longer be necessary…”, and with that the Postal Bird flapped and disappeared out the window.

“Well, that explains everything…”, Bentfeather said after he watched the Postal Bird fly out of sight. “Nobody left to teach but you and Hazen…”, then he saw the forlorn look on Tebo’s face.

Slowly Bentfeather walked toward Tebo, gently taking his hand. “Son, I know it is hard to let go of someone… Especially one you care about.”, he patted the hand. “Females come and females go, but they all come around sooner or later…”

“I know, my friend…”, Tebo said, grasping for courage. “I guess it is all about the fickle whim of fate. It was fate that brought her to this place, and it let me know her; and if it wants to take her away for some reason, then I better not complain…”

“A stout boy…”, Bentfeather gave him a hug…
_

Tag: Any and all!

[o8jedi]

IC: Hazen Baker and a new friend at Sir Ludwig’s studio.

Hazen made it to sir Ludwig’s studio slightly early the next day, and one of the Harpymimus instructors told him to wait in Practice Room 1; to browse the instruments there, and experiment with any he felt fancy to. There he set his guitar case down next to a music stand on a small stage-like bandstand to the left and looked to the other end of the room, which was just filled with instruments of both saurian design and the more conventional kind. There were tubas and piccolos, Double-basses and violins, guitars and lutes of every description, drums and other percussion devices designed for many species, woodwinds and brass horns of every size and instruments he had never even seen before! Presently he went over to take a closer look.

After he was thoroughly engrossed in looking at these instruments, especially the stranger models, he heard the door open; and thinking it was sir Ludwig arriving to train him, turned to see someone he wasn’t expecting: a Chasmosaur. The dinosaur was a little bigger than a baby elephant, and probably no more than a yearling by Hazen‘s estimation; and the only thing denoting her as a female was the ruby painted toenails that clacked on the floor as she sauntered in. She looked around with childlike glee, then spotted Hazen by a boxlike Zithar, which he was examining.

“Hiya!…”, she brayed in English, voice sounding like it came from a goat. “You instructor?"

Hazen replied, "No. I'm just another student. My name is Hazen, by the way."

“Me Rivers… Me will be great music maker!…”, Rivers scanned the room and smiled with glee. “What instrument you play?… Me not know yet…”

As Hazen went over and picked up his own guitar, Rivers nodded happily and presently went to the collection of instruments. She eyed many, sniffing which ones that were closer; then spotted an instrument that looked like it was cobbled together by a drunken plumber, whose brass mouthpiece was at the right level for her. She made a great inhale before puckering and blowing; but out came a sound the reminded Hazen of a tugboat foghorn! She recoiled like she tasted something bad, and licked her lips to get rid of the vibrating feeling; then she moved to some other instruments.

The next ones she tried were of the percussion variety: sets of multi-sized drums rigged with foot pedals instead of being played with sticks or mallets, rigged especially so saurians could play them. Rivers maneuvered around to the array of pedals and began to experiment. At each of her footfalls, one or more of the drums would go off, from low rumbling to the tinny sound of a snare drum; and many of the others made stranger sounds as their pedals were pushed. She began to like what she was doing and giggled with glee as she sort of made up a beat. As she was doing this, she spied a small gong behind her; and lined up her tail to hit it as a crescendo when she was at last finished!

“Me like drums!…”, Rivers announced as she extracted herself from the contraption. “Boom,… Boomboomboom boom!…”, she nearly sang as she went to the bandstand at last, squatting on it next to another music stand beside Hazen‘s.

Hazen chuckled at the Ceratopsian. "I agree with you there. They're fun to play."

Just then the door to Practice room 1 burst open and in walked sir Ludwig, who scanned the room before spying his two students; then smiled at them before setting up a music stand in front of the bandstand facing them. He took out many pieces of sheet music from his valise and placed them on each of their music stands before placing some on his; then adjusted River’s stand so it was at eye level with her. As he went to his own stand, he cleared his throat before speaking to them.

“Welcome students! I hope your learning experience with me will be as fulfilling to you as it would no doubt be for me!”, he said, looking at them both. “Now then, can any of you read the music I placed before you?"

"I used to be able to," Hazen said, "but I'm horribly out of practice." He did his best to familiarize with the clef and the notes that sat before him and tried to hum the melody to himself.

“Well, part of your training will include this; and for those that know, you will be brushing up on it all through your stay…”, he slightly scowled at Rivers, whose look was of utter confusion at the music set before her.

“Now then…”, Ludwig continued after pretending to scan what was on his stand. “I assume you have familiarized yourselves with the instruments in this room. We will first see if you can play them at all, then we will see whether you have the talent to play them well…”, he gave Hazen a look. “Hazen, would you please pick up the clarinet over there?" Hazen went with the Stenoychosaur to said instrument, who got busy taking it off it’s stand and showed him how to properly hold it. Rivers got up and went over too so she could watch.

“Now, it is a woodwind instrument, so take this reed and place it in your mouth a while to get it moist…”, Ludwig handed the bamboo reed to him, and he reluctantly did as was told. “Now these valves open when you press these levers…”, he demonstrated, and valves opened mechanically at intervals all along the body. “As valves open close to the neck of the instrument, the higher the pitch; and the same goes for the valves lower on the body… The lower the pitch.”, after many moments with the reed in his mouth, Ludwig removed it and clamped it back onto the mouthpiece.

“Now, clench the reed lightly with your lips and blow…”, Ludwig instructed, but Hazen made a squawking sound with it after his third blow. Hazen had never played a woodwind instrument in his life and this was a new experience. “Not too tightly and not too loose!…”, Hazen eventually made a C-sharp tone. “There!… Now press the third valve down…”, he eventually made an octave lower. “Now the forth…”, an octave lower than that. “And the last valve, use your left hand middle finger…”

Hazen did his best trying to press the right keys and valves. Often, he would make instinctive moves as if he was fretting a guitar, but reminded himself that this was a clarinet. He squawked his way through the instrument and, after Ludwig reclaimed his instrument, Hazen sighed to himself. He could tell that this was going to be a long day.

Some instruments were easier to play than others. His experience playing trombone back in high school helped him make more pleasant sounds with the baritone and bass brass instruments that Ludwig presented to him. Occasionally, he was allowed to rest as Ludwig tested Rivers with instruments designed for the quadroped. It was refreshing for Hazen to see a young, enthusiastic Saurian in a similar predicament as he was. Still, Rivers' resemblance to three other Ceratopsians he met when he was still new to Dinotopia could not be ignored and fond thoughts drifted back to that time, only to be brought back to the present moment with a quick snap by Ludwig.

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TAG: Any and all.

[Thundertail]

IC: Bentfeather and Tebo, Hazen’s law enforcement training.

Days go by, and Hazen is becoming more learned in reading and writing Saurian, and his speech is improving by leaps and bounds; and also his spirits are increasing due to the musical tutelage of sir Ludwig. This Bentfeather sees in both his academic training reports as well as reports given to him by sir Ludwig; and Tebo had introduced him to a kind of reading game based on his penchant for the randomness of events, where they would run around the library and recite passages from books they randomly take off shelves. All this makes Bentfeather smile, for now his confidence in the lad was growing; and he smiled broader as he looked over to his pupil, who was diligently reading a scientific tome penned entirely in saurian and only getting mild coaching by Tebo.

The many trips of inquiry Bentfeather had made all across Waterfall City had only produced a few who would help by volunteering their time in order to help Hazen find something that he might be proud to do, but Bentfeather knew that this was only a start of things; and soon Hazen would be as civic minded as a person naturally born to Dinotopia, and not feel that he was forced to do what he should feel honored and proud to do. In fact, some of those volunteers would soon visit the classroom today; for they said that they would have to clear things with their superiors first, whom said they could certainly use the extra help, even if it would only be for the day. Fortunately Bentfeather kept all this work a secret from both Hazen and Tebo, and told any others involved not to tell anyone about it; for Bentfeather wanted to see the bewildered looks on BOTH their faces!

“…It’s ‘Ferment the extraction for an hour‘, not ‘After an hour extract the fermentation’…”, Tebo was correcting when Hazen was asked to recite the chemical procedure for making Arctus Listus painkiller, part of the lesson in the chemistry book he was studying. Hazen corrected himself and recited onward.

“All right, boys. Please put down your books.”, Bentfeather said after a moment. “We will continue that lesson later. Now please get out your Natural Geometry book, ’Math in a Pinecone’, and go to chapter nine…”, he waited for both to comply. “Now read the chapter to yourselves, and there is a quiz at the end. Take it, writing answers in Footprint language. Do not use your Footprint stamps, but write freestyle…”, after groans because neither could write the Footprint script very well in freehand, they bent to their task.

Bentfeather watched until he was sure both were deep in study before he turned and tended to other business. He pulled his deceased Partner’s notebook from his satchel and began to study that for a while. He became engrossed in the way the expedition had gotten in the good graces of the primitive tribe of Dromeosaurs on the Outer Island, by teaching them how to fish by using nets; and studied the part where they taught their females how to weave nets from palm fronds.

Almost twenty minutes later there was an authoritive knock on the door to Study Room 3, and the knocker never waited for permission to enter when the door was roughly shoved open. Suddenly the door was framed by an ominous pair of Waterfall City guards! One was a Corythosaur, who was so tall his head bowed as he entered; and his counterpart was an older human man, burly build of a weight lifter. Both were dressed in red and silver sashes, form fitting pastel green, blue and red tunics in a diamond checkerboard style; and armed with gilded spears and brass armor in strategic places, human sporting a Romanesque helmet whose head dress was the same hues as the head frill of his Corythosaurus counterpart. Both scanned the room before the human spoke, picking out every detail of the room with their eyes.

“Pardon us, but is Hazen Baker here?”, said the human, his towering Corythosaur counterpart still scanned the room suspiciously. “We were sent to take him with us…”

Both Hazen and Tebo looked up at them, incredulous; and Hazen tried to protest, but the Corythosaur’s braying sent both to silence. Bentfeather tried real hard to keep a straight face through all this, and his acting skills were put to the test as he spoke. “Now see here!… What is all this?… Hazen Baker did nothing amiss…!”

“Never the less, we have orders to take him with us.”, the officer said. “If you wish to place a formal complaint, you may file one with the council.”, he seemed to know what Hazen looked like because he was looking at him the whole time! “Until then, it’s best if you come with us, son…”

Bentfeather sighed. “I suppose he’s right…”, he looked at Hazen. “Go ahead… I will straighten everything out…”

Hazen hissed as he got up, shoving the chair he was sitting on against the table as he left it. He placed his wrists together like he was to be handcuffed, but the guards just had him stand between them; motioning that he should keep his hands at his sides. The guards left Study Room 3 with their charge, and Hazen hung his head as he was escorted out of the library.

“What is this all about, sir Bentfeather?”, Tebo asked as soon as the door was slammed shut. “Hazen is doing very well here. Do you think he broke any laws we don’t know about?…”

“No, my boy! Nothing like that!…”, Bentfeather chuckled. “That was part of his training, and that is that!”, he then began to tell Tebo his plan…

[o8jedi]

IC: Hazen Baker, Study Room 3, Waterfall City

Hazen had bad enough handwriting as it was and having to write in the Footprint Script was a pain in the butt. For the sake of expediency, he learned to make simple three-toed drawings for each footprint. It lacked the flesh outlines of the stamps, but for handwritten notes, it was perfectly sufficient. When the knock came on the door, his pen slipped slightly from the surprise and he hurried to correct the mistake.

The guards were already menacing on their own, invoking images of Imperial Rome. The fact that they were looking for him made his heart begin to race. Hazen reluctantly and with a look of confusion on his face stood up, holding his wrists out as if he was going to be handcuffed. He wanted to be of assistance to the officers and knew that if he didn't follow their instructions to the letter he may suffer dire consequences. To his surprise, he was told to just keep his hands by his side and he complied.

It was more annoying than anything else for Hazen to be removed from class under police escort. There was something fishy about what was going on here. He hadn't been informed that he was under arrest, so he couldn't file a complaint about them not having a warrant or not informing him of what rights he has available to him. On the other hand, he thought, they may not have the same legal procedures as they do back in America. A few passersby looked at Hazen as he and the police walked by, making him feel even more uncomfortable.

"I believe I have a right to know what this is all about," Hazen began. A threatening snort from the Corythosaur quickly silenced him. After finding his resolve again, Hazen again spoke. "At the very least, I want to know what business you have with me at the station. I mean, if you're interrogating me, I demand to have an attorney present."

"Sir," said the human guard, "I suggest you do not make a scene. More information will be given to you at the precinct."

"With all due respect," Hazen replied, "this is my first time I've had to deal with the police in this fashion. But I will try." Hazen tried to maintain his composure as they made their way up the stairs into a nearby police precinct.

TAG: Any and all.

[Thundertail]

OCC: Still didn’t happen exactly that way… You’ll see!
_

IC: Hazen with the Waterfall City guards.

“Stop here…”, the human Waterfall City guard barked as they turned down an alley, both he and his Corythosaur counterpart relaxing their official demeanor. “Pardon us for that rather… official… entrance, but we were sent on the bequest of sir Bentfeather.”

As Hazen asked what they meant, he explained. “I am officer Samuel Ajax, and this is my Partner Olu…”, the saurian brayed and bowed. “I assume sir Bentfeather mentioned to you that he would try to find occupations that you would feel honored to do. He felt that perhaps you would like to be introduced to the fine arts of Dinotopian law Enforcement.”

Nodding because now Hazen got it, Samuel went on. “Now, to the best of my knowledge, the best way to introduce you to it is have you experience it first hand. You are to accompany us through the city on our rounds today, and give assistance where necessary.”, he looked at his Partner. “Now since we brought no other uniforms with us, you will wear my sash…”, officer Ajax removed it, placing it the proper way around one of Hazen’s shoulders. “And if you see any trouble we do not, you are to blow this whistle…”, he reached into Olu’s saddlebag and had him place the chain it was attached to around his neck.

“There!… You look like a guard already!”, officer Ajax smiled as Olu chortled, and both led the way out of the alley.

The group headed south down towards Morning Glory promenade, throngs of saurians and people giving them a wide berth as they strode with purpose down the sidewalk; and knowing the trouble they could get into if they crossed them. Hazen noticed how they exuded a lot of respect, either from their positions of authority or from their uniforms - the weapons they bore certainly would not, for they were blunted with ornate scrolling and lacings, and not lethal at all except as clubbing devices.

They rounded a corner and went into a food pavilion, where hundreds of workers of a clerical class by the cut of most clothing, were busy serving themselves at the various kiosks skirting the area and sitting at the many round tables set up in the center. As with all constabulary personnel where he came from, Hazen thought they were going to grab something to eat; like police in the outside world would do at a doughnut shop! But all officer Ajax did was look around the area; then he went to a kiosk near a corner of a building and silently chat with the kiosk owner to see if there was anything amiss here, then nodded as he was informed that all was well.

Out through a hidden alley and they were now on the street that skirted Pliosaur canal, near where some warehouses stood and where some shipping companies had made their headquarters. These were the seedier areas of Waterfall City, and both Olu and Ajax hefted their spears more tightly; looking this way and that for trouble, but none seemed to be present as they passed by many shady looking persons and establishments. After an hour they made their way to Commerce Square, where most of the buying and selling of goods took place; and Hazen saw that the business day was in full swing, for the whole street was a madhouse of persons of every species buying and selling at the top of their lungs!

All of a sudden a sound NOT like sellers selling their wares rose above the din, for these words were ones of accusation; tantamount to a formal dispute, and Olu’s more acute hearing picked it up before either officer Ajax or Hazen did. The Corythosaur nearly ploughed his way through the crowds of vendors, their customers and the cart loads of goods to be sold in the near future, to a row of kiosks near the middle of the street; where a middle aged woman of Caucasian features and somewhat homely, and an even older and uglier man were shouting uncontrollably, causing a scene that the others around them in this crowded area to nonchalantly walk away, wishing no part of it. Olu tramped up to the kiosk in question and grunted in both their faces, and Ajax trotted up behind him and looked them both over, scowling; and Hazen came over a few seconds later at a near run, slightly out of breath for the two guards could move rather quickly when properly motivated.

“All right, sir and ma’am…”, began officer Ajax. “Please explain this outburst, and we would appreciate the truth!…”

“Have you seen the shoddy vegetables this… person… sells!…”, the lady nearly screeched. “Look at this Kale… Limp and brown…!”, she picked something else up. “Have you seen these tomatoes?… I’ve seen dough harder than these!… And don’t get me started on his spinach!…”

“I get them in fresh once a week…”, the vendor said. “I can’t be blamed if she comes after they go bad!…”

“You shouldn’t sell them then!”, said she.

“Don’t tell me how to run my business!…”, said he.

“Someone should…!”, yelled she!

“NOW HOLD IT RIGHT NOW!!!”, Ajax yelled as Olu brayed; and both stopped. “Now, I’m sure some kind of agreement can come about from this…”, he looked around. “Ma’am, there are other venders in this square. Why don’t you try them?”

“But I have been coming to him for my vegetables for ten years!”, said the lady.

“And you, sir.”, Ajax continued, ignoring her comment. “I’m sure you could arrange to get fresher stock. Perhaps arrange deliveries more than once a week?…”

“You know, that might work at that…”, said the vendor. “But what will I do with all these bad vegetables?”

Olu licked his lips, and Ajax smiled and said: “My Partner thinks it would be nice if you donate it to the unfortunate saurians who don’t have enough to eat.”

“That would be nice…”, the vendor thought. “I’ll do that!”

“You do that and you got my business back!”, the lady said and walked away.

All four watched her walk away. “Have a nice day, sir.”, Ajax said as he and Olu paced back out in the street, Hazen following. After a moment he waved Hazen beside him with a finger and said. “Most disputes have a peaceful ending…”, he turned to Olu’s saddlebag and pulled out a small notebook. “But we still must keep a record of it…”, he began jotting down the gist of the event.

Once done, the trio moved on; and came out the other side of Commerce Square, and all three looked back at a familiar bray. There was another pair of guards just coming into Commerce Square just then, and they had seen them. The human of this pair was of African descent and very tall, and his counterpart was just a bit more rotund than Olu. A nod from both pairs and they went about their separate business, Ajax led the way up the other side of Fountain Street, where more shipping companies had their home bases.

This area was alive with people and saurians on the sidewalks, carts of every description being pulled by large saurians of every species, and many of those were butted up near warehouses being either loaded up or being unloaded. As before the crowds gave them a wide berth, all but the carts moving in both directions in the street as far as the eye could see. Things seemed to be going well here too, so Olu decided to hurry along the street and have done with this area. It was about then that they all heard a bloodcurdling saurian roar, and a large cart crash as it tipped over!…
_

TAG: Hazen, any and all!

[o8jedi]

OOC: Shoot! Me and I disagreeumptions!

IC: Hazen Baker, Streets of Waterfall City

Hazen breathed a sigh of relief when Officer Ajax mentioned that Hazen was going to be a part of the Dinotopian ride-along program so to speak. Part of him wondered what Bentfeather was thinking when it came to his ideas in career choice. He didn't have any of the qualities of a cop that actually works the beat. If force needed to be applied, he'd be as effective as a single sheet of paper was at stopping a bullet. Still, now that he was temporarily deputized, he wasn't about to decline.

When they neared Pliosaur Canal, Hazen moved closer to the officers, sensing their heightened tension. They carefully made their way through the market of Commerce Square when a dispute broke out. Hazen stayed close, but out of the way, preferring to let the trained personnel do their task. As the situation played out, Hazen shook his head and smiled to himself. He'd seen enough episodes of Cops to know that resolving these domestic disturbances represented a large portion, if not the bulk, of a policeman's work. Once the situation was resolved, Hazen was motioned towards Officer Ajax.

"Yeah," Hazen said, "Everything must be documented." They resumed their beat and Hazen said, "You know, in the outside world, our policemen often deal with the same sorts of squabbles you do. Some are even over more petty issues than that. Guess it shows that the more things are different, the more things are the same."No sooner had they arrived at Fountain Street when a large crash was heard. Hazen, operating on panic mode started off to the source.

"Excuse me," he said repeatedly as he fought his way closer to the scene of the incident. A few bleats from Olu and cries of "Make way!" from Ajax made him rethink his strategy. "Security!" Hazen then called, "Coming through! Official business!" until he reached the cart.

TAG: Any and all.

[Thundertail]

IC: Hazen with the Waterfall City guards.

The huge and elderly and extremely wrinkly Monoclonius pulled his Partner’s cart up the cobbled street, both wheels of the huge two-wheeled contrivance clattering on the cobbles. The street had a slight upslope, but she had been doing this every day for the past forty years without complaint; and today’s load of fruit posed no problem for her. The loading docks were fuller than usual today, but her berth was only two warehouses away; so onward she happily pulled, oblivious of the shard of pottery stuck in the cobbled road right in her intended footpath! She looked around, conscious of every creature and cart all around her instead of where her feet were going; for it was more important in this crowded street not to run into anything at the moment.

Her foot came down on the misshapen shard, and a jagged end met between the pads of the bases of two of her toes, and went in several inches as she stepped; and a second later the pain hit her and she reared up in agony, bellowing and backing away instinctively at the pain. Her motions caused the cart to back up, but her tail stopped motion as it went under a wheel; and that tipped the cart back to spill her driver off the back, and also broke the yoke that held her to the cart. The cart could no longer stand such strain, and the wheel her tail was under snapped at the axle; and it tipped to it’s side with a giant crash, spilling nearly the whole load of fruit out into the street!

Within seconds first Olu and then officer Ajax ran to the site of the disturbance; and instantly they got to work, Olu tending the Monoclonius by grasping a horn to steady her, and Ajax went to the skinny human in a Chinese hat who had hit his head on the cobbles when he fell. Hazen got there and didn’t have a clue as to what to do, so he just stood there, panting, while he watched. Immediately Ajax called out to have someone summon a healer, and then recruited volunteers to help out; then he looked at Hazen and called him over.

“Please go direct traffic…”, he said. “And find volunteers to clear up the fruit…”, he went back to the human on the ground. Hazen looked like he didn’t know how, so Olu grunted to get his attention. He made a stopping gesture, a come-ahead gesture, a pointing gesture and mimicked blowing a whistle; and at last Hazen nodded and went out in the middle of the street.

The fruit was strewn out into the street so half the street was blocked off, and Hazen stood in the midst of it, looking up and down the street. The accident created a long line of saurian freight transport carts, and they would have to veer to the other side of the street so they wouldn’t damage the spilled fruit; so immediately Hazen stopped the line downhill from the accident, then he let the uphill traffic pass for several moments before letting the other side go. Inwardly he laughed, for as small as he was compared to these behemoth dinosaurs passing by; they would all obey his slightest direction, stopping when he said so and veering aside at his whim. His whistle blew many times to gain attention to his direction, and before long he was really getting into the task; sending saurians and their carts around a road hazard, and perhaps a bad one as far as Dinotopia was concerned.

At last two Healers came, and immediately got to work on the human; wrapping his head and placing him on a litter that someone brought over. They then went to the whimpering Monoclonius, one easing her while the other extracted the shard; and it was only then did blood exit the wound, so they got to work bandaging it. While they worked, Ajax and Olu got to work on the cart; dinosaur lifting it while human wrestled the wheel back on, of which a Wheelwright in the neighborhood looked over the damage.

Some people finally got into the street to help clean up the fruit strewn everywhere, most of them children; and at first Hazen thought the kids were going to steal the fruit until he saw they were collecting them and putting them in the baskets that had also been ejected from the cart. As he turned back to directing traffic a towering Bracheosaur came up nearly to step on him, but the giant beast boomed as he saw what was going on and swerved aside as fast as his forty ton weight could accomplish. Hazen shook off the shock and continued directing traffic, slowly stepping out of the middle of the road as the way was cleared of fruit.

The two Waterfall City guards were far stronger than they looked, for all this time Olu held up that end of the heavy cart while officer Ajax held up the heavy wagon wheel while the Wheelwright began to fix the cart. He put in reinforcements onto the axle and fastened it with iron staples, put a new retaining ring onto the hub, packing it off with grease-soaked hemp batting; then pounded the brass hubcap back on with a mallet. Still the cart would need a major overhaul, but it would serve to get it to the shop.

“You sir…”, Ajax commanded a Miasaurus that was passing. “Could we borrow you to move this cart to his repair shop?”, the dinosaur complied, repairman hitching him to it; and the broken cart wobbled down the road.

“Hazen, have that Ankylosaur and his empty cart come here…”, Ajax then requested, and Hazen complied. The Ankylosaur’s cart was empty and four wheeled, Troodont driver waving volunteers over to load the cart with the baskets of fruit; and as they did so, Ajax said. “The driver said they were taking it to warehouse thirty…”, the Troodont nodded; and soon the load of fruit was once again under way.

Hazen saw the healers tending the wounded, two volunteers taking the human on the stretcher to rooms above the Healer’s shop; and others were leading the limping Monoclonius to some near by paddocks. As he joined Olu and Ajax, he smiled.

“Sometimes incidents have a LESS than peaceful endings, too!…”, Ajax told Hazen. “And they still need to be reported.”, he went to his Partner’s saddlebag, then noticed the lingering crowd. “All right people! It’s over. Nothing more to see…!”, Olu made shooing gestures, grunting. As Ajax jotted down his report, he spied Hazen’s look. “And nice work directing traffic… Nobody else got hurt…”, He jotted that fact down as well.

Hazen jabbered excitedly about his participation in the incident, Olu reaching down to shake his hand; burbling congratulations, of which his language few humans could understand. After a few moments officer Ajax looked up from his writing and saw that the whole street had gotten back to it’s normal, bustling self. As soon as he saw this, he put his notebook back into Olu’s saddlebag and looked at his Partner and trainee.

“Well, let’s get going…”, he said and led the way up the street…
_

TAG: Hazen, any and all!

[o8jedi]

IC: Hazen Baker, On the Beat, the streets of Waterfall City

Hazen surveyed the carnage before him. A ceratopsian dinosaur was lying in the street in obvious pain with the cart she was harnessed to overturned and its contents lying in the street. Its rider was lying on the ground unconscious and likely concussed. Every fiber of his being told him to do something, but he stood there, still assessing what needed to be done. Then, Officer Ajax gave an order, jolting him back into reality. He didn't quite catch the order the first time around, but Olu's pantomiming clued him in to what needed to be done: Redirect traffic.

Putting his whistle to his mouth, he stepped out to the center of the street and let out a few blasts, holding his hand out to both sides to stop the flow of traffic. Surprisingly, they all complied. He gave a couple tweets to his right side, motioning for them to go through while keeping his hand outstretched, reminding the other line of traffic to hold their positions. After letting a few carts pass, he halted that line and allowed the other line to go. It was somewhat exciting for him to be playing cop at this point.

Occasionally, he would glance behind him to see how the damage control was going. His glances became more frequent as kids came in and started scooping up fruit. His initial thoughts ranged from them being theives to their potential tampering with evidence, but he was reminded of Dinotopian civics. Stealing and hampering others intentially was unconscionable. A Brachiosaur bleat again snapped him back into reality as he stepped away from a giant sauropod foot that came down no more than a yard from where he stood. He took several deep breaths, trying to work off the adrenaline rush he got before resuming traffic control.

After calling an Ankylosaur to help bring the spilled goods to their final destination, Hazen gave a last little tweet, signaling both sides to move along. As the area returned to normal, Hazen smiled to himself while feeling a great deal of satisfaction in his assistance.

"I'm sorry if I hesitated there for a second," Hazen said after some complimentary remarks from Officer Ajax, "but I've gotta admit that directing traffic was kinda fun. Thanks for bringing me along." A few burbles from Olu and Hazen glanced up. He offered his hand and Hazen took it for a handshake. He thought that he might have said something along the lines of "Good work, kid," but he couldn't be sure. Still, it would have been nice if that was the case.

On Ajax's urging, Hazen followed them as they resumed their rounds. He quietly reflected to himself about the day's events in general. He had no doubt that the police force took great pride in their work. After all, they were helping people every day. It was good, honest work and Hazen admired them for it, but he contemplated about if this was something worth doing. Back home, he never considered being a cop at all, mostly because he thought that he wasn't cut out for it. Now, he found out that he might make a decent cop, since this society is largely peaceful to begin with. Still, if an altercation broke out, he wasn't entirely sure he was fully up for the challenge.

TAG: Any and all.

[Thundertail]

IC: Hazen with the Waterfall City guards, the fire!

The trio made their way to the lower end of Steep street after another hour, and no other incident did they meet along the way; though the foot traffic was tight as many of the citizens were just being let out of their establishments for Eveningmeal. Already the smells of cooking could be detected from quite a few of the buildings as they passed, and Olu’s extra sensitive nose gave rise to his own stomach churnings; whose Partner could hear this, and he suggested they stop for something to eat. The tavern they turned into could accommodate medium saurians too, and they chose an appropriate table just inside the doorway.

Presently a portly human barkeep sauntered over cautiously, for this establishment served patrons of any walk of life; and he was fearing a confrontation now that the law was here, so he simply put on his best face while wiping his hands on his filthy apron and asked what they would have. Having no preferences, the two guards ordered the house special; and Hazen got something off the menu along with what ever was being served at the bar, so the barkeep waddled away with the orders and the trio waited longer than expected for their orders. When their food came, vegetable and pasta affairs both cooked and uncooked with a mint Jinka and fruit concoction which gave the impression it was alcoholic but wasn’t; they got down to business of eating, Olu’s was extra large for his size. When done officer Ajax paid by having the barkeep stamp a ribbon-like credit chit, and they rose to leave the tavern.

When they arrived back out on the street the smell of wood smoke was even more prevalent, nearly overpowering the smell of food being prepared; but this was not uncommon as one needed to build a fire in one’s stove before food could be cooked, and they ignored this as they traveled down towards Goodfortune bridge from Serenade bridge. Often times fog would pour down Steep street and lay in layers at ones’ feet along this avenue; which went right along the front of the Musicians tavern; but this fog hung in the air as they passed, and did not have the pleasant moist smell of fog fresh off the waterfalls. On the contrary, it had cook smoke in it; and something else that had the air of burning tar and other noxious elements, for this was the smoke from something more serious than that; and it was Olu’s instincts that prompted him to burble his fears to officer Ajax.

“Yes… I smell it too…”, Ajax sniffed. “It’s a structure fire, and we must locate it!…”, he turned to Hazen. “You go down the end of the lane and see if it’s stronger there. We’ll look around here…”, all three trotted off in different directions.

Hazen ran up the street along Pliosaur canal, toward Goodfortune bridge all the way to the last of the buildings in that area; but the smoke smell dissipated and was gone before he stopped and turned around. Olu ran back toward Steep street and trotted up that street for a block and a half, noticing the commotion going on behind the inn near the head of the street behind him; then turned to investigate further. Officer Ajax went to the front of the Musician’s Inn, looking inside at some patrons that were just now noticing something amiss; but he instead went around near the back of the building, where workers were frantically running in and out with buckets, and the smoke was pouring out the loading dock doors that were right behind the kitchens!

He blew on his whistle several times, and Olu was there at his side in moments; and Hazen heard the whistle blows as he broke into a trot right to the doors of the Musician’s Inn, which was where he lived! Instead of going in and rescuing his effects, he trotted around to where the two guards were directing the workers to evacuate the premises. Olu joined in, and so did Hazen.

“We must evacuate everyone!”, Ajax said. “Olu, you evacuate those in front… Hazen, go find a Postal Bird and have them notify the Fire Department… Hurry!”

When Hazen voiced that he didn’t know where to find one, Ajax gave him directions: “Go across the Promenade Bridge to the doors of the Concert hall… The Post Office is the red and white striped booth near the entrance… HURRY!…”

Nodding, Hazen trotted back around the inn and across toward the canal and the bridge, then crossed the bridge and found the low slung building near the edge of Mosasaur harbor. The Post Office there resembled a barber pole or a British guard booth, and it sported many birdhouse-like niches with perches for the little flyers; one on call in a lower niche, who saw the human coming and ruffled importantly.

“How may I help you, Human?…”, the bird asked as he noticed the guard sash he wore, and Hazen hurriedly told him about the fire. “You are with the guard?!… Yes, yes!… Right away!…”, the bird squawked, and several of his kin came out of other niches, and he squawked the news to them. The Postal birds wasted no time, and suddenly the air was alive with the feathers of a dozen of the tiny creatures, flying off to every corner of waterfall City; Hazen ducking them all as they flew out of sight. The dispatcher remained, and noticed Hazen’s still crouching form. “Hadn’t you be heading back to your superior?…”, Hazen nodded and trotted back the way he came.

A few moments later, Hazen got back into the area, and noticed that several Waterfall City guard teams had arrived; evidentially smelling the smoke from miles away, and running or riding their Corythosaurs to it’s source.

“Push it back over there…!“, Already they were driving the onlookers down the street, clearing the lane all the way to the edge of Pliosaur canal and evacuating the adjacent buildings. “Clear the streets…!“

Hazen went around and located Olu first, who was still leading patrons out the front; whose coughing and sputtering made Hazen help out until the poor beast could not go in again for the smoke.

Officer Ajax was back at the well the bucket brigade was still drawing water, but their efforts were insufficient for how the fire was spreading! “Get more buckets over here…!“ The whole group cheered when staccato bell ringing could barely be heard in the distance, and growing all the louder for the Fire department was arriving at last!

The other guards were clearing a path for the dinosaur driven contrivances, and finally succeeded as the first of them began to arrive at the scene. “Make room…!“ Two Ankylosaur driven utility carts arrived first, and their teams of human and saurian firefighters got to work before their carts screeched to a stop.

“Hose team, form up…!“All were dressed in deep blue uniforms and heavy duty firefighting paraphernalia, including the saurians; and their carts were fire engine red. Wheeled rolls if hose was pushed off the back, and trundled mid way between the burning inn and Pliosaur harbor; and two firefighters grabbed each end of the double-rolled hose and pulled in both directions, and as the reels were moved out of the way the ones nearest the harbor attached a snorkel to that end and dropped it into the water.

“Ok Arnold, back up…“ At the same time the ones on the other side of the hose attached that end to a bellows like pumping device with giant foot pedals; and the Ankylosaur stepped into these stirrups and waited for the rest of the rig to be set up.

Another two rolls of hose was attached to the outgoing end of the pump, and hundreds of yards of hose was rolled out to the trouble spots of the fire. “Ok now Arnold, PUMP!…“

At the same time the firefighters on the other rig was doing the same, and soon four high-power hoses was hard at work blasting through the flames. “You, get in the loading dock!… Over there, through the window!…“, and thusly the firefighters begin to get the fire under control.

All of a sudden a huge Bracheosaur rigged up like a hook-and-ladder truck came into the area, but since the fire was concentrated in the lower floors; he would be there on standby in case the whole building caught fire, but his pumping system was put to use as well, and soon eight hoses were hard at work putting out the fire. As Hazen looked around he saw two firefighters atop their Corythosaurs that were directing the action, and he figured they were fire chiefs.

“You and you!… Check for victims…”, one fire chief yelled, and many of the firefighters rushed to comply. “Prepare your respirators!…” They got out these scuba-like masks with shell-like air tanks; and into the front of the inn they went.

“Hold that crowd back over there…!”, the other directed, and Hazen along with two of the Corythosaurs backed the curious persons back past the adjoining buildings to the left. Their counterparts did likewise with the crowd at the buildings on the other side.

With all the emergency personnel doing their separate tasks, the fire was out a little over twenty minutes later; and as the fire chiefs inspected everything to make sure everything was out and all was safe, nearly forty five minutes more passed. An ancient looking human in a business suit of the 1930’s and large top hat sauntered into the area, and he was allowed access to the building by the fire chiefs; and they treated the man with the utmost respect as he traipsed through the still smoky structure, inspecting every aspect of the structure before coming outside to hold conference with the chiefs as well as the guards.

“The kitchen is a total loss, and the dining hall suffered some damage too…”, he told them. “The rest of the place will have to be tested for integrity, but all I see is smoke damage for the rest of the building.”

“All four fire precincts were notified nearly two hours ago.”, one fire chief said. “Officer Ajax informed me that a Hazen Baker, whom he had been training, called it in…”

“That was good…”, the inspector said. “Officers, mister Baker. Good work…”, both bowed as they got their hands shook. “If the Fire department was called any later, the whole building could have gone up!…”, he looked around. “Who is the owner of this establishment?…”

“I am she…”, a portly lady said as she came over. “My tavern is a loss, isn’t it?…”, she hung her head.

“Not exactly.”, the man said. “It’s still a good, sound building. The truth is, it is too damaged right now to use. I am going to have to close it until it is repaired…”

“But my business!… I’ll be ruined!…”, then she broke down and cried.

“I have a few spare rooms…”, yelled a lady from the crowd. “I can take some of your guests…”, many in the crowd offered their rooms too.

“I work for the Bondu Construction company…”, yelled a burly man in the crowd. “I’m sure they will help make repairs…”, and several men and saurians in the crowd volunteered to help as well.

“You see?…”, the inspector said. “Things will be set right in no time!…”, then he retreated with the fire chiefs.

“Thank you, all of you…”, she sniffed.

After a while, officer Ajax looked at the smoldering inn; and noticing there was no more they could do here, said: “Let’s go. It’s late enough as it is, you probably have more tutoring with sir Bentfeather tomorrow and we got to go to the precinct and do our paperwork…”, Olu grunted. “Yes friend, I hate it too!”

As they got half way through the darkened city lit with Sunstone streetlamps, Ajax spoke again. “You know, you did an admirable job today. If you wish I can put in a reccomendation with my superiors; and you can begin cadet guard training after sir Bentfeather is finished with you…”

Hazen took off the guard sash and gave back the whistle, but Ajax pushed the whistle back to him; explaining he could summon a guard if there was any trouble in the future, and that any guard could hear it for miles. Hazen made no comment on what officer Ajax had said, but he was deep in thought all the way home…
_

Tag: Hazen, one and all!

[o8jedi]

IC: Hazen Baker, On the beat and into the fire, Waterfall City

The rest of the day, thankfully went on without an event. Now, it was time for Eveningmeal. It pleased Hazen somewhat to see things loosening up slightly. The sustained seriousness and no-nonsense attitude of the day was draining to him. Something told him he would sleep well tonight. After the meal was paid for, they stepped outside. Hazen, like his companions, smelled smoke. Again, Hazen went into go-mode. Following Ajax's orders, he went down Pliosaur canal, scanning the roofs as he did. His eyes and his nose told him he was heading the wrong way.

He heard a whistle blast and, folliwing it, he met up with Olu and Ajax at the Musician's Inn. Hazen stood and stared. He knew something was wrong by the absence of his beloved musical cacophony from within. He looked at Ajax, wondering what to do, and was ordered to notify the Fire Department via Postal Bird.

"But," Hazen protested, "I don't know where any post office is; I never had to use them!" A set of directions later, Hazen tore down the street, running as fast as his legs could take them. He would shout "Make way!" to make sure he had some clear running room. Thankfully, the crowds complied, if a bit puzzled about why this guard-in-training would be running like he did. A few turns later, he saw the post office and stopped in front, panting and out of breath.

"Fire . . ." Hazen got out, still exhausted from the sprint. "Musician's Inn . . . Need . . . the Fire Department." He was still hunched over as the flock of Postal Birds made beelines to the firebeings. He took a few more breaths before, at the urging of the dispatcher, he began to make the return journey. Hazen knew he was out of shape and he began to wonder if his bid to save as many lives as he could (as well as the structure) was going to make him sick. Within a few hundred feet from the Inn, Hazen could feel his legs starting to buckle from overexertion. It was sheer force of will that kept him on his feet from that point on.

Hazen spotted Olu's form from within the building, leading patrons from inside out. Hazen took a few steps and called, "Over here!" Some of the patrons took note and Hazen waved them over. "You'll be safe over here!" The line moved across the street to where Hazen was standing. "Great," Hazen said, "Now, stay here and keep out of the way. The Fire Department is on its way."

By the time the Fire Department arrived, Hazen had regained his breath and composure. Working in tandem with the crowd control elements of the FDWC, he helped back up the bystanders to a distance that allowed them to operate efficiently. In between remakrs reminding the crowd to keep its distance, Hazen glanced back at the firebeings. He had to admire their teamwork and efficiency, much like he did with Olu and Ajax. Even though their technology may not have been as efficient as the fire departments back home, they still did their job well.

When the fire was put out, Hazen stood by, looking at the Inn. After the assessor did his task, Ajax and Olu dismissed him for the day. Hazen took off the sash and whistle and handed them back to Ajax. "Guess these are yours," he said. The corner of his mouth curled in a wry smile. "See you," he said blandly before turning down the street, heading back to his boarding house. Roughly mid-way through the trip back, he stopped.

He had been contemplating the day's events and what they could mean for his future here. It wasn't that he liked or disliked the job (although if he had the choice, it wouldn't be high on his list of careers he'd like to do), he just seemed . . . lost. Something about the Musicians' Inn nearly burning down had a profound effect on him. Now, more than ever, he just wanted to talk. It didn't need to be about anything, he just needed to be with a friend. He turned around and started to stride back to the library, praying it wasn't closed.

TAG: Any and all.

[Thundertail]

IC: Bentfeather and Tebo Lewis with Hazen, the library at night.

Tebo Lewis had a busy day at the library today. After his lessons, he had to prepare a study area for a project for one of the schoolhouses in the area; who was studying the works of sir Arthur Dennison, and everything about the man had to be gathered and put there. In between catering to these hatchlings and their childlike antics, his work around the library had to be done as well; and nearing the end of his day, he had to man the front desk after Eveningmeal. He was just finishing collating the records on the books and scrolls checked out of the library when he heard a loud pounding on the locked doors in front, which startled him out of his figuring; and ran around the desk to see who was there.

“I’m sorry, but the library is closed for the evening!…”, he yelled through the doors. “The library will be open at dawn tomorrow!…”, then he heard Hazen Baker’s voice pleading to be let in! “Ooh!… Just a minute!…”, he unbolted the doors, shutting them again as Hazen entered in a hurry.

“You’re out late tonight…”, Tebo said conversationally as he listened to Hazen’s request. “Um,… I think sir Bentfeather’s still here - unless he flew out his window, and is already home…!”

The pair left the front end of the library and traveled amongst the books toward the back, where sir Bentfeather’s office was located. The door was closed, but the Sunstone light coming from the doorsill told of Bentfeather’s presence. Tebo knocked lightly, then opened the door; revealing the little Microraptor hard at work parsing over some scrolls, and making notes in a fresh notebook. At the slight noise, Bentfeather looked up from his work, rubbed his eyes and stirred from his study.

“Well, boys…”, he said. “How are you two doing this evening?…”, Bentfeather got up. “Come, sit!…”

Bentfeather indicated what he was working on. “The official report for the Outer Island expedition came out today. I was just plotting it’s course on some maps; and trying to figure out their exact steps for the inquiry panel…”, he saw the concerned look on Hazen’s face.

“What’s wrong, Hazen?…”, Bentfeather saw him look toward Tebo suspiciously. “Oh, you can say what’s on your mind in front of him!…”

“Of course!…”, Tebo added. “Maybe I can help too.”

“Go ahead, Hazen…”, Bentfeather coaxed…
_

TAG: Hazen, Any and all!

[o8jedi]

IC: Hazen Baker, Waterfall City Library

He arrived at the library and he could tell that it wasn't likely to be open. Still, his desperation forced him to go up to the door and pound on it. Please let there be someone there, he thought. He had no idea where to find Bentfeather if he wasn't here and he certainly didn't want to spend the rest of the evening alone except for his inner tensions.

After hearing a voice from the inside try to turn him away, Hazen shouted back. "Please, I would like to speak with Bentfeather. Is he still there?" A few moments later, Tebo opened the door, expressing his surprise as Hazen wasted no time in coming inside. "Let's just say it was a long day at the office," he joked. "Is Bentfeather still around?"

Tebo replied that he could be and the two of them went to the office. Fortunately, Bentfeather was still there. Hazen smiled, fairly relieved that was the case. Bentfeather soon saw his worried expression and asked what was wrong. Hazen glanced over at Tebo, not entirely sure that he should be involved in this conversation, but was reassured by the both of them. Hazen sat down in the chair and heaved a sigh, trying to collect his thoughts.

"Well," Hazen began, "we had a bit of an exciting day while we were on patrol. Ran the gamut from simple conflict resolution to damage and crowd control . . . even reported a fire." Hazen bit his lip. "At the Musicians' Inn. No one was hurt and the overall structure is going to be alright, but it's gonna be out of commission for a while until it gets renovated." Hazen put a hand to the side of his head. "And it kinda got me thinking..." Bentfeather prodded him to continue.

Hazen stood up, hoping that might help collect his thoughts better. "Well," Hazen said, "Ever since I came to Waterfall City, I'd make it a point to head to the Musicians' Inn and hear what was going on inside. After what happened today, it's quiet. Too quiet." Hazen shook his head. "I know this probably doesn't make sense, but I feel . . . out of place. Like, I'm an anomaly. Like I won't be able to fit in no matter how hard I try." Hazen scratched the back of his head. "I'm trying to find my calling here, I really am, but nothing's coming. And it's frustrating." Hazen blinked a couple times, fighting to maintain his composure. "I know that once I find my role here, it's gonna hit me like a ton of bricks and it'll be as natural as breathing, but until that time I'm lost. Beyond lost!"

Tebo was a bit confused at how the fire at the Inn could elicit this response. Hazen sighed, finding the words to express what was going on. "To be honest, I'm not sure either." He started to pace the room. "I guess it may have been like a security blanket or something. I mean, when I was standing outside there and just listening to the rehearsals and whatnot inside, it felt . . . right. Like whatever was going to happen to me, there would still be . . . some sort of permanence. That . . . life here and out there was not as different as it may seem. Now that it's gone, I..." He didn't bother to finish the statement, both too upset to finish but also feeling that he got the point across.

Hazen sighed as he sat back down, looking at Bentfeather. He sniffed and smiled slightly. "I can't tell you how happy I am that you've been helping me out. I'd probably go so far as to say you're one of the best freinds I've had since I came here. At the risk of sounding like a broken record, I don't know how to repay you for everything you've done." He swallowed, feeling like he had said everything that needed to be said and feeling better for it. With a deep breath, he started feeling, and most likely looking, more like his old self again. He calmly listened to his mentor's advice and that of Tebo.

TAG: Bentfeather, Tebo, Any and all.

[Thundertail]

IC: Tebo and Bentfeather with Hazen Baker, the Waterfall City library at night.

The young man before him indeed had a lot on his mind tonight, Bentfeather thought, as he listened to Hazen go on; telling him his thoughts at his tenure here on Dinotopia so far, and his fears at not thinking he was fitting in here. Inwardly he smiled at the lad trying like anything to express himself before him, nodding or otherwise prodding him to go on… He certainly had a lot on his mind, Bentfeather’s mind repeated as he stood there and listened!

When Hazen suddenly said all he was going to say, Bentfeather paced his desk a bit to think a moment. It wouldn’t be easy to give such an intelligent and many-faceted person like Hazen an answer that would do him any more good than what he was already undergoing - if he only knew it! But Bentfeather paused his pacing and turned to Hazen with something that might make all the difference.

“You know that there is no need for me to tell you how far along you’ve come in such a short time…”, Bentfeather said at last. “Much less is the fact that I am very proud of you!”, he smiled. “To have you learn that fact about yourself shows how intelligent and perceptive you really are, and without me even teaching it to you!… But you know, perhaps your perceptions about how hard you need to try - and the things you think you need to try at - are getting in the way of you being happy here.”

Bentfeather saw him think. “You saw the Musician’s Inn as a symbol of something you hold dear; but when you saw it as just a building that can be ravaged by fire, you saw music as something that is as fragile as anything you can think of in the world - and I think that scared you a bit!”, he turned away to make another lap of the desk. “You perceive that the only way you can be happy is with music; but in reality, all you need to be is happy with yourself.”

“Maybe the thing that bothers you is your acceptance of everything that has happened to you.”, Tebo put in. “It was a very random thing that brought you here, and you are still trying to make sense of it. Random things are not necessarily bad things, they are just things that a person is at want to be prepared for.”, he saw Hazen listen. “For example, I never thought in a hundred years that I would be an apprentice librarian. I just took the first opportunity that came upon me, and I found I can do well at it.”, he smirked. “I suppose you heard of the saying ‘expect the unexpected’. Well, maybe it’s better to ‘accept the unexpected’…”

“That’s a good point too, Tebo…”, Bentfeather commented, then turned his attention to Hazen once more. “I suppose the big task is not to give up hope. It may seem like you are on the outside looking in; but truth be known, you have been on the inside the moment you stepped foot here…”, Bentfeather took a more relaxed stance.

“Seeing how you say you performed today, it looks like you can handle anything you can set your mind to; and I’m sure that officer Ajax’s and Olu’s report to me will say likewise.”, Bentfeather told him. “But now the difficult task of convincing YOU is at hand!…”, Bentfeather chuckled cacklingly. “Have no fear, Hazen Baker. You are doing just fine!…”

Soon Hazen’s spirits seemed to become less gloomy, and all in the room relaxed. Sir Bentfeather put his clawed hands together with a clap. “Well,… it seems to be getting quite late, isn’t it? I suppose we all better go home and turn in. I’m sure we have a busy schedule tomorrow, so good evening, all!…”, he turned to put away his paperwork. “Oh, and Tebo… Please get the lights before you leave…”
_

TAG: Hazen, any and all!

[o8jedi]

IC: Hazen Baker, Bentfeather's Office, Waterfall City Library

"Thank you for your time," Hazen said as he stood up from his seat. He gave a bow and left the library. He began to mull over Bentfeather's words and its implications. It was nice for him to hear the compliments the Microraptor offered, but was a bit perplexed by how he could best allay his anxieties. Tebo may have had a point in saying that he hadn't accepted the circumstances that brought him here. On the contrary, he had wrestled with that eventuality since the day he was told that escape from Dinotopia was impossible. By now, it was a given that Fate, Destiny, or whatever you'd like to call it had brought him here and he was moving forward.

Bentfeather's advice, on the other hand, seemed to have more weight to it. He always had been focused on the end goal, even as a child. Perhaps the lack of a perceivable goal was adding to his anxiety. He nodded a bit to himself as he strode home. He saw a post office along the way and stopped, looking inside. He looked down and thought about something he had been meaning to do for a while. He walked over and was greeted by an annoyed squawk.

"We're currently closed. Please come back during normal business hours!" said the Postal Bird.

Hazen replied, "Right," and continued home. He still didn't want to be exactly alone at that moment, but it would seem that fate and everyone's sleep cycles would convince him otherwise. He had been thinking about someone special to him a lot lately. If the post office was open, he'd probably send a message to find out his whereabout. That would have to wait until tomorrow. Hazen looked up at the sky, trying to lighten his mood by quietly muttering a song to himself.

"Remember when you were young
You shone like the sun
Shine on, you crazy diamond..."

TAG: Any and all.

[Thundertail]

IC: Bentfeather and Tebo with Hazen, May 23 at the library.

Tebo Lewis got up at the usual time at home, rushing about because he knew today was a very special day. Every year at this time it was proper to go about in this manner, dressed up and paired off with their Partners for Circumspink Day; and it was a day one could openly find a saurian Life Partner. He had not found one in all these years, even though he had many saurian friends around the city; but he had never let that water down his spirits as today was as random a day as one could hope to expect! He washed his face after donning his best clothes from the concert a few days ago, kissed his mother after breakfast as he ruffled his baby sister’s lock of golden hair and out the door he went; skirting the many saurian carts along the dockside as he made his way to the library. It was early, but already many persons with their partners strode down lanes hand in hand, or in close proximity as were those who had four-footed Partners and ones larger than their human counterparts; and all of them were decked out in their best and most colorful garb, some outfits almost painfully so!.

The library was beginning to fill up with patrons already as he made his way to his morning duty station, a row of book trolleys that hadn’t yet been put away; and began to read the middle of the first book on the last trolley for a moment before beginning to put that one away. He was in the middle of his work in the shelves when a familiar form flew in, perched on the trolley’s handle and smiled at him; he quickly shoved the book in his hands into it’s slot and followed Bentfeather through the shelves and into his office.

“~A happy Circumspink Day, my friend!~”, Bentfeather wished in a songlike way, and Tebo returned it. “Is everything going well?”

“Everything is fine!”, Tebo said. “Have you any extra assignments for me today?”

“No, not really…”, Bentfeather told him absently. “But there could be something you could help me with at that.”

“What is it?”, asked Tebo.

“Hazen Baker is feeling out of place. You could tell last night with the look on his face.”, said the Microraptor, and Tebo nodded. “I believe that anything I say would give him minimal good; but there is a thing that could help, it’s a thing you see today around the neighborhood.”, Bentfeather went to the window, Tebo following. “The day of days has come at last, and it’s time for that boy to unclench his past. Today we let him pick and choose, for with a Partner at his side he would never lose!”

“That might work… IF he went along with it.”, Tebo said. “He’s still too wrapped up in finding himself to get involved with finding a friend.”, he snorted. “Heck!… I haven’t even found a Partner for MYSELF yet!…”

“The same can be said for both him and you.”, Bentfeather turned to snort back. “Time governs the things of which you are sure!…”, he hopped back to his desk. “Now, let’s begin our collective lessons… Go prepare Study Room 1...”, Bentfeather began to jot down a few things. “And these books are needed today, for it’s not a time to work, but a time to play!”, he handed Tebo the list..

Tebo made a knowing grin as he read the list as he left Bentfeather’s office, and gathering the material was even more fun than setting up study Room 1; for he had read these books already, and knew Dinotopian holidays well! The study room was quite a bit smaller than room 3, only big enough for a modest desk seating four and only one wall sporting a bookshelf; but the large window set in the far wall let in ample light during the day, and the modest Sunstone chandelier made for cozy reading at night. As Tebo finished preparing the room, setting the preordained books at both places before leaving the door open; Bentfeather had already informed Mizzy Stenoychosaur, who was taking watch at the front desk, to inform Hazen Baker that class would be in Study Room 1 today.

Eventually, both took to looking out the window of Study Room 1, enjoying the full panoramic view of the city and all the activity going on below. There were dancers, jugglers and minstrels on nearly every corner; and the crowds of Partnered couples sauntering by each other in their colorful regalia, and there were several small parades going on consisting of humans and their recently Partnered counterparts. The one thing they both saw was the confused human coming toward them in the street, dressed in every day clothes and absolutely bewildered at all the activity going on; for this was Hazen Baker’s first Circumspink Day, and all this commotion would certainly confuse the lad!

Hazen entered the library with the strangest look on his face, and began to go to Study Room 3 when Mizzy informed him otherwise; and soon after that the lad came in and took one of the seats out of habit, rubbing his temples like he was in pain. As Tebo and Bentfeather turned to see him there, Hazen inquired rather incredulously what was going on outside. As Tebo closed the windows to squelch some of the cheering and noise below, Bentfeather hopped to the table before him and said the following instead of an answer:

“Greetings Hazen… Please open the book ‘Dinotopian Holidays’ before you to chapter five and read the whole chapter…”, said Bentfeather, and Tebo complied as well as soon as he was seated. While they were reading, Bentfeather continued speaking.

“Dinotopians are very traditional people.”, said he. “We hold true to all our holidays and to all our rituals. Chapter five discusses the holidays observed in the month of May.”, he turned to Tebo. “What is the date today?”

“May twenty-third.”, Tebo said.

“Now look down to that date and read the captions.”, Bentfeather said, and both complied. “Today is Circumspink day. More commonly known as Partnership Day.”, he paced. “It is a day where we all honor the institution of Partnership, and reconfirm the relationships we have with our Partners. It is also a day where we may go seek out our Life Partner openly, choosing by mutual choice who we wish to be with.”

Hazen already knew what a Partnership was, but Tebo asked anyway. “A Partnership is a relationship two beings have with each other. It is somewhat less than a marriage, but somewhat more than a friendship. Partners grow to know each other so well they can almost know what the other is thinking. Thiers is a relationship of reliance, trust and love; and though the types of relationships Partners have may vary, both parties live their lives as one.”

As they both digested this information, Bentfeather went on. “It is one thing to learn all of this, but it is another thing altogether to experience it first hand!”, he looked at them both. “Today is a day of celebration. A holiday is going on outside these walls; and it would be a shame to miss it!”, he smiled. “And now you may put away your books; and prepare yourselves for a day like no other!… Please follow me.”…
_

TAG: Hazen, any and all!

[o8jedi]

IC: Hazen Baker, Waterfall City

After prepping for the day, Hazen came out of his boarding house into what was already developing into a madhouse of activity. Based on the colorful costumes and the sounds of music and merriment in the air, he figured that some sort of festival was going on. He smiled slightly, a bit puzzled as to what the occasion was. He made his way absentmindedly to the library, a bit overwhelmed by the spectacle going on around him and completely forgetting to pay a visit to the post office like he vowed to himself last night. He made his way through the crowds and street entertainers. Whatever was happening today, it may make for a shorter day in class.

He arrived at the library, still glancing outside and trying to make sense of the goings-on outside. He had been to the library so many times, he was starting to get on a first-name basis with some of the staff. "Say, Mizzy," he asked. "What's going on outside?"

Mizzy chuckled, "I'm sure you'll find out soon enough. Study Room 1, today."

Hazen nodded, a bit perplexed by the change in locale. Even from within the normally quiet halls of the library, the din of cheers from the outside could be heard. The noise from the walk here was starting to get to him and there was a slight ringing in his ears. He rubbed his head, hoping to soothe it. He took his seat and asked what was going on. He was handed a book and the lesson began.

Turns out, today was one celebrating the somewhat symbiotic relationship between Life Partners. Hazen shook his head, hardly believing that of all days, this one came up after his recent thoughts and musings. Still, he hadn't seen the source of his thoughts in a long time and he presumed that he still lived in Irenic, several days' journey away. Hazen closed his book, wondering if he would get to see him again and what would happen on such a day. Still, even on this day of Partnership, he preferred if it was just a little reunion.Bentfeather called the in-class portion of the day over and Hazen stood up. He smirked slightly as his mentor led the way out. Regardless of what would happen today, Hazen had a feeling that today would be fun.

As they walked, Hazen looked at Bentfeather and the smile faded slightly, remembering what had happened to his Partner and how he looked the day he found out. He imagined that Bentfeather would be like a recent widower on his anniversary day, sad that his Partner wasn't here, but fond of the times they shared together. Tebo, on the other hand, was still young and probably had a Partner of his own. He turned to Tebo and asked, "So are you gonna be hooking up with your Partner today? Would be fun to have him or her around. The more, the merrier, I say."

TAG: Tebo, Bentfeather, any and all.