"Joe" nods,

<!--coloro:blue--><span style="color:blue"><!--/coloro-->"Good. According to Doc's calculations, you and I must go, various others are highly desirable. Eve absolutely can not go."

"And I'll spare you the details until we're done here. Doc has spent a fair amount of time creating this and he'll want several days prep to go over everything. Other than that he's ready, the only reason he hadn't put that plan into opperation was he didn't know whether or not he should."<!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc-->

Asche speaks again after a minute quiet and finishing his brandy.

"Well, Kara told me you're here to do some kind of research? You are welcome to use the terminals here if its the kind of research you do, or if you need to talk to people, I am sure I can get you some face time with the right people."

{{With that the room can settle a bit and we can get on with the story. We can carry on the dialogue OOC in TABLE TALK if there are somethings you want to tie up. A few of you can go to the terminals to research or you can let Asche in on what you are doing and he might be able to recommend some one, unlikely but not impossible.}}

Joe says,

<!--coloro:blue--><span style="color:blue"><!--/coloro-->"It isn't what we came to do, but I understand Reaa & Tonya are here abouts? If so I'd like to talk to them about Lily's death, there are some oddities about it that I'd like to at least attempt to clear up."<!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc-->

Asche says to Joe with a grin;
"I am sure they would love to meet you Joe, especially knowing you wanted to ask them something I was incapable of answering."

Asche produces fomr one of his pockets a slender crystalline tube and hands it to Joe.
"Their staying in Room 375, Spoke 3. This will let you into the old residentil district where they reside when their here. If their not in their domicile, use the drone to fetch them and they ought to return with haste."

{{we can do this in or out of character. Just give the word.}}

Joe takes the crystalline tube and heads for that location.

After Joe leaves, Allison nods and says, "Anyone here good with computers? I mean, -really- good? The location of the door to Nommikos is somewhere in the station's files, but I'm sure that kind of data is very carefully protected, or else everyone would know by now. The good news is that you'll have help. I'm pretty sure that as long as you give me a little time, I should be able to feel the consequences of what you're about to do before you do it...hopefully that'll give us the edge we'll need."

"That said, I'm no hacker. Not even with 20th Century technology...let alone alien computers from the year fourteen-thousand. Someone else'll have to do the meat of it."

<!--fonto:Century Gothic--><span style="font-family:Century Gothic"><!--/fonto--><!--sizeo:3--><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo-->Joe and leaves the room and makes a right turn following the location directions on the wall. It does not take him more than 5 minutes to get to the section where he needs to be but his path does pass through areas where recruiters are drafting for Raekes.

Among the invites are;

<!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--sizeo:3--><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo-->"Sign up and be one of the first to witness the awe of the Nova's first hand. Any combat level welcomed with full assurance of no lasting harm."

"Sign up to outlast one of the infamous Neu-terran and receive a fortune in your currency!"

It appears that the recruiters got at least one Nova to sign up and now their looking for a competitor.

{{assuming Joe continues past the recruiters…….}}

Another 5-7 minutes later the path turns to what appears to be cobblestone roadway straight out of old England. The 3-4 story building on either side are well kept and authentic to the era with only some few random accouterments that betray alien origin. A double check on the address tube/key and Joe is assured he is on the right block and he finds the doors to the building a few blocks later. There are a trio of men at the front of the steps, one is standing while the other two set abreast each other blocking the stairs. They are wearing light cotton clothing and might fit right into Old England if not for their smooth pearl-crystalline bracers on one or both arms and their matching orbs of the same material around their necks.

{{Joe is the only other person on the block right now save for a merchant closing up shop some 50 yards past the men. The ceiling is well over 100 feet and a light fall breeze is blowing in with a very convincing light salty scent from off the ocean. The men do not go out of the way to make eye contact but if Joe approaches, one sitting will get up and allow him to pass to the door without more than a polite head nod.}}<!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--fontc--></span><!--/fontc--><!--sizeo:3--><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--> <!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec-->

”Joe” thinks, <!--coloro:#FF0000--><span style="color:#FF0000"><!--/coloro-->*Right, like I’ll just hang a big sign over my head saying ‘Here! Temporal Manipulator is right here! Ban breaking in progress, better look him up after the match!*<!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc-->


”Joe” thinks, <!--coloro:#FF0000--><span style="color:#FF0000"><!--/coloro-->*Bodyguards? With orbs and bracers?*<!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc-->

Joe moves to the door like he belongs there and is on offical business, nodding to the men as he passes. Upon reaching the door he looks to ring a bell or knocker or some such.

Joe notices a small depression on the side of the doors that matches the tip edge of the crystalline tube. Placing the tube in the slot folds space a mometn and he finds himself on the otherside of the doors. The men are still glancing his way but are doing a professional job at not being obvious in watching Joe. They are definately gyarding the doors and seeing to that nothing goes amiss. They are not seemingly worried about peopel that can enter the doors like Joe adn they look away as he steps toward what appears to be an elevator across the 30' x 60' lobby.

The Elevators are also activated via a similar depression on the side of the wall. Another notch lies on this side of the doors used for entry. The tube needs ot be used for exits as well.

Rama replies,

<!--coloro:#4169E1--><span style="color:#4169E1"><!--/coloro-->"Unless someone wants to volunteer, I'll like to take a stab a stab at it..."<!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc--> He smiles confidently. :rolleyes:

"Best I can do is 21 century intrusion. This is well outside my kin, so if you think you can handle it that's what we can go with. Do we have an similar systems that we could get him used to the interface and sample security measures?"

Smite waits for a response, then it occurs to him.

"A moment please."

Sneaking out after Joe, he tried to pick up any observation or tales that he might have picked up. It was a good way to smoke out anyone who was onto you and keep operatives save. He notices the sign for the fight, and files that away for later. He'd consider it, if they could fit it into the schedule, as this could lead them to the other groups of novas and possibly a distraction in way of a Coin Drop.

<!--fonto:Times New Roman--><span style="font-family:Times New Roman"><!--/fonto--><!--sizeo:3--><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><!--fonto:Verdana--><span style="font-family:Verdana"><!--/fonto-->StarHaven
11:00 hours
Tuesday, December (Suruan) 14, 498 CY
<!--coloro:#ff8c00--><span style="color:#ff8c00"><!--/coloro-->Participants: Allison, Smite, Chronos, Whisper, Rama, Glean, Kara.<!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc--><!--coloro:#ff8c00--><span style="color:#ff8c00"><!--/coloro--> <!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc--><!--fontc--></span><!--/fontc-->

The systems are a series of three-dimensional arrays and a few flat panel monitors. The crystalline panels and projectors spring to life when activated and are completely silent. The computer room stands alone and has 4 terminal areas in a square around each other. Asche’s system has several means of input. One is the typical keyboard interface but with well over 300 keys. The second form is a means of connecting with a cybernetic implant and the GUI of the system, like decking in or literally a direct feed between user and machine. Thirdly, is a small electro static sensor that you place behind one of your ears. This method acts as a form or artificial cyberkinesis and allows the user to enter a more direct 3D aspect of the systems. The third method is obviously for one with some level of training but Rama ought to be able to work wonders with method one, or with less than an hour of implementation, he can setup some of his equipment to adapt and form an artificial cybernetic interface.<!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--fontc--></span><!--/fontc-->

<!--fonto:Times New Roman--><span style="font-family:Times New Roman"><!--/fonto--><!--sizeo:3--><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--> <!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--fontc--></span><!--/fontc-->

<!--fonto:Times New Roman--><span style="font-family:Times New Roman"><!--/fonto--><!--sizeo:3--><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><!--coloro:#0000ff--><span style="color:#0000ff"><!--/coloro-->{{Method one and Rama will have his full skill but this method is going to be slower. Method 2 will be much faster but will merit a minor penalty. Method three is doable but for a heavier penalty and it will be much faster when it works. Imagine method three as a form of MATRIX where the user will interact with all the constructs of the system live and more or less be transported to another world.<!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc--><!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--fontc--></span><!--/fontc-->

<!--fonto:Times New Roman--><span style="font-family:Times New Roman"><!--/fonto--><!--sizeo:3--><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><!--coloro:#0000ff--><span style="color:#0000ff"><!--/coloro-->Allison’s input with this will overall allow for many less false directions and allow for an overall bonus to all rolls while using any of the methods.}}<!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc--><!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--fontc--></span><!--/fontc-->

<!--coloro:#ff00ff--><span style="color:#ff00ff"><!--/coloro-->{{<!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc--><!--coloro:#ff00ff--><span style="color:#ff00ff"><!--/coloro-->Where are you heading, trying to pick up Joe?
Are you gonna shadow him or catch-up to him?}}
<!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc-->

{{ooc: I was planning on shadowing him briefly than doubling back. I want to make sure he didn't pick up a tail or any other kind of observation. }}

Glean would have offered to run the computer query, but he was too distracted by the departure od Joe and Smite.
*"Do they know what their getting into? Does Allison know what might happen here?*
He was plagued by conflicting mental self arguments but ultimately stays quiet and simply shadows Allison quietly.

The only thing you would note as to who gave him more than the usual atention is the men on the stairs. They do leave him alone however.

Joe enters with confidence and places his crystal into the far wall's notch.

<!--fonto:Times New Roman--><span style="font-family:Times New Roman"><!--/fonto--><!--sizeo:3--><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><!--fonto:Verdana--><span style="font-family:Verdana"><!--/fonto-->StarHaven
11:15 hours
Tuesday, December (Suruan) 14, 498 CY
<!--coloro:#ff8c00--><span style="color:#ff8c00"><!--/coloro-->Participants: Allison, Smite, Chronos, Whisper, Rama, Glean, Kara.<!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc--><!--coloro:#ff8c00--><span style="color:#ff8c00"><!--/coloro--> <!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc--><!--fontc--></span><!--/fontc-->

Joe inserts the crystal tube into the slot and the elevator transfers the feeling of upward movement into him. It last but 5 seconds and the opposite door he entered slides open to reveal a beautiful foyer. Walls on the right and left don 10-foot high paintings of some noble-woman in light plate armor; the subject of the art is in an obvious pose as if giving a speech to troops to boost morale. The rest of the entry-hall is lined with live plants and greenery. Opposite the elevator is an archway leading into a larger room where female voices can be heard talking. Joe cannot understand the dialect but he is sure he has heard Lathan speak it in some instances during his training. Once he comes past the archway and is seen (the elevator was silent), both women stop talking and look Joes way.<!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--fontc--></span><!--/fontc-->

<!--fonto:Times New Roman--><span style="font-family:Times New Roman"><!--/fonto--><!--sizeo:3--><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo-->One of the women is obviously related to both Toya and Lathan, traits of both are apparent in her features; the above shoulder cut dark hair with an almost artificial silver streaks in it, the full almond shaped eyes, the stunning beauty, all are reflecting the fact that this woman is Tonya Rathien.<!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--fontc--></span><!--/fontc-->

<!--fonto:Times New Roman--><span style="font-family:Times New Roman"><!--/fonto--><!--sizeo:3--><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo-->The second woman stands about 6-foot even, maybe two-inches below Tonya's height. She too has darker hair, possibly brunette and wore very long but pulled into a tight braid behind her back. Her facial features are rough, almost masculine, possibly brought on by many years of life but she too possesses an almost inhuman level of charisma if not raw good-looks. Her eyes are no larger than normal but are a strikingly bright purple and her skin is Caucasian but heavily tanned.<!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--fontc--></span><!--/fontc-->

<!--fonto:Times New Roman--><span style="font-family:Times New Roman"><!--/fonto--><!--sizeo:3--><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo-->Both women are standing near a large table and are wearing parts of light plate armor; upper thigh, shin, upper arm; the rest of their armor is stacked up on two nearby chairs. Their light cotton long-sleeve shirts reveal their athletic forms. They are both talking about the large relief map spread out on the table.
<!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--fontc--></span><!--/fontc-->
<!--fonto:Times New Roman--><span style="font-family:Times New Roman"><!--/fonto--><!--sizeo:3--><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo-->The older woman speaks something with a commanding tone and takes a few steps, almost defensive toward Joe but is instantly put at ease by Joes non-threatening demeanor. After a short pause and understanding that he is failing to understand, she says in a perfect English accent;<!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--fontc--></span><!--/fontc-->

<!--fonto:Times New Roman--><span style="font-family:Times New Roman"><!--/fonto--><!--sizeo:3--><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo-->"How can I help you?"<!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--fontc--></span><!--/fontc-->

<!--fonto:Times New Roman--><span style="font-family:Times New Roman"><!--/fonto--><!--sizeo:3--><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo-->The meaning behind her words is and the stressing of the word 'I' , are saying "address me and Tonya or there is going to be trouble.<!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--fontc--></span><!--/fontc-->

<!--fonto:Times New Roman--><span style="font-family:Times New Roman"><!--/fonto--><!--sizeo:3--><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo-->-------------------------------------------------------------<!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--fontc--></span><!--/fontc-->

<!--fonto:Times New Roman--><span style="font-family:Times New Roman"><!--/fonto--><!--sizeo:3--><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo-->Meanwhile back in the Rathien apartments, Rama is busy researching with his precog backup. He has already avoided half a dozen dead-switches which would have destroyed the terminals or shorted out his wet-ware, at least this according to Allison. He is busy navigating the lines here and there with nothing more than the words Nomikos as a key. Rama has already picked up several words in the k'ta'viiran tongue that the stations systems are written in and is quick on his way somewhere. He believes it's a data module deep within the core of the station. Then he meets some resistance.
<!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--fontc--></span><!--/fontc--><!--fonto:Times New Roman--><span style="font-family:Times New Roman"><!--/fonto--><!--sizeo:3--><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo-->
<!--fonto:Times New Roman--><span style="font-family:Times New Roman"><!--/fonto--><!--sizeo:3--><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--fontc--></span><!--/fontc-->The code and structure around him seems to be being re-written as he goes. It is as if another hacker is on the system attempting to counter Rama's approach. This rewriting of the code keeps going on but Allison is able to keep him from getting written out, but barely. Allison informs Rama that it's the station itself, Ta'Hean itself is trying to stop Rama. She is also able to discern (or Whisper is through other means) that the station is in Rama's head acting on the same thing he is but milliseconds before. It is only Allison with her guidance, although verbal, that allows Rama to continue.<!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--fontc--></span><!--/fontc--><!--fonto:Times New Roman--><span style="font-family:Times New Roman"><!--/fonto--><!--sizeo:3--><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--> <!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--fontc--></span><!--/fontc-->
<!--fonto:Times New Roman--><span style="font-family:Times New Roman"><!--/fonto--><!--sizeo:3--><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo-->
<!--fonto:Times New Roman--><span style="font-family:Times New Roman"><!--/fonto--><!--sizeo:3--><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--fontc--></span><!--/fontc-->-----------------------------------------------------------------
<!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--fontc--></span><!--/fontc--><!--fonto:Times New Roman--><span style="font-family:Times New Roman"><!--/fonto--><!--sizeo:3--><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo-->
<!--fonto:Times New Roman--><span style="font-family:Times New Roman"><!--/fonto--><!--sizeo:3--><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--fontc--></span><!--/fontc-->Smite is approaching the raeke recruiter and standing in the short line. People about him give lingering glances, especially when he moves but are not brazen enough to make eye contact. When he get to the small recruiter sitting behind the desk, he is presented with choices on a check box card,<!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--fontc--></span><!--/fontc-->

<!--fonto:Times New Roman--><span style="font-family:Times New Roman"><!--/fonto--><!--sizeo:3--><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><!--coloro:#4169e1--><span style="color:#4169e1"><!--/coloro-->First, describe what you are Raeking for, power, fame, changins states, or simply to show how good you really are.<!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc--><!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--fontc--></span><!--/fontc-->

• <!--fonto:Times New Roman--><span style="font-family:Times New Roman"><!--/fonto--><!--sizeo:3--><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><!--coloro:#4169e1--><span style="color:#4169e1"><!--/coloro-->Power Raeke. No holds barred. What you go in with is what you get to use. NO restrictions<!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc--><!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--fontc--></span><!--/fontc-->
  • <!--fonto:Times New Roman--><span style="font-family:Times New Roman"><!--/fonto--><!--sizeo:3--><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><!--coloro:#4169e1--><span style="color:#4169e1"><!--/coloro-->State the level of protection or security you would like, from 1 to 10. 1 is little to no security; if you die we will notify next of kin. 10 is instant recovery to a humiliating defeat; we will notify kin of your cowardice.<!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc--><!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--fontc--></span><!--/fontc--></li>
• </li>
• <!--fonto:Times New Roman--><span style="font-family:Times New Roman"><!--/fonto--><!--sizeo:3--><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><!--coloro:#4169e1--><span style="color:#4169e1"><!--/coloro-->Conditional Raeke. You declare the style of combat be it hands, guns, snowballs, eetc and your opponent declares the level of security.<!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc--><!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--fontc--></span><!--/fontc--></li>
• <!--fonto:Times New Roman--><span style="font-family:Times New Roman"><!--/fonto--><!--sizeo:3--><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><!--coloro:#4169e1--><span style="color:#4169e1"><!--/coloro-->Free and open Raeke. You stand ready to challenge any opponent as the arena coaches see fit. This is the most challenging as it will likely test areas you have forgotten about; there is simply no telling what you might be called to do. The degree of power and security is determined by the audience and coaches.<!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc--><!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--fontc--></span><!--/fontc--><!--fonto:Times New Roman--><span style="font-family:Times New Roman"><!--/fonto--><!--sizeo:3--><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--> <!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--fontc--></span><!--/fontc--></li>

<!--sizeo:3--><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><!--fonto:Times New Roman--><span style="font-family:Times New Roman"><!--/fonto-->The third option is what Smite is directed to check if he wants to be challenger against the Nova Champion.<!--fontc--></span><!--/fontc--><!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec-->

"Call it pride. I want to see if this Nova has what it takes."

He checks the third box and smiles at the Raek coordinator. He has a wide variety of weapons stored on his person, but it will likely be his skills that will win the day. And honestly, it would be good to get a bead on this champion.

<!--fonto:Verdana--><span style="font-family:Verdana"><!--/fonto-->StarHaven
11:15 hours
Tuesday, December (Suruan) 14, 498 CY
<!--coloro:#ff8c00--><span style="color:#ff8c00"><!--/coloro-->Participants: Allison, Smite, Chronos, Whisper, Rama, Glean, Kara.<!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc--><!--coloro:#ff8c00--><span style="color:#ff8c00"><!--/coloro--> <!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc--><!--fontc--></span><!--/fontc-->

“Joe” alters his stance and bearing and it’s like switching on a light. Here is someone of importance, of significance, of bearing, and of power. Technically it’s one of Doc’s tricks, but only technically. {Awe Inspiring: On}

Joe responds with regal bearing and poise,

<!--coloro:blue--><span style="color:blue"><!--/coloro-->”You can tell me what you know and observed of the death of Lilysivana. I have been a very old friend of hers and Asche Lonn said I should speak to you about the details of her death.”<!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc-->


(OOC: Joe will active Trickster and/or Persuader as appropriate)

The older looks impressed, if not at least awed, at Joe and his smooth reply. He holds himself well against those of high status. Tonya makes eye contact with Joe as well at this pivotal moment and Joe is able to percieve 'energies" flow around both the women and between them. Ultimately it is the older who replies.

"You could be counted as rude in some cultures not introducing yourself, but you use an odd mixture of names, ancient and new. With that you have earned some latitude."

She motions Joe in and approaches him. Her hand shake is offered.
"I am Reaa Corsair, master at arms,the Knights of Loran. "
She words her title not with arrogance, but with respect, as if its her call to make sure 'Loran' is said aloud.

Tonya in the mean time has also left the table they were around just after spreading a cloth over the top of it gracefully and discretely. Her footwork is so light and graceful it nearly perfectly reflects that of her dead mother. Joe reply some memories of similar moments when Lathan was observed by him walking with such grace.

"Have a seat. Please, and let me offer you refreshment. What will you have, wine or water?"
Tonya's words come with a similarly pleasing voice as her mother, but with much more caution, possibly wisdom, behind it. SHe pours whatever Joe asks for and join him sitting opposite him in the four corner sofa arrangement. As she hands him the dring in an elegant goblet, she says;

"I am Tonya Rathien, but you already know that."

{{Pending on how Joe returns the greeting and such, I will continue the conversation.}}

<!--fonto:Verdana--><span style="font-family:Verdana"><!--/fonto-->StarHaven
11:15 hours
Tuesday, December (Suruan) 14, 498 CY
<!--coloro:#ff8c00--><span style="color:#ff8c00"><!--/coloro-->Participants: Allison, Smite, <strike>Chronos</strike>, Crumble, Whisper, Rama, Glean, Kara.<!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc--><!--fontc--></span><!--/fontc-->

Joe shakes hands and gives a slight wince at the accusation of rudeness. They're right, he'd gotten in the bad habit of assuming everyone recognized him. He answers them,

<!--coloro:blue--><span style="color:blue"><!--/coloro-->"Water would be good thank you. And I am Joseph Crumb, aka Crumble, former nova elite of Earth. Please call me Joe."<!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc-->

(To Tonya, in response to her saying that Joe already knew who she was) <!--coloro:blue--><span style="color:blue"><!--/coloro-->"Yes, I do. You look and move a great deal like her."<!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc-->

"Thats the benefits of having parents like mine I guess." Tonya smiles as she sits and delivers the water.

Reaa gives a nod to Tonya and then has a seat in a strategicly sound position, not too close to Joe but close enough should he make a sudden move. But she is also positioned away from the discussion circle.

"I will be direct with you, as a friend since I know you are sincere. From our stand over here Joe, were nearly at an impass. Some in the know on PLanet Rathien, where our Palace is,{referring to the Light Wielders, Joe already knows this much, she does not clarfiy.} are not even willing to negotiate with Asche. They know of his original purpose, to build up the terran empire, and would question the loyalty to the House of an Avatar. Some even feel that his projects are somehow tied only to the support of the terran empire. Nova's cant be counted on to do anything more."

Tonya smiles as if to say; 'Thats how some feel but..' Then she continues.

"Our family { the 12 children of Kenton and Lathan} however breathes different air. Some of us were at our fathers side when he left this time a few years ago, and we know better. But you of all people should understand politics and how the governors need to consider the thoughts of the governed. We are on unstable ground and need to be very discrete in how we lend our support. At least for now"

{{Tonya is speaking as if she knows Joe and has a long time. Logic says she read something, possibly what Lathan left behind in a memoir, and even expected this meeting in time. She is not being rude or arrogant in any manner, but she is being forward. It is hard not to see her mother in her eyes}}

<!--fonto:Verdana--><span style="font-family:Verdana"><!--/fonto-->StarHaven
11:15 hours
Tuesday, December (Suruan) 14, 498 CY
<!--coloro:#ff8c00--><span style="color:#ff8c00"><!--/coloro-->Participants: Allison, Smite, Crumble, Whisper, Rama, Glean, Kara.<!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc--><!--fontc--></span><!--/fontc-->

Joe nods in understanding and comments,

<!--coloro:blue--><span style="color:blue"><!--/coloro-->"Ah politics. The French have a saying, <!--fonto:Century Gothic--><span style="font-family:Century Gothic"><!--/fonto-->"The more things change, the more they remain the same."<!--fontc--></span><!--/fontc--> I understand your situation and won’t ask for more than you can give. I would just like to talk about a mutual friend no longer with us.”

“As for my own situation… I have no concern for, much less allegiance to, the Empire. They weren’t even an idea when I left the planet. Your mother befriended me and went out of her way to teach me, and now I find that she’s gone.”

“Worse, the more I learn about how she died the more I find questions and not answers. This was obviously a planed assassination, but it’s not even clear to me that the Knights of Lesture were the ones who did the deed although they flew their colors. Someone snuffed her out like a candle, and my impression is that they totally got away with it.”<!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc-->

Tonya and Reaa are both notably surprised at the conclusion that Lathan was assassinated. It's also not hard for Joe to tell that they both share the same thoughts on the matter.

"A candle she was indeed Joseph." Readd adds in a solemn tone.

Both her and Tonya glance at eash other a short moment and thne back at Joe. It is finally Tonya that speaks after a long pause in thought. It is apparent she is skipping following a logical conversational path as she is assuming Joe knows more than he is alluding.

"My mother chose her successor well in you Joseph, and as usual she is able to act with temporal insight. She must also beleive she was assassinated as well but....."

Tonya stands and asks Joe to come with her.

"Reaa, will you please get the blades."
Reaa rolls up her left sleeve and reveals a crystalline-like pearl arm bracer. She places her right hand on it and vanishes.

"While she gathers the evidence, I want to let you know something. Our orbs.."
She fingers a small orb tight about her neck on a slender silver chain. It is the same size the Incarnates would be and identical save for color; this one is of transparent pearl.
"..were forged by Khamylyon, Khay, and Khayn in concert. Nothing short of their combined power can harm them or make them act out fo their design."

Stll fingering the orb about her neck, she gently pulls on it and it disincorporates another identical orb such that one is now in her hand but the one on her neck is still there. This betrays the fact that she has a Lord Orb on her neck.

"These orbs in particular, and here I am referring to Light Laen, or Lelayan orbs, can only be used by ones sworn to Khamylyon or by ones the Goddess herself has gifted them upon. They are no more that expensive trinkets to any other."

That same moment, the orb she produced shifts form into a small hatchet. Tonya flips the handle around in her hand and offers it to Joe. Once he takes it from her it reverts to the orb he saw moments ago.
Reaa materializes with a bundle in her arms and steps to the table Tonya and Joe are now at in an adjoining room.

Tonya goes on.
"The same goes for any od the Denlayan weapons; even if we as Loranic knights cannot make the orbs useful if its not ours or not our color. The weapons always revert back to the orb state when touched by any other.

She steps and gestures to the bundle that Reaa just placed down. Reaa unwarps it to reveal found long blades and two short curved ones; the shorter are akin to the saracen sword of ancient earth while the other four are simply long-swords. All however are made of Denlayan. Tonya grabs one fo the long swords and hefts it.

"No change to orb state. Not even a hint that it might or even that it was once an orb. These are simply weapons designed to give the appearance that the wielder is a Lesturic Knight."