"A Quest Of Friends"

[Thundertail]

A QUEST OF FRIENDS

(Introduction…)

As the first morning rays of sun scintillated through the leaves of the uppermost weather station in the tallest tree of Treetown, the many Bracheosaurs far below on the ground seemed to sense this; and quietly boomed to rouse thier Partners and handlers, for another fine day had begun. These creatures knew that the best time to collect thier foliage harvests was early in the morning, when the air was coolest and they coukld move about below with the least discomfort. Some were assigned to the Brach bus depot, and thier handlers arrived first to lead them to thier gantries - after a hearty breakfast, they hoped!

In the mean time the citizens that lived there began to stir, sliding down ropes or clambering down ladders or shinnying down as were thier usual habit. The smaller saurians clambered among the branches as they scurried to thier assigned tasks, for most of them were to attend repair of thier city; as the severe winds of a week ago ravaged the buildings as it ravaged the leaves. This was a boon for the non-longnecked saurians and thier friends that called Treetown thier home, for it was far easier to harvest leaves already fallen on the ground than having to rely on thier much taller cousins!

As all this was going on, many of the visitors there stirred, perplexed at the seemingly chaotic activity that they woke up to; but would be even more perplexed at the fate that would forever alter thier lives coming soon...
_

TAG: any and all!

[Rosa]

“Young man, why are you not tending to your duties at the bus station?”

Ares paused at the base of the central tree, one foot on the first rung of the ladder, hands clinging to the rope, ready to ascend. Where did she come from?

The matriarch of Treetown shook her head. “When you are assigned a job, you are expected to stick with it. You don’t get to decide your own arrival and departure times. There are rules here and I expect you to cooperate and follow them.”

Ares winced at the matriarch’s crisp tone. How would he explain this time? He stole a glance at Pyrena, but his struthie friend kept her eyes focused on the ground.

The matriarch placed her hands on her wide hips. “I would expect such and early riser to have no problems arriving to his job on time. Where have you been this morning?

Ares turned around to face the matriarch. She wouldn’t understand, but he could at least try. He pointed toward the clearing where the woods gave way to open meadow and the lake could be seen winking in the distance.

“You walked all the way to Deep Lake?”

Ares gulped. Night curfew remained in effect until the first rays of dawn lit the sky. In order to travel all the way to Deep Lake and return in the time that he did, it was obvious that he had been up before daylight. Ares started to nod to the woman’s question, but stopped short. He didn’t exactly walk. He had caught a ride from a swift footed Gallimimus. Instead, he shook his head.

“So you didn’t go to Deep Lake?” The woman raised a gray eyebrow.

Ares shook his head again.

The matriarch threw up her hands. “Make up your mind, boy! So you did go to Deep Lake?”

Ares nodded.

“You walked all the way?”

Ares shook his head.

“You caught a ride?”

Ares nodded.

The matriarch sighed. “You are going to have to learn proper sign language. It is exhausting to speak with you.” She turned to Pyrena. “So did you accompany the boy?”

The struthie shook her head.

“Do you know why he went though? Since young Ares here is limited on his communication skills right now, why don’t you explain why he deliberately disobeyed rules and traveled to Deep Lake this morning?”

After a moment’s hesitation, the struthie finally opened her mouth and spoke in her language of whistles, coos, clicking and body movement. “Ares want alone time. Deep Lake comforting—away from people. He trade with Lambeosaur. Forest herbs for stone.”

The matriarch frowned. “A stone? It must’ve been special.”

Ares immediately set his backpack on the ground and pulled out the stone to show the woman. Maybe it would distract her and he would get off with an easier punishment. The last time he got into trouble, she made him work in the kitchen for a whole day. The meals served that day were not very tasty due to his inexperience and the young people snubbed him about it for a whole week. Also, he had to miss the evening concert put on by the Treetown Choir because he was stuck with scouring pots and pans until dark. To make matters worse, Pyrena even left him alone to watch the program.

The matriarch squinted as the morning sunlight glinted off the stone. “Amethyst—and a pretty one too.” The woman chucked lightly. “But was it really worth getting into trouble for? Couldn’t you trade have waited for a better time? You violated the curfew rule.”

Ares threw an annoyed look in Pyrena’s direction for the struthie was shaking her head in a mournful manner. Ares returned the amethyst to the backpack before slinging the pack over his shoulder again and reaching for the central tree ladder.

Ares was pulled up short by a tug on his shirt collar.

“Hold it right there, young man. No breakfast for you. You hustle right on over to that bus station and resume your duties. This evening right after supper I want to see you in my office.”

As Ares trudged over to the bus station, he exchanged glances with Pyrena. What would be his punishment this time?

--

TAG: any and all!

[Rosa]

The sun in the cloudless sky offered a warm day for Treetown. By mid morning, there were no traces of the night air chill, prompting Ares to shed his jacket and tie it around his waist. Pyrena had left a little while ago to instruct a younger group of humans in a lesson on communicating with stegosaurs.

Ares looked up quickly at hearing the thumping footsteps of someone approaching from the road. A gallimimus soon came into view carrying a lone rider which appeared to be a man, dressed in fine garb. As soon as the creature reached the dismounting platform, the rider slid off, hardly glancing at Ares as he dropped a tip into the boy’s hands.

It was nothing more than a summer peach, apparently battered from the ride. A few beads of clear juice oozed from beneath the torn surface of fuzzy pink skin. Despite the cheapness of the tip, Ares felt his mouth water. How convenient since he had missed breakfast and lunch wouldn’t be served for at least another good hour! Before he could take a bite though, the jittery movement of the gallimimus distracted his attention.

Ares instantly recognized the creature’s distress as he watched it shifting from foot to foot, tossing his head and snorting.

With his free hand, Ares grabbed at the reigns, chucking softly with his tongue. Then, with a quick glance behind him, he sent a scowl at the man’s retreating back, wishing he could pluck the feather plume which danced haughtily from the man’s scarlet hat. He could’ve showed a little more appreciation to the creature who worked so hard to bring him here. Ares rubbed the gallimimus’s nose feeling the creature relax beneath his touch.

The smell of the peach was intoxicating. Ares’s stomach grumbled. He stared hard for a moment at the fruit. Should he eat it all himself? But the gallimimus probably didn’t even get that much of a payment from the thoughtless man who took advantage of the ride. Ares bit his lip. Finally, he held out the fruit, offering it to the gallimimus.

The creature’s eyes brightened as he accepted the gift.

Ares quickly set to work pulling off the saddle, trying to ignore the sounds of chomping and slurping coming from the delighted gallimimus.

“Ares! We need you over here.”

Already his arms were full, carrying the saddle. Without stopping, Ares glanced back to see the bus station counselor motioning him over to the brachiosaur mounting platform.

Just as Ares turned his attention back to where he was going, he collided with the very man who had just arrived a few minutes ago. The sudden jolt caused the boy to stumble, falling backwards onto the ground with the heavy saddle landing on top.

Before Ares could regain his composure, the tall man lifted the saddle, roughly setting it aside before pulling Ares to his feet.

“Watch where you’re going.” The man grumbled in a deep bass voice. “I’ve got a bus to catch and with you’re help, I’ll be late.”

Ares watched as the man retreated, memorizing him for later reference should he wish to avoid him in the future. Whatever had caused him to be so grouchy? Ares dusted his clothes.

“Ares! I told you we need you over here.”

Sighing, he left the saddle where it lay, hoping the matriarch wouldn’t show up and think he was doing a sloppy job of things.

Hurrying over to the brachiosaur platform, Ares instantly recognized the problem. A line of anxious people stood waiting to climb into the carrying cabs secured to the creature’s giant back, but the brachiosaur sidestepped away each time someone tried to step on.

Ares hid a smile beneath his hand. The brachiosaur was none other than young Silver Toe who he had spent some time with in his homeland before his adoptive struthie parents had sent him to Treetown. Ares remembered Silver Toe indicating that he dreamed of being able to become a great brachiosaur which would be well known across the lands for being an excellent passenger carrier. But Silver Toe had always worried that he would do something wrong and bring harm to all those lives he would be in charge of.

The bus station counselor, a woman who was new to her position, looked relieved at seeing Ares approach.

“Why didn’t you come when I first called you?” The woman sighed at the boy’s silence. “Never mind.” She motioned toward the brachiosaur. “We’ve checked all the equipment three times now and can’t find any pinching straps. Everything appears fine. Of course, Silver Toe is new to this.” The woman shook her head. “I guess what I’m getting at is that you’ve got a reputation for communicating well with dinosaurs. Perhaps you can find something out that I couldn’t.”

Ares nodded. He approached Silver Toe, waving with both hands to let the huge creature know that he was there.

Silver Toe’s eyes brightened at seeing the familiar boy.

Ares whistled several times.

The brach dropped his head and nodded.

Ares whistled again, this time in a different tone.

The brach snorted and nodded again.

Ares turned to the counselor, pointed at himself, and then at the brach, then at the carrior cabs.

The woman’s eyes widened. “You think you should go?”

Ares nodded.

The woman sighed. “You know Silver Toe, don’t you?”

Ares nodded.

“Let me guess. He’s nervous and since he knows you well, he would feel better if you went along on this trip.”

Ares nodded again.

The woman squeezed her eyes shut for a moment as if trying to keep control of her frustration. Her eyes opened again. Turning to the waiting line of passengers she addressed them. “I’m sorry for the inconvenience, but this bus will be delayed. Hopefully, not for very long.”

A murmur of disappointment instantly rose from the awaiting passengers. The loudest coming from the man who Ares had bumped into earlier.

The counselor turned to Ares. “The matriarch will have the say in whether you go or not, but I’m sure I can convince her to let you. In the mean time, I suggest you get ready to go. This trouble has happened before with new young brachs and it seems like it always takes the company of a friend to go along on the first trip or two before the brach builds more confidence. This doesn’t always happen, but apparently Silver Toe is a worrier.” The woman sighed again. “Go on. I’m sure you’ll be able to make this trip. We can’t keep the passengers waiting forever. I want you back here in no more than ten minutes.”

A slow smile spread across the boy’s face. Now this would be exciting! Surely the matriarch would let him go…

[TAG] any and all

[tarion]

I.C - It has been nearly a week since Falokar has arrived in Tree Town.

As the days progressed Falokar had grown accostomed to the smell of tropical plants, and warm sunny mornings, started by the sun shining in through his window which was part of his room on the top story of a very tall tree, which was built much like a guard tower, with a base level in the head of the tree, and then a spire moving up through the tree, alot of the archetecture was pretty open air though, and the stairs and rails were directly attached to the branches. This morning started like every other morning Falokar had become accostomed too, he was awoken by the sun's light, then rolled out of bed, washed his body, then put on his gi pants and did warm up Zen training, then put on the rest of his gi and proceeded down stairs through the open air, feeling a light and very fruitful smelling breeze. He arived in the kitchen of Quan Yi, the woman who had for the time being become his Keeper, Guardian, and training master in guardianship.

Quan Yi was in the process of making breakfast when Falokar walked in, she smiled at him pleasently and gave a kurt nod, "Breathe Deep Falokar."

Falokar bowed back, "Seek Peace, Sense Quan Yi." he said trying to be as polite as possible. She giggled and handed him a plate with scrambled eggs, and some sort of bacon on it, "Eat up now Falokar, you're going to need all the protine and carbohydrates you can get today."

Falokar looked at her inquisitivly, "Why?, what's so different about todays training than the past weeks?" curious as to the sudden change.

Quan Yi gave a mysterious grin, and then laughed, "Because today we start your speed and agility training." she kept laughing to herself as she too started eating.

Falokar sat at the table carved of cherry wood, and ate his breakfast, wondering what exactly was so funny about that form of training, but politly ate his food and decided he'd have to wait and find out.

(Ten Minutes Later Outside in the Central Yard of Tree Town)

Quan Yi had been making Falokar wait for a few minutes wondering what being in the central yard had to do with his training when suddenly she came walking up one of the rises carrying large stone weights, six of them to be exact.

Falokar looked at her most curiously, "Um... what are those for?"
he asked afraid of the answer he'd recieve..

Quan Yi smiled again and tossed them at him, "These are the weights you'll be wearing while training in speed and agility."

Falokar was stunned, he'd never trained with weights on before, this sounded interesting, and dangerious. After a few more minutes of Quan Yi helping put the weights on Falokar's arms, legs back and tail, they were ready.

Quan Yi bent her knees slightly and lept skyward landing on a bridge at least 12ft above falokar, then instructed him to do the same, "When you can reach me up here, we will advance to the next segment of your training.... but you have to jump, you cannont climb, not yet."

Falokar scruntched his hind legs and prepared to jump, upon leaping he discovered that he hadn't even moved a millimeter, looking down he saw he was in the exact same spot causing him to grimace and sigh, he looked back up at Quan Yi who was still smiling at him, almost as if to mock him, "I can't move, the weights are too heavy!" he said a little disheartened by this set back.

Quan Yi laughed at him, she was actually laughing at him! She then shook her head and simply said, "You're not trying hard enough, try harder."

Falokar tried again, but to no avail. This method continued for five hours straight, with little to no change in the outcome, then after two days of failing to even move, it occured to falokar, he was holding the weights wrong!, he readjusted the weights and suddenly it worked, he jumped forward about a foot! That was when his master Quan Yi started clapping, "Well done Falokar, you have taken you first lesson, observe your surroundings as well as your self." Falokar smiled, that made perfect sence now!, in the days that followed Falokar found himself being able to jump further and further from his standing point, but was gaining very little ellevation, whenever he asked Quan Yi about it she'd simply say, "You must try harder, or you'll never get anywhere."

It was on one fine night when Quan Yi had already gone to sleep for the evening that Falokar, who had been mulling over what she had been saying to him, could no longer take it. He got up and went out to the central yard and strapped on the weights and then began jumping straight up, as hard as he could, and kept doing so, At first he seemed to be doing well, but then he began to get tired. It then became clear to him as he layed on the ground catching his breath... he needed to disperse his weight evenly, and keep himself light on his feet, after re arranging his weights again he got up and tried once more. He made it half way up!, upon landing he took a deep breath and focused on the bridge thinking to himself, (I'm going to make it this time!) his heart now full of determination, he coiled his legs like a powerful spring and then lept upwards, it worked he was going up, past midway, he kept going, he was now close enough to reach out and touch the bridge, he grabed the rope railing and flung himself over onto the bridge... then sat down and caught his breath... just as the sun was rising...

Quan Yi got up that morning and waited for Falokar to come down, after about twenty minutes she went upstairs and found his bed empty, she couldn't help but smile, he must already be outside training, she packed a light breakfast and went out to the central yard... there were gouges in the ground from where he had been jumping and landing, but he was no where in sight, then of all things, an apple landed near her foot, she looked down and picked it up... then looked up to find Falokar on top of the bridge all his weights on, and he was waving, cheerfully at that!. She smiled, he had made it past his first part of his training.

Tag: Falokar, Quan Yi, Any and All

[o8jedi]

IC: Hazen Baker, Sailing to the Mainland
_

The Outer Island had faded into the distance and the passengers were permitted to roam the deck. Hazen took the liberty of heading to the railing to catch the sea air and the breeze. He reflected on the past few months and what happened in that time. Never in his wildest dreams did he ever expect to have an adventure like that. To be certain, it was life-changing, but he now started to feel lost. Now that the fight was over, what was there left for him? A normal feeling, to be sure, but it was still no less uncomfortable.

He glanced back at the rest of the party and sighed. After months of travel, he was already beginning to miss most of them. Randy with his humor, Tebo's unfailing loyalty to the wise Bentfeather, Ajax's cool demeanor. Just thinking about their eventual parting brought a tear to his eye. At least he would have a very enjoyable life with Redcrest, Polongo, and Seamus. And that Artemis and April wouldn't be too far away, depending on their assignment.

And it was April who made eye contact with Hazen just now. He smiled and waved at her and she smiled back before resuming her post; evidently, she was on duty. The thought that she wouldn't be there anymore was an exceptionally sore point for Hazen and, as such, he didn't want it to happen. He needed to make this relationship stable and he prayed that April would feel the same way about it.

He turned back to the railing and sighed, looking at the wake off the side of the ship. He now had a different problem: the mores of courtship on Dinotopia may be starkly different than those back in the States -- among humans, at least. The last thing he needed to do was to commit a grievous faux pas and have her leave him on a sour note. Still, if he was going to have things become serious with her, he felt obligated to be able to care for her. He pulled out the coins he made from busking earlier that day and looked at it. It was going to take a lot more than hours in the streets to help support her. After pocketing the coins again, he looked at the rolling waves. "What am I going to do?" he quietly asked himself.
_

TAG: Bentfeather, Falokar, any and all.

[Thundertail]

IC: Bentfeather and his friends. The voyage home and landing at Kuskonak.

The four Cryptoclydus leapt above the waves in ragged unison, pulling the barge carrying sir Bentfeather and band of friends across Sapphire bay; and the mostly human crew of the barge wrestled with the lines that tethered them to the craft, wishing their antics would cease so there would be smooth sailing! None of their passengers seemed to mind, though; because they were free, and going back to their homes! All of them seemed to smile, both inside as well as on the outside; and some playful banter and joking went on as the waves rushed past the bow, and this was a perfect setting for music at this time. Unfortunately none was present, and Tebo looked over at Hazen silently bidding he would play; but the lad merely sat by the railing where he was, staring down at the water rushing by.

There was also one other sullen one, one that had a right to be so; for Peter Triceratops stood near mid-decks, tethered to his place while officers Ajax and Manchester kept a light guard over him. Tebo wondered why they were doing so and making his time even more miserable, for the creature truly seemed to have turned himself around; even though he was still late in returning his books to the Waterfall City library, and owed it many Drachs worth of fines! Tebo watched intently as Polongo and Artemis quietly caroused with each other where they were tethered, nuzzling and cooing in their own tongue; and Redcrest was near their feet, playing a wobbly game to the roll and pitch of the vessel.

He looked in another direction and saw lady Natasha and Frak doing about the same things, nuzzling and grunting in their language as they strolled the deck; and being advised to move if their wanderings took them into the proximity of the working sailors. Off near Peter, Randy was attempting to chat with Cirrus; Skybax chortling in response to Randy’s comment, who turned his head trying to understand the reply. Over by the port lookout, Bentfeather was perched on a railing and looking out over the ocean; and Postal Bird 76 was with him, trying to discern their course by watching the Cryptoclydus team as they breached; and Elaina Dennison was right behind them, testing the wind and calculating the speed in which Cirrus could fly off the deck if needed. Tebo Lewis got up from where he was seated and went to that group, trying to set a steady course across the deck as the vessel pitched and tossed; and trying to avoid the odd deck hand in his duties as he did so.

“Hello son…”, Bentfeather turned and noticed him. “Are you doing well on this voyage?…”

“I’m fine…, it’s just I was wondering when we’ll make land.”, said Tebo, looking at the water ahead, and seeing no land.

“We should be making landfall at Kuskonak in a day or so.”, Elaina informed them all. “I asked the captain.”

“This is good.”, Postal Bird 76 said. “I hate sea travel.”, he made a face.

“Well friend, it was much more difficult the first time out!”, said Bentdfeather. “It’s much more pleasant when you’re not traveling against your will!”

“Sir Bentfeather…”, Tebo said meekly. “I’m a little worried about what will happen to poor Peter… He looks pretty glum.”

“Oh, he will be fine.”, said Bentfeather. “He has a hard lesson to learn, and he knows it.”

“It is no doubt he deserves his fate.”, Elaina said. “Since he is the son of the head of the Archaeological Guild, his sentence will no doubt be less than any ordinary criminal.”

“Tutt-tutt!…”, Bentfeather scoffed. “Let’s go see the old boy…”, he hopped aboard Tebo, 76 landed on Elaina and the whole group went to the Triceratops.

“Oh, hello…”, Peter said as he noticed the group. Ajax and April saw too and went to the aft end of the barge. “Come to say ‘I told you so’?…”

“Oh, mind your manners!…”, Bentfeather scolded, but Tebo spoke up.

“We only came to see how you were doing.”, the boy explained. “You looked like you could use the company…”

“I don’t deserve it.”, Peter stated. “I would’ve preferred if you said ‘I told you so’…”

“You don’t mean that.”, Tebo told him. “I bet you’re scared.”

“Yeah, but I’m getting used to that…”, Peter thought a moment. “Much like you guys had to do before, right?”

“Yes, but it just went with the situation.”, said Tebo. “At least this time you have all of us to back you up.”

“You don’t have to…”, and Peter was cut off.

“We do!”, Bentfeather said. “You helped us out in the end, and that means there is still good in you… That, at least, deserves support!”

“He’s right.”, 76 added.

“So chin up.”, Elaina said. “There’s a dark tunnel ahead of you, but there is a light at the end.”

Peter regarded each of them for a moment and almost smiled. “Thanks. That helps a lot!”

After several more words of encouragement, they left the Triceratops; who was now in much better spirits than before, and walked their separate ways to other parts of the barge. Tebo Lewis and Bentfeather wandered over to where Hazen Baker was, who was now being accompanied by April Manchester; and Redcrest had wandered over there too, bored with her previous game by her parents and wanting to see her Partner. The two humans were busy in conversation of their own, so both paused to let them continue; and when April went to other parts of the vessel, it was their turn to continue talking with the former Dolphinback.

“Well, mister Baker…”, Bentfeather announced. “It will soon be time to continue your tutoring… Have you any plans for your life here?”, he noticed the lad’s deep thought, and smiled. “We could leave that decision for later, you know.”

“You look alone, but you know you need not be alone here any longer.”, Tebo told him, clasping his shoulder where he sat. “Certainly you know by now that you have nothing but friends here… And we’re here to help you if we may.”

“This is true; and despite all that has happened recently, you are more than welcome among us!”, Bentfeather said, smiling sheepishly. “We really hadn’t wished you be put through such strife…”

Just then Postal Bird 76 swooped over and landed on Tebo’s other shoulder. “Land Ho!…”, he pointed.

As everyone looked, they could just barely make out a thin strip of green along the horizon; and a small collection of other ships of differing configurations had joined them in the ocean, their courses taking them away from or towards the mainland. As the distance shank under their bow, they could see the tiny white blocks that were buildings and other structures that made up the ocean port city of Kushkonak; which had been designed using influences of both the ancient Egyptian and Myan architects that had washed up in the area many thousands of years ago. A human crewmember waved colorful flags at a lookout point near the head of the sweeping bay, and the person manning that post signaled back in kind; and soon other aquatic saurians came to relieve the Cryptoclydus that did such a wonderful job pulling the barge this far, taking them farther into the bay.

With practiced precision, the handlers maneuvered the barge into the slip; and the crew began scrambling to secure it to the dock, and with all due speed the tailgate was lowered to the concrete and they began unloading supplies. After about twenty minutes the larger saurian passengers were released from their cleats and led off the barge, and by this time everyone began to gather on the docks; trying to stay out of the way of the busy bustle going on all around them, saurian guards gauging the caliper of people milling about in their duties. Before too long their presence was detected, and a burly human in semi-ornate robes came bounding up to the group; Protoceratops Partner close at his heels, she grumbling in her squawking language. The human began to open his mouth to greet them all, but a literal flock of Postal birds came rushing out from different parts of the dockside area and began to speak first, one by one…
_

TAG: Any and all!

[tarion]

I.C - News of Tarion

Asrial had waited in Canyon City for nearly a week with no word from her dearly beloved Tarion. She had wondered the length, bredth and depth of canyon City several times over... and had become acostmed to the mornings of Skybax training and early morning flights. Asrial had taken to spending her time grooming skybax when a rather flamboyantly colored postal bird flew up to her.

She looked at it rather curiously and smiled politly... "Hello... can I help you?"

The postal bird looked Asrial over then smiled back as he best he could, "Excuse me maddam but would you happen to be Asrial? I have a message for her from a Mr. Tarion of the Archeological Guild"

Asrial's eyes widened and she nodded, "Yes that is me... What news is there of my dear Tarion?"

The postal bird smiled a little and then Cleared his throat, "Dearest Asrial, Things are going fairly well here on the Outer Island, My friends have begun their journey home and the threat to Dinotopia has ended. Don't worry I may be on an Island of Carnivores, but none of them will harm me... it turns out I have a mutual friend here, the dromeasaur named Falokar, we go back a bit. He is currently taking over the clans of the Outer Island, and his friend, a female that I have not had the pleasure of meeting, is currently taking control of the archeological sites. I am only remaining behind to ensure that things are going smoothly, I shall be heading to the mainland in two days time, during that time my allies lead by Sir Bentfeather are going to Treetown, I will be heading there myself, and wish for you to meet me there, Sending you all my love and dearest wishes, Tarion"

The Postal Bird sighed and nodded, "That is the end of the message, there is no charge as Tarion has already paid for delivery, on a more personal note, I've never seen someone more in love with someone else... He really loves you."

Asrial giggled and kissed the postal bird on the cheek, "Thanks for the message, if you want you can rest here for the night, then be on your way."

The postal bird nodded and took refuge in Asrial's shoulder bag, Asrial later took him to the Postal Bird roost, then went back to her own room to start prepping to leave for Treetown. She could arive before Tarion and be waiting for him when he got there.

Tag - Everyone involved

[o8jedi]

IC: Hazen Baker and April Manchester, a few miles away from port
_

April was dismissed by Ajax, who was talking to her at the stern of the ship. In private, he offered her congratulations for her admirable behavior over the course of the mission and that he would make note of it in his report and debriefing. Whether a promotion or a citation would be warranted, though, was out of his hands. In the same sense of modesty that most good officers of the peace exhibit, she merely stated that she was doing her duty to Dinotopia and the mission. Still, the prospect a commendation was thrilling to her and she inwardly cheered at the fact.

April spied Hazen at the railing and, upon seeing the pilot Dennison near the prisoner, decided that she could share a few moments in conversation with the young man. As she approached him, she asked, "How does it feel to be returning home?"

Hazen turned and smiled. "It feels great," he said. "A warm bed, hot meals, baths. It's the little things, you know?"

April chuckled, "I suppose so." She stood next to Hazen, matching his pose and looking at the vast, blue sea. "I always found it interesting how the sea can help calm one's mind and help their thoughts."

Hazen looked over at April and asked, "What are you thinking about?"

"Many things," she said. "Mostly how things will be different when I get back to Sauropolis for my next assignment."

"What makes you think you're heading there?" Hazen asked, trying to hide his concern.

April shrugged. "Just a hunch, but I can't help but feel like I'll be treated as a hero amongst my colleagues. I'm not sure I'm ready for that." Hazen nodded in understanding before gazing back out at the sea. "How about you?" April asked.

Hazen smirked. "A lot of things," he said. "Mostly that now that this grand experience has happened, what's left for me?"

"You have your studies, don't you?" April asked, not noticing the young one walking between them.

"Yes, but--." He looked down as Redcrest gave him a surprise hug on his leg. "And I do have you, Redcrest," he said with a smile. "But it's more abstract than that," Hazen clarified for April. "I feel different. I'm certainly not who I was back in Waterfall City those many months ago. What seemed clear back then isn't so clear now."

"Are you thinking you might want change your profession?" April asked.

"Well, maybe," Hazen said, "I don't know. It's just a bit scary now, that's all." April nodded, understanding Hazen's point of view then. Hazen continued, "Not to mention, I'm scared about any parting between our fellowship. I can already tell that I'm going to miss everyone dearly when that day comes."

"It's not all bad," April observed. "You'll have Redcrest, Seamus, and Polongo. And Tebo, Bentfeather, and Randy won't be too far away."

"Well," Hazen sighed, "Some partings will be harder to take than others." He glanced at her emerald green eyes and felt his heart melt again. He placed a hand on hers, silently indicating that she would be one of the harder partings. April hesitated before withdrawing it from his touch. "I didn't mean any offense," Hazen said.

"You didn't," April replied as she looked out at the sea.

Hazen swallowed. "April, it would kill me if we couldn't be together," he said bluntly.

April looked back with a difficult-to-decipher expression. It was somewhere between relief and astonishment, offense and receptiveness, joy and annoyance. "You are a very wonderful person," she said, "and I would love to spend even more time with you, but I can't guarantee that now." Hazen's hopeful, affectionate expression soured slightly. "It's not that I don't like you," she elaborated, "but the nature of my profession is always uncertain. I am at the whim of my superiors."

Hazen swallowed and clenched his teeth. "So you're saying 'goodbye' now?" he demanded.

"No!" April said. "Of course not. I'm just trying to make sure you understand."

Hazen sighed. "I think I do. You're already married. To your job."

April's again tried to reassure him. "It's not like that."

"Well, something needs to change," Hazen said, close to tears. "Both of us will need to, but someone's got a big decision if we eve have any chance of making this work."

April swallowed. "I didn't mean to hurt your feelings and I'm sorry." She kissed him on the cheek before heading back to Ajax and guard duty. As she stood on the opposite side of the Triceratops, she glanced over at Ajax. She then thought about a conversation they had back near the journey's beginning. She could be the best in any profession she wanted to, but it pales in comparison to being truly happy in life.

Hazen touched his hand to his cheek, tracing where her lips were a few moments ago. He stared back at the sea, wondering what the best course of action would be. Then, he remembered that the guards offered him the opportunity to train with them if he so chose. While it wouldn't guarantee that he would be any nearer to her than he would be otherwise, it may be a great enough sacrifice on his part to demonstrate his commitment to April. Still, would that be the right course of action?

Tebo and Bentfeather sidled up next to him shortly thereafter. Once they had their say, Hazen glanced over to his two mentors. "I know you didn't wish this on me," he said, "but I wouldn't have missed it for anything." He smoothed some of Bentfeather's plumage before giving Tebo a hug, surprising the younger lad.

Soon after, they reached the mainland. Hazen gathered his things and saw a dignitary marching up the pier to receive them. All of a sudden, the air was filled with dozens of flapping noises and the squawks of a dozen Postal Birds. The cacophony forced everyone to raise their hands, trying to calm them all down. "One at a time, please!" Hazen begged.
_

TAG: Bentfeather, Falokar, Tarion, any and all!

[Thundertail]

IC: Bentfeather and company. News and provisioning at Kuskonak.

“Um,… Greetings one and all!…“, said the Overseer of Kuskonak. The news the Postal Birds related was postponed momentarily by the portly human, not to be outdone by a gaggle of mere birds! “My name is Emil Tanner, and this is my cohort, Hannah.“, he bowed. “We welcome you all to our humble shores; an honor we are not worthy of compared to ones of such esteem as you!…”

“Our abodes are your abodes for as long as you stay.”, Hannah added. “Kuskonak is the most important trade city to the Outer Island on this coast of Dinotopia!…”

“I am saddened to hear of the plight of the Outer Island…”, Emil stated sadly. “It was the wellspring of our welfare…”

“But we will make due!…”, Hannah perked up, then scowled at the increasingly impatient Postal Birds. “Yes, I suppose you have many messages waiting for you…”, she turned to the birds. “You may proceed…”

“Postal Bird 385 seeking a mister Hazen Baker…”, the first one hopped up to say. “From maestro Ludwig, of the Waterfall City Music academy, Waterfall City…”, she saw Hazen step forward. “The maestro inquires if you would like to continue your music lessons; and requests that, if you wish to attend the next Solstice Eve concert and to participate in it, you must return to Waterfall City with all due haste to complete your tutoring…”

As Hazen was considering, Bentfeather spoke up. “Then you may go with us.”, he smiled. “That is our destination as well.”

Another bird hopped up. “Postal Bird 128 at your service.”, he bowed. “I have a message for sir Bentfeather, from the Archaeological guild, field division.”, he knew who Bentfeather was, and turned to him. “You are to meet several operatives at Treetown, and give your insights and reports to them concerning the artifact you accompanied to the Outer Island…”

“This would put a detour in the trip…”, Bentfeather commented.

“They urged it necessary, as you are the only one of sufficient letters to give a viable report.”, 128 told him. “And they regret any delay in your prompt return home.”, he bowed and flapped to his comrades.

Another took his place. “I am Postal Bird 218.”, she said. “I have an announcement from the saurian guard commander at Waterfall City for officer April Manchester.”, she saw the guard stand at attention. “I hereby inform you that, for your meticulous performance during the crisis on the Outer Island, you are hereby promoted to the rank of sergeant… Your steed, Artemis, will be awarded similar rank and privileges… You are both directed to the waterfall City guard barracks for the official ceremonies, and your new assignment will be gate guards and street patrol…”, Both bird and two guards saluted each other.

Hazen and the others began congratulating the cadets, but were cut short at the bird’s loud throat clearing.

“I also have a message for officer Ajax, from the guard commander at waterfall City.”, 218 continued. “For your meticulous performance in your duty with the crisis on the Outer Island, as well as your more than satisfactory duty record, you are hereby promoted to the rank of assistant commander, Waterfall City division… Your steed, Olu, will share a similar rank and similar privileges… Outside all the duties that position applies, you will attend any and all meetings of the Council of Reason as your other duties allow…”, all three saluted.

“Well done, sub-commander!…”, Bentfeather whispered to them while Olu preened, then paused to hear the next bird.

“My name is Postal Bird 539, and I have a message to mister Seamus, his Partner Polongo and family; from sir Mungo, Procurer of Tasks and Majordomo to mayor Masteson of Waterfall City…”, he took a deep breath. “Message as follows: I am glad to hear you all made it through this ordeal; however, I am sorry to hear that your cart and all your supplies were lost. I realize that, as members of the Transportation guild, having such a mode of transportation is a must…”, 539 took a breath. “Therefore I have commissioned funds for you to procure a replacement cart and all provisions you may need. I am informed there are several merchants in Kuskonak that deal in carts of many varieties, and there are many provisioners in town for you to choose from…”, another breath. “I have sent word to these establishments to be expecting you, so just tell them your names and mention my name and they will outfit you as you wish. May the luck of the Ancients bless you in future endeavors…”, he bowed and stepped back.

“Well, looks like we’re back in business!”, Seamus said to Polongo, who brayed; and Artemis and his daughter gave them all a hug.

Another Postal Bird stepped up. “I am Postal Bird 193, and I have a message for lady Natasha and her mate, from mayor Masteson, of Waterfall City.”, the bird cleared her throat. “Well done on another assignment well done, my friends! I always knew I could rely on you for matters such as this!… However, I miss you both terribly - the palace hasn’t been the same since you left!… I eagerly await your prompt return, and am impatient to hear of your exploits on the Outer Island…”, she took a breath. “Lady Natasha, your shipping business has prospered nearly tenfold since you left, and your contacts and other resources has increased by a similar amount! (I had someone keep track of it all in your absence, and he has done well; so may I suggest you consider him for a business partner when you return?…)”, another breath. “May fate bring you to me with all due haste…”, then she stood down.

Frak and his mate just looked at one another as they waited for the next bird to come forward.

“I am Postal Bird 89, and I have a message regarding sir Peter Triceratops; from the Dinotopian council of reason regarding his recent exploits.”, he said. “ Peter Triceratops, you are hereby charged with the crimes of malicious mayhem, behavior unbecoming of a Dinotopian, theft, murder and an array of lesser crimes. You are hereby mandated to attend trial for these crimes, and you are required to confess your crimes in a court of law.”, she stared at the horned creature in disdain. “You are to remain under arrest, and be escorted under guard until you reach your trial…”

“Yes’m…”, Peter bowed in extreme shame.

Her demeanor softened, and she continued.. “I also have a message from your father, Mondor, of the Archaeological guild.”, she took a breath. “Message as follows: My son, it is said that the deeds of the father is not put upon by the deeds of the son; and I hope that in this case, the opposite is true. Even though you have disappointed me, my profession and everyone we both know, socially as well as professionally; you are my son, and for that I love you. As your father, I saw many things in you from even before you were an egg; and one of those things was a sense of personal justice. You know in your gut what is right and wrong - at least for the things that concerns you. I just hope that your little experience has taught you other lessons too; and as your teacher as well, I would not mind if you give me an account of those experiences, in writing, so I can make sure you learned them!…”, she took a breath. “I know that, for the crimes you have committed, you will be away from me for a long time to come; but when your punishment is done, I would welcome you back in my household. Upon your return, you may continue your tutelage with me if you wish… Please know that despite everything, you are my son and I love you…”, she stopped.

“Parents are all alike!…”, Randy whispered to him. “Just like my Pa…”, Peter shed a tear.

Postal Bird 385 hopped back up to speak. “I almost forgot!… I have a message from Malachai Lewis for Tebo Lewis and Randy Ankylosaur…”, she cleared her throat. “Message as follows: It is so good to hear you made it, my son! Your mother misses you terribly, and so does Sally and myself. I bet you have seen and done things I could never do, and this proves more than ever that you are at last a man; and worthy to wear the name Lewis proudly…“, Tebo preened. “As for you, Randy… It is all well and good that you went to do your part for Dinotopia, but it is unfair that you left me to handle everything back here! (Malachai laughed here…) Be prepared, my friend, for a grand reunion with all your friends at the docks; and be prepared to tell everyone everything you did!…“, 385 took a breath. “We miss you and love you both immensely, and we await your eventual return…”

“How about that, son?”, Randy turned to Tebo. “We were missed!”

“And it looks like you are in for a big party!”, Tebo smiled back.

“Thank you all, my friends…”, Postal Bird 76 told his Postal Bird cohorts. “You may go back to your duties, and I will meet you back at the roost later…”, the other Postal Birds bowed to their superior and flapped away as one.

“Well then!…”, Emil Tanner, the overseer of Kuskonak clapped and said. “Shall we introduce you to your accomodations?”

“Step this way!… Hannah piped, and the whole group followed the pair down the lane and out of the dockside area…
_

TAG: any and all!

[o8jedi]

IC: Hazen Baker, In and Around Kuskonak
_

As they disembarked, Hazen took in the news that he received. The thought of performing in front of an audience was thrilling to him and he thought that he could see exactly what to expect if he was to be a musician professionally. Given the amount of practice he did over the course of the journey, he felt more than ready to have a captive audience and he was certain that it would go a long way in determining his future on the island.

As they began their tour, Hazen glanced at April. He couldn't be happier for her being in the Waterfall City garrison as well as her promotion. It helped to allay some of his apprehensions about their relationship knowing that they would be within the same city walls. It may not last long, but at least it breathed some life into his prospects with her. He wished he could share a little conversation with her to share his thoughts and feelings, but the other matters at the moment prevented him from doing so.

After the tour was completed and once everyone was moved into their temporary quarters for the evening, Hazen decided that he should follow up on Maestro Ludwig's generous offer. He went to the Postal Bird aerie and said, "All right, which one of you is 385?"

With a squawk, the female messenger hopped down in front of Hazen. "Please state your destination and message."

"This is in reply to Maestro Ludwig's message for me earlier this morning. 'Dear Maestro, I would be more than happy to take part in the concert. I shall try to return to Waterfall City as soon as I can, however Sir Bentfeather needs to present a report in Treetown, so there may be some delay. Rest assured, however, that I intend to continue my tutoring in preparation for this event. Sincerely, Hazen Baker.'" Hazen was about to finish when he had a thought. "'P.S. -- Thank you for the message; it has been far too long a time since we last met.'" With a satisfied smile, Hazen indicated that was all. He pulled out some of the busking money he made to pay for the postage.

385 committed the message to memory. Once Hazen made his deposit, the bird took off, heading to Waterfall City. Hazen smiled to himself and decided to take in the architecture of Kuskonak.

As the evening wore on, he returned to his quarters and saw April standing outside, apparently returning from the paddocks. She spied Hazen and smiled. "Hello, Hazen!" she called.

Hazen called back, "Lovely evening, isn't it?" April nodded. When they were closer to each other, Hazen said, "I want to congratulate you on your promotion. You deserve it."

"You are most kind," April replied, "thank you."

"'Sergeant April Manchester,'" Hazen continued, "That does have a good ring to it." April chuckled. "And the two of you will be stationed in Waterfall City. Redcrest will love that."

April nodded. "I'm happy about that, too," she observed. Hazen grinned, showing his own satisfaction for that. "Did you consider your instructor's offer for participating in the concert?" she asked.

Hazen nodded. "I just sent a reply. When we get there, I'll make it a point to have everyone get VIP seating. It would mean a great deal to me if you all attended."

"I'll be there on one condition: if you attend my promotion exercises."

Hazen smiled. "I thought that went without saying." The young couple laughed. Once it died down, a pregnant pause hung in the air. Neither dared to speak and neither wanted to.

At last, Hazen spoke up. "In all seriousness, I'm happy to see that you got a promotion. You're too nice a person to have to struggle or suffer in life."

April shook her head. "You know, after all I did to you, I'm amazed that you feel that way about me. You're either stubborn or masochistic!"

Hazen laughed. "I like to say, 'patient.' And I'm sure it paid off."

April agreed wordlessly. She took Hazen's hands in hers and looked back at him. "You said earlier today that you weren't the same as you were back in Waterfall City. I think it's clear that I'm not, either. And it's thanks to you. I can't thank you enough for that."

Hazen smiled and pulled her in an embrace. "You're welcome, April," he said to her. With a slight amount of hesitation, he asked, "What would happen if this becomes, well, serious?"

April looked up and broke from the embrace, clearly shocked by something. "A-are you proposing nesting?"

"Yes," Hazen said, but it soon clicked what it meant and he recanted. "NO!!! What?!" April frowned slightly. Hazen continued, "I didn't mean to insinuate anything. I was just curious. Dinotopian courtship wasn't exactly taught in my classes."

April sighed, knowing that the task fell to her. "Courtship often takes a long time here," she explained. "It's fairly common to see pairs in their forties and fifties finally nest."

Hazen nodded. "40 is near the upper limits of availability back home," he said, "but that's mostly because we don't have things like Articus longevis."

"While it is true that we have more time in our lives here, we just prefer that be certain that we're compatible with each other."

Hazen nodded again. "Would we be considered of marrying age?"

"On the younger side, yes, but if I were to marry young, I need to be beyond certain that the person I nest with was the right one." April crossed her arms. "I-I don't feel comfortable talking about this now."

"It's alright," Hazen said, "you've been more than helpful. Have a good night."

April nodded. "Sleep well," she replied before heading to her quarters. Hazen leaned against the wall. He now discovered a possible setback. While the intentions were good, he felt that even bringing up marriage may have made her feel a bit rushed in this relationship.
_

TAG: Bentfeather, Tarion, Falokar, any and all!

[Thundertail]

IC: Bentfeather and company, covert notoriety at Kuskonak.

“We will escort Peter to the detention compound.”, Ajax said for April and their steeds. “Which way to it?…”

“I will lead you there, and catch up with the rest later.”, Emil Tanner said.

“Right, friend!”, Hannah said. “Your paddocks are this way…”, she said to the rest of the group as her Partner took another street.

Bentfeather and the rest of their party were led to a series of paddocks, where Randy and Polongo were to stay. All along the way, people and saurians stared at them; smiling before turning back to their previous tasks, and making them nervous in the bargain! It reminded them of the scrutiny they were getting at other places, where potential threats were plentiful; but how could that be when all the apparent danger was over? These kind of thoughts wafted through the minds of them all, but none of the curious onlookers seemed to be making any untoward things to them besides staring. Occasionally some would stop and greet them, and a few persons shouted “It’s them!.,..”, before awkwardly losing himself in the crowd. Bentfeather thought it was very strange, and Postal Bird 76 looked around nervously as he hopped from Frak’s shoulder to lady Natasha’s.

“What’s going on?…”, the bird whispered to her.

“I was unaware that you didn’t know this…”, Hannah, who had more than excellent hearing, fell back from leading them to say. “But your group possesses celebrity status around here!… You helped quell the Outer Island uprising, and helped thwart the schemes of a madman…!”, she took the lead once again. “Frankly, it is all we can do to keep them from mobbing you!…”, she chuckled as she nosed the paddock doors open. “Your friends can stay here…”

Inside the hospice barn was sets of stalls that could accommodate any size saurian, and had room for many dozens of Hannah’s larger cousins; and handlers scrambled out of the way as Randy and Polongo were led inside by Seamus and Tebo, using more than appropriate courtesy as they quickly moved aside. Redcrest scurried to the legs of her father as Hazen ran after her to help situate her in their stall, and Randy merely sashayed into his stall before Tebo closed the gate; and after ten minutes making sure they all would be all right there, followed Hannah out of the barn and out into the street. The hotel they would stay in was across the street, and the accommodations seemed first class compared to the campsite fare they had lived in recently; but still the staff treated them virtually like royalty, rushing to show them their first class rooms and waiting on their every wish. Once all the humans were situated, they waited down in the lobby for their saurian cohorts in this hotel.

In the mean time Emil Tanner had negotiated the streets with the persons he was leading, four being guards and one being their prisoner; and stopped at an ominous looking row of paddocks, tall iron railings replacing the cheery wooden ones of normal paddocks, and the sight made Peter gulp! Two regular guards was at the entrance and led Peter inside; to a barred stall just large enough for him to turn around in, but at least there was sufficient food and water. Once the somber procedure was done, Emil turned to the four guards and smiled sheepishly.

“That should hold him…”, he coughed. “Now, guard quarters are just inside, and your steeds can stay next door if they wish…”

“Olu and Artemis may stay there,”, Ajax stated. “But we must go consult our cohorts.”

“I understand.”, said Emil. “I will take you there.”, and off they went.

As Artemis and Olu went to check out where they were staying, and deciding in their own language who would take first watch on Peter; the regular prison guards there got busy feeding the other prisoners, which only two others were there at present. Peter saw in another stall barred like his, an older Triceratops with a broken horn, an eye patch and wrinkled nearly beyond recognition of his age stood inside. Peter tried to smile at him, but the bigger beast charged his cage and bellowed; making him recoil in shock! The other inmate there was in a smaller cage, for he was smaller in stature; definitely carnivorous, and a Dromeosaur by lineage.

This beast spoke to him. “Don’t do anything to anger Billy over there!…”, he said. “In fact, don’t do anything; because EVERYTHING angers him!…”

“Shut up or I’ll kill you!”, Billy bellowed.

“You will, you one-eyed, two-and-a-half horn?!…”, the Dromeosaur shot back. “Aw, he’s just funning me!…”, he smiled toothily.

Peter just began munching hay. “Say, don’t I know you?…”, the Dromeosaur inquired.

“Shut up or Billy will kill you…”, Peter shot back.

“Hey, I like you!… You’re funny!…”, the Dromeosaur laughed. “Name’s Coppin. What’s your’s?”

“Mud.”, Peter said.

“A good one!… I’m in for picking pockets.”, Coppin told him. “Billy disturbed the peace. What are you in for?…”

“Murder.”, Peter gave Coppin an acid stare.

“Ooh!… I’m scared…”, said Coppin, then thought a moment. “Say, they said there was a Three-horn coming in wanted for murder… Name was Peter… Is that you?”

“He looks like he couldn’t murder a flea…”, Billy observed.

“It’s you!… And you were with Petronas’s bunch!…”, Coppin deduced. “This is just great!… You with them, you can spring us easy!… When are we breaking out of here?…”

“Oh, just leave me ALONE!”, Peter bellowed at the little pipsqueak. “I wonder if there is another jail in this town…”, and just then one of the jailors came into the paddock area.

In the mean time lady Natasha and Frak had come down from their rooms; each dressed in their best; though with the arduous trip they had been on, their selections of clothing was extremely limited. There they saw Hannah, who had just returned from other business; step inside the lobby of the hotel, eyeing the other patrons to leave this group be. The hotel manager, a flighty Stenoychosaur female; tried to come around the main desk to assist, but was equally told to mind her place.

Sir Bentfeather had washed, but his choices in clothing was nonexistent; and Postal Bird 76 had also washed, but other than polishing the lenses of his goggles, his other attire was his usual scarf. Tebo merely wore his now careworn robes and fez, and Hazen only had the clothing on his back; but Seamus went and haggled for a similar tunic and pants he had always wore, only more colorful. Once they nodded to each other at their general appearance, they stepped out into the darkening street and looked this way and that. A moment later officers Ajax and Manchester came from around a corner and met them there in the street being led by Emil Tanner.

“Well, there we all are!”, Emil said. “And I trust your accommodations are satisfactory…”, all nodded.

“Peter Triceratops is incarcerated for the time being.”, April announced.

“I had been thinking that it would be prudent to discuss our plans.”, Ajax said. “Since we may soon be parting company, it is best we decide a few things…”

“Oh, but it’s late!”, Hannah said. “It is nearly Eveningmeal. Shouldn’t you discuss these things on a full stomach?…”

“That would be wise at that…”, Bentfeather said. “Frankly, I’m famished!…”, all agreed among themselves.

“I know a fine bistro just down the street.”, Emil told them. “Follow us!…”, he led the way, Hannah at his side.

The building the bistro was in shared the same stone architecture as the rest of the city, building looking like an ancient Mayan pyramid shored up with large columns and sweeping buttresses adding to the design; and rows of shops lined these columns, Emil leading them up the wide steps into one of the spaces between them. The ceilings here swept up nearly sixty feet to allow large saurians access, and the courtyard within was open to the sky. He chose an array of round tables to scale of humans and smaller saurians and bid each to sit at tables of their choosing; then waiters came rushing around to deliver the menus. Presently all ordered their meals, and the waiters disappeared into the kitchens with them; and while they were waiting, officer Ajax stated what was on his mind.

“My friends, we have been through a lot together, but duties dictate things be done properly.”, he said. “The thing is there is the pending trial of Peter Triceratops, and we require all of you to give witness to his actions.”

“Why of course we will give testament!…”, said Bentfeather. “It is the duty of all Dinotopians to tend court when the need arises…”

“But with your commitment to the Archaeological Guild at Treetown, it could put a delay on the expediting of his case.”, Ajax stated.

“It can not be helped, I’m afraid.”, Bentfeather sighed. “We all have our duties to perform. The destinations of Tebo, Randy and myself is Waterfall City, after all. We should eventually get there…”

“And we are the mayor’s personal body guards.”, Frak added. “We live in Waterfall City as well.”

“And if you remember, we were ordered to guard sir Bentfeather on his trip.”, lady Natasha reminded. “We would be derelict in our duty if we did not see him to the end.”

“And Hazen Baker is my student, and he is far behind in his studies…!”, Bentfeather said that half teasingly. “He must return and finish his schooling. Both with me and maestro Ludwig…!”

As Hazen made a comment on that statement, Tebo reminded his friend. “And don’t forget my tutoring…”, he said.

“Aye, and you too, my Partner!”, Bentfeather looked toward the kitchens.

“And with our promotions, we will also be stationed in Waterfall City.”, Ajax said. “But it is true we will be needing help to get there…”

“And you’re saying you’ll need transportation…”, Seamus guessed. “I think I can persuade Polongo to take us there… I will see about that cart tomorrow…”

“Ah!… The meals are arriving!”, Emil announced. “The food here is first-rate, I assure you!…”, he paused as his plate was put before him.

The group of friends fell silent as their plates were presented to them, and they all ate in silence for many moments; any comments dealt with the subject of how the food tasted, and the tinkling of silverware was about the only sound. When their meals were over, they lingered at their tables; and conversations of the less than official type was voiced, led mostly by their hosts, Emil Tanner and Hannah. They proclaimed that they had full run of the city until their departure, and there were some small ceremonies for them that they could attend to if they wished; but these activities were begged off as they had to leave in somewhat of a hurry.

At length Emil and his Partner bid them all a good night, and left them to their devices for the rest of the night; and many of them took to admire the sights of the city at night, and they marveled at the ambience the street lights played on the rugged looking buildings. As the hours wore on and the group of friends strolled their own courses through the city of Kuskonak, the few who paired off entertained themselves with more private conversations; and as it grew extremely late, they all made their way to their places of slumber for the night…
_

TAG: Any and all!

[tarion]

I.C - The Journey Back

The wind rushed over Tarion who's body form was making him more areodynamic... he smiled and patted Sora on her side, "We're making good time? How soon until we arrive in Ebulon?"

Sora laughed, "Not long young one, I am amazed you've lasted so long without need for a rest stop or break, are you hungry?"

Tarion nodded, "Yeah, Starving, we should eat when we get there!" he laughed as they continued their flight.

Sometime later they swooped in to land at the Ebulon roost, sora began nesting and Tarion dismounted... he was soon met by one of the care takers, "Mister Tarion?! You survived the trip to the outer island, this is fantastic, come this way, our mayor has been wanting to hear of any news at all, please right this way"

Tarion nodded and followed the caretaker to the mayor's chambers, a full meal already on the table.

A rather robust man in silk linens sat at a well carved chair and motioned Tarion in, "Mmmh mr. Tarion, I've heard a great deal about you... come you must tell me all that has happened to you and Sir Bentfeather!"

Tarion nodded, "I'll tell you what I can..." with that he began speaking with the mayor... their conversation lasted a good two hours before Tarion admitted he had to retire for the night as he had a long day of flying tomorrow if he hoped to make it to Canyon City before sunset, he smiled as he thought of how surprised Arial would be to see him there when she expected to meet him in Treetown.

Tag: Everyone involved

[o8jedi]

IC: Hazen Baker and Redcrest, the Paddocks, Kuskonak
_

After saying good night to April, Hazen strolled to the paddocks to say the same to his Saurian family. As he walked in, Artemis was finishing up a story. Redcrest laid down in the straw, closing her eyes, but they opened again when she saw Hazen walking toward her. "Hazen!" she said, clearly happy her Partner was here.

Hazen smiled back. "Going to bed so soon?" he said as he stepped inside the paddock and knelt beside the hatchling.

"Mama says it's bedtime," Redcrest explained.

Hazen smiled back. "Yeah," he said, "we have a long day tomorrow. It's probably for the best." He patted her side, allowing her to relax a bit more. "Excited to be going home?" he asked softly.

"Uh-huh," Redcrest replied. "I'm tired of riding and walking."

Hazen smiled. "Well, just a little more and then we can play together all we want."

"And Mama, too?" Redcrest asked as her eyes became half-lidded from exhaustion.

"And Mama, too," Hazen reassured her.

"And April?"

Hazen grinned. "I'm sure she'd like to, too."

"I'm happy you and April are friends now," she said.

"Me, too."

"I wish we all could play together and see each other," Redcrest whispered as her eyes fully closed.

Hazen sighed, "I kinda do, too. We won't be far from each other, that's for sure. Maybe we will see each other often..." He trailed off as he thought about April again. By now, Redcrest's breathing became more and more calm and steady. Hazen smiled as he gently patted her flank. "Sweet dreams," he told her.

He got up to leave, but a soft rumbling from Artemis stopped him in his tracks. "I've said this many times: you are a wonderful caretaker. I'm fortunate that my daughter has been given the love she needed when I was away."

Hazen turned around and walked closer to Artemis. "She's my Partner," Hazen said, "That's all that needs to be said." He smiled and rubbed the mother's snout. "I'm just glad that both her parents are able to be here."

Artemis snorted in agreement. "You have a lot of love to give," she observed. "I know that your future mate will be as fortunate as Redcrest is."

Hazen smiled. At that moment, April entered his mind. "Thank you," he said to Artemis as he left the paddocks. He tried to clear April out of his thoughts, but he wasn't terribly successful. He went to his room and, after assuring the attendants that he was fine, climbed into bed. He stared at the ceiling as thoughts of the lovely April Manchester filled his brain and, eventually, his dreams.
_

TAG: Bentfeather, any and all!

[Thundertail]

IC: Bentfeather and company, on leaving Kuskonak.

The cooler sea breeze wafted into the windows of the hotel they were staying in, arousing them from their peaceful slumber; a well earned rest in decent beds made for comfort, not just utility. Tebo Lewis and Bentfeather got ready in their own way and went downstairs, where Hazen Baker , Seamus, Frik and Lady Natasha had congregated down in the lobby; where a buffet breakfast had been prepared for them, they marveling at the attention they were getting!

“Well, got to go…”, Seamus rose from his plate wiping his mouth. “Got to get my new cart!…”, and off he went.

“That reminds me…!”, Bentfeather said. “We have to hurry and get ready as well. Once Seamus acquires our transportation, we should make all due haste to Treetown…”, they all hurried to finish up their Morningmeals.

In the paddocks across the street, Polongo, Redcrest and Randy were undergoing the very same treatment; receiving the finest in fodder, and getting pampered with rub-downs and other services.

“Boy, this is first class chow!”, Randy said. “And this attention makes me feel so great I can go on forever!…”, he munched some more.

Polomgo nodded as he ate his own fodder, smelling of the perfumed oils they applied to his dry skin; and Redcrest liked the way daddy smelled now, better than the yucky sweat he used to smell like. She ate some more of her food while alternately playing with it and the contented wriggling of her father’s tail.

Over in the detention paddocks across town, Peter was not getting such treatment, but he was getting fed and being prepared to depart by the guard handlers; and he was all ready to leave by the time Ajax, April, Artemis and Olu came to collect him - he being glad of the fact for the demeanor of his two surly jail mates!

“Boy, I’m glad to be out of there!”, Peter confided softly to Ajax as he was being led out of the area. “Those two guys were crazy!”

“Well, that should teach you a lesson.”, Ajax replied. “If you went on like you were, you would have ended up just like them!”

At Olu’s burbling, Ajax nodded and addressed April and Artemis. “Yes, we should hurry if we are to meet up with the others.”, and off they went.

Seamus traveled to the paddocks to collect Polongo, and smiled to see they were all ready. Redcrest leapt into his arms in greeting, and he nodded at Randy who was ready as well. “We need to get our new cart, honey.”, the human said to the hatchling. “That’s grownup business, so we’ll take you to Hazen until we’re done. Ok, honey?…”, she nodded excitedly, for she really loved him.

“Say guys, can I come along with you when you get your cart?…”, Randy asked. “I need to stretch my legs!…”

“Ok by me…”, Seamus shrugged as he led the rest out of the paddocks.

Within the hour they all met up in front of the hotel that was stayed at, and discussed where they would all be; and about what time that day they would leave Kuskonak. About this time Postal Bird 76 came flapping into the area, he sleeping in the familiar domain of the town’s Postal Bird aerie; and had received a princely reception by his lower ranking cohorts before turning in for the night, he said! Seamus deposited Redcrest with Hazen, and he and his Partner, along with Randy, Peter and the guards; off to the warehouse and shipping district to inquire about the cart, and the rest merely continued their tour for an hour or so before converging on where they would meet to depart.

The establishment Minch had contacted to procure the cart was a cart rental and repair place near the head of the warehouse district, and the rotund Saltosaur proprietor was strategically absent of memory of the affair; a thing Seamus argued at length before the saurian finally displayed a cart that was covered by a dome-like tarp, like a covered wagon of the Old West. It was evident that the presence of April, Ajax and their steeds added power to his memory; for he merely tried to haggle for it for a short time before ‘remembering’ that the cart was supposed to be for free! Their next destination was a shipping company with a comical name for their allotted supplies, for the ‘Akin-Bak’ shipping company had all the supplies they could possibly use; so they all helped the Dromeosaur hands load up the cart.

All of a sudden they were witness to a commotion going on down the street, for a slight accident concerning a Triceratops having a heavy barrel fall on her foot caused her to bellow and rear up: spilling her loaded cart all over the place, and upsetting the carts and steeds of several neighboring carts. While everyone in the area got busy cleaning up the mess, Ajax and Olu rushed over, leaving April and Atremis to keep an eye on Peter; and tried to help sort out a semblance of order as the mess was cleared up.

“This one has a sprained ankle.”, said a healer examining the Triceratops, who winced and whimpered. “She can not pull a load for at least a fortnight.”

“What will I do?”, asked her driver. “We need to get this fruit to Treetown before it rots!”

Another healer near a Chasmosaur that slipped on the mess next cart over and was on the ground, called out. “This one has a broken rib… A shame…”

“It looks like my shipment can’t go either…”, his driver said as he tried to calm the beast. “Boss, the whole convoy will be at a loss!”

“What will I do?”, said the head of the shipping company. “If that fruit don’t get to Treetown before it goes bad, I’ll be ruined!…”

Randy walked over. “You say you’re going to Treetown?…”, he looked at the carts. “That’s our destination.”

“You can’t volunteer.”, Ajax told him. “We are on a tight schedule!”

“Come on!”, said Randy. “I can pull at least one of ‘em!…”, he looked at Peter. “And ‘pretty-boy’ over there can pull the other!”

“No way!”, Peter balked.

Olu burbled a string of his own language, and Ajax nodded. “You know, that might be a good idea at that.”

“What do you mean?”, Peter asked.

“Well, if you volunteer to pull their load, it will go better for you in court.”, said Ajax. “It will show them you have changed your ways, and are willing to help others!…”, he stared at the Triceratops.

“Very well…”, Peter said slowly, clearly not relishing this!

“Well, it’s all settled then!…”, Seamus said, giving the owner of the shipping company his paperwork for their supplies, then turning to the Partners of the downed dinosaurs. “No, you stay with your Partners. I’ll handle the shipping…”, he smiled. “I’m what you call a pro!”, he was handed the manifests for the other two carts of cargo.

Within minutes the two carts were righted and reloaded, and Polongo’s cart was similarly loaded with their supplies. Randy and Peter was then hitched to the two other carts, merely large flatbed carts with railings, and they waved good bye to the ‘Akin-Bak’ shipping company and their personnel. Olu and Artemis led the way down the street, their noses a lot better to locate the rest of their party; and pretty soon they met up with everyone near the town hall of Kuskonak, each had been gathered by Emil Tanner and Hannah at some point in their tours and led here.

“What in the world…?”, Tebo Lewis said when he saw the three carts and who was pulling them.

“Seamus. I thought you went to get one cart…”, Bentfeather said. “And you come back with three…?”

“There was an accident, see…”, Seamus explained the whole incident. “So we volunteered to take these loads there for them…”

“It’ll give everyone a place to ride if they want!”, Randy smiled.

“It gives me a chance to help out.”, Peter said unenthusiastically.

“Well, that’s a good gesture, lad.”, Bentfeather said. “And since it goes to the same destination as us…”, he didn’t need to complete the statement, nor did he have the chance!

“I see you’re all set to leave.”, Emil Tanner said. “But we can’t let you leave without saying good bye!…”

“All right, my people!…”, Hannah shouted, and people and saurians seemed to come out of the woodwork! “Let’s show them our brand of hospitality!…”

All at once bands began to play, and the townsfolk began to dance and sing in the street; and this made the band of friends look around in dismay at all this attention, they merely wishing to depart with as little fanfare as possible! Small trinkets and gifts were shoved into their hands, and other things from the admiring people were snuck aboard all three carts; and some of the people even bade them to dance to the music, Tebo nearly being swept up by an extremely rotund lady dressed in colorful robes and face paint! 76 leapt up at a child’s attempt to pick him up, and Bentfeather narrowly escaped the same attempt by a juggling Stenoychosaur; all this while some musicians tried to get Hazen to join in, but the stares Ajax and company prevented others from making them join in. All of a sudden Emil Tanner was at Bentfeather’s side; who had just righted himself on Tebo’s shoulder.

“I apologize…”, Emil panted. “We could not hold them back any longer!…”

“It’s good to see our efforts were appreciated…”, Bentfeather squawked at a fumbled juggling ball. “But this is a little ridiculous!…”

“We need to leave…”, Ajax yelled through the din. “I will try to clear the area…”, he located Olu Artemis and April. “Troops!… Form a cordon!…”, the rest of the guards rushed to comply.

It was hard to organize everyone on the carts while all this celebration was going on, but within fifteen minutes everyone was seated in the carts of their choosing. As usual, Seamus, Hazen and Redcrest loaded their things on the cart being pulled by Polongo; and Tebo, Bentfeather and lady Natasha took the cart being pulled by Randy. Peter didn’t know who was going to be his driver until Frak hopped aboard and took the reigns, thanking the fates as the Pachy had helped him with swimming when they escaped the volcano; but was surprised when Postal Bird 76 hopped aboard a moment later, an upstanding creature associating with a common criminal!

As a lane began to form through the din leading out of the city, April and Ajax mounted their steeds and began to escort the caravan; townsfolk funneling into their wake as they passed, and quickly began to follow them! Their precession passed building after building, leading the way as what seemed to be half the town followed behind like a street-wide parade. Each looked back embarrassedly at the attention they were getting, preferring a more discreet exit; but just as the friends began to grow accustomed to it, Randy began to sing!

“~I… Love a parade!…~”, he sang as Tebo slapped the reigns on his back to get his attention.

“Hush!…”, he whispered loudly. “This is bad enough as it is!…”

Randy fell silent as they traveled on through the streets of Kuskonak, throngs of celebrating people trailing along behind them. They headed roughly north down the road that led them out of town, and thought the well-wishers would desist when they reached it; but to their annoyed surprise, they kept on following them! For many miles this went on, and their relief came as they began to notice the noises of celebrating was beginning to wane; and as they looked back they saw that the crowds following them had thinned dramatically. By early afternoon their wake grew silent, and finally they were left alone to continue their journey to Treetown…
_

TAG: One and all!

[tarion]

i.c - The Reunion

Tarion felt the wind passing over him, each slight turn and adjustment that Sora made as well. He grinned as he saw the desert turning to canyon around them.

"Hang on" sora said as she fell into a dive heading down towards the canyon walls

Tarion heald his breath and hugged Sora closely, he had come to be used to flying but still was uneasy about certain manuvers, diving was one of them.

Sora folded her wings out and caught some air, causing them to break suddenly she then began to let the canyon winds carry them towards their destination as they lightly glided along.

Tarion opened his eyes and let his air out with a sigh, Sora chuckled, "Still not used to flying yet?" she asked slightly amused

Tarion nodded, "I can handle flying, but sudden drops and manuvers scare me." he admitted a little shyly.

Sora laughed at the thought and nodded, "That's all right, most hadrosaurs don't usually fly anyways."

Tarion laughed a little as they fell into a calm silence watching as they drew closer to the sentinals.

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Asrial had been roaming around the city all morning, buying supplies and preparing for her trip to Treetown, she was currently in the market when a shadow passed over her shaped like a skybax, she didn't think much of it at the time as there were so many, but... something made her stop and look towards the landing area.

a large female skybax landed in the area carying a small green parasaurolophus on her back, the parasaur dismounted and gathered his belongings.

Asrial quickly paid the merchant she was talking to, gathered her supplies and ran towards the landing area a large smile on her face.
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Tarion had barely gotten his supplies off of Sora when he heard a female voice cry out "TARION!" he turned around to see Asrial running at him, he held his arms out to accept her dropping his things, as she tackled him to the ground "Hey 'Ya Asrial, I'm back!" she nuzzled on him lovingly and smiled, "You should have told me you were coming today, i would have been more prepared."

Tarion laughed, "And ruin the surprise? what fun would that be?" he said as he hugged her back, "In any case we're leaving for Treetown tomorrow, we'll be arriving in the later evening, which means we'll be there to watch the sun set, if my calculations are correct Bentfeather and his group will be arriving there maybe a day to a day and a half later than us, That'll give us some alone time I think."

Asrial nodded, "That sounds great, so tell me what all has happened?" she asked cheerfully.

Tarion grinned and picked up his belongings, "Well I should think the postal bird I sent you explained it all."

Asrial nodded, "that's right, I got your message... did you really see Falokar? Does he look the same as he did when he first got into the DCMA?'

Tarion shook his head, "Not anymore, he's practically all white now, there's maybe a little red on him and those two sets of blue still, he also has some very nice looking armor that I can only assume he got while he was on the Outer Island, and he is now leading the dromeasaur packs, last i heard he plans to make a trip to our main island so as to start a diplomatic action of peace between the carnivores and the herbivores."

Asrial smiled, "That's good to hear!"
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Tarion and Asrial walked along talking for some time before heading off for dinner than back to the sleeping quarters so as to rest before their big flight tomorrow.

Tag Everyone involved

[o8jedi]

IC: Hazen Baker and company, Departing from Kuskonak
_

After a morning full of keeping Redcrest entertained and waiting for everyone to regroup, Hazen finally helped Redcrest onto her father's new cart, where she marveled at the different look than the one she spent so many days riding in. The fact that there was constant cheering and music wasn't helping things much and by the time they had left the city limits, he had a full-blown headache.

All the while, Redcrest was sitting at the back of the wagon, waving at the throngs of people cheering for her, as if she was the winner of a beauty pageant. Hazen was contemplating reminding her of the virtues of humility, but he decided against it. After all, they did achieve something incredible for the benefit of all of Dinotopia. Surely, it wouldn't hurt to indulge in a little celebrity for their heroic acts. Although Hazen didn't participate in the waving, he sat down next to the child and smiled, taking it in.

Soon enough, the crowds thinned and Hazen's headache got better. They were now on the road to Treetown. "I think we can use a bit more coordinated sounds," Hazen observed as he grabbed his guitar.
_

TAG: Bentfeather, any and all!

[Thundertail]

IC: Bentfeather and company, on the road, at last, to Treetown.

With the fanfare the people from Kuskonak provided for them fading in the distance, the convoy of friends continued down the road that would eventually lead them to the arboreal city of Treetown; and they were glad to be solely among themselves at long last, just like they had been on the way out here. The rocking of the rickety carts the town provided made them all sway and rock, a soothing sensation that lulled them into almost a sense of security as they traveled along; but the only ones that did not share this feeling was the ones trained to be constantly on the alert, the four guards that were along to keep track of their prisoner, Peter. Peter was not in any position to escape or make trouble for his position of being tethered to a cart of fruit, and he had no inclination to make any trouble; for he was in enough hot water as it was, and he could not afford any more!

By mid afternoon they came upon the tiny fishing village of Ahimsa, made up of a group of four fishing families; and there was no places to stay the day there, so they merely asked for directions and went on their way. Ever northward the road took them, and no one complained as they traversed the narrow cliff side meadow that spread out in front of them; but as the sun began to wane for the day, they decided to set up their first camp at a crossroad near the other end of the meadow. The persons in Ahimsa said that a passable road in the general direction of Treetown would come to them if they turned left at this cross roads, so that was they way they decided to go in the morning. As Seamus made the campfire, everyone else tended the pullers and helped to set up the rest of their camp; and pretty soon with meals in their bellies, everyone there began to settle down for the night.

“This sure brings back memories…”, Frak said as he placed a load of firewood beside Seamus, who was stirring a pot.

“Yeah, bad ones!…”, Randy shot back.

“At least we’re not in any danger.”, observed lady Natasha as she studied the paperwork that went with the fruit cargo they were carrying, seeing the efficiency the paperwork offered and planning to incorporate such a system into her shipping company when she got back home. “Everyone seems so friendly this time ‘round…”

“Too friendly.”, Tebo said as he twirled leavings on his plate. “That fat lady back in Kuskonak smelled bad!…”

“She was probably the Copro driver!…”, Frak said, and everyone laughed.

Similar banter went on most of the night around the campsite, some discussing things and making comments about this or that; or telling jokes that each knew and playing pranks that everyone knew were only meant for mirth, and not necessarily to insult or hurt anyone. Though conversations commenced off and on between smaller groups of the camp, each seemed to know the goings on with one of these groups or another. A request was made, and Hazen pretended annoyance of the request; but he presently took his guitar and began picking out a sedate tune, for little Redcrest was soon becoming sleepy and a silenced lullaby may have been in order for the hatchling. As it drew late many thought it prudent to turn in for the night, and fairly soon the susurrus of slumber filled the campsite, and though no apparent danger would ever bother them this night; April Manchester and Artemis took it upon themselves to post guard in tandem that night, just to make sure that Peter would cause no trouble during the night. They really did not have any cause to worry about him, though; for with the beast’s heavy load he had to pull all day, Peter Triceratops lay where he was already fast asleep!

As the first glimpses of light struck the camp the next morning, it shone upon April and Artemis fast asleep as well; the former had curled up next to her family while the latter had took her bedroll next to the now extinct fire, and both guiltily woke up as one realizing they had both been derelict in their duties. It was a good thing the are was quiet all night long, for there were little danger here outside of the random robber or other such lowlife; but the fact that the camp held so many guards and there seemed to be very little malcontents in the area to begin with, they figured it would not make much difference if they were lax in their duties so long as none of the others noticed. As these two got up and made to patrol the perimeter of camp, some of the others began to stir with the grogginess of a good night’s sleep behind them; and they were not the wiser as the two guards returned to the camp a few moments later, rousing Olu and Ajax to report the fact of a silent night to them. With very little but otherwise cheery banter or fanfare, they broke down camp and hitched the three pullers to their three carts.

With very little confusion as to who was to ride on which cart, they set off down the left-hand path at the crossroads they had stayed at; noticing the meadow’s end slowly transforming into thick shrubs along either side of the road, and the road itself growing increasingly hard-packed. The road led generally northwest, and seldom turned from that course for a good deal of the day; merely hugging the terrain, causing an occasional gentle turn that quickly righted itself a short distance down the road. All the travelers gradually changed their demeanor from cheery mirth to getting down to the business of travel; and conversation waned to the mechanics of getting the convoy to their destination. Only twice did they meet up with other convoys going in the opposite direction that day, and only one of those consisted mostly of the Brach bus service while the other was a cargo convoy that was much larger than theirs; but each time they had to draw themselves to the side of the path to make room, and bowed to the persons in the other convoys as they passed by.

The fact that those convoys paid them little mind wore on their consciousness’ for many hours of their trip, for the reception they got when they returned to Dinotopia told of their celebrity status; and that did not add up, but Bentfeather suggested that perhaps word hadn’t spread all over the island just yet. With that little conundrum solved as far as they were concerned, their pace did not slow as they continued down this road; and soon within a dell of trees pocked with tiny agricultural plots; they made it to the tiny outpost of Farak, consisting of a tiny trading post surrounded by only two farmsteads. A short time to replenish their water and acquire certain other necessary things found lacking when they packed their supplies, they asked for directions and set out using those instructions for more than a day’s worth of travel; making camp at strategic places along the way, and officer Ajax gave them an ominous warning as they began setting up.

“We had better be extra careful from here on.”, Ajax told everyone. “We are entering territory containing less than savory characters, and extra security should be taken.“, Ajax informed.

“My word!”, Bentfeather said, and 76 nodded agreement.

“Let me at ‘em!”, Randy proudly said.

“We should post double guards at night.”, Ajax continued. “And we should double security during travel.”

“But what about guarding Peter?”, Frak asked.

“He hasn’t given us any trouble…”, Ajax said.

“And you won’t get any from me, either.”, Peter told them all. “I’m in plenty of hot water as it is; and besides, I can’t do anything bad hitched to that cart…”

“Oh, he won’t do anything, right Peter?…”, Bentfeather said, then looked at the others. “I think we should give him the benefit of the doubt…”

“Yeah. And if worse comes to worst, I’ll keep tabs on him!…”, Randy offered meanly, but smiling at the Triceratops yearling. “What you think of that, pretty-boy?…”

As Peter fumbled for a reply, Frak came by with their fodder. “Oh, let him alone, you old toad!…”, He told Randy as he placed his food before him.

Pretty soon Seamus announced the meals for the rest of the party was complete, and they all settled down to them as they discussed the next leg of their trip; and as they were leaving the forested areas surrounding Farak and going into some hilly and rocky country, they would need some extra care for the puller’s feet. In the morning, with little to disturb the guards besides strange callings in the night; they packed and set off once again, wondering what might happen to them that day. The territory they were soon climbing into was called Highnest, lady Natasha told them; desolate and rocky wastes that travelers rarely had need to cross as paths through lower elevations were easier to travel, and held prime hiding places for thieves. The reason why these people frequented this spot, she told, was the Marmor Quarries down in the foothills ahead of them; where many rare minerals were once mined, but as these mother-lodes dried up, the area was still pockmarked with many ways leading to them. This was evidentially why the townspeople back there chose to tell them of this way, for there were many direct paths through to the direction they were seeking.

This landscape was large and vast and it took nearly a week to traverse it, keeping everyone on edge all the while wondering when the ambush would come; but all they encountered was an odd prospector or explorer, and they gave them a wide berth as they passed. The very next day they passed a great wonder carved in stone, and not one created by human or dinosaur; for time and the elements had created a great stone bridge through a lava dome over the eons, and made the giant marvel they saw passing them on the left: the Haemel Arch. They paused and made camp there for the night, standing in awe at the beauty of such a creation until the sun went down; and still talked about it in the morning as they broke camp and continued on their way.

As they walked along a grassy plain surrounded by a rocky escarpment to their left and thick jungle to their right, they noticed in the distance many small holes imbedded in the escarpment; and though they seemed tiny for the distance, these caves were large enough to hade many things. These were the Troglodon caves, Seamus said; home to some of the nastiest robbers and cutthroats this side of the Rainy Basin, and he said that it would be best that they passed quickly as there were so many malcontents there they would overrun their tiny caravan and kill everyone there. With this news and the fear of everyone in the convoy, they made a snap decision; which was to take a right at the next crossroads, and leave the area as quickly as possible!

By the end of the day they figured they were well out of the realm of the robbers, and finally decided to stop for the night; and even though they did not become lax in guarding the camp, setting up the camp went as smoothly as all their days practicing on the road. As dawn shone through the landscape they were in, they rose and got going for the day; and made it through the wastes and into the realms surrounding Pogonip, but much of their supplies were low. Within an hour they procure enough food and water to get them further on with their journey, but receive word at the scorching heat wave blasting the rocky wastes beyond; and were at a loss as to what to do as the cargo of fruit was already starting to go bad, and all they could do was to cover those carts up with canvas tarps they acquired to protect them from the heat. There was little they could do about the heat, so onward they went down the rocky path; ever closer and hotter the more miles they traveled, more so that everyone was in a panting sweat by the time they reached the welcome oasis of Brumalia…
_

TAG: One and all!

[tarion]

(This is gonna be a Looooooong Post, lots of romance, some comedy and of course story progression)

Sleeping in the Trees

I.C - (Tarion and Asrial)

It was early the next morning when Asrial was lightly shaken into being awake by her dear Tarion who had been sleeping in the room next to hers, he already had their supplies packed and only suggested that she get dressed. Asrial groggily got to her feet and then requested that Tarion wait for her outside while she got dressed. Tarion nodded and walked out closing the door behind him.

Asrial had been blissfully unaware as to how early it actually was until she stepped out into the main area and noticed it was still dark outside, she looked to Tarion and with a small smile asked him, "What ti..t..time is it, Tary" she said unable to stiffle a yawn and using her nickname she'd given him.

Tarion smiled, "Pretty early, I'd say maybe about 6:30 A.M" We need to get an early start if we plan to make it to Treetown by this evening." He began loading their supplies onto Sora, who was more than happy to cary them both and their supplies as their total weight was no more than a little over 200lbs.

Tarion the turned to Asrial with a grin and hugged her, "If you're still tired during the trip you can sleep on the way."
Asrial nodded appreciative of the concideration.

After a few minutes of preparation they mounted Sora and took to the skies, Sora started off low but then high enough to have some cover, so that they would have a peaceful flight.

Asrial was scarred at first, she'd never flown on a skybax at first, and so during the take off and first five minutes she heald onto Tarion around his middle, not that Tarion minded, but he had been taken a little off guard by it, he blushed only a little but allowed her to continue to hold onto him.

Sora began setting their course for Treetown and then set to glide flying since they had a good prevailing tailwind to carry them.

Tarion had taken to relaxing and letting the wind rush over him when he felt a body lay ontop of his back, Asrial had been crouching behind him before, but now it felt as if she was actually on top of him he looked over his shoulder to see her laying on him, her head turned sideways and resting on his shoulderblades, her arms slid up onto his bare chest and she hugged close to him, he could feel her legs move to the inside of his own and wrap around his tail, he blushed a little more now and smiled as he began to hear and feel her breathing slow down to a steady rythem.... then it started to syncronize to his own breathing, as did her heart beat.
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Asrial had quickly grown accostomed to holding onto Tarion, and she couldn't help but feel comfortable having him this close to her, she closed her eyes and listened to him breath and his heart beat.... something about him just... calmed her, she began to relax as the wind passed over her, she began to slowly feel herself slip into slumber.
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Sora took a moment to look over her shoulder at her two passengers, they were both almost asleep, and the female of the group, (Asrial was her name) she thought to her self, the girl was sleeping on Tarion... the two of them looked so cute together. Sora smiled and looked directly at Tarion who nodded as if to confirm some unasked question, sora went wide eyed for a second then smiled and nodded back, as if to congradulate them.

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Tarion remained as low as possible on Sora's back and kept his hands on a firm grip on her saddle, as they flew Tarion couldn't help but look down and watch as the ground passed below, changing slowly from dessert, to grassland, he looked off to the east and noticed the sun rising, as it's warm light spread over the island illuminating the rivers and paths, Tarion let out a soft sigh and watched as it rose steadily.


It was mid morning when Asrial next woke, to find them flying over grassland still, Tarion had fallen asleep during that time and was snoozing lightly, Sora on the other hand had remained alert and active, Asrial thought it a good idea to be friendly and so started a conversation with Sora.

"S..so, how do you know Tarion?" Asrial asked politly.

Sora smiled, " I know him because of when he was in Ebulon working on research, he had been working on finding the mother sunstone at the time, and then Sir Bentfeather's group showed up, he agreed to aid them, and at the time that they were getting prepared to leave He met me and I was the one that took him to canyon city, ever since then he has relied on me to take him on his journey."
Asrial nodded, "I see..." she barely new sora, but was already taking a liking to her.
Sora chuckled softly, "So how do YOU know Tarion?"
Asrial was taken aback by the question, "Didn't he tell you, we're mates?"
Sora nodded, "Yes he told me, but that's not what I'm asking, what I mean is how did you two meet?"
Asrial smiled, "Oh... I see, well it's a bit of a long story, are you sure you wanna hear it?"
Sora laughed, "We're flying eighteen thousand feet in the air, to travel almost all day, it's gonna be a long trip, so sure, besides, it'll keep me entertained."
Asrial smiled, "Ok... then"

(Asrial is about to narrirate an entire small story about how she and Tarion met)

Asrial became slightly nestalgic and grinned, "I remember it as if it was only yesterday, this was back several years ago mind you, back when I was only four, and Tarion was about four and a half, at that time we both lived in Waterfall City, still do in fact. Anyways our parents had arranged for us to meet each other that year, as it was actually sort of arranged that we were to become mates and marry into a family, See my Father, and My mother are on the Council in Waterfall City, however Tarion's Father is one of the Captains in the Waterfall City Guards, and his mother is a noted Historian in the city, she's been published several times over, and her works are a mandatory read in most universities, we both come from wealthy familes, so they decided it was only natural to keep things that way."

Sora nodded, "That makes sense i suppose... anyway continue"

Asrial giggled, "Alright, well anyways, They had arranged for us to meet on my birthday, June twenty seventh. I went to the town square that day with my mother, partially to do some shopping and mostly for the meeting, Tarion was to go along with his Father, However as the day continued he began running late, My mother found his father, who was at the time looking for him, but had been un able to find him. While they both went searching for him I was allowed to play in the shallow pool, I had been in that area when a current swept through and began carrying me away, I was so scarred, and couldn't swim very well.... but luckily I could float!, however that didn't help much as I began flowing towards one of the many water exits around the city walls. I'm not sure how but that day Tarion spotted me floating in the water screaming for help and it was then that he did one of the bravest things i've ever known him to do..., without a second thought he ran and jumped into the stream and swam after me... he reached me in time and grabbed onto me, then pulled me away from the main current of the stream pushing us against a wall, I had nearly lost conciousness by this time but Tarion... He held on for a long time Crying out for help, and when our parents found us, I am told that he made sure I was safe and still alive first before getting himself pulled out of the water, he saved my life that day and since then I havn't been to far away from him, we became an inseperable pair."

Sora laughed, "Sounds like you two have an exciting childhood."

Asrial nodded, "We do, see ever since that day he saved me, Tarion has become something of a daredevil, he decided he wanted to be an explorer when he got old enough, and so when we started school he made it a point to study geology, and natural survival, along the way he took an intrest in ancient artifacts, which is how he got into archeology, and the study of ancient runes." she laughed, "In fact he had such a knack for both classes, that he even surprised his teachers a few times, and his physical capabilites are alot more tuned than most people think they are, see most saurians and people look at Tarion and due to his thin and very childish physique think him to be weak or unable to handle himself, but in actuality, Tarion is in better shape than most adults are, and happens to know a really interesting form of self deffense called Jeet Kun Do, his father taught it to him."

Sora raised an eyebrow "Really?" she asked half disbelievingly

Asrial nodded, "It's true, there was this one time, about a year ago, that I actually witnessed him using it, sort of."

Sora laughed, "Do Tell" she said now interested.

Asrial smiled, "It was mid July and Tarion had been working on deciphering a rune script over the past few days, He was on his way to the great library when a rival of his, a pachysephalosaurus named Platfoot, tried to stop him, Platfoot isn't exactly what one would call... "Nice" He is also usually followed around by two goons of his, anyways, Platfoot tripped Tarion who fell face forward into a small pit of mud, naturally they laughed at him and taunted him. I was on my way to do some shopping when I saw this, I went over to help him up, and they began to make fun of him for that too, but instead of getting mad, Tarion thanked me and went on as if he couldn't hear them. But Platfoot, well he sort of has a crush on me, and so he began trying to get me to go out with him, and as much as i told him no he wouldn't back off... I walked off trying to ignore Platfoot, telling Tarion I'd see him later, and went to the market. Tarion told me that after I left that Platfoot followed me, and he went on to the library, He had a small discussion with his mother and was on his way back when he heard me screaming. See while I was in the market getting groceries for my parents, Platfoot came over to me and started bothering me, I tried to shrug him off at first but then he got agressive with me, knocking my things to the ground and taking ahold of me roughly, he pushed me into the arms of one of his goons who had a vice like grip on my wrists. Then Platfoot began monologueing about how he was going to make me love him, and all this other stuff, he got close to me and tried to kiss me on my lips when i spat in his face."

Asrial smiled, "That didn't go over to well with him, and it caused him to backhand me across the face, I let out a scream, and I kid you not, a few seconds later We all four heard Tarion say the words, "You so much as even touch her again and you will be spending the rest of your days on crutches, all three of you!"

Sora raised an eyebrow "He said that?, He actually said that?"

Asrial laughed, "He sure did, he really took up for me, I looked over Platfoot's shoulder to see him standing there, I don't think I've ever seen Tarion so mad, and focused at the same time before, but Platfoot made a mistake of underestimating Tarion, he simply laughed and reached out to put his and on my face, He never got there though, his hand was inches away when he was suddenly yanked backwards, that was when we all saw it, Tarion holding Platfoot by his tail, and using a sort of fighting stance. Platfoot swung a fist at Tarion who blocked it and then tripped Platfoot with a sweeping kind of kick, his motions were so smooth and fluid, Platfoot hit the ground pretty hard then demanded that his two goony friends take on Tarion, I kid you not Tarion had both of them on the ground in under a minute."

Asrial sighed, "But then all three tried to fight him at the same time, and increadibly he took all three of them out at once... it was amazing, i had never seen such fighting skills ever! And once he had finished they all three had broken ankels, and as if to rub it in, he dragged them to the hospital himself"

sora laughed, "Wow... I didn't know he was so tallented, if the other's had known that they might have had him fight on the outerisland, he sounds like he could hold his own agianst any variety of small thuropod, and dromeasaur"

Asrial smiled thoughtfully, "Probably,but that's besides the point. In anycase he doesn't like fighting unless he has to. but yes, I've seen him do some amazing things in his time."
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sora and Asrial continued to converse for some time, and it was about mid day when Tarion woke up, he looked over his shoulder to see Asrial smiling at him.

Sora flew down so as to make a quick stop in a weighing station, where they all three had a five mintute break, then remounted onto sora, this time Asrial was in the front. They took to the skies once more, and continued their trip, Tarion made the observation that they were making good time on this trip so far.

Asrial streatched out and let the wind pass over her and Tarion, who had taken to laying over her, his warm body pressing on her own. Now it was Asrial that blushed as she felt more than just comfortable in Tarion's arms.

They remained silent for the remaineder of the flight, as Tarion and Arial took in the sights of Dinotopia from the air, and Sora focused on flying. the sun had begun it's evening cycle when they began to see Treetown emerging from the rest of the forest. Sora swooped down and landed in the skybax roosting area, there an oriental woman stood waiting for them.... she smiled pleasently and nodded, "Greetings, I am Quan Yi, and Welcome to Treetown, Breath deep."

Asrial and Tarion Dismounted Sora and responded, "Thanks for the welcome, and Seek Peace Quan Yi, We are Asrial, and Tarion" Asrial said indicating herself and Tarion next to her.

Quan Yi nodded, I know who you are, I've been expecting the two of you, as well as Sir Bentfeather and his group. They will be arriving soon I susspect?"

Tarion nodded, "Within a few days time, How did you know we were going to be here?" He asked curious.

Quan Yi smiled "I recieved a message from two council members in Waterfall City, informing me"

Asrial smiled, "Good, they got my message then" she sounded relieved.

Tarion laughed a little and grinned, "Well then would you mind showing us to any available rooms you might have?"
Quan Yi nodded and began leading them into the town to a nearby rather extravigantly carved tree.

Asrial and Tarion smiled, it was quite an impressive tree in general, Quan Yi indicated it, "This is the Matriarch's home, she has graciously allowed you two to take up residence here, as well as Bentfeather's group when they arrive, she has much she want's to discuss with them and you" Quan Yi said talking more directly to Tarion.

Tarion nodded, "Alright, that sounds like a plan."
Quan yi led them inside, where they were handed over to a few aids of the matriarch who lead them to their room, and informed them that the matriarch was busy for the time being and would adress them at a later time.

Tarion smiled and drew Asrial into a hug nuzzling her, "Tell her there's no rush now that we're here, she can see us when she is able too"

The aid nodded and left the room, as soon as he was gone Asrial kissed Tarion on the lips and led him over to the bed.

Tag: Everyone involved

[o8jedi]

IC: Hazen Baker, on the road to Brumalia
_

The burning sun beat down upon the caravan mercilessly, quickly reminding him of their trek through the desert to Ebulon. Hazen often found himself switching from under the shade of the canvas cover to outside. Although it was well over 10 degrees cooler in the shade, the air was stagnant and made being in there nearly unbearable. That is, until he got outside in the searing heat and began to feel his skin broil.

As he was heading outside one time, he sat down next to Seamus. "I'll never get used to these temperatures. What I could use now is some water."

Seamus smiled. "You're in luck, friend, for we're nearing the oasis of Brumalia. We'll cool off there."

Hazen breathed a sigh of relief. "That's the best news I've heard all day." With that remark he sat down, figuring he could brave the sun long enough to reach the oasis.

As Hazen fanned himself with a kerchief, he glanced at the other carts in the caravan. Sadly, all the other members were suffering just as much as he was, although their degree of stoicism varied greatly. The pullers, for example, didn't seem to mind at all. The guards, too, seemed to at least bear the high heat, which was probably part of their training regimen.

He spotted April mopping her brow from atop Artemis. His gazes in her direction had become longer and longer since their escape. Seamus chuckled from next to him. "She's not going to run off on you," he joked. "No need to keep an eye on her."

Hazen glared at him, mildly annoyed at the joke. "Ho, ho; very funny."

Seamus grinned. "Relax!" he said. "The worst is over and she's clearly attached to you, emotionally."

Hazen sighed. "I know. I just want to know if she loves me like I love her."

"I'm sure that is the case," Polongo said from the harness. "She's smiled more on this trip home than I've ever seen since I met her."

Hazen smirked. "I guess I got that going for me." With a sigh, he confessed, "It's just not enough for me, though."

Polongo and Seamus exchanged knowing glances. "Perhaps you want to build your nest with her?" asked the human.

Hazen glanced at Seamus. "What could I possibly offer her?" he asked. "I'm only a musician; I can't give her the security she deserves."

"Don't fret, young one," Seamus reassured him. "You are still in a position to establish yourself in whatever field you want. And you still have a lot to learn about your home."

"Yeah," Hazen said. He glanced back at April, who was examining their prisoner Peter. "I guess I need to think about things," he said.

"A wise course of action," Polongo concurred.

Hazen politely excused himself to go back into the cart and escape the heat, clearly not having enough endurance to last the rest of the distance to the oasis. Seamus glanced at Polongo and smiled. "I'm sure that boy will make her happy," he said.

Polongo replied. "I agree, but only if he has the courage to pursue it."
_

TAG: Bentfeather, Any and all!

[Thundertail]

IC: Bentfeather and company. Some help at Brumalia, and over to their destination.

The town of Brumalia resembled towns in the Old West, Hazen thought as they rode through town; and the people and creatures populating it were the rough-and-tumble type, like the citizens of an Old West town. Ajax was expecting a brawl to break out at every turn as they headed down the main street looking for any place resembling a town hall or a pub to rest from the heat of their journey, but the signs over the buildings that lined both sides of the street bore nothing to help him discern anything to help them; but the citizens noticed them only as they halted near a series of water troughs, and fondled their carts like ones deciding whether or not to purchase them. The many that tried seemed offended as they were shooed away, some that needed to be persuaded to do so by spear point balked like it was they who were being offended; and this brought their group to the attention of the local law enforcement personnel, whose large and muscular personage garbed in blue trousers and a red sash and not much else sneered his mustached face before coming over.

“Is there any problem, gents?…”, the meaty voice rumbled.

“This creep tried to skewer me!…”, complained a lanky human in chaps and Stetson, pointing.

“You did?…”, said the burly man.

“Officer Ajax, of the Waterfall City saurian guard, at your service.”, Ajax offered his hand as he came over, which wasn’t taken. “We are escorting a prisoner with this convoy to Treetown…”

“Yer’ a little off for Treetown…”, the burly man thought. “About a fortnight’s journey, I recon…”

“Please sir!… We meant no harm!…”, Bentfeather squawked. “I am sir Bentfeather, assistant curator of the Waterfall City library… I am on a mission of great importance in Treetown, and we must be on our way…”

“A smart one, eh?…”, said the burly one. “Ain’t no never mind to me… But you caint be stickin’ my people!…”

“I am truly sorry if we caused any trouble.”, Ajax said. “It is just that we also bear fragile cargo, and we did not want it damaged.”

“Very well, then.”, the large man said. “Just so you don’t make no more trouble…”, he finally put it all together. “You be needin’ a shipping company… And mebbe a guide… And places for the night if yer stayin’…”

“Perhaps…”, Seamus said. “Or maybe just a place to refresh ourselves…”

“Every other place here is a pub!”, the burly constable laughed, then noticed the crowd that had gathered. “Say folks!… Nothin’ going on here!… Y’all can bugger off now…”, he saw his words had little effect! “I SAID SCAT!!!…”, this time they all left in a hurry to perform their previous tasks.

Two Harpymimus handlers lingered on, and offered to lead the carts and their pullers could unhitch and relax a bit; all but Peter, whom Ajax bid he stay hitched up and stay on the street. Instead they unhitched Randy and Polongo, and those two saurian gathered with the rest of their friends. While he guarded him, the rest went to where the burly constable had entered; and found themselves in a tavern of sorts, but designed to be patronized by the medium sized dinosaurs the town sported. After scanning the room beyond for any unfriendly persons by April, Olu and Artemis; the rest walked inside, their eyes adjusting to the dimness compared to the glare out in the street. Lady Natasha took a chair within a cluster of smallish square tables, and the rest filed in to occupy the remaining seats; the small number of patrons giving them cursorily glances before going back to their business, all but a one-eyed Ovaraptor in a seat next to the group.

“Barkeep!… A round for the newcomers!…”, he squawked.

“Nothin’ doing!”, the barkeep said from behind the bar, his handlebar mustache quivering. “You had three already!”

“Just being sociable…”, the Ovaraptor looked miffed, then turned to smile at lady Natasha. “Hospitality ain’t appreciated these days…”

“Not if you keep throwing your Drachs around like that!”, Natasha shot back. “So Hphestus, what’s with this scam?…”

“No scam.”, said he as he adjusted his eye patch. “The council said you might need a little help, is all.”, this he whispered.

“So, how’s Rachael?…”, Natasha asked as the others wondered with their eyes who this character was. “Keeping her away from the whip, I see?…”, the Iguanodon in question never even saw a whip!

“She’s right as rain!”, Hphestus said. “We been keeping ourselves busy and all, then I got this Postal Bird saying you were back in the area…”, he finally remembered. “Oh yes, I believe this is yours…”, he handed her the satchel they switched at Amberclimbe, where he slipped her the key to Frank Scratt’s desk.

“This was my favorite!…”, she commented. “I thought you would have sold it by now.”

“Naw, I knew you wanted it back.”, he examined it. “It’s a bit careworn, but still serviceable…”

“I’m afraid yours is under a mile of lava…”, she admitted.

“Aw, it was a lousy bag anyway…”, Hphestus said, and Randy began to smile; and the Ovaraptor saw it. “So, ah… Who’s your friends?…”

Lady Natasha began to introduce everyone, beginning with sir Bentfeather and ending with Randy; and each waved or said hello or what ever took their fancy to say, but just then officer Ajax came in and spotted them. He said that Peter was left with the constable for now, right after he introduced himself; and Hphestus took it all in, nodding knowingly as he observed their actions. At last he paused to drink his ale as waiters came for their Midmeal orders, each penning them down before scooting away to the kitchens; and as these formalities subsided, he took the narrative again.

“Now I’m no expert on most things, but there seems to be a lot going on around here with the Archaeological guild.”, he looked this way and that before continuing. “They’re all in an uproar about what happened on the Outer Island, and they are worried there are more things to discover…”

“When common folk finds things of long ago, they do not know what they are for.”, Bentfeather said. “They find something they think is valuable, and try to gain from it… They don’t know how dangerous those things are!…”

“Aye, and the thing from the Outer Island proved dangerous indeed!…”, said Hphestus. “Not far from here they found a stand of ruins. I don’t know what was found for sure, but they say it describes a way off Dinotopia.”, he looked some more. “The ruins are over ten thousand years old!”

“And for things that old, it is not sure whether the instructions are valid or not any more.”, Bentfeather nodded. “You realize that things decay over time… The way off the island could be disintegrated to dust by now!”

“But the common folk would try it.”, Hphestus told them. “They have to be stopped! And that is where I come in - at least for this case. Those ruins, after they have been sufficiently deciphered, MUST be destroyed!”

“What do you mean, friend?”, Natasha asked.

“It has something to do with my cargo.”, he told them. “I am to bring a load of tools and demolition supplies to the site so it may be broken up. One of the items on my manifesto includes a hefty supply of dynamite!”, the last part he said softly.

“My word!…”, 76 squawked.

“What have we to do with that?”, Tebo asked.

“Nothing really, lad.”, Hphestus told them. “It’s just that the council wishes me to help you to get to Treetown, and the usual way is suffering from the floods. There is another way, right along the way that my destination is; and I can lead you to the easiest path over the Backbone mountains, cutting several days off the usual way and it’s unfortunate detour.”

“So you will guide us there…”, Ajax stated.

“A sharp boy!…”, Hphestus said, and Olu chuckled. “No wonder you’re with the law!…”

“Um, our meals are coming…”, Natasha said, more to quell any animosity than her being hungry. “I suggest we eat up and be on our way…”

The band of friends were served and began their meals in relative silence, Hphestus watching them eat while looking for folks that were taking a more than casual interest in their group; and not much was said by any of them as they ate, besides how good the food was or how hungry they realized they were. At the conclusion of the meal, Hphestus paid the tab and got up; then with motions bid them to follow, out the door and into the street. There he led them down one street, up a side street and into a rather large shipping company barn; where his cart and puller were already to leave, Rachael Iguanodon stood ready behind a rather small reconditioned Copro cart. She looked up and brayed at her Partner before nodding to the rest, then smiled at her saurian counterparts before speaking.

“You found ‘em!”, Rachael said. “That’s good… I got word that our cargo is ready to be loaded.”

“Then let’s get to it!”, Hphestus led her out of the barn and to the warehouse next door. “Meet my new friends…”, he introduced Bentfeather and company.

“Nice to meet you all.”, Rachael said, then regarded her saurian traveling companions. “Hi, boys!… Get around much?”

“Some, but Polongo does it for a living.”, Randy told her. “All I usually do is pull a ferry…”, he then saw some workers begin to load her cart.

“Well, don’t worry, cutie.”, Rachael said, and the Ankylosaur blanched a little. “Sometimes it’s best to stay in one spot!”

“HEY!… Watch it, there!…”, Hphestus came over to where two Stenoychosaur handlers were fumbling with a small but heavy crate. He opened it and displayed several sticks of dynamite, which were old and cracked and could go off at the slightest jostling! “See?… VERY dangerous!…”, he placed the sticks back and gently put the lid back on before hopping down.

“Yikes!”, Bentfeather whispered at Tebo’s shoulder.

“I hope I’m on the cart furthest away from that cart…!”, Tebo agreed in his own way.

Within the span of a half hour, Rachael’s cart was loaded; and then they headed over to where they had left Randy’s and Polongo’s cart, and they saw Peter there too. They saw he was still hitched to his cart, and the burly constable was there; who led him there from a small detention paddock down the street. Soon handlers arrived to hitch Randy and Polongo to their carts, and within moments they were on their way once again; where Hphestus led the caravan through Brumalia toward the westerly road leading out of it. As if in answer to Tebo’s earlier wish, the cart he was on was in the rear of the convoy; but it wasn’t to the wishes of their puller Randy as he wanted to get to know Rachael a little better!

It turned out to be a good thing that the folks in Brumalia were more generous than their sneaky demeanor suggested, for they provided the convoy with many sacks of fresh water; and they topped off their supplies with enough provisions to more than cover for the entire trip to Treetown. Those supplies would no doubt come in handy as they looked out across the blasted landscape that stood before them, for even though the trees they were going through seemed healthy enough, the rocky soil and lack of any grasses told of the bleakness of the land itself. During the rainy season, Hphestus told, the ground here was lush and rather soggy for the water; but the recent years of drought in this area parched the land to near desert conditions, and the rains that usually came here had shifted miles east of here. This was why they were going this way instead of that way, for it was easier traveling over dry ground than wet ground.

The caravan traveled through the hilly terrain for the rest of the day, and made camp just as the sun was going down; twin escarpments looming up in the distance before them, Turning peach as the sun set behind them…
_

TAG: Any and all!