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Post by Azonthus on Mar 8, 2005 22:34:17 GMT -5
Turner neophite (9/23/04 12:57 pm) 64.244.161.60 The last hour Captain Quigley wiped the moisture from his radio. It had taken nearly two hours, but the rain had cleared. He reholstered it and looked at his group of nearly a dozen men. They stood silently awaiting his next order. "Delivery Team, stand down" He said firmly. The six men complied and retreated to the rear of the group. "Gate keeper, open exterior gates"
Diego Valdez, a middle-aged hispanic man stepped forward towards the huge 80 ft titanium gates. He swiped his keycard through the mounted data-consul. He typed in a nine-digit code and swiped his card once more. The alarm light at the highest point of the gates began flashing green. The huge doors creaked and began to slide to the left and right, into the sculpted rocks and re-enforced metal alloy perimeter fence that stopped just a tad shorter than the gates. Quigley noted that the inhabitants of this pen were being especially quite tonight. Usually even rapping upon the outer gates of this cage would bring a chorus of roars and groans. The doors finally opened to reveal a huge darkened sally-port. The warning lights of the second interior gate was just visable.
The Captain shook his head and lifted the whistle which hung around his neck up to his lips. He blew in an almost musical note. "You're Clear Ophelia!" He shouted.
From out the shadows, a huge grey and mottled blue Brachiosaurs limped into view. She stared down at the humans, who parted before her, forming a path into the sally-port. she craned her neck closer to the ground, looking at both groups, and then finally looking at Quigley and forcing a weak smile before nodding slowly. "Goodbye Friend" Quigley said solemly. The brachiosaur trumpeted softly before walking into the port.
Quigley wiped his eyes and turned to the older gentleman standing behind him. "Reverend..."
The graying man patted the Captain's shoulder has he walked past. He walked the same path the giant had taken, and disappeared behind her into the darkened area.
Reverend Young walked slowly past the dinosaurs eighty-foot length. He stopped and patted her columnar right-front leg with his tiny mammalian hand. He stepped further in and removed a maintenace ladder from the side of the port. He sat the ladder up and climbed to the top. Her breathes came in loud shallow wheezes and the human knew the dinosaur must be in a tremendous amount of pain. From the darkness above him, Ophelia brought her slender neck and boxish head down to face him. The preacher caressed her snout in the same mannor one might pet the face of the gentle horse. There was a long silence and then both being closed their eyes and thanked the Creator for a long and full life. The preacher smiled warmly as he looked into the eyes of the gentle giant. He slowly began to recite the 23rd Psalm. "The Lord is my shepard, I shall not want.."
When he finished, the two prayed again and the Brachiosaurus brought her head in closer and nuzzled the human. She bleated a weak farewell in her native tongue before raising her neck and head back to their full height, some 70 feet above ground.She would never again be face to face with a human being.
Reverend Young climbed down from his perch and returned the ladder to it's place against the cold cement port walls. He exited the port.
Ophelia became slowly enveloped in darkness as the exterior gates closed. The darkeness was total for a only a few minutes before the interior gates began to open, the scents of the new paddock striking the powerful olfactory glands of the Sauropod.
She breathed deeply as she stepped through the last gate and down into the enclosure. The smells of the scrub forest were pleasant and reassuring. She mentally sorted the smells out, smells she had known well during her long life. They were the smells of plants and trees; of water on the ground and in the skies; of the small animals that lived among the tree branches. She knew she was being watched as well, for their scent was growing stronger. It was a scent she knew instinctively, the scent of a predator, the scent of an Allosaurus
She strode through the paddock slowly and regally. The Allosaurs following respectfully behind her in the shadows. She finally came to a soft fern-covered clearing in the forest. She knew her journey had come to an end. She slowly lowered herself down onto her large belly, sitting in much the same fashion as a large cow. As her old eyes grew accustomed to the darkness, she remembered her life.
Ophelia had been one of the first dinosaurs in Turner Park. Unlike other generations, she had not been genetically recreated, but rather imported from Dinotopia in a series of secret shipments that had brought many of the first inhabitants to park. She had been the matriarch of the Brachiosaur herd and revelled in the delights of her strange new world, emercing herself in new customs and taking to Christianity. She had led a long full life, but it was time for her to go home now. When she had been diagonosed with terminal pneumonia, Professor Turner had offered to send her back to Dinotopia so that she might pass in the ways of her ancestors. She politely said no and offered another solution, a solution that had come to be used by many of the park's inhabitants. She would give her body so that others might be nurished and grow. It worked in the basin of Dinotopia and now it worked in Turner Park.
She smiled to herself, totally at peace with the world as she stretched her neck up to view the moon and stars a final time. She eventually brought her neck back down and rested it along the cool floor of the clearing. Her body felt very light and she closed her eyes. She became still. Psyche02 neophyte Posts: 1 (9/23/04 6:30 pm) 65.38.215.216 Re: I'm in Rebecca couldn’t believe what just happened. She was going back home. She remembered that day five years ago when she had decided to leave, she remembered her tears on her face. She was so caught up into the feeling that tears started leaving her bright emerald eyes. Josh noticed and asked her if she was ok while all the others ambassadors looked at her. “Oh!, I’m fine, don’t worry dear. A lot of memories came into mind.” She said while smiling. Josh looked at her and forced a smile, he had no idea of how much his wife really missed her land. Rebecca knew the answer hadn’t satisfied her husband. So she got close to him and whispered to his ear: “I love you, and I don’t regret leaving. I just thought I would never see my beloved land again. I can’t believe this is really happening.”<br>Then Josh replied, “Well you better get used to it, ‘cause you ain’t dreaming, you will be in Dinotopia this time next month!” He was now back to his cheerful self. Rebecca was ecstatic. She was already counting the days, and daydreaming while Kha’ling resumed her talk.
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Post by Azonthus on Mar 8, 2005 22:34:35 GMT -5
Croco512 Aerial Protector of Dinotopia and Protector of All Saurians Posts: 154 (9/27/04 11:58 pm) 64.105.106.112 Re: The last hour (Sorry I haven't been posting...been busy finding and getting a new job. It's not much but it's something for now until I find something better or decide to go back to school. Anyway, before I go further, have the Dinotopian ambassadors left the park yet? The reason I ask is because there is something I wanna do with Croco and Cassie.....and we now return to our regularly scheduled program...)
Croco had listened to the radio traffic back in his room inside the Pilot's Quarters...he knew Ophelia quite well and had grown fond of her. Not because she was the matriarch of the brachiosaur herd...not because she was the mate of Icarus, a close personal friend of his...but because they met back home on Dinotopia and their friendship developed before she volunteered to head to the park. He listened...still, nothing...but he knew deep down that the moment was drawing nearer as he buried his head into the pillow on his bed and began to cry. The proud captain of the Skybax Patrol continued to weep for a few more minutes before he sat up, then rose to step outside. When he got out, the clouds had parted enough so that the moon, full and shining brightly, could peek through.
"Goodbye, Ophelia..." he sniffled, "I'll miss you, old girl..." Then he slowly troddled back up to his room and fell face-first into his pillow.
His piteous weeping was interrupted by a knock on the door. Croco invited the person that knocked into his room...which happened to be Kelly Rutaki. She stood there before him for a moment before wrapping her arms around him in a warm embrace.
"I know how hard it is to lose someone you really care about," she whispered as he returned the embrace, "Not too long ago, my mother lost her fight with liver cancer. She had been the driving force behind my life...if not for her, I probably wouldn't be here right now. She was the one that pushed me to pursue my dreams...and I will forever hold her in my gratitude." They held onto each other for about fifteen seconds longer before Croco pulled away and sat back down on the bed.
"You don't understand, Kelly...there's been too much death in my life over the past several years. First my grandpa and my father...then my brother...then the one that helped me find myself on the Island...and now this. It's not that I cared more about Ophelia than the others..." He opened his mouth to say something but Rutaki finished the sentence for him.
"...it's because you care for them that you grieve their loss. I know you told me the story about Nobella...I would've loved to have met her." She turned to see that familiar sour face that Croco makes when something pops into his head that is wrong in every sense of the word...they both knew that soon, it would be Icarus' time. Among brachs, the females usually outlive the males by about seven to ten years, mainly because the males spar at the start of the mating season for the best mating privileges. They usually fight by swinging their long necks and trying to strike the opponent with their chest, but favor head-to-head blows as a mean of intimidation. Rarely do they fight to the death; usually after a short while, one of the males tires or decides that he's had enough and bows out...when that happens, the victor rears up and bellows in triumph before stomping the ground with his front paws, which can be felt for miles.
Rutaki stopped and rose to her feet again. "I'm sorry, Croco...is there anything that you want? A snack or a book or anything of that nature?" Croco shook his head, which surprised the young woman but she understood. She knew that it would be best to leave him alone to mourn...deep inside, she felt a sense of loss as well. But she also knew that Croco was especially sensitive and felt that he would be best if left by himself at a time like this, so she ruffled his head and excused herself, then slowly made her way back out into the residential hall before making the right-hand turn toward the stairs that lead to the Ready Room.
Turner neophite (9/28/04 9:57 pm) 64.244.161.58 Home Security As a master thief, "Catman" Abreo had no problems slipping through the Turner's Crown-of-thorns fence and crossing the back acreage of the estate. He laughed to himself when he jimmied the back door open and found no indication of an alarm system. "Ah,the arrogance of the rich. They think they're untouchable" He thought.
As he strode into the dark house, a massive shadow moved under the far cypress trees and a pair of yellow glowing eyes watched his movement
He moved from room to room, helping himself to Rebecca's jewels, silverware and crystal vases. He took DVD's, both of Josh's watches and the Sunstone that sat atop the mantel of the fireplace. Of course he didnt know what it was, only that someone, somewhere might want to buy it. Someone would want to buy all of this.
He made minimal disturbances among the other household items. He left no prints, moved in silence and finally left the home just as he had found it, even re-locking the door behind him. He crossed through the backyard and back into the forest. He congratulated himself on a job well done but then heard heavy footsteps behind him. He stood still and waited.The noise stopped. He began walking again, only this time he heard a gutteral snarl. His walk turned into a run. He darted between the trees, the massive animal still close behind. He ran harder and faster than he'd ever moved before. He stopped when he reached the fence, only to catch his breath. He listened and listened. He heard nothing, only the beating of his heart.
He waited and waited. Perhaps he had just imagined being chased. Yes, that must be it. He never really saw anything, the eeryness of this land must have gotten to him. Who the hell has big wierd plants and an entire forest in their backyards. He shrugged it of, laughing as he stepped forward. He gave the home an obscene gesture in the dark and yelled a profanity. He turned back to face the fence. Instead, finding himself staring into large yellow eyes and fangs gleaming in the moonlight, fetid breath rushing out to great him. He dropped the bag, his black pants suddenly became warm and wet. He tried to move, he wanted to move, but he couldnt. His knees suddenly became very weak and he collasped, fainting at the hooves of the Andrewsarchus.
Goliath knew that this man was unwelcome on this property and on some levels even knew that he was a thief. He looked down at the man and considered what he should do. Rebecca had fed him a side of beef this morning, so he was really not that hungry. He sniffed the man before picking him up and placing him through the hole in the fence. He entangled the leg of the human in the fence so that when he came to, he would have a devil of a time getting loose. He decided that if he was gone by the time the Turners returned, he would let the man go, If not, he'd drag the man up to the house.
He snorted, marked the man as his territory and then picked up the bag of stolen items at trotted off back into the darkeness
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Post by Azonthus on Mar 8, 2005 22:34:51 GMT -5
Turner neophite (9/30/04 4:15 pm) 64.244.161.62 Fired Up Alison scampered back and forth across the nursery, the tiny dragon hot on her heels, barking in excitement. They'd been playing chase for nearly an hour and the infant showed little signs of fatigue. Alison on the other claw, had to stop now and again to catch her breath. She slid to a halt and panted, the baby collided with her ankle and caused her to lose balance. She collasped ungracefully onto her belly.
She closed her eyes and giggled. She heard the scampering of little feet and was jolted as the baby rammed itself head first into her side. "Ouch!" She said, raising her neck up from the floor, turning towards her charge and mock-snapping her slender jaws at it. Perhaps if she showed she was not amused, the youngster would behave.
Her jaws snapped inches above the young animal. The baby squeeled, raised onto it's hindlegs, flapped its wings and spit a tiny fire ball up at the nurse. The flame engulfed the ends of her snout and Alison screamed, rolling over and standing up. The baby squeeled and fired again. She dodged the flame this time and lept over the nearby desk. From her new vantage point, she could no longer see the baby but as she cautiously stepped around to find him, a curious rustling sound arose. A moment later, the baby appeared, a full three-feet above the ground, hovering in place under it's clawed wings. Alison's eyed widened. Even baby pterasaurs couldnt fly this soon after birth!
The infant snorted and moved slowly towards the Nurseraptor. Alison watched in a mixture of fear and fascination. The baby chirped and landed gracefully upon the desk, first touching down on the hind legs and then lowering down to it's front legs. It folded its wings as it walked towards the big dinosaur. It looked around for a moment before scratching it's neck with the tiny-thumb spike of its front paw. He looked up at Alison with it's big hatchling/puppy-dog eyes. It had already come close to melting her jaws, now it was trying to melt her heart. Eskara1862 doyenne Posts: 1006 (10/6/04 11:15 pm) 64.12.116.17 Re: Turner Park; Mistaken Identity (Here you go, Josh! As promised, a new post=) Granted, it is an hour later than the day I had promised, but it is a new post! I re-formatted the computer! *does a happy dance* Everything is working so much better now.)
Atilla looked at her room with mild interest. The Turners had ordered an appropriate sized nestbed for her, and the room had a humidifer hidden behind some greenery. A fireplace provided most of the light in the room, although there was a lamp on a table next to her nest bed. To the left of the lamp was an elongated, oval thing. It was white in color, and smelled like plastic. It appeared to come apart in two pieces, and a long, twisting cord came out of one half and went into the other half. Picking up part of it, she heard a faint droaning, which increased in intensity as she put it next to her ear. Confused by it, she set it down and resolved to ask as to what the object was instead of possibly ruining something.
Growling a low song under her breath, Atilla carefully dug through her bag and searched out a scroll wrapped in triceratops skin and sealed with clay baked in an oven, creating a hardened tube for protection. The clay was tri-colored, red, black, and white, and the crest of the Sharpclaw was carefully pressed into either end of the tube. Something inside rattled, but she did not break the clay seal, despite her immense curiosity. The utahraptor had been given this to deliver to Azonthus, and she had no intention of jepordizing the peace between her clan and the Sharpclaw.
The large, tan and red theropod very carefully painted intricate swirls and stripes across her body with paint she re-constituted with water from the sink. She used a mirror, something never seen in the Basin, to make sure the pattern was as perfect as she could make it. Normally, in her clan, someone else would have done it for her. This particular pattern identified her as a member of the Grinda clan, from the southern Rainy Basin, and showed that she was an ambassador from Dinotopia. However, the code could only be read by either a fellow Basin theropod, or someone very well versed in carnosaur culture.
Nodding in satisfaction, she left her room in search of the other ambassadors. Turner neophite (10/7/04 6:56 am) 64.244.161.59 Good OOC:Good Job Az, I like it. Sounds like you're leading up to something. Cant wait to see what it is. I'd post but I've got a long weekend with speaking gigs and museum work Turner neophite (10/12/04 7:08 pm) 64.244.161.58 something Dinner seemed to have lasted for an eternity. The Professor had forgotten about the Dinotopian custom of not speaking during meals. During drinks afterwards, more plans had been made and he had agreed to outfit the expediton with light weaponry as well as camping and spelunking equipment. Thoughts were already racing through his mind about what all should be purchased.
Then there were the new species. Perhaps he could aquire a few new species for the park.
But these thoughts would have to be pushed aside, there was much work to be done beforehand.
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Post by Azonthus on Mar 8, 2005 22:35:25 GMT -5
Turner neophite (10/12/04 9:11 pm) 64.244.161.58 more The next morning a cool wind greeted the Turner's as they left for work. Fall was fast approaching.
Josh dropped Rebecca at her office and left her with a kiss on the cheek before making a B-line to the Grand Theropod Hotel.
The doorman in his snazzy red suit and hat opened the door for Josh as he approached. Josh thanked the man and then walked into the plush lobby. The five-star hotel was unusually busy for this time of the day. Guests were everywhere. Some preparing for their excursion into the park, others checking in and out, some still enjoying the free breakfast buffet. The line at the counter was several people deep and rather than wait, Josh walked around the counter amidst the clerks and reached under the counter to withdraw the notebook showing those who had checked in yesterday. He made small talk with those not to busy and saw that the Park's latest celebrity visitors had indeed taken up residence in his private suite.
Josh left and made his way to the elevators. He pressed the up button twice and the doors eventually opened, revealling a man dressed in attire similar to the doorman's. "Hey Chuck!" Josh said as he stepped inside. "Top floor please. How's business?" He asked.
The young man grinned and said "Its got its ups and downs" The two laughed, sharing the same dumb joke they'd recited a million times before.
Josh left the elevator,slipping the man a couple bucks, and made his way down the hall to the largest suit.
He knocked on the large wooden doors. Santa answered moments later, a big smile on his face, corn-cob pipe hanging from one corner.
"Morning Guys!" Josh said as Santa let him into the room. "Yall interested in visiting our reindeer herd today?" He asked. Eskara1862 doyenne Posts: 1008 (10/13/04 2:31 pm) 64.12.116.17 Re: Turner Park; Mistaken Identity The small velociraptor had yet to leave her post guarding Gareth; she knew all too well that the moment her back was turned, he would try something. His little act of sleeping didn't fool her.
Az looked up at the approach of the utahraptor ambassador. She instantly recognized Atilla as belonging to the Elldag clan in the southern Basin by the unique paint swirls and markings.
"Run Fast," Az greeted.
"Seek Peace. I have a message for you from the Sharpclaw."
Az smiled. It was just like her brother to ensure she would know what was happening with her clan. It'd been so long since she had been home, she doubted she'd even recognize everyone if she went back.
"Thank you," Az took the clay sealed scroll. What looked like carvings and decorations in the baked clay actually was a message to her, telling her to wait until she was alone to read it. She slipped it inside her cape and looked at Atilla again. "Would you like a seat? I still have some cookies left over. Gareth wouldn't play along and eat them. He'd rather eat his hat!"
Atilla shook her head. "No, I have to get back to the other ambassadors. I would suggest you get some rest soon; you may be coming back with us..."
Az nodded, but remained silent. She watched Atilla walk back into the rainy night, carefully holding the scroll in one hand and hardly able to keep herself from opening it. Turner neophite (10/13/04 7:21 pm) 64.244.161.58 Reply | Edit | Del LEADING UP TO SOMETHING Mr. Clause and Acbar had no trouble keeping up with Josh as he hiked through the forests of the Megaloceros habitat. Like every other enclosure in the park, this habit had been specially constructed to recreate the environments of the ancient animals. Studies had shown that the "Irish Elk" was a creature of the snowey forests and plains that had formed around the edges of ancient glaciers. This enclosure was even climate controlled by a state-of-the-art air conditioning system. This paddock felt like a perpetual November.
OOC; MORE WILL COME LATER
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Post by Azonthus on Mar 8, 2005 22:35:45 GMT -5
Eskara1862 doyenne Posts: 1009 (10/13/04 11:20 pm) 205.188.116.196 Joint post!- A conversation after the dinner Josh entered the kitchen of their home where he saw Rebecca and Az seated at the table. He poured himself a glass of juice and sat to join them. They ended their conversation about how Goliath had probably foiled a break-in.
"Call me crazy, but I think I might know what that new creature in the lab is." He said, waiting for a reaction.
"Really?" Rebecca said surprised.
"I think it's a baby dragon. But that’s crazy right?"
Az smiled, happy to have been relieved from her post with Gareth. She hated always being on guard around him, and they would not discuss the past or what had happened on Dinotopia to make Azonthus leave her clan. "Actually, I think you may be right."
"I wouldn’t know, dear. But I think that creature might be one of those from those caves Mr. O’Connor talked about."
He took a drink. "And that supports his other idea about the possibility of those animals spreading elsewhere in the world. But think about the controversy this will cause, they accuse us of inventing another species."
"Dear, I think it should be kept secret; it’s for the best," his wife replied.
He nodded his agreement.
"I mean, think of the media explosion it would bring. I don’t think we need that now, especially with that trip coming up," she added.
"You're exactly right." He said, shifting in his chair and putting his boots up on the table. "That could cause major problems.”<br> The little raptor spoke up. "You're going to have a hard time keeping a flying, fire breathing iguanodon quiet. The moment anyone finds out about something like that existing, your government will be down on you in a heartbeat."
"Not if only the extremely higher-ups know about it at first. But, what do we do with it when it grows up, if it grows up?"
“I forgot about the government. They might think it’s some kind of alien, experiment on him..."
"Which I wont have," he said, looking over at her.
Az growled at the boots on the table, disgusted by the very act.
"Yes, please, remove them from the table," Rebecca said scornfully.
Josh ignored the raptors growl, having heard accounts of her walking across the food rails at the cafeteria, but he couldn’t ignore his wife and did as she asked.
"Sorry, honey."
"I'm worried about the safety of the creature. And thank you very much, dear." She replied.
"He should be fine. We'll just put him in that spare paddock and raise the protective domes. Nobody will even know he's there. Are they any Dinotopian legends or accounts about animals like that?"
"I’ve heard some stories about fire breathing monsters and some mystical sea beasts. Also wraith-like people, but of course only stories. We have to make sure that no one knows about it," she replied with a serious face. Rebecca's face looked very pale, she was noticeably worried for the creatures’ safety and the zoo's safeguard.
"You're right. So far it’s just us, and a handful of head scientists and the nurse raptors." The room had suddenly become very serious.
"Lets talk about something else," he suggested.
"How was your day?" Rebecca tried.
"Long and full of paperwork. Yours?"
"Sounds exactly like mine. I did have a meeting with a guy from a kid's shelter; he wants to bring the kids over."
"And I got stuck with Mr. Chatterbox Save-the-world. Gee, lot of excitement there." Az perked up at the mention of kids. "I want to be there when they come!"
"By the way, he better not find out about our little dragon." Rebecca said realizing the danger it would mean.
Josh smiled. "Yeah, I think that would be great idea. Did he say which critters they'd want to see? And, what dragon?" Josh said with a wink.
"He just asked if he could get some kind of discount."
"I'll do better than that; we'll let them in for free."
“Just don't let the kids near the Struthi's again," Az warned. "You remember what happened last time, I hope."
"I knew you would say that! That’s why I love you!" She kissed her husband. "Az, you can be tour guide."
"And you two thought I was bad when Ezar and I were courting..."
Rebecca's eyes were glowing out of the excitement of having some kids for a whole day at her and Az's charge.
Josh enjoyed her kiss and then laughed at Az's remark. "Yeah, we've got to remember no shiny objects around ornithomimids.
"Anything else I can do for my beautiful wife this evening?" He asked "And our scaly best friend?"
"When are we going back to Dinotopia?" Having been away for so long, Az really missed her homeland and remaining family.
"In a month; although, I'm sending the ambassadors back next week on the Lone Star."
"And Gareth? We still have to deal with him."
"I have no idea," he said. "We could take him back with us, I suppose."
The raptor stared at him incredulously. "You mean I have to put up with him for another month?"
"Or, we could just make it look like he fell in Ariel's tank on accident," Josh laughed.
"Dear, that’s not nice!" Rebecca glared at him. "I say let Mr. O'Connor deal with him."
Az growled something under her breath that sounded something like, "He deserves it."
"Neither was breaking into our park and hurting Snippy and her family."
"You have to show him who the better person is."
"But Ariel needs to be fed! Please, honey? "
Sighing, Az came to his defense. "We still don't know what his supposed threat to Dinotopia is. We should let him out and allow him to talk to us before feeding him to the sharks."
"I think that's more reasonable."
"You're right, I guess. But, if he runs off or breaks anything else, I'm turning every predator in the park loose on him," Josh warned.
"That won't do any good. You two don't know him like I do. He and I go way back."
"Fill us in then, Az."
"Yes, please."
The raptors gaze focused on something other than the present, and she looked pained. She remained motionless for a moment before snapping herself back to reality. "I'd rather not."
"I don’t blame you," Josh said, patting her on the top of her head. "Guy seems like a real scumbag."
"But I will tell you this: you are underestimating him. He can and will get away from anything you two can throw at him. Only Dylan's powers and Gareth's debt to me keep him in line for now."
"Honey, Ariel won’t work."
"Why not? She's worked on all the other ones. Still, it's a good thing we got Dylan on our side," he said. He then looked at his wife, "I don’t suppose you have any powers you haven’t told me about?"
Az got up. "Ok! I know that look and know my cue to leave."
"I have the power of manipulation."
"I'll be outside in my tree house. See you all tomorrow."
Az just enjoyed teasing them, and had the ulterior motive of wanting to be in private when she opened her message from her clan. She didn't miss the look on Josh's face on her way out.
"Yeah, I forgot about that one," He said rolling his eyes. "Bye, Az," Josh called.
Rebecca now had a big smile on her face and couldn’t stop giggling. "Goodnight, Az."
"What? What’s so funny?"
"Your face." By this time she was getting up from her chair and approaching him.
"I should have left you on the island," he teased, watching her approach.
"Oh? Really?" Rebecca started walking away, ignoring her husband.
Josh reached over at the last moment and grabbed her hand as she passed. "But how could I leave the prettiest girl in all of Dinotopia?" he asked, pulling her back to him.
"I’m tired; I’m going to bed." she kissed him and slowly started walking away, leaving him standing alone in the kitchen.
"And then there was one," he said right before gulping his drink down. He stood up and left to follow her up stairs.
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Post by Azonthus on Mar 8, 2005 22:36:06 GMT -5
Tamith Evil Incarnated Posts: 11 (10/16/04 8:22 pm) 216.192.177.3 Starry nights “So move.”<br> Dylan stared at the small chess set he had borrowed from the visitors center and brought with him in order to keep himself and Gareth entertained. The other man simply stared in stoic silence. The fact that he disliked Dylan was nothing short of obvious.
“Ok,” Dylan said after waiting for a few minutes to no avail, “I’ll play for you again.” Having said that, one of the small, white bishops on the checkered board moved magically to check the black king on Dylan’s end.
“You checked me, now it’s my move,” he said and proceeded on moving one of his black knights protectively before his king and making sure the knight was guarded by his right tower. “Once again, your move.”<br> Nothing.
Dylan sighed. “I never thought I’d say this, but I’d rather play with Kael and have him beat me in three moves almost every time than play against myself…” he muttered.
“I know you don’t like me,” he continued this time for the other man to hear, “but have you ever considered that perhaps you’d be somewhat happier if you looked at the world through other people’s eyes every once in a while? Try being in my place, or in Professor Turner’s. Trust me, last thing I want is to keep you locked up in there like a common criminal, but as it goes you really haven’t proven to be very trust worthy, have you?” Dylan sighed. “And you probably don’t really care what I think, but I’m telling you anyways. I’m not even asking you to like me, but perhaps we should work together. You can join the club of people that want my head on a silver platter,” he said with a smirk, “I don’t mind at all, but lets at least get something out of it and do something constructive.”<br> He looked up at the starry night and smiled. The lights of the park dimmed the celestial orbs considerably but he didn’t care. These were the lights he had always turned to on dark nights, even if they were not arranged the same way as home under the effect of latitude. They had always been there from the beginning of his life and it was nice to know that time had not yet changed them enough to make a big difference on Earth were he was a witness to their radiance.
He would always allow his mind to wander as he considered them so he gave himself that simple pleasure then, knowing fully well that there wasn’t much conversation to be had from the other man. He couldn’t wait to return home. Even though he knew Mairi would probably also want his head when he told her was they were up to, but he’d take that chance. He missed his family; something that, all things considered, was strangely new to him. His smile widened. Perhaps Dinotopia had that effect on people. He had never enjoyed life like this, and even the pain life brought with it was worth it for the people he’d met, the places he’d seen, and the memories they had offered. The pain had been worth it this time, and he’d make sure to keep it that way for as long as he could. With friends and family like his by his side, he felt undefeatable. Croco512 Aerial Protector of Dinotopia and Protector of All Saurians Posts: 156 (10/17/04 2:30 pm) 64.105.106.46 A Surprise - Part 1 Rutaki flopped onto one of the couches in the Ready Room and sighed, thinking about the recent events as there were very few pilots still awake. She closed her eyes and thought hard, but it was short as she sat up and got an idea. Without the slightest hint of hesitation, she picked up a radio and tuned it to channel three, which was the channel for the ground staff. In the early days of the park, the security teams on the ground and what was then a very unorganized Skybax Patrol would play practical jokes and the radios were a vital part of their pranks. That all ended when Croco came aboard to take command of the Skybax Patrol; while he enjoyed a good laugh every now and then, he said that use of the radios would not be tolerated unless for strict business procedures. Any transmission deemed unnecessary was met with swift and harsh consequences.
Still, that meant nothing to Rutaki as she turned the channel. She immediately recognized the voice of Captain Quigley as he finished giving the final orders of Ophelia's departure. Waiting until a break in the communications, she closed her eyes again and said a quick prayer to herself...when she was done, the traffic had stopped long enough for her to get in.
"Captain Quigley, this is Kelly Rutaki at Airborne, over," she said. Quigley answered right away, but not in the tone that she was hoping for.
"What are you doing on this channel, Rutaki?" snapped Quigley, "You do know that the only two people in your unit that are allowed to say anything are Stewart and Hallaway...I'll be telling Captain Hallaway about this unauthorized transmission." She didn't quite understand why he would be upset, let alone reprimand her without giving her a chance to reason.
"But this is about Captain Hallaway!" protested the flier, "I'm starting to become worried about him...he's taking Ophelia's loss really hard." Quigley keyed the radio, but didn't say anything. He knew how hard Croco took deaths of people and saurians that were close to him. 'Touche', he thought as he tried to come up with something feasible to say. But then anouther thought came to his mind, then a wide grin.
"All right, listen to me," he said in a calm tone, "I'll need your help. I just finished talking to someone staying with the ambassadors and he said that we could do this. He knew a friend of someone that took in Hallaway when he washed ashore on Dinotopia so in a sense, he knows how he ticks. Meet me outside the main HQ in five minutes...I'll be waiting in a buddy's truck that he left to me for the weekend. And if you're out of uniform, don't bother changing, got it?" Rutaki, who was wearing a casual outfit of a white Turner Park ladies' work shirt and a pair of khakis, acknowledged his order and was already bolting out the door of the Ready Room.
She found a golf cart conveniently parked outside the Pilot's Quarters and wasted no time in taking the wheel and navigating it onto the path. Having been to the main headquarters several times at the request of Croco, Rutaki knew where it was and it took her close to the five minutes that Quigley gave her to get there. When she arrived, she saw a dark blue pickup truck waiting on the path for her with Quigley behind the wheel. A smile came on her face when she saw it was a brand new Ford F-150 as she parked the cart and made her way to the truck.
"Glad you could make it," Quigley told her as she climbed into the front passenger seat, "and I'm sorry I barked at you like that. I didn't know if what you wanted to say was important."
"Ahh, no worries, Captain," replied Rutaki, "I'm used to getting barked at every now and then." They both shared a laugh as Quigley put the truck in gear and drove down the path, which was the same ones that visitors traversed the park on. He knew they were wide enough for the vet team trucks, so it should be no problem for his friend's truck as Rutaki looked around a bit. "I see your friend has a good taste in trucks...my father bought a 2003 F-150 before I signed on to work here. What year is this?"
"It's a brand new '05, one of the first to arrive," Quigley said with a bit of pride. They talked a little bit about the truck before they came up to a gate with two towers overlooking it. A human guard along with a pair of security raptors approached the truck and asked what their business was, to which Quigley said, "I need to speak with Ambassador Castra. It's really important."
"What do you need to speak to her about?" the guard demanded. Quigley was infuriated.
"The only reason you're here is because I put you here, Bryant. And if you think you can question my authority, then I'll have you back to escorting pampered millionaire fat-asses around the park. Is that understood." A growl came from one of the raptors at the guard, to which Rutaki grinned. She knew that the raptor knew his place in the line as Bryant barked orders to open the gate. Quigley climbed back into the truck and winked at his passenger. "The raptor is smarter than the human; at least he knows not to question an order." They both laughed as he guided the truck into the heavily guarded area where the ambassadors were staying.
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Post by Azonthus on Mar 8, 2005 22:36:43 GMT -5
Turner neophite (10/20/04 8:03 pm) 64.244.161.56 Turner Park Speak Easy (more tomarrow) Josh blew his breath out as he reclaimed the drivers seat of the golf-cart. Santa climbed into next to him and Acbar stretched out in the back seats. Turner shook his head and watched as the huge metal doors to the Megaloceros paddock shut behind them. Several feet above the cart, the light changed from green to red, sigalling that the pen was now re-sealed. He shifted in his seat to face his passengers. "I dont get it...We must have hiked through that entire pen twice and we couldnt find them." He said, obviously disgusted with himself
Clause smiled and patted the younger man on the shoulder. "Dont worry about it, we'll try again tomarrow. We probably just missed them" He said kindly. "Besides, I havent had that much exercise in years! Now maybe Mrs. Clause wont be on my back so much to lose weight!" He joked, trying to lighten the mood
"So what's she like?" Turner asked. Clause smiled and stroked his beard. "Smart, kind, best cook in the world...." He reached into his coat pocket and withdrew his wallet, handing it to Josh and motioning for him to open it. "Two hundred and twelve years old, but she doesnt look a day past 25" He said with a wink. Josh opened the piece of ancient leather and looked down at the picture. He laughed and then whistled "Whew, you're right about that!" He said. He had expected to see a plump grandmotherly like woman, instead he saw a volumptous blonde in an elegant red Christmasey dress"
Professor Turner drove the cart through the grimey and less than asthetically pleasing industrial section of Turner Park. All around them, the naturalistic beauty of the visitors area had faded into the dull metalic browns, grey and blacks of huge warehouses, factories and office building. He turned the cart left on an industrial street and and then drove into an alley, parking the vehicle near a dumpster. The three men climbed out, Acbar making the smartalec remark "What a lovely spot for a tavern!"
Josh shook his head and motioned for them to follow. Things at Turner Park were rarely what they seemed. They walked down to the end of the alley and stopped at another set of huge black metalic doors. "Watch yourself boys, this place can be a little rough" Josh said, before rapping heavily on the metal door. There was a creaking on the other side and a small viewport opened, revealing a glowing orange eye that moved from left to right as it looked the newcomers over. "What do you want!" came a harsh, raspy voice. "Oviraptors are allergic to cotton candy" Josh said firmly and without emotion. "Times three". The glowing eye blinked and looked Turner up and down. The viewport slammed shut. There was a mechanical noise and the doors slid open just enough for the men to step through.
Josh stepped into the darkness, followed by the elf and finally Santa. Acbars sensitive eyes quickly adjusted to the darkness, Josh obviously knew where he was going as he continued through the darkend hall with out looking back. Only Santa seemed hesitant. He looked over his shoulder, only catching a glimpse of the doormans profile. It looked like a huge bird with a hooked beak with long lethal legs. "Good heavens!" Santa muttered as he hurried to catch up with the others. He finally caught them just as they reached another set of doors, this time a rather elegant set that seemed to be carved of petrified wood and illuminated by a single flickering light bulb. Josh knocked again, lighter this time. Santa wiped his head as he stood behind them "What..what was that? The doorman?" He panted
"That.." Josh said "was a Phorusracos(sp?)" He replied pointing back into the darkness towards the door. "She's more bark than bite. Mergatroid is really pretty sweet once you get to know her..." He was about to finish when the wooden doors opened. They stepped back and looked down at a tiny bright green Compsognathus.
"Hey Jimmy! " Josh said, crouching down to press his hand against the tiny therapods outstretched paw.
"Long time no see boss! Where you been?!" He squeaked excitedly
"Work work work" Josh said.
The compy looked around "Just you three?"
"Yeah, just us three" Josh said, rising back to his full height.
"Cool, cool, come on in gentlemen.." Jim said before hopping into the darkness."and welcome to the Time Column"
Eskara1862 doyenne Posts: 1010 (10/20/04 10:27 pm) 69.208.54.60 Az opens her message, finally Az walked across the well kept lawn to her tree house. She stopped to talk a little to Goliath. The andrewsarchus somewhat considered her 'mom' since she had helped to care for him when he had been a rejected runt of the litter. He was too big to make it up the tree and stay in her home, but he tended to stay near it when she was home.
The ladder haddn't been lowered when Az left earlier, so she had to climb up the old fashioned way, digging her claws into the bark and pulling herself up. She carefully chose each grip and did not dig too deeply so as not to harm the tree. Battleblood had taught her this method of climbinb so many years ago it seemed another life. Azonthus entered her house through the trap door in her floor. It wasn't locked and it was a rare occasion that it ever was, but she did have that option.
Josh and Rebecca had orderd the house built for Az and the design was very close to her old house in Treetown. The construction company had thought it a little strange, but they were willing to build anything as long as they were paid. There was electricity, but running water was provided through the same system in Treetown; a cistern on the roof collected rainwater and stored it, and then let gravity take care of the rest when it was needed. Flower boxes around the base of the house were watered with 'waste' water, just like on Dinotopia.
Az had gone for a slightly different style of decoration from what was typical on Dinotopia, although it still retained a more rustic feeling than a human may have liked. The wood floors were left bare except for a living room type area, where one carpet was surrounded by papisan chairs and a glass and wood table inlaid with decorations of ceratopsians sat in the center of it. There was a bookcase that contained many scrolls and books written in both Dinotopian and English. Most people would mistake the scroll reader for a treadmill, but any good Dinotopian would instantly recognize the modified design of the scroll readers in Waterfall City. The kitchen was simply counter space and cabinets with a sink. There was a small refridgerator in which Az kept a few drinks, but it was rarely used as she usually dined with the Turners. Throughout the house were pictures and paintings of her homeland. Her room was completely different from the rest of the small house. The walls were covered in bamboo and woven tapestries.A window across from her nestbed provided the natural light of day, but at night a well hidden light above her bed lit the room. A radio and pile of CD's was screaned behind a panel in the wall. She opened this and put in a Nicholas Gunn CD, enjoying the sounds of flutes and guitars, instruments she had often heard on warm nights in Treetown. The low drums in the music reminded her of the Sharpclaw celebrations.
She pulled the container from her cape and walked over to her bed. She jumped into it and turned on the light. Carefully, she cut open the clay container with her claws. She knew the secrets of how these tubes were made and how to carefully slip a single claw in a crack on one end, and then work her way through the pattern of 'carvings' until she had sepperated it into two pieces that fit together like a puzzle. Inside lay a scroll and lump of amber. She neglected the amber for the time to read the scroll. It had been quite a while since she had heard any news of her clan or family.
Run Fast, Seek Peace, zusje. All is well with the Sharpclaw, the letter began. The clan has been strong in these past years and we have lived in peace with neighboring saurians.
I know you will find it hard to believe, but Loba is now a grandmother. Az smiled at this. Loba had always been a rather energetic hatchling and delight to Az's life during her time as leader. To think that young hatchling was now a grandmother... The letter continued on with descriptions of what every raptor in the clan was doing or had done in the past few years. To some, it would be mundane and boring things, but Azonthus treasured every word. It wasn't until she actually received this that she realized just how long it had been since she had seen any Sharpclaw. She missed her clan and family... True, going back would be hard. Battleblood was now retired from leader and an elder himself. Leadership had passed on to his son, Ranor, and would then go to his son, Elpar.
The letter closed with talk of pretty stones that had been found in a dried up river bead during a drought. Elpar and his sister had picked out the largest and pretiest to send to their great aunt and had it sent to Volcanum with a passing caravan to be made into a necklace.
Slowly, silently, she studied the small lump of yellow stone. It felt strangely warm and almost glowed with an inner fire. If she had not seen a true sunstone, she would call this one. She had never seen this particular orange type of stone before, and the dark striations through it were particularly beautiful. There were flaws, gouges in the smooth surface that reflected the light back as spot of yellow instead of the deep orange-gold. The surface was covered in a fine pattern of light etching. Smiling to herself, the raptor slipped the chain around her neck and let the stone fall to her chest.
Tomorrow, she would talk to Josh about going back with the Ambassadors for a short visit.
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Post by Azonthus on Mar 8, 2005 22:37:25 GMT -5
Turner neophite (10/21/04 3:57 pm) 64.244.161.65 MUCH MUCH MORE Stepping through the door, the three men found themselves in a large elegant fourier. The carpet was a deep red and the walls were panelled wood. The fourier opened into a huge space as a large gently slopping ramp flowed down into a tavern populated by the higher-ups of Turner Park and every mannor of prehistoric creature found in the park. "What is this place?" Santa asked as Josh checked their coats and hats with the Deinonychus behind the counter.
"This... is just a little place for the inhabitants to unwind after a long day of playing dumb for the tourists. Its a bar, a nightclub and a family restaurant all rolled into one..." He guided them to the railing along the ramp and they looked down onto a sea of beings congrating around a large horse-shoe shaped bar and in and around dozens of tables and booths flanking it on both sides. The old man and the elf were mystified by what they saw
"What do you mean by playing dumb?" Acbar asked, looking up at Josh
"All of those creatures down there are just as smart as me and you, some of them even much more so. Unfortunately, society isnt ready to deal fairly with non-human intelligences. So these guys play dumb by acting like animals,... you know, eating sloppy, fighting, pawing at the dirt, that kinda stuff. In here, they can be themselves.."
"This is amazing" Santa said "I had no idea, I really didnt.."
"Most people dont, and it's imperative that it stays that way" He said turning his gaze to face them "But before we go down, theres a couple things yall to need to know, just to avoid trouble."
The others nodded
"First, try not to stare at the carnivores,especially the dinosaurs. It's impolite and considered a challege in some cultures. Predatory dinosaurs, and carnivorous creatures in general, like those Dire Wolves..." He said, pointing down to a pack of the large canines seated in a booth," are some of the nicest folks in the world, they just catch a lot of crap for their lifestyles sometimes... Ooh, and a good rule of thumb for this place is to always give the bigger guys the right of way. Some of the "brontosaurs" down there have a little trouble watching where they step. I'd hate to see anybody get stepped on!" He kidded. "But other than that, just relax and enjoy the sights. I guarantee yall have never seen anything like this place"
The same Deinonychus that had taken their garments approached from behind. "Professor?" She asked They turned to face her "Shall I show your guests to a table?"
"Please do" He said, patting the elf on the head "I'll join yall in a few minutes. Order whatever you want. They make the best steaks in town"
He stepped forward and whispered something into the raptor's ear. She shook her head no and chirped something in her native tongue. " Thanks, Let me know if you see them come in" Josh asked
The raptor stepped away and looked at the two others "Right this way gentlemen" She said before leading them down the ramp and into the prehistoric collage.
Josh stood at the rail a bit longer, just taking in all the sights. The air was rich with the voices and laughter of a thousand different languages. In the back of the Time Column, three Brachiosaurs and two Indricotheriums sat in huge couches, swaying their long necks to the happy tunes of a band onstage consisting of a Parasaurolophus, Lambeosaurus, Kritosaurus and a Tsintosaurus. At a table along the wall, an Imperial Mastodon stood conversing with an Aepycamelus and two of Natasha's chief scientists.There was a screech of alarm when two Coelophysis youth playfully chased a young Gigantopithicus and tripped over the tail club of a resting Ankylosaurus and slid into a table of Icthyornis, sending the toothed sea-birds squawking into the rafters to be among the other fliers.
Josh chuckled and began to walk down the ramp,passing a trio of velociraptors he didnt recognise, a Tanystropheus and a large bull Wooly Mammoth who raised his trunk in salutations. Josh waved back. Upon reaching the bottom of the ramp, he stepped over an Icthyostega who was conversing in a series of croaks with a Lystrosaurus. He made his way the bar, stepping over and under several larger and smaller creatures who barely paid him any attention.
He saw his Currator of Arthropods at the bar and came up beind him, jabbing him in the ribs. Dale Gribble, a thin, wirey man wearing an orange cap and sunglasses turned quickly to face him. "Geeze, Turner, thump me in the ear next time why dont you!" He joked before shaking the man's hand.
"You seen any of our Elk in here today?" Josh asked. Dale shook his head "No elk..." He said "But speaking of racks, you should have seen the one on the Elasmosaur trainer that was just here!" He exclaimed. It was a bad joke but both men laughed anyways. The female Tyrannosaurus to Josh's left blew out her breath and made a remark about humans before nudging Josh hard and turning and shuffling back to her family. The two men talked a bit longer, before the bar-keep approached
The red and yellow Dilophosaur growled a greeting and turned around to retrieve a glass and began pouring Josh a drink of some liquid the color of amber. He handed it to Turner and said "Lady at the end of the bar said to give you this...." An Iguanodon bleated loudly, cutting the Dilo's words short "Keep your thumbspikes on, I'm coming" The Dilo yelled before moving down to take the Ornithopod's order.
Josh turned to find this mystery lady and smiled when he saw his wife approach. He kissed her and then pulled up another stool for her to sit down. "What are you doing here?" He asked.
"Chapperoning..." Rebecca said nodding her head in the direction of a table where two Archaeopteryx stood atop it talking and hopping around. Josh turned to look, recognizing one of the birds instantly as Maryellen. "Your little girl is on a first date" She remarked sweetly. "Dont stare! " She exclaimed when Josh seemed to be looking too long, pulling both her and her husbands viewpoints back over the bar.
"Who is that?" Josh asked, sipping his slightly enhanced cream-soda.
"That, is the next in line to become Alpha-bird of the Cretaceous Gardens Flock. His name's Coranado, and Maryellen is quite taken with him. He performed the sweetest courtship dance in the office today..."
Josh looked cautiously over his shoulder and sized up the bird "That little runt is gonna be an Alpha-bird?" He mused, suddenly feeling himself becoming very protective. "What happened to Charlie?.. I liked Charlie"
"A Rutiodon happened to Charlie" Rebecca said matter of factly
"Oh,.." Josh grunted, trying not laugh "I remember that"
"You're awful" Rebecca said, Josh felt she was about to berate him so he spoke first
"And do we like Coranado?" He asked, hoping to change the subject.
"Yes..." Rebecca stated. "He's very polite, from a good flock and is a excellent hunter from what I've heard"
Josh nodded and bit his lip. "Okay, then I like Coranado too.." He said. "But if he breaks her heart..., I'll fry him up for Sunday dinner" He finished, half serious, half joking. He stood up and took his glass and offered his arm to his wife. She stood up and took it. "Come on, lets give them some space, besides, theres somebody I want you to meet
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Post by Azonthus on Mar 8, 2005 22:37:47 GMT -5
stefan de velociraptor self-proclaimed know-it-all Posts: 47 (10/24/04 10:56 pm) 192.168.100.40 whiling away time in the cage Dylan was once again trying to get Gareth to play chess, but the man was, as always, stonily silent and unmoveable. Dylan was just about to give up and go and find Az so he could get away from him for a while. Gareth shifted slightly in the cage and looked up at the stars, and Dylan noticed his mouth was moving minusculey, forming whispers of air that never managed to make themselves heard. "What are you doing?" he asked, cocking his head to one side in the dinotopian expression of interest. to his surprise, Gareth shivered and looked at him sharply. "singing". "why not out loud? are you afraid I'll laugh at your voice?" "why would I be afraid of you Dylan? there is little in this world I fear. I sing softly because I sing to myself, and the music in my head does not need to find an egres. You still don't understand me, do you?" Dylan had known gareth since he had arrived, centuries ago, on the shores of dinotopia, a chain wrapped around his legs and on the brink of death. In fact, it was Dylan's skills that had helped him recover, unconscious, in a Chandaran bed. He could still remember the look in the boy's eyes when he woke for the first time. The look of a hunted animal. "I- I don't know. I've known you for years, and I still can't understand a few things about you. I think I figure you out and then you go and do something completely stupid and I have to rethink it. I don't know" "Good, at least you acknowledge that." Gareth shook his head and stood up, dusting off his cloak and removing it so his simple bone-coloured tunic was open to the air. "And I don't know you either. So why would I hate you? why would I want your head on a platter? I respect you for who you are and I know you, and others too, feel offended by the way I live, the way I act. It is not foreign to me that sneaking into someone's dwelling without their permission and damaging their property is impolite, criminal maybe. But I must balance that against what I do. I've stayed in contact with Simon while you guys have kept me in here, and so far we've been lucky on the issue, but please, please understand that I can't tell you, or Josh, what I know yet. You may not know me, but you have proved to me that in that situation you would commit a grave error- you might use your powers, and that would be disastorous. Josh, would undoubtably, take it upon himself to combat the problem, and once again, that would lead to even greater problems. one of the few things I've learnt in my days is to never underestimate the brutality and lust for revenge that humans can manifest, and should they discover dinotopia, it would not be overtaken, it would not be popularised, or turned into a tourist destination. It wouldn't become a scientific refuge. It would be destroyed, utterly. Simply because man cannot ever hold something good without damaging it. I may be wrong, I cannot deny that, but I believe that if this, or any other crisis, goes even the slightest bit wrong, we could all be crushed." " and so you can't trust us enough to tell us what this potential disaster is, because you believe that we might destroy dinotopia in attempting to recue it?" "in a fashion, yes. you showed me when I arrived the way you treat tresspasers and theives. if you try that against these people you will not only achieve nothing, but you will make it worse. Much worse"
Turner neophite (10/27/04 8:17 pm) 64.244.161.66 filler, more tomarrow "Thank you, thank you" The blue and red striped Kritosaur spoke as he strode bipedally up to the microphone. "That was Silurian Sunset, a composition by Turner Park's resident musical genius, Serac Ydobon" He said, turning his thirty foot length back towards the band and pointing to a particulary regal looking female Parasaurolophus with a blue woolen cloak draped over her shoulders. There was a round of applause, hoots, bellows and cackles as the patrons showed their approval of the music. The Kritosaurus waited for the noise to die down before he spoke again. "We're going to take a break for a little while" He spoke, his deep voice resonating across the tavern "but before I do, let me introduce this next group. They're a swinging bunch of primates just down from Hominid Mountain... Ladies and Gentlemen, Reptiles and Amphibians, lets give it up for Darwin's Suitcase.........." Turner neophite (10/28/04 10:56 am) 64.244.161.62 More later, yes Az, its just filler! When the red velvet curtain behind the Kritosaurus opened again, the hadrosaurs were gone. In their place however, was an ensemble of Hominids. Ten nimble Australopithicenes played horns and woodwinds while two massive Gigantopithicus, bigfoot incarnates, strummed a chelo and large drum set. They immediately launched into an old Dinotopian tune that sounded very similar to Beethoven's 9th. The crowd erupted once more and scores of humans and smaller creatures flooded the dance floor.
Rebecca allowed her husband to lead her through the crowd to meet their guests. An old Stegosaurus shifted out of their way and she spied a darkened corner. She quickly yanked the Professor's arm and pulled him into the corner. She threw her arms around him and kissed him deeply. He broke away after several moments, grinning "What was that for?" He asked, shocked by this unusual behavior from his wife
"For being wonderful" She said before kissing him again. This time she broke the kiss "Charlene told me what you did for the Children's Shelter. Free weekened passes and rooms at the Grand Therapod!! Oooh, you're too kind!" She purred before kissing him yet again.
After a few moments,Josh pulled himself away and looked down at her "As much as I'd like to continue this, and believe me, I really really would, We'd better go check on our new friends."
The pair finally made their way to Santa's table and introductions were made Turner neophite (10/28/04 2:55 pm) 64.244.161.61 Recruition "So I tellz the doe, I sez look, I dont care what your last boyfriend did, this buck stops here!" The Megaloceras barked, stamping his right front hoof on the table top for effect. The nine other elk in his company laughed heartily, their huge antlers, each six feet long bobbing up and down as they laughed.
"That's pretty good Belloq..." Came a voice once their laughter had subsided. The huge deer turned to see the most powerful man in Turner Park standing behind them. Two of the smaller bucks parted and offered him a seat at thier table, which he took, finding himself sitting slightly lower than the other mammals. "but have you heard the one about the blind guy that walked into the museum yesterday?" Belloq snorted that he had not.
Josh took a swig from his glass and recounted the tale "So this blind guy comes in and he's got his seeing-eye dog with him. He walks right into the center of the place, picks the dog up, heaves him in the air and starts twirling him around by the leash" Josh threw his right arm in the arm for effect, twirling it like a cowboy might twirl a lasso. "The currators are horrified by this and five or six of them rush up to stop him. The main one grabs his shoulder and says "Stop,stop, what are you doing!!" Then the blind guys points his head over and says "I'm just looking around!"
They shared a laugh for several minutes before returning to their drinks, then Belloq turned at looked over Josh "So, to whats do we owe the pleasure of youz company?"
"Well..." Josh began, not really sure how to start "I've got a job for yall." The reindeer fell silent
"Go on..." Belloq said, glancing at his comrades
"I want to loan you guys to a friend of mine for a few months"
"To do what exactly? Play dumb for a bunch of stupid humans somewherz else?" Belloq replied, obviously tired of having plaid that role for so long
"Not hardly, in fact you'd be helping millions of humans around the world. The best kind of humans; children."
Belloq snorted and nodded "No offense, but from what Iz seen of your species, itz a shame children have to grow into people"
"I'd agree with you there, but the world needs your help. I need your help"
"And whatz in it fer us?"
Josh smirked and thought "Well, for starters, you and your friends would get to see the entire outer world; from the United States to Australia, and you'll get a helluva lot more exercise than you would running around your forest"
Belloq closed his large brown eyes and appeared to be deep in thought. "I'dz like to help you, but dis needs to be dizcuzzed wit the entire herd. Can we have a couple days and den let you know?" He asked, finally opening his eyes
"This is Friday...." Josh said, pausing "can you let me know on Monday? I need to know by Monday at the latest."
The huge deer shifted their weights and prepared to stand. "I'll see you on Monday wit our decision" Belloq snorted
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Post by Azonthus on Mar 8, 2005 22:38:06 GMT -5
Turner neophite (11/4/04 2:57 pm) 64.244.161.61 Almost back to Dinotopia ONE MONTH LATER...
Josh wiped his face on his sleave and lifted up the final crate and heaved it into the cargo hold of the black Suburban. He took a few minutes and did another mental check. He smiled and said " I guess thats everything"
"Not so fast....." came another shrill voice from behind. He turned just in time to see Maryellen land at his feet.
"What now?" He asked, looking down at her
She cocked her head towards the door of the home, where Josh saw Azonthus struggling to pull out three more of Rebecca's suitcases. He shook his head and muttered under his breath. He'd managed to pack all of his personal items into two canvas duffle bags. It had taken his wife three, and now, thanks to Azonthus the porter,it was now an even six. He nearly opened his mouth in protest, but stopped when Rebecca appeared behind the raptor and helped to loosen the saurian's load. She took of her suitcases and gracefully walked down the steps. She shook her head at Josh, saying "Dont start with me...I know what your thinking"
"Are you done now?" He asked as she walked past him and reopened the doors, placing her cases atop the stack.
"I hope so" Azonthus said, before she flung the handbag in the car. The entire stack wobbled as the bag seemed to strike its week point. Fortunantly, Rebecca slammed the door before anything could fall out
"Oh, Chris is here" She said, pointing to the grey Porche coming up the driveway. She waved
Moments later, the sports car was parked next to the Suburban and a young man in his late teens emerged
"Hey Josh! Aunt Becky!" He said, shaking Josh's hand and hugging his aunt
"Hey dude! Whats up! How was your first year of college?" Josh asked
Chris was the eldest son of Josh's sister, Susan, who lived in New Mexico. He'd be housesitting while the Turners were gone.
"Good, Good, just glad I'm done" He looked around at his summer home "Man, this is nice! Yall are really hooked up!"
"I'm not sure what that means, but yes, we're hooked up" His aunt said smiling. She'd never quite grasped outerworld slang
MEANWHILE BACK AT THE PARK...
"The sedative should keep him out for the entire flight" Dr. Cope said, throwing his now-empty syringe into the medical waste disposal unit
"Are you sure?" Dr. Reid, asked skeptically
"No, not really... which is why I did this.." He reached into the pocket of his lab-coat and removed another empty syringe, which he all tossed into the bin "I doubled the dose. He's on the edge of exsistance right now, but he'll wake up in 72 hours with one helluva headache"
"And he's clean?" Reid said, walking around the bed and noting the restraints around the wrists, arms, ankles, legs and feet
"Yeah, he's clean. Ran a full body search, then a cavity search and X-rays and Catscans. If he wasnt born with it, he doesnt have it anymore"
"So you found some interesting stuff?"
"To say the least" Cope said, pointing to the dormant man "Guy had more gizmos than a Japanese flea-market. Stuff we've never even seen"
"And it's secure now too?" Reid asked
"Yeah, Turner put it in a strong box aboard the Lone Star. They should be leaving this evening right?"
"As far as I know. Did he tell you where they're going?"
Cope lied "Belize, they think this guy is behind that weird flying Iguanodon" Turner neophite (11/4/04 3:29 pm) 64.244.161.61 Chris meets the dragon "Theres emergency numbers on the refrigerator and the police, fire department and Texas Rangers on the speed dial" Rebecca said, handing nephew a key to the estate
"And theres no chores or anything I need to do?" Chris, asked, who was seated across the table from her
Josh shook his head "Nope, nothing at all. Mr. Wardlow will be back tomarrow" He said, making reference to their British butler who was away on holiday. "He'll tend the garden, dust, do all that kinda stuff. Just relax and enjoy the place. Heck, have a party if you want to"
"Just dont break anything!" Rebecca interjected
"And remember..." Maryellen said, landing in the middle of the table "Nobody knows about me, or Goliath"
"Or goes in my house" Azonthus said, her purse of chocolate strung over her side
Chris was about to speak when there was a loud trumpeting sound. Chris turned to a creature the size of a medium dog amble into the kitchen and flexed its wings, before issuing the same bellow which shook the plates on the wall
"What is that...." He asked, clearly astounded
"We dont really know" His uncle said
"But we're hoping maybe somebody back home will" Rebecca added Turner neophite (11/4/04 5:06 pm) 64.244.161.58 Home is where the hearts are Chris was clearly disturbed by this new creature, which was now rubbing its head against his aunt's leg. In facination, he moved over a seat so that he could get a better look "It's, it's like a dragon"
"I think so too" Josh said, seeing that his nephew was about to lean down to see it closer and perhaps even pet it. He grasped the young man's shoulder and pulled him back up. "He's taken quite a shine to Rebecca. I wouldnt get too close" As if on cue, the dragon clucked threateningly
Rebecca stroked its head and it purred contently. "He's just a baby" She said. She looked down into it's large grey eyes "Arent you sweety!!" She said, greatly enjoying her role as surragate mother
"That baby set the table on fire last week" Josh said, lifting up the floral center piece and pointing out an impressive series of scorch marks.
"What do call it?" Chris asked
"I call it a Pyrosaurus....fire lizard" Josh explained "Rebecca calls him Enigma"
"Iggy for short" She said
An hour later Josh, Rebecca, and Azonthus loaded up the young dragon and told Chris, Maryellen and Goliath goodbye.
Three hours later, Dr. Marsh lifted the Lone Star into the evening sky and it rocketed west towards the Indian Ocean. In her passenger compartment, Josh finished his latest novel and turned on his portable CD player. Rebecca knitted and talked with Dr. Marcus, Dylan and Azonthus. Gareth, again placed in his velociraptor cage was sleeping quite soundly. Dylan shared a smile with Rebecca and Azonthus. They were going home
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Post by Azonthus on Mar 8, 2005 22:38:55 GMT -5
Psyche02 neophyte Posts: 2 (11/4/04 10:20 pm) 64.213.237.47 Re: Chris meets the dragon "I think Im going to check up on Iggy." Rebecca said as she stood up. She didn't wait for anyone's approval and stepped into the back of the plane where Iggy was playing around Gareth's cage. The creature seemed very amused with the man inside the cage who was snoring like a bear. She called out to him. The fire lizard immediately perked up and answered his mother's call. "Wow, I have never heard a man snore that loud before." Rebecca said, "How can you stand it, my little Iggy?" Iggy was all excited, he didnt really understand anything of what that woman was saying but he knew he was talking about him. He suddenly remembered that he had left his stuffed dragon besides the cage. Enigma immediately got up, Rebecca had been scratching his belly, and went to look for it. "What's wrong Iggy?" Rebecca asked, when she noticed what Iggy had in his mouth. "Oh! you want to play fetch." She looked around, and there really wasnt enough space but she figured that it would be ok. She then threw the toy dragon and at that exact moment the plane moved. The dragon ended up inside the cage. Enigma and Rebecca tried to wake Gareth up and had been unsuccesful. Iggy then tried reaching in with his now powerful thumbspikes, but was unsuccesful also. His surrogate mother decided to go look for a stick of some sort. When she came back half of the room was covered in ashes. Gareth was still sleeping like a baby but now looked overcooked. Rebecca freaked and cried out for her husband. "Josh! look what Iggy has done!" Turner neophite (11/5/04 8:21 am) 64.244.161.56 not much The scent of burnt upholstery and plastic struck Josh's nose and caused him to sit up and open his eyes. When he heard the scream of his wife, he lept up and bolted from the room, and through the narrow hallway. He skidded to a halt just behind Rebecca and placed his hands upon her shoulders to brace himself "What! What is it!" Josh said, peering into the room, finally seeing the damage for himself. "Oh" he sighed."First the kitchen table, now Gareth" Psyche02 neophyte Posts: 3 (11/5/04 8:56 am) 65.38.218.34 Nothing serious "Dear, I hope he's ok" his wife replied with a sincere worrisome look. By the time she had finished this sentence all of the travelers were trying to get into the room. She then proceded to get closer to the cage and inspect the sleeping man. "Was he snoring that high before?" Josh asked "Unfortunately, he was" Rebecca replied. "Well then he's ok" Azonthus said with not so high spirits Rebecca was now peering through the cage bars and she could see and hear very clearly that Gareth was still breathing. He looked like he was ok, apparently it had only been some minor burn. Enigma still didn't know how to control his own strenghts. "Well he looks ok, considering he was just barbequed" Rebecca finally said, moving away from the cage. She then added: "What do you think we should do with him now?" Eskara1862 doyenne Posts: 1012 (11/5/04 9:46 am) 68.250.187.145 Re: Turner Park; Mistaken Identity Az was legitimately worried about Gareth. She may not always get along with him, but nobody deserved to be fried in their sleep by a flying baby iguanodon who happened to breath fire. "Josh, why don't we get Dr. Marcus to look at him? Can't autopilot take over for her for a bit?" Turner neophite (11/5/04 11:09 am) 138.237.240.184 okay, he's waking up Josh nodded and he knew the little dromaeosaur was right. "Yeah, that would probably be a good idea..." He said, before unholstering his radio and asking Dr. Marsh to come down. She arrived in minutes and administered a powerful anti-sedative that caused the sleeping man to begin to stir. After she had checked him for major injuries, she stood up and shook her head. "Aside from his body temperature being slightly above normal, he's fine, just a little crispy on the outside!" Tamith Evil Incarnated Posts: 12 (11/6/04 11:47 am) 216.192.199.15 cleaning up “…so my point is,” Azonthus continued as she briefed Dylan into exactly what had happened, “no one deserved to get fried by a fire-breathing Iguanadon. Do you think there’s anything you can do for him?”<br> Dylan furrowed his brow then looked over at the cooked man inside the cage some distance away. Dr. Marcus was still giving him an overall check-up to be certain everything was fine, and though he was slowly coming to his senses, it was obvious he was heavily sedated. This could mean only one thing: overdose of whatever it was they had given him. “I guess…” he started. “Let me go into the kitchen and get a glass of water.”<br> “Just one glass?” Azonthus said tailing behind him. “You’d think that you’d need a few gallons! He’s practically well-done over there.”<br> “It’ll be OK,” Dylan told her his a reassuring smile. He walked into the kitchen then served himself a glass. Meanwhile, Azonthus kindly requested that everyone leave the room, pet dragon included. By the time Dylan was back, the three of them were alone. Azonthus help Dylan pull Gareth out of the cage, the waited to see what Dylan would do. Dylan took a sip of the water and sighed. “Let’s open his mouth,” he said after a few seconds. Once that was done, he poured half of the remaining contents of the glass into Gareth’s mouth and asked Azonthus to lift his head to help him swallow it. The remains of the water he poured over his face. Azonthus watched in amazement as that minimal amount of water stretched out in a thin film that completely wrapped the man. “Get me a bucket or something large to hold liquid and another glass of water, please,” Dylan asked Az after a few minutes. She didn’t question him and did as she was asked. She found the items and brought them back setting them next to Gareth’s head. The thin sheet of water then flowed into the container, just that it no longer looked clear. Now it had acquired a dark, coffee colored tone. “Yuck!” she exclaimed. “What did you do?”<br> “Look at him now,” he replied with a smile. Azonthus did and grinned. Gareth no longer looked over cooked, but his clothing had been mended and his skin renewed to look practically like a baby’s. That wasn’t all, Gareth’s eyes snapped open instantaneously and he immediately reached for the bucked behind him and started throwing up. “Good morning my friend,” Dylan told Gareth and offered him the glass of water that had been sitting besides him. “I hope that cleared your head a bit, it did wonders for your appearance.” He grinned boyishly and watched as the other man drank the water down. “Now that you’re feeling overall better I should tell you we’re coming up on Dinotopia. As soon as we get home I’ll get you a room and food where you can rest and eat if you wish.”<br> Dylan smiled at Azonthus then stood up and walked back to the cockpit. “We’re coming up on Dinotopia, Mr. O’connor,” Josh told him brightly. “How’s our passenger doing?”<br> “Good,” Dylan responded. “But for the sake of him and other members of this party, Mrs. Turner, if you can’t control your pet, please keep it on a leash.” **More later, 'till then! **
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Post by Azonthus on Mar 8, 2005 22:39:12 GMT -5
Tamith Evil Incarnated Posts: 13 (11/6/04 5:53 pm) 216.192.183.129 Home, sweet home About an hour later, the tallest peaks of the Western Coastal Range became visible in the horizon. Excitement increased in the plane making the 14 hour flight suddenly seem extremely short. Soon more than just the distant mountains became visible as the speedy vessel approached. “Where are we headed, Mr. O’Connor?” Josh asked in order to adjust their course to their destination. “Our home is some fifty miles east of Pooktook, just at the base of the mountain range’s hills. It’s pretty desolated so as long as you don’t fly too low over Pooktook, we should be fine. Closest settlement is Bonabba, but it’s a good day and a half’s walk from where we are.”<br> Soon enough they were flying over Dinotopian soil and forty minutes later they left the mountains of the coastal range behind them and were scanning the surface for signs of the settlement Dylan lived in. “There!” Dylan said pointing through the windshield to a small conglomerate of buildings that had just made it self visible over the rise of a hill. “Land just beyond the barn next to the field, that way the plane won’t be immediately visible to visitors.”<br> The house complex consisted of several buildings, the largest being obviously the living quarters. Besides this there were two barns and several smaller buildings whose purpose was not immediately clear. All the buildings had a red tile roofs and large windows filled with plant life giving the entire place a cozy welcoming feeling. To the west, one of the tributaries of the Polongo River was visible and the ‘field’ Dylan had referred to extended until almost its banks and was divided into several sections all of which were planted and soon would be ready for harvesting. A vegetable garden with a well in its center was planted just beyond the human living complex and the rest of the space around the circumference of the houses was packed with just about every imaginable fruit or flowering tree, and wild flowers. “This is where you live?” Azonthus broke the silence. “It’s beautiful! When did you move?”<br> “My brother and I decided to move away from the cities a while back, most of both our families live here as do our saurian partners. There are more than enough people to help out,” Dylan replied just as the plane touched down. “C’mon, Az, there’s some people I want you to meet.” He turned around excitedly with Az in tow then remembered the others. “Oh yeah,” he said with a sheepish grin, “Rest of you should come too, so I don’t have to run through the introductions too many times.”<br> They had only begun to exit the plane when the swarm of kids attacked. Dylan immediately made a move to hide behind Azonthus, then laughed out loud and picked the smallest of the munchkins that was jumping up and down around him. “Grandfather! You’re finally back!” the little girl squealed as Dylan picked her up. “That I am, Caley,” he hugged and kissed the six that had shown up, then set Caley down. “Now you kids go do me a favor, run inside and get your parents and the rest of the family. There’s some people I want you to meet.” In a fit of giggles, the four boys and two girls ran and disappeared into the different buildings. “Sweet kids,” Dylan told the rest of the party. “This way, we’ll help with your luggage in a bit.”<br> “Grandfather?” Rebecca questioned surprised. “You’re their grandfather?”<br> “No,” Dylan replied. “I’m their great grandfather, but you can imagine the whole title is way too long for them.”<br> Everyone but Azonthus suddenly paused and stared. “But you look… Just how old are you, exactly?” Josh asked. “Does it really matter?” Dylan said with a twinkle in his eyes. Azonthus giggled in her own saurian way and they both shared a secret smile. When they looked back at the main house a group of people were coming their way. “Here they come,” Dylan said then inhaled deeply. “This’ll take a while.” He went and greeted two of the young adults that had come with the group then turned back to the outlanders. “This is my older brother Kael and his wife Shannara,” Dylan said pointing at the couple. Kael had handsome features, dark brown hair and gray eyes. His wife Shannara was almost too beautiful. She had bright green eyes and curly auburn gold hair that fell to her hips. They both smiled warmly. “This Mr. and Mrs. Turner, Azonthus, Dr. Marcus, Gareth and… Iggy,” Dylan introduced. “Be wary of the scaled one.”<br> “Make yourselves at home,” Shannara told them in perfect European English. “I hope you enjoy your stay.”<br> “This Dinotopian longevity is really starting to get to me,” Josh muttered as he shook hands with the couple. “Tell me about it,” Dr. Marcus agreed. “This is my eldest grand daughter, Amaly,” Dylan continued pointing to the woman with Caley in her arms. “And this is my youngest son, Soran.” He continued the long line of introductions until a small commotion in the back caused him to stop. A boy a little older than Caley ran in between the legs of the adults and jumped into Dylan’s arms. “Grandfather, you are in trouble,” he whispered a little too loud. “I am?” Dylan said looking worried though he really wasn’t. “Why’s that, Daneel?”<br> “Grandmother says you started introductions without her and she’s gonna break a vase over your head,” Daneel whispered, again a little too loud. Kael laughed. Dylan grimaced. “She said that, huh?”<br> “I came to warn you!” the little boy said looking around worriedly. “We’re just gonna have to sweet talk her out of it,” Dylan said grinning mischievously, “Go get your brothers and cousins and beg for mercy in my name, will ya?”<br> Daneel grinned and nodded emphatically. Dylan set him down and he immediately ran the way he had gone with several other kids in tow. “She’s been hanging out too much with Mairi,” Kael told him with a smile. “You kids go attend to the hatchlings and find out where the saurians in this house have gone while we go in doors and placate your grandmother’s wrath, OK?”<br> The crowd of humans under 12 spread out and Kael and his wife motioned for the others to follow them inside. “Grandmother?” Azonthus asked Dylan as they followed his family in. “I think you’ll find this a treat,” he told her with a wink. As they were coming in, the swarm of kids led by Daneel ran out. “WHERE IS HE!” A woman that looked about Shannara’s age was waiting for them upon entering the human living complex. She had long curly white hair and brown eyes. “Dylan O’Connor! This is low even for you!! How dare you send the kids to protect you?!” “Tamith!” Azonthus squealed and jumped on the girl knocking her flat on her back. She was startle for a few moments before her eyes widened in recognition. She laughed happily and hugged the Velociraptor. “Azzy!” she cried. “I thought I’d never see you again!”<br> “You thought you’d never see me again?” Azonthus exclaimed happily. “I thought I’d never see you again! Guys,” she said turning to Rebecca and Josh, “This is Tamith, one of my oldest human friends here on Dinotopia.” She looked back at Tamith and scanned her over. “You haven’t aged a day since I last saw you! Well, except your hair.”<br> “You have tall and mischievous to thank for that,” Tamith told her motioning towards Dylan. “He even managed to trick me into marrying him, the sea worm.”<br> “Hey!” Dylan exclaimed in mock indignation. “There was no tricking involved!”<br> “You just better be thankful that-”<br> The back door opened and Daneel came in once again dragging a beautiful woman with jet black hair that was tied up in a bun behind him. She was speaking to him in a language none of the newcomers understood and carried an infant with the same large gray eyes Kael had. Upon noticing them she paused surprised to find a crowd in the house. She scanned the people until her bright amber eyes landed on Dylan then narrowed them dangerously. Without saying a word, she released her long black mane from the bun so it cascaded freely down to her waist, walked up to Shannara and gave her the child she was holding, then stormed up the stairs and into the second floor, but not before fixing a hard glare on Dylan. Last they heard was a heavy oak door bang close. A deep silence followed broken my Dylan some 20 seconds later. “And that was Mairi, she’s the volcanologist…” he chuckled nervously. “Well that could have been worse. Considering the circumstances, I’d say she’s quiet happy to see you.”<br> Rebecca’s eyebrow shot up rapidly in skepticism and Josh whistled softly. “That’s supposed to be our guide…” Josh said. “I think I’m starting to worry.”<br> “Don’t worry about it,” Dylan said cheerfully. “I’ll talk to her. That’s just her way of saying ‘hello’, it’ll be just fine.”<br> Tamith chuckled and was helped up by Shannara. “Oh this’ll be soooo interesting to watch.”<br>
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Post by Azonthus on Mar 8, 2005 22:39:35 GMT -5
Eskara1862 doyenne Posts: 1014 (11/6/04 11:09 pm) 69.208.55.27 Re: Home, sweet home Az grinned at Tamith, overjoyed that her friend still lived. "I was sure you would have died a century ago. And to come here and find out that you and Dylan did get married!" The raptor laughed. "I always thought you two would get together eventually."
"Sure, Az, you know everything." Tamith grinned too, "It's good to see you again."
"Where are Karua and Triforce? Are they here?"
At this, the humans smile faded somewhat. "They made their final journies some time ago. But, their children are here. I can introduce you as soon as we have everyone settled."
Az nodded, actually not too upset. "I sortta expected it, but there was a little hope if you were still alive. Are you sure you have enough room for all of us? I can sleep out in the barn with the other saurians if you need more space."
"No need, we have enough space. And I wouldn't stick you out in the barn!"
Az looked over at the silent Gareth. "Well, he may take the barn just to get away from Iggy! We'll have to figure out something to do about our little winged iguanodon and make sure he's not in a flameable area. Unless, you have someone who can take care of any fires he'll start..."
"You won't have to worry; with this many people, we can take care of any fires that could get started."
"So, where do I get to stay?" Despire all of the commotion that never leaves a household with as many people as this one held, Az felt very comfortable here. She was home, on the island of her hatching.
Tamith Evil Incarnated Posts: 14 (11/7/04 1:17 pm) 216.192.178.7 Getting settled in “…And this will be your room, Mr. Turner,” the girl introduced to him as Teneniel said. “I hope you find it comfortable. My brothers will be bringing up your luggage shortly.” The room was spacious and cozy. It contained a large, round, nest-like bed, a wardrobe, a hat stand, several mirrors and a dresser. Several feet from the bed, the room opened to a small balcony with two reading chairs. Small fibrous, colorful carpets had also been set around the alcove. “Dr. Marcus will be staying to your left, Azonthus to your right, and Mr. Gareth is across from you. If you need anything, feel free to ask.”<br> “This room is perfect, thank you, Ms. Teneniel.” Josh ventured into the room then turned back around. “Would you know where my wife is?” Josh Turner asked her. “It’s kinda hard to keep track of people in this house.”<br> “Last I saw of her she was with my mother and aunt, looking around the house perhaps?” she replied. There was a small knock on the door and a young man in skybax uniform appeared. “Where would you like us to put this, Mr. Turner?” he asked motioning toward the luggage he and several other youths human and saurian where carrying. “Anywhere’s fine,” Josh told him. “You’re Mr. Kael O’Connor’s kids, right? The resemblance is rather uncanny… well, except for your mother’s eyes.”<br> “Yes sir,” the skybax rider said with a smile. “My name is Erik O’Connor, at your service. You’ve already met my twin sister, Teneniel.”<br> “Erik, did dad already send someone to grind to grains yet?” Teneniel asked her brother. “I know he was going to bake.”<br> “I think Gena and Liam got sent to do that… I’ll go check on those two,” he replied turning around. “Do you need anything else, Mr. Turner?”<br> “No thank you, it’s perfect,” Josh started, then thought better of it. “Actually, I do have a question. How come you kids all speak perfect English?”<br> Teneniel laughed. “Our mother is a dolphinback, she’s Irish.”<br> “She made sure we could speak all the languages she knows,” Erik added. “French, German, Dutch, and Spanish… a little of them all at least. Dad’s a linguist so he encouraged us.”<br> Teneniel looked out the door at that moment and gasped. “If you’ll excuse me for a moment…” she said and ran out the door. “Vonda Ra! Lissander! Get down from there NOW! None of that! I’ll tell your parents on you…” Erik laughed. “I better go help her, these kids can be a handful.”<br> “By all means, go,” Josh said. “I’ll be downstairs in a few minutes.”<br> There was an ocean of giggles and laughter and the thundering of children’s feet running down the stairs before all went quiet. Josh laughed at himself. Things definitely could never get boring at a house like this.
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Post by Azonthus on Mar 8, 2005 22:40:11 GMT -5
Psyche02 neophyte Posts: 4 (11/7/04 8:30 pm) 64.213.237.47 Re: Getting settled in Rebecca couldn’t believe her eyes. This place was what everyone dreams of, a peaceful place that can be sustained on it’s own. Tamith and Shannara explained how they harvested their own food and no animal products were consumed. Just as in all of Dinotopia, but this place was nothing like the rest of it. The kids were running around playing with each other.
As they walked around the house, Rebecca noticed that everything in the house had been hand-carved. They had been to the art room, a big room full of paintings and of both kids and artists. Afterwards they stopped by the playroom that was filled with a bunch of toys including the all-famous rocking dino, some stuffed dinosaurs and tricicles. In addition, they had stopped by the music room that contained a vast stunning black piano. They were now going into what Shannara explained was the library, there were so many scrolls around. Only a couple of books were sitting on a giant hand-carved shelf. The scrolls were all nicely organized on the rest of the shelves. A nice round table was set in the middle of the room with some scrolls unrolled. Many different sized chairs carved like dinosaurs, each with their own table and lamp surrounded the big table. But the most amazing feature the library had was the big chandelier hanging from the wall, which reflected on the mirrors on the sides of the shelves.
Rebecca was astonished, the place was perfect, something she thought was unconceivable. Maybe too many years outside of Dinotopia had changed her, but she still thought it was too perfect. They left the library and were heading outside to see the garden. As they walked out the backdoor one of the kids that had been running around with a baby triceratops stumbled. Rebecca bent down to pick her up. The young girl was crying and Rebecca tried to calm her down. Ms Turner played with her long onyx curly hair, as she did this she noticed the girl’s ears were slightly pointy. The young Dinotopian eventually calmed down and right before entering the garden Rebecca put her down. The girl politely said “Thank you very much, lady” and left running towards the other kids.
Rebecca then looked around, she could see Tamith white hair contrasting against all the colored flowers around. There were orchids, carnations, Dinotopian flowers, and some other flowers. Ms Turner then noticed the roses; they had every type of rose, white, yellow, pink, red and even black. Besides the roses, there were blue, purple, and white tulipans. Hatchlings were running all around the flowerbeds, running after the butterflies that were flying around. Tamith mentioned that Shannara and she took care of the garden with the help of some of the kids. A group of kids was gathering vegetables for the dinner that night. Rebecca was thinking that Josh was probably going to have a hard time eating so many vegetables. What he calls rabbit’s food, she giggled. Shannara then turned towards her, Ms Turner then replied, “Don’t worry just an inside joke”. They were interrupted by a young boy who was calling for his grandmother, “Grandma, grandfather is calling for you, he says Kael wants to start dinner.”
Tamith then told Ms Turner how preparing dinner was a complete ritual, since there was so many people that had to be fed. She asked her if she wanted to help, and Rebecca immediately replied that she would love to, it had been ages since she had prepared a really healthy and delicious dinner. The three women then started walking towards the house to meet with the others. Kael was already in the kitchen being helped by the twins, and Dylan was making the dough. Rebecca was surprised with this this sight. It had been a while since she had seen men helping at the kitchen. Josh would not even dare to come near the kitchen. As she thought this, he walked in. “Oh! There you are my dear, I told our hosts we would help them with dinner,” She told him. “Really?” his face was priceless. Rebecca knew he what he was thinking. “Don’t worry dear, we’ll tell you what to do.” Ms Turner told her husband with a big smirk on her face.
Tamith Evil Incarnated Posts: 15 (11/8/04 7:52 pm) 66.50.91.109 Joint Post: Tamith/Oxi “Kara, please go wash the vegetables outside and give them to Mr. and Mrs. Turner. He’ll take care of the salad,” Dylan told his granddaughter when she and another two juveniles walked into the kitchen carrying two baskets of fresh vegetables each. “Salad, good idea,” Josh agreed and waited eagerly for his assigned task. “Knives are over there,” Shannara told him pointing at a tall mahogany kitchen cabinet. “Choose the one that you feel more comfortable with.” After this she quickly busied herself assisting Tamith with the sauce of the fresh pasta Dylan had already started making. Across from them in another cooking station, Kael and his two eldest children were dividing bread dough into loaves. Fresh cookies were already baking in the ovens and several varieties of vegetables were being steamed. Swiftfoot one of the local Ornithomimids was watching a batch of roasting nuts that were going to be used to decorate a pie later on. It wasn’t long before the kitchen filled with the sweet aroma of a home cooked meal. Kara and her sibling walked in sometime later and dropped the six baskets full of vegetables in a table for Josh and Rebecca to attend to. Rebecca chose a modest sized knife and quickly began slicing up the different lettuces, tomatoes, radishes, sukini and other fresh garden goods. She suddenly lifted her head to see how Josh was doing. He had picked up the biggest knife and was attempting to butcher a radish. Rebecca immediately started laughing. “What?!” Josh shot back at her laughter. “Sweetie, what are you doing?” “What does it look like? I am cutting up this vegetable,” he replied but now his expression had changed into one of confusion. “Not so tough when you don’t have a butler around. I keep telling you that you should learn how to cook.” Rebecca told her husband with a very serious look on her face. She then looked for another smaller knife and handed it to him. “You are going to poke someone’s eye out with that thing.”<br> Mrs Turner helped Josh cut some vegetables and taught him how to do it by himself. She then continued with her own vegetable pile. Suddenly a scream was heard. Everyone was startled heads turned in the direction of the sound to find Mr Turner with one of his fingers in his mouth. “Ok, no more knife for you, dear,” Rebecca proceeded to take the knife away from Josh. “It hurts. Kiss it,” he replied to his wife. Mrs Turner turned around to face her audience. “Josh, act your age please,” she told him ignoring all stares and continued working. “Mr. Turner, you can assist me here if you wish,” Kael O’Connor told him making no effort to hide his smirk. “Sure…” Josh replied in a defeated tone at his wife’s lack of interest for his wound. “What you have to do,” Kael told him, “is watch these loaves that are under this damp sheet and let me know when they rise the cloth about four inches.”<br> “That’s it?” Josh inquired. “Yes, that’s it,” Kael told him. “Simple enough, you can do that while I go fix us some salad dressing for the dish your wife is preparing.”<br> “Ok…” “Teneniel,” he said shifting his attention to his daughter. “You and your brother can get started on the pies if you want.”<br> Everyone continued on their assigned, more complicated tasks while Josh Turner watched the dough rise…<br> ***More in a bit***
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Post by Azonthus on Mar 8, 2005 22:40:34 GMT -5
Tamith Evil Incarnated Posts: 16 (11/8/04 9:19 pm) 66.50.91.211 Effects of cloning, joint post:Tamith/Oxi The dinner table looked like something taken out of an old movie. There were around 30 hand-carved oak chairs that matched the table. It was decorated with a golden hand painted tablecloth and some chandeliers. Besides the human chairs there was also some chairs made especially for saurians. The chimney sat at the back of the room where some kids had bundled up together to see the fire burn and took delight in adding certain rocks into it that made it burn in different colors. The twins and some of the younger kids were setting up the table while Kael brought an enormous bowl of soup. The others each brought in what they had been making. Dylan entered in with the pasta and sauce that his wife and Shannara had been preparing already mixed in a great wooden bowl. Rebecca gave Josh the salad so that he could carry it in, while she helped Shannara and Tamith bring in the assorted fruits and jams. One of the kids came in carrying coconut milk and a pitcher of fresh fruit juice while another brought in nuts and some water. Everyone settled in chairs around the table while Mr. and Mrs. Turner chose a spot next to the chimney that now burned purple. It was at dinner that the enormous size of the family could be fully appreciated. When everyone had settled in Azonthus perked up noticing there was nothing “special” for her. “And what do I eat?” she asked with a toothy grin. Kael winked at her and immediately got up and went into the kitchen to bring in a huge dish full of river trout he had the kids fish earlier that day. Dr Marcus then entered the room and settled herself in one of the two chairs left. “So why is there an empty chair?” Josh asked. “Tisde no’ corna, Kaia.” As if to answer his question, Mairi glided in carrying the same gray-eyed infant she had been carrying earlier that day. She walked up to Shannara and Kael and sat her down between her parents in the child chair that had been set for her. She then moved to sit in the empty chair between Dylan and Erik. Shannara smiled at her and replied in the same unknown language Mairi had used. After a short prayer, dinner began. Loaves of bread were passed around to the four corners of the table, soup was served in baked clay bowls, and every goblet filled with juice. Just around mid-dinner while Josh was helping himself with some soup, lightning struck in the form of Iggy. The real enigma had been how the little dragon had managed to get into the house. Everyone stared as the strange mutation walked around the dinner table sniffing around for something to munch on. “Enigma no…”Rebecca said standing up afraid that the incident that had occurred at her home would repeat itself in this more delicate environment. “Suraya koidu muna l’ irne!” Mairi said immediately getting up while staring at Iggy. “Don’t worry, lady,” Josh said clearly stressed. “I’ll take care of it.”<br> “That you’ll try, I have no doubt,” she replied suddenly in perfect English, “What you lack is the capacity to succeed.”<br> Josh stared at her, dumbstruck. “Excuse me?”<br> She on the other hand, ignored him completely and focused her attention on the fire breathing Iguanadon. “Mina no Aiden! Sueira les terra flama! Corona borelis situ mia.”<br> To everyone’s surprise, the little saurian stared at her for a few moments, then chirped a few times and left the way he had come. “What are you doing with that thing?” Mairi said turning her attention back to Josh. “I’m not doing anything to it. He was cloned at our labs back at Turner Park,” he said this with a real pride about what he had done. “Some bones were found at Belize and brought back to my park. Dr Marcus then assisted in the replication of the DNA and cloned what had been the bones in an earlier time.” When Dr Marcus heard her name and saw Mairi’s face she immediately hid behind the goblet of juice she had been drinking out of. Rebecca was trying to give Josh some sign to stop before he completely messed up, but it was already too late. All of the attention of the table had been focused on their corner. Josh apparently hadn’t noticed this and kept on explaining what he thought Enigma was and where he had come from. “Typical,” Mairi retorted before he could finish narrowing her eyes dangerously. “You “scientists” playing with things you shouldn’t be playing with in the first place. When the toys become weapons, then you’ll realize how foolish you are.”<br> “Sora Aiden,” Kael said soothingly. “Miska nota shanai. Tundra malentra onis condo surai.”<br> “Tundra raden suira curai, Zephyr!” Mairi replied immediately. “Tundra morai. Nishka.”<br> “Who says he’s going to become a weapon?” Josh spoke up between them. “We are taking good care of it. It’ll be like any of the other creatures we keep at our home.”<br> Mairi turned back to Josh and stared at him with an unreadable expression one her face. “ ‘Any of the other creatures…’ foolish little man, is that what you think that thing is?” her eyebrow shot up in skepticism. “Miro no saina. Elendil sho.” With that she took a step away from her chair and left the table. “Murna shumi moiser Turner.”<br> Everyone was silent for a minute. The only sound that could be heard was the infant child playing with her food. “So…” Dylan said breaking the ice. “Dessert anyone?”<br> “Whatever,” Josh said sitting back down determined to enjoy what was left of his meal. He took a spoon full of soup into his mouth. His eyes widened suddenly and he quickly spit it back out and gobbled down some water. Only then did he notice that his bowl of soup was steaming. “Here” Rebecca handed him a glass of cold ice juice. “Pie or cookies, Sweetheart?”<br> “Both,” he replied pains forgotten.
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