Braith: I'm not sure. What is your favorite memory?

Yestin: Ah, I can see by your reaction that you do not have any sisters.

Garan: You need dead fish and hornets for the honorable role of Brother Protector. It comes with the territory.

Talidor: *bounces up and down and talks*

Trevelian: Perhaps it is being the youngest. There are four years between Garan and Braith, but he has managed to be the more chaotic for that little time as the youngest. Talidor may come to be the same.

Aderyn: Here we are. *hands Kedmir the flint*

Braith: We have dragons, but I don't think we have any of the others.

Jek: Favorite memory... One of them would have to be a surprise party of sorts, for when Hakor and I turned 13. Neither of us expected it, and all day we'd thoughts everyone had forgotten. Hakor convinced me to sneak out with him so we could find a tavern or something and have ourselves a good time. By that time, I wasn't nearly so active as I had been, and I was still struggling to control my magic, but he was so convincing I began to get a little excited over the idea. Then, our brothers surprised us. I've always wondered what we would have done, if we had been able to sneak out.

Tesmir: I don't. I'm not sure I could handle a sister. Seven bothers are enough. A sister would force me to be a halfway decent gentleman. Dead fish and hornets... makes me want to have a sister now if it involves those.

Rune: *Chuckles* Did you? That is rather mischievous of you. How did it go?

Orrun: Rune, you're making a fool of yourself.

Rune: *Pretends to look deeply offended* I, sir, am having a very intelligent conversation with young master Talidor. Do keep your opinions to yourself, thank you very much.

Tilmere: *Nods* Perhaps they feel they need attention. Having so many other siblings and being the you gets, they may feel that they are at the bottom of the list of priorities.

Kedmir: *Looks up and smiles, taking the flint* Thank you. *Starts a small flame and feeds it kindling* Have you ever done things like this? Eating outdoors thing so you've hunted or caught? Or your eagle has caught

Rousen: Fairies, from what I've read, are very tiny creatures. Human-like, but with delicate, nearly transparent wings. Giants, *laughs* those are the complete opposite. They're taller than a house. No wings, but they live in the mountains. The other one... Meriak, they're called. They have wings too, but they aren't friendly like the fairies. Their skin is as black as coal, and their wings are like ravens' wings. They live far deeper in the forest than either the elves or the half-elves do.

Braith: *looks a bit taken aback at their plan* I wonder if I'll have a party when I turn thirteen...

Yestin: Oh, no. I sister only forces you to learn to play the part of a halfway decent gentleman. That in turn opens up a whole world of possibilities.

Garan: And suitors are a marvelous outlet for deeds too dastardly to be played on loved ones.

Talidor: *squeals again*

Trevelian: *grins and watches Run and Tal* Or perhaps untrusted, since the the work that needs doing will most often fall on more experienced shoulders. Mischief is not the worst trait to befall the youngests though. I have seen men turn out very poorly from too much familiar admiration and not enough responsibility.

Aderyn: Oh, yes. Trevelian and I will often go riding into the Cubbadryt or the mountains for a few days. We always hoped to see the strange creatures that are supposed to live there, or find a Lacuna, but we haven't had any luck yet.

Braith: I've heard stories of people with wings before. I haven't heard that they are small though. They are said to live in the wood beyond the Cubbadryt, but we haven't been that far to know if it is true.

Jek: *Shrugs, then smiles playfully* You could always drop subtle hints. Or give other siblings parties. *Sees her expression* Did I say something wrong?

Tesmir: *Tilts his head* Like what? *Smiles* I'm sure. You don't get as much retaliation for it.

Rune: *Smiles and lifts Talidor up, lays on his back, and holds Talidor above him* Fly young master!

Tilmere: *Nods* I try to give Tesmir enough responsibility. But I think I'm still learning when to temper it with admiration. And he never likes being left in the dark when we know something he doesn't, but sometimes I feel it's better for him not to know just yet. *Smiles* Although that usually ends in arguing and everyone else runs for cover*

Kedmir: *Puts the fish on a spit after gutting/cleaning it* What's a Lacuna?

Rousen: Do you think it's true? What would you do if you saw one?

Braith: Oh, I'm sorry. I just don't like it when my brothers sneak off to do things...

Garan: *laughs*

Yestin: *grins and shakes his head* No. No, don't ever think that having a sister means you get off easily when you've crossed her. It will be the last thing you ever do.

Garan: *continues laughing* No, it makes you more cunning, and much faster. Why do you think we learned to climb trees like we do?

Talidor: *arches his back and tries to balance with his arms*

(*decides Tristram acts the same way around Tal*)

Iola: *pops up next to Hakor* You're still dead?

Trevelian: Our father decided if the twins could get into mischief it was for lack of something to do, so they were often sentenced to extra chores. But for how often they prefer to apply fish of some kind to a situation rather than tact or restraint, they are quick thinkers and a great help in a pinch.

Aderyn: *sits by the fire* They are a legend in our world. Doorways that are said to lead to other places.

Braith: We have some nasty little creatures that are mixes between other animals, so I expect it could be the same way with some kinds of people. If I met them and they weren't savages, I would probably say hello.

Jek: *Chuckles* Understandable. Tilmere had a fit when we told him what we had been planning. We didn't escape unscathed.

Tesmir: They do? *Looks at the girls* And I thought retaliation from brothers was bad. o.o

Rune: *Rocks back and forth gently* I didn't know you could fly, young master!

Hakor: Yes. I have died. I have been vanquished.

Tilmere: Extra chores? *Glances at Tesmir* That's not a bad idea... I'm sure. They seem to have creative minds.

Kedmir: *Turns the spit slowly* Doorways? To where?

Rousen: *Nods* What if they took you to their home?mor wherever it is they live?

Braith: *nods*

Yestin: Oh yes.

Garan: And they somehow make others take teasing more seriously as well.

Talidor: *shrieks and giggles*

Sulwyn: What did you do that for?

Trevelian: Aye, they have, that.

Aderyn: *raises her eyebrows dramatically* To other worlds...

Braith: I suppose I would have to find out why and ask if I could be returned home or if they would require compensation to do so.

Jek: So, have you ever tried to run away? Even for just an afternoon?

Tesmir: What is it like to court one, then? Women, I mean. If having sisters is bad enough...

Rune: *Gently starts to move Talidor in a swerving fashion* Fly, young master!

Hakor: Oi, I didn't do it on purpose. Your brother killed me.

Tilmere: I'm sure you've been no the receiving end?

Kedmir: *Face reddens slightly* Well, I mean, what kind of other worlds?

Rousen: Wouldn't you be curious about them?

Braith: No... Sometimes I go into the fields to pick flowers and be mostly alone, but I usually bring Lyneth with me. It's not good to go far without someone, so we all have someone we go with, but I don't mind because Lyneth is a good listener.

Yestin: Well, the key difference there is that courtship is between two people who want to be around each other and not one girl who is good at throwing things and one man who has to be good at dodging them...

Garan: I have heard that courtship also involves less shouting.

Talidor: *leans as he swerves and arches his back more*

Sulwyn: Again??

Iola: Which one?

Trevelian: *gives an exasperated sigh*

Aderyn: Well, the stories only seem to tell of one... But I don't know what it's called. We haven't found a portal yet.

Braith: Of course I would be. But I can be curious from afar should they happen to have customs that humans would misunderstand.

Jek: *Nods* It's always nice to have a good listener.

Tesmir: It does? Well, that's a relief. *Looks at Kedmir and Aderyn* Would be kind of funny, though...

Rune: *Starts lowering his arms* Going down for a landing!

Hakor: Umm... *Looks at the twins* I don't remember. Whichever one tackled me. And what do you mean again?

Tilmere: I take it as a yes?

Kedmir: What do the stories say about this world?

Rousen: That's true... So if they are friendly and somehow communicate to you that you're in no danger and even willing to show you the path home, what would you do?

Braith: *smiles and nods*

Garan: I would suggest instigating something...

Yestin: But then we would never see how things played out normally...

Garan: What sort of person is your brother, anyway?

Talidor: Eeeeeeeeeeee!

Iola: Yestin...

Sulwyn: *nods dramatically* They kill people all of the time!

Trevelian: Well, as they get in rather more trouble for bothering the girls, and I am their only brother old enough the fall prey to them, I do often find myself on the wrong side of a lark...

Aderyn: Many things. They say we all came from that world, but some people found a portal and came to Lamar from there. There are also no stories of finding strange creatures there... But that the other world will give this one something that it could never imagine.

Braith: I would go home and send messengers with gifts to them and perhaps establish trade relations if we both find if favorable to do so.

Jek: *Glances at the twins and Tesmir* They've been quiet. Is that a good thing or a bad thing?

Tesmir: That's true... *Thinks* He's a nice guy. A bit hasty sometimes, but he means well most of the time.

Tilmere: *Laughs* Such is the fate of elder brothers.

Kedmir: Interesting... What could the other world give yours? And is it good or bad?

Rousen: *Nods* You're a sensible girl. Let's say they won't let you go home, but they don't seem to have any intention of hurting you. Perhaps they want to keep you as a sort of pet.

Braith: Probably bad, but at least they're a little bit quiet for now...

Yestin: *nods thoughtfully*

Garan: I suppose we'll have to save the hornets for another time then... *looks a tad disappointed*

Trevelian: Indeed... *sighs and shakes his head again, but does grin a little*

Aderyn: It is good... It is supposed to be a great and wonderful gift... but I don't know what it is.

Braith: *turns very red, sets her jaw and looks at the ground*

Jek: *Smiles* That only means they are plotting something. Best to catch them before they initiate the plan, eh?

Tesmir: *Smiles* Nah. He could do with a few hornets. He's not always nice. At least when I make him angry.

Tilmere: *Glances at Aderyn and Kedmir* What do you make of that pair?

Kedmir: What do you think it is? Guess and theorize.

Rune: *Lands Talidor on his stomach, flopping his (Rune's) arms out to the sides* We have landed.

Rousen: *Frowns and sits up* I've upset you. I'm sorry.

Braith: What would you do to them?

Yestin: If it's all the same to you, we'll wait on it a little longer.

Garan: But if you want to know where the hornets are...

Trevelian: *watches Aderyn and smiles* They seem to be enjoying themselves.

Aderyn: *closes her eyes and thinks* I'm not sure. Why don't you have a guess?

Talidor: *gives Rune a big, sleepy smile*

Braith: It... I... *takes a deep breath and looks at Rousen* I accept your apology.

Jek: If they didn't let me go? I would probably try to escape... I wouldn't hurt them unless I had to. I wouldn't want to start a war with them, if I don't know what they're capable of doing.

Tesmir: You have them here? Where?

Tilmere: *Nods* I haven't seen many of my brothers take an interest in a lady. *Looks at Trevelian* He is being respectful? According to your world's rules?

Kedmir: Me? Oh... *Thinks as he turns the fish again* Perhaps a cure for any illness.

Rune: *Smiles back and rubs Talidor's back gently and starts to hum a lullaby quietly.*

Rousen: *Looks concerned* Have I upset you? I didn't mean to offend.

Braith: *smiles* I meant to my brothers. You said you wanted to catch them before they initiate a plan.

Yestin: There are always hornets. Never forget that.

Garan: *scans the tree line with his eyes* There's a nest right over there. *points to the branch of a tree a little ways off*

Trevelian: *nods with a soft smile* He is behaving admirably. Though it is more by my sister that I can say so. She values a true friend above propriety, so if she takes a disliking to any young man's advances, it is on no uncertain terms that she makes him aware of it. There should be no worry of that though. She said she enjoys his company.

Aderyn: I should have been able to think of that... *nods* That would be a great gift.

Talidor: *blinks and lays his head down*

Braith: *waves her hand dismissively* Please, think nothing of it. What would you do if you discovered the Sylph people?

Jek: Ah. *Face reddens very slightly* I would beat them at their own game. It dampens the enthusiasm to cause mischief.

Tesmir: *Follows Garan's finger. He gazes at the nest for a minute, then looks at the twins, a mischievous smile on his face* Wanna do something crazy?

Tilmere: *Nods, satisfied* I am glad she finds his company pleasurable. From what Ked has said of her, I think he enjoys her company as much as she does his.

Kedmir: *Shrugs* I'm sure there are lots of other good gifts to be given. All of them seemed good to you, so picking one would be nigh impossible. Wouldn't it, though? All illness, gone. No more pain.

Rune: *Closes his eyes slowly, continuing to hum*

Rousen: *Looks unsure, but begins to think* I would be cautious. If they were hostile, I would try to get away. If they were nice, I would watch them. Learn what they eat, what they do. If they had a a kind of market system, trade might be something we could do with them.

Braith: *finds this proposal surprisingly acceptable* How would you do that?

Yestin: *puts his fingers together in a business-like manner* What did you have in mind?

(Better hurry up, Jek.)

Trevelian: *smiles* My parents would be happy to see her settled in a good family one day. *looks around* I wonder if it would be possible for them to come through...

Aderyn: *smiles and nods* *looks toward the twins and grins* Yestin has his scheming face on.

Talidor: *falls asleep*

Braith: What if they didn't have a market?

Jek: Be prepared. Watch them closely. Watch where their eyes look, where they point. Watch for subtle nodding. And if all else fails, shout and bluff your way out of it.

Tesmir: *Smiles, then looks at Trevelian and Tilmere, then back at the twins. His smile gets more mischievous.*

Jek: *Nods to the three* Like so. Tesmir looked at our brothers. What can we guess from that?

Tilmere: Come through? Your parents?

Kedmir: *Looks at the twins and Tesmir* I can almost see the wheels turning inside his mind. What do you think they're up to?

Rune: *Humming softens, then ceases. A light snore can be heard from him.*

Rousen: I would try to set one up with them. Teach them how trading works. Maybe even overseas trade.

Briath: Way out of what?

Yestin: Ah.

Garan: We got into a spot of trouble the last time we showed our peculiar affections to our brother...

Yestin: Not that it wouldn't be interesting, but not worth the ramifications of executing it. *actually doesn't want to land Trevelian with the hornets*

Braith: *narrows her eyes* That they are about to be in for a whole lot of trouble...

Trevelian: Through whatever doorway that brought us here. I am not quite certain how we came to be here...

Aderyn: Not much good, I should think. Particularly since we and our siblings are their only possible targets.

Lyneth: *watches Rune and Tal silently*

*Iola and Sulwyn lie in the field, watching an ant hill*

Braith: Do you think they would know how to get overseas?

Jek: Out of whatever prank they're trying to pull. If it's possible, anyway.

Tesmir: Hmm, alright... *Looks around* What about them? *Flicks his gaze toward Kedmir and Aderyn* Distract them and we grab the fish?

Jek: *Nods* We may want to give the elder siblings a warning...

Tilmere: *Nods, smiling* It would be worth a try. I'm not entirely sure either, except your sister led us here...

Kedmir: *Chuckles* Whatever they do, they'll most likely have Trevelian and Tilmere to answer to.

Hakor: *Does an army crawl over to Iola and Sulwyn* What are you watching?

Rune: *Snorts, his snore waking him* *Settles back down* *Glances at Lyneth and smiles* Come, little one. You can rest with us of you like.

Rousen: *Shrugs* Maybe. If not, they could maybe learn. Or I could take them over. I've always wanted to travel overseas.

Braith: Your brother should speak with his mouth and not his hands and eyes if he wants to be secretive.

Yestin: It lacks subtlety.

Garan: And sufficient cover for sneaking.

Yestin: It's a shame night hasn't fallen.

Trevelian: *furrows his brow and thinks* The land seems very similar to home; I wonder how far it is.

Aderyn: And then the twins would bolt up a tree and be stuck there all night under a watch until they can be dealt with.

Iola: Ants.

Sulwyn: *whispers* An army of ants.

Lyneth: *smiles shyly and sits down next to Rune*

Braith: I've never seen the sea. We live near a vast swamp, but the sea is over the mountains, and only Trevelian and Aderyn have been that far.

Jek: *Smiles* True. But then, he's usually one for quick, clear planning, which means he gestures and points more often than not.

Tesmir: ... What if he managed to throw it far enough? Pretend we're chasing each other up the tree. We'll get stung a little bit, but with any luck it'd send them running and we can grab the fish. So long as we don't let on about the nest, we might be able to make it...

Tilmere: Perhaps we can survey the land? Maybe something will trigger a memory or something?

Kedmir: *Laughs* Has that happened before?

Hakor: Oh. Are they going out to war?

Rune: *Smiles* Hello. You're Lyneth, aye?

Rousen: You haven't? Oh, it's beautiful. It's huge, it can look blue or green, or something in between. It tastes like salt, too.

Braith: *nods*

Yestin: *gives it some thought*

Trevelian: It would take some time on foot, but I suppose it may.

Aderyn: It wasn't all night, but it was for several hours until father returned home. *lies on her back, looks at the sky, and laughs*

Sulwyn: Yes! That one is the chief.

Iola: No, that's just a scout. The chief is in his war room giving orders.

Lyneth: *nods and asks quietly* Whas your name?

Braith: Aderyn said it is so big you can't see the other side.

Yestin: *gets a thought* What if-

*the ground shakes and a shadow passes over Yestin. A man on a baryonyx looks down at him next to two women on equitermas*

Tristram: *stares down firmly at Yestin* *breaks into a grin* This wouldn't be my twin sons getting themselves into trouble, would it?

Yestin: *returns a broad, innocent smile* Of course not, Father, why on solid earth would you think that?

Jek: Although now... I'm not sure what he's planning. he's not gesturing anymore...

Tesmir: *Smiles* We just need one person up in the tree. The other two can run for the fish and watch each other's backs.

Kedmir: *Laughs* Who kept them up the tree?

Hakor: Is he? Who are they warring against, do you think?

Rune: My name is Rune. You must be the little princess of the family, aye? You look as pretty as a princess.

Rousen: *Nods* It is big. Our father has seen the other side a few times, though. He says it's not quite like Piensor, but in some ways it is.

Tesmir: *Stiffens when the ground shakes* *Yelps when he sees the baryonix and equitermas and scrambles backward* What are those?!

Tilmere: *Turns quickly when he hears Tesmir's yell, putting his hand on his sword.*

Braith: *grins when she sees the dinosaurs* He's not planning anything now.

Aderyn: Trevelian left his gargoyles to watch them and alert him if they tried to come down. Alert him, or set the tree on fire... He was a bit vague on that account. *hears the shout, jumps up and bolts to the baryonyx* Ta!

Sulwyn: Gnats!

Iola: Bumblebees.

Lyneth: *nods and tries to hide a smile*

Braith: We have never crossed the sea, but I have heard that others have. They say it takes a month to reach the other side.

(She isn't referring to the ocean; the closest sea they have is land-locked.)

Yestin: *strokes the baryonyx' neck with his foot* No, Zveja, he's not food.

Garan: *looks at Tesmir and shrugs* They're our riding beasts. Don't you have baryonyx and eguiterma?

Trevelian: *puts his hand on Tilmere's shoulder to stop him* It would seem they found their own way. *smiles*

Tristram: *slides off Zveja's back* 'Deryn!

Aderyn: *tackles her father with a huge smile*

Tristram: You see, Gwen? I knew they would be out here. Who are your friends, Deer?

Jek: *Stares at the dinosaurs, jaw going slack a little* What... what are they?

Kedmir: *Laughs until his sides hurt**Jumps when Aderyn gets up and runs to the dinosaurs. Stares, but stands up, removing the fish from the fire.*

Hakor: *Smiles* Ah, very good enemies. What about those little bugs with lots of legs? Those could be nasty. *Is oblivious to the newcomers*

Rune: *Smiles, and glances at the dinosaurs and newcomers* Do you know those people?

Rousen: A month? That's a short distance across the ocean. You sure you're not talking about a smaller body of water? Maybe a large lake? Of course, Lor-Amar's probably different than Allare...

Tesmir: *Stares, frozen with terror, at the dinosaurs* No, we don't.

Tilmere: *Grip loosens, but doesn't entirely let go* They are your parents?

Kedmir: *Approaches the rest of the group, watching in amazement. He glances at Tesmir, then at Tilmere worriedly.*

Tilmere: I think it's alright. Tesmir, you're not in any danger.

Tesmir:

Braith: Oh, they're our mounts. Well, I don't like riding very much, so I'm not around them very often, but we use them to get places faster than on foot.

Sulwyn: No, I think they're friends.

Iola: *looks up and smiles*

Lyneth: *nods excitedly* That's Zveja, Rits, Ausma, Ta, Ma, and Nain! *runs up to her mother*

Braith: It's the sea. The part near us is called Kerri Bight, but it goes on a lot further than that.

Garan: What a pity.

Trevelian: Aye. Come, I shall introduce you.

Aderyn: They come from another world, Ta!

Tristram: *looks at the twins* Help your mam-gu down, boys. Do they indeed? *looks around at all of the Annors*

*the twins nod and go to help their grandmother off of her eguiterma*

Gwenifer: *slides off and hugs Lyneth*

(Aderyn looks just like her, by the way)

Jek: You don't use horses? I would think... wouldn't they stand out and be stolen?

Hakor: *Nods* That makes sense. *Looks over at the Scalestride parents and grandmother.* Who are they?

Rune: Indeed? Who is who? *Lifts a head in greeting from where he lies.*

Rousen: Oh. So it's like an inlet from the sea?

Tesmir: A pity? I don't see how it's a pity.

Tilmere: *Nods and follows Trevelian*

Kedmir: *Approaches the group, giving the dinosaurs a wide berth, looking wary* Aderyn, who...? *Watches Aderyn, realization dawning* Oh...

Orrun: *Bursts from the forest, sword drawn* Tilmere! Rune! Run! There's- *Sees the dinosaurs and runs at the nearest one, which is Blodwyn's(?)*

Tilmere: Orrun, no! *Bolts forward*

Braith: No, we don't. Some people use horses, but the horses don't usually like being around the baryonyx, so we can't keep them. Would you try to steal one of those?

Iola: That's the rest of our family. D'you want to meet them?

Lyneth: *points to her father, mother, and grandmother in succession* Ta rides Zveja, Ma rides Rits, and Nain rides Ausma.

Braith: Perhaps... I am not quite sure.

Garan: *sees Orrun coming, slides off Ausma's back and tackles him to the ground* Sshh. You'll frighten her.

Yestin: *helps Blodwyn down*

Blodwyn: Garan, let that boy up.

Garan: *helps Orrun up* I apologize for that. *to Tesmir* It is a great pity.

*Tristram and Trevelian bear hug each other*

Aderyn: *hugs Gwenifer*

Trevelian: Tilmere, may I present the rest of my family; my father, Tristram; my mother, Gwenifer; and my grandmother, Blodwyn. Father, may I present the Annor family... Though I'm afraid I can't remember each name...

Aderyn: *points out various Annors* You know Tilmere, Rune is the one whom Tal has bested in single combat, this is Kedmir, Rousen is talking to Braith and so is Jek, Garan tackled Orrun, Wyn and Iola are talking to Hakor who is Jek's twin, and Tesmir is the one with his mouth hanging open.

Tristram: *claps Tilmere heavily on the back* A pleasure to know you all!

*Gwenifer and Blodwyn smile and curtsies in the Etanan fashion*

Jek: ...No, I suppose not. They look like they would trample you before you could try.

Hakor: They are? Sure.

Rune: *Nods* They look like nice people.

Rousen: Well, maybe one day you will be able to see the ocean. It's well worth the traveling.

Orrun: *Yelps when he's tackled* Not again! Get off! *Realizes there's no danger and relaxes* *Is helped to his feet* What are those things?

Tesmir: Uh, I don't think it is. o.o

Tilmere: *Pulls Tesmir to his feet* It's alright, Tesmir. *Smiles at Tristram, Gwenifer, and Blodwyn* It's a pleasure to meet you, too. *Bows to the ladies*

Tesmir: My mouth open... *Closes mouth*

Rune: Aye, the little master has a strong hold on me.

Hakor: You fell asleep too.

Rune: Like I said.

Braith: No, they're pretty good about that; they're just easily mishandled, so they don't always take well to strangers.

Iola: *hops up and heads toward everyone*

Sulwyn: *grabs Hakor's hand and pulls him along with her*

Braith: I think I should like to see it. Perhaps I will travel south to Ormand or Marek; that way I can touch part of the ocean without having to cross the Wildevelds.

Garan: Again? Yestin, I'm not the first one to dive off the back of an eguiterma and tackle Orrun...

Yestin: *leans on Garan's shoulder* Your time will come, little brother. *to Orrun* Zveja, that's the one with the longer snout and the sharp teeth, is a baryonyx; the other two are eguiterma. We use them where most prefer horses or mules.

Tristram: Where is your family from, Tilmere?

Aderyn: *tries to hide a snicker at Tesmir*

Lyneth: *has taken up her usual place of standing behind her mother*

Gwenifer: *eyes dance as she smiles at her youngest* 'Tis sure as the sun he falls asleep at midday and dusk. I hope he hasn't been a bother to you.

Jek: *Nods* They look powerful, too. Almost... almost unreal. I've never seen or heard of those kinds of creature, so they seem almost surreal.

Hakor: *Smiles and lets himself be led along*

Rousen: *Smiles* It's well worth it. Tasting the saltiness is startling, but amazing. So much water can taste like that.

Orrun: *Shoves Garan* You know what I mean.

Tilmere: We are from Piensor, in the world of Allare. You come from Lor-Amar, right?

Tesmir: *Scowls at Aderyn and sticks his tongue out*

Rune: Ah, he's been a lovely boy. He had lots to say about life and his activities.

Hakor: He what?

Braith: They live in the swamp. Everything is strange there.

Sulwyn: That's Ta, Ma, an' Nain.

Iola: *in an undertone to Hakor* Tristram, Gwenifer, and Blodwyn.

Braith: Trevelian said you can hear the waves crashing from far away.

Garan: *laughs* It's not easy being the second twin!

Tristram: Aye, we do; though it is believed that humans first came from another world before that. What is it like in Allare? Did you come through a Lacuna to get here?

Aderyn: *grabs Tristram's arm* Ta, may I borrow Zveja and Rits? I want to show Kedmir what it's like to ride them.

Tristram: *kisses her forehead* Stay out of trouble, little bird.

Aderyn: *grins hugely, hugs his arm* *to Kedmir* Would you like to try riding a real mount?

Gwenifer: *chuckles and smiles* Talidor has always been all smiles and joy. There is nothing that cannot delight him.

Jek: A swamp? Wouldn't their weight get them stuck?

Hakor: *Smiles and bows to each* A pleasure to meet you.

Rousen: *Nods* I have heard that, but I don't know if I've been far enough away to know for sure. I've lived by the sea for some of my life, and then too far inland to hear it. But my father said he could, and it reminded him of home.

Jek: *Looks up at Garan's comment* Indeed. We younger twins are subject to such abuse.

Tesmir: Ha! You don't know the first thing about abuse! No one would dare get in your way.

Jek:

Orrun: *Cautiously approaches the baryonix, a little curious*

Tilmere: Indeed? Before we met Aderyn, I didn't think other worlds even existed. *Smiles* It depends on which country in Allare you live. In Piensor, it's a nice country. Plenty of open country, mountains, forest. Dragons roam Piensor, but for the most part they are friendly. Although recently... well, not so recently, but we have come to gain an emperor instead of a king. He rules over all three countries. It's hard, but we make do. As for how we got here... I'm not sure. It may have been a... Lacuna, did you call it? I'm not aware of those being in Allare.... *Suddenly looks a little concerned, but smiles quickly* It is an honor to meet you all.

Tesmir: *Pokes Yestin's shoulder* The fish. It's unguarded.

Kedmir: *Smiles and looks at the dinosaurs* Sure.

Rune: *Chuckles* I can believe that, ma'am. *Looks at Talidor and nudges him very gently* Little master, look who's here.

Braith: *shakes her head* They manage surprisingly well. The eguiterma stay near the coast were the ground is more solid, and the baryonyx can swim, so neither of them have much trouble.

Blodwyn: *curtsies* You have to tell us his, little sunshine.

Sulwyn: Oh. *looks up at Hakor* What's your name?

Braith: The sound to the wind reminds me of home. So do the rocks; we have very large rocks on our land.

Garan: Don't listen to him. The youngests will never understand what it is like.

Zveja: *pulls up his head to sniff the air, then fixes an eye on Orrun*

Aderyn: *leans on Zveja's nose* Relax, that's just Orrun.

Zveja: *follows his nose in Kedmir's direction*

Aderyn: *pushes his head down again* Kedmir, you had better ride Rits. Zveja can smell fish on you. *takes Rits' lead and gets her to lie down so she can be mounted*

Tristram: *listens with great interest* *smiles when Tilmere finishes but notices the look* Is there a problem?

Yestin: *under his breath* Then be my guest, but in full sight of my father, my hands are tied.

Talidor: *stirs a bit but doesn't quite wake up*

Jek: *Nods* I didn't know such a large creature could swim*

Hakor: *Smiles* I'm Hakor.

Rousen: *Grins* They must make excellent hiding place, the large rocks.

Tesmir: *Glowers* I do too! I have to live with him! *Points at Tilmere*

Kedmir: *Looks warily at Zveja, then looks at Rits* Alright. How... how do I mount? Is it like you would a horse?

Tilmere: No, nothing. I just wasn't sure how we would get back if we didn't know how we got here. But most likely the twins - our twins - can find our tracks.

Tesmir: *Whispers* He's busy talking to Tilmere. Shove me over, and we'll just chase each other around. He won't watch us chasing each other and we can dive for the fish and run off.

Rune: *Smiles and tickles his nose with a grass blade* Young master.

Braith: I've never seen them do so, but Aderyn said she and Trevelian saw them swimming when they were out in the Cubbadryt.

Sulwyn: His name is Hakor.

Blodwyn: *smiles and curtsies again for Sulwyn's sake*

Braith: They're good lookouts too.

Garan: *shakes his head* Insensitive to our plight...

Aderyn: Just watch out for her feet.

(For reference: http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N2XlBW8AqE4/T ... oncept.jpg The saddle will be just a little behind her neck.)

Tristram: If it is finding a way you need, Trevelian can summon up one of his gargoyles. My son has a particular talent with the odd creatures and tells me they are quite proficient when it comes to finding one's way.

Trevelian: *smiles modestly*

Yestin: No one is watching, just go and take it.

Talidor: *shakes his head and brushes his hand against his nose* *opens his eyes and looks up* Muh?

Gwenifer: *sits down* Hello, my bright-eyed boy. *smiles*

Jek: *Chuckles* That must be quite the sight, such huge creatures swimming.

Hakor: *Smiles and bows* A pleasure, ma'am.

Rousen: Ah, I'm sure. Ward off any siblings who may come to pester you?

Tesmir: *Throws his hands up in the air with exasperation* You're all out to get me.

Kedmir: *Nods and steps up to Rits. He hesitates, but swings into the saddle. Looks over the edge* You're sure it's safe?

Rune: If it wasn't I doubt she would make you get on it.

Kedmir: *Peers at Aderyn in mock suspicion* I don't know. She can be crafty...

Tilmere: *Smiles* Thank you for the offer. Hopefully we will be able to find our way. *Looks at the Scalestride kids* You have a lovely group, sir. They are all well-behaved, to a degree.

Tesmir: P( You don't want any of the spoils? Where's your sense of mischief I saw a while ago?

Rune: *Nods to Gwenifer* Look who is here, little master.

Braith: I should think so. The sea is supposed to have even bigger creatures. Have you seen any of those, Rousen?

Blodwyn: I hope my grandchildren have been behaving themselves.

Sulwyn: *looks away*

Iola: *grins*

Braith: No; it's where I go to watch for Father when he's coming home.

Garan: *grins*

Aderyn: Quite safe. *hands Kedmir the reins* Just remember that you command her and act like it. And when you want to slow or stop her, pull down as well as back as they have longer necks than horses. *grabs Zveja's lead, gets him to lie down, and hops into the saddle* And keep a firm seat. Hup!

Zveja: *quickly stands*

Aderyn: And remember she's much bigger than a horse, so be mindful of who is around you.

Tristram: *chuckles* Aye, a mix peace and chaos, they are; yet ever a joy.

Yestin: *points to the dinosaurs* Spend a month cleaning out their stalls and you'll see. Everyone is distracted now, just go. *more loudly* Everyone clear off. There's a novice at the reigns. *winks at Aderyn who glares back teasingly*

Talidor: Muh! *reaches out to Gwenifer*

Gwenifer: *kisses his cheek and smiles*

Lyneth: *stands next to her mother and ruffles her baby brother's hair*

Rousen: I don't believe I have. I haven't gone out to sea yet. I've heard stories from the sailors, though.

Hakor: *Grins* They have been lovely. The princesses had knights to come to their rescue.

Tesmir: Yeah, because you headed straight for them. P(

Hakor: Well you weren't any help anyway.

Rousen: *Nods* Do you have a favorite lookout rock?

Kedmir: *Nods at the instructions, then imitates Aderynt o get Rits to stand* *Looks down over the side again* *Prods Rits gently with his heel* Oh, so I can't have her turn quickly and catch Tesmir with her tail?

Tilmere: I'm sure. *Chuckles* Tesmir was at the receiving end of Yestin and Garan's mischief a while ago.

Tesmir: Hey! *Looks at Garan* Fine. You're missing out, though. We wouldn't get caught. *Sneaks off*

Rune: *Sits up on his elbows and smiles at Lyneth* I'll bet you're a big help to your mama with your little brother.

Braith: There is supposed to be a giant one that lives deep in the Cubbadryt... I don't know if anyone has ever really seen it though.

Blodwyn: Oh, are you and your brothers knighted?

Braith: There is one not far from the paddock that affords a good view of the way to Etana. Sometimes I feed the sparrows while I wait.

Aderyn: Exactly. Their tails are very powerful and could seriously hurt someone. *carefully turns Zveja around*

Zveja: *lifts his nose in the air and keeps sniffing*

Tristram: Was he? *glances at the twins*

Yestin: *looks pointedly at the sky* Do you think it will rain this evening?

Garan: It was only a few pine cones.

Lyneth: *looks shy and has gone back to being silent*

Gwenifer: She is; always has one eye on him while she does her mending and singing to him when they are alone. *smiles*

Rousen: What is the Cubbadryt?

Hakor: Hm? Oh, no. I think Tesmir just added on the titles for fun.

Rousen: Ah. You enjoy feeding the birds?

Kedmir: *Nods and imitates Aderyn* How do I make her go?

Orrun: *Watches Zveja warily*

Tilmere: *Smiles* Tesmir was asking for it, though.

Tesmir: *Sneaks back, slipping the fish into his jacket* A few pinecones? Your sister nearly killed me with them.

Jek:

Rune: *Smiles* Do you enjoy singing, Lyneth?

Braith: That is the name of the swamp land.

Blodwyn: Oh, I see. What does your family do?

Braith: Sometimes. I like the small birds.

Aderyn: A nudge behind the elbow. *lets Zveja follow his nose*

Zveja: *begins sniffing toward Tesmir*

Tristram: *chuckles and shakes his head* At least one in every family, aye?

Garan: That's still only a few pinecones.

Lyneth: *nods*

Rousen: Ah, I see. Is it a big swamp?

Hakor: We used to deal with merchant trading, especially overseas to the other countries. But after our parents died, we - or at least the older ones - took work where we can find it. Rune works with a metalsmith, and Tilmere is learning to do something that involves politics. I try to understand, but it's all foreign to me.

Rousen: *Nods* Your sister likes the big ones, and you like the small ones. A nice balance.

Kedmir: *Nudges Rits behind her elbow*

Tesmir: *Eyes Zveja warily* Don't you dare.

Tilmere: *Laughs* Aye. I often wonder how long our mother could have handled him before just giving up on him.

Tesmir: So? It felt like more than that. P(

Rune: What do you like to sing best?

Braith: *nods* It goes on for miles.

Blodwyn: Oh my. *looks saddened* When did you lose them?

Rits: *ambles forward*

Zveja: *bumps Tesmir with his nose, smelling him*

Aderyn: He senses something about you. *to Kedmir* That's the way.

Tristram: All too familiar from when I was young. *smiles*

Lyneth: *just scrunches her shoulders more*

Gwenifer: Can you tell him the song, Lyn?

Rousen: Wow. Has anyone explored it all?

Hakor: About fifteen years ago. I don't remember them well, but some of the older ones do. Jek does, but only because he saw it happen. *Smiles faintly* Don't look sad. They did what they thought was right.

Kedmir: *Yelps when he starts swaying side-to-side! but manages to stay balanced.* *Turns Rits about carefully* This is so different from a horse.

Tesmir: *Pushes Zveja's nose away* Leave off, you. I don't have anything. *Backs up warily*

Orrun: *Looks at his brother suspiciously*

Tilmere: *Laughs* I've been told I was just as bad, but I refuse to believe I could have caused as much grief to our parents Tesmir might have.

Tesmir: Grief? Tilmere, I am what keeps this family interesting!

Tilmere: Like I said.

Rune: *Smiles* I'll tell you one of my favorites if you tell me yours.

Braith: Trevelian and Aderyn have; and I believe the people of Jabil have somewhat. They have learned the plants of the Cubbadryt very well.

Blodwyn: You poor boys. *understands from his words that they were likely killed, but says nothing about it* Oh, hush. We're allowed to be saddened by loss. They are both a part of life.

Aderyn: Keep your back straight and move your hips with her rhythm. It might come a bit more easily then.

Garan: Yeah, Kedmir. Move your hips!

Trevelian: *swats him*

Yestin: *guffaws and ducks his brother's hand, then shuts his mouth*

Aderyn: *goes a bit red and and acts like nothing happened*

Zveja: *nudges Tesmir a bit more forcefully*

Aderyn: Are you certain of that?

Tristram: And let us hope that Talidor will not strive to outmatch his brothers in the realm of mischief, aye?

Yestin: Zveja thinks you're interesting.

Lyneth: ...

Gwenifer: Go on, Lyn. Can you hum your song for Rune?

Lyneth: *makes a quiet sort of a noise that might have been a note*

Rousen: Where is Jabil?

Hakor: *Smiles faintly* Tilmere's taken care of us. And Rune. Someday, when the emperor is gone, we'll be able to go back to the house most of us were raised in during our younger years.

Tesmir & Orrun: *Snickers*

Kedmir: *Face reddens, but forces a smile and does as instructed. For about a second he exaggerates his movement before trying to turn Rits.*

Tesmir: Oi, go away! *Shoves Zveja's nose away and steps quickly away, but his face has gone a little pale.*

Tilmere: *Laughs* You never know. Two mentors could produce quite the student.

Tesmir: *Glares at Yestin* Well, I'm not interesting to Zevja.

Rune: *Smiles* Maybe I go first? Then you?