As the shuttle touched down on the tarmac and as the others started filing out, Tal fell into step behind Alex, so that he could watch what was going on.   When he saw the honor guard and the kilted woman, he quickly became impressed with the whole affair but his curiosity wasn't spiked enough to say anything yet.   So he kept himself in check with the feeling of being both humbled and unnerved at the same time.

T'risa left the shuttle with all of the grace, elegance and attitude of a Tau matriarch. Imperious in demeanour, she nevertheless had a lot of warmth and friendliness in her attitude that would have been significantly lacking in a true matriarchs expression. She nodded to the guards, letting them know she'd seen them and appreciated the effort they'd gone to for their host.

"Good evening. I believe we're expected?" T'risa mentioned to the woman waiting near the guards.

Lynn had let out a low whistle when the ship had come into view.

"Man, I'd love to see what makes that baby purr." she muttered before they all got moving.

She stayed a bit away from the soldiers. Even after her stint in the military she still din't much care for anyone trained to unleash worlds of hurt on people. she's been on the other end of that scenario too many times already.

She did manage to look impressed as they arrived at least.

"I am Alexa DeMont.I will be assisting you tonight." The woman smiled and offered her hands to T'risa and the rest." I hope you enjoy your visit.The staff, and residents have gone all out to put on a fine dinner, and proper entertainment."

These are the captains Of the Jaguar,Tah, tre Khiit...The three Kills Set. An elite band serving aboard the Flagship overhead. They have asked to be your honor guard tonight..Although I see you have your own body guards."

As she spoke the Guards moved with drill field precision to take up positions flanking the group grounded their plasma rifles and offered a proper Salute due a visiting officer without exchanging a word.

Those feathers on their cloak belong to a native predator on the Quetzl homeowrld...I believe  they are very similar to the..Velociraptor....each one of them has killed one with spear and machotle. That handsome fellow is their leader..he killed three of them during his initiation hunt."the woman spoke with unusual affection for the leader as she made a gesture to him.
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:09, Sat 05 Dec 2015.

The raw excitement of these young people is a joy in Alex's eyes. He is glad to have been given this time to enjoys the passions and pains of the universe among the short lived races. He wonders how it will affect him when he knows himself more fully.

It would be a great challenge to achieve glory in such a hunt, I envy you, Sir.

Expecting no reply from the guard Alex allows himself to be led to the next part of the party.

"Tre Khiit asks me to extend an invitation to you to join in a hunt if you wish." Alexa smiled and blushed slightly." There are Snow cats in the mountains, that are formidable, and cunning. He would be honored to have you join his set in a hunt."

"150, to 700 Kilos...can bite through your leg, like a cesti on a pork rib. I saw one of them take on a pack of Fenris Wolves...and it won." Balkiir chuckled, as he gave a subtle warning." My dad, and the moms hunts them with a 12mm rifles. These guys go after them with spears....and ya'all call us crazy."

by the way when the Osahdii formatted this place they set it up as Pleistocene era...sabre cats, dire wolves, short faced bears...hell there are short hair mammoths on the southern tundra. And if ya ever have a chance try a axe beak steak..tasty tasty birds.
This message was last updated by the player at 15:04, Sat 05 Dec 2015.

Tal was impressed with the honor guard and even more impressed when the aide spoke about how each one had won their honors.   He was a little nervous about the hunt participation, though, when Balkiir spoke of the actual hunt.   Even though he was apprehensive about the hunt, if asked for his participation, he wouldn't say no and not do it.

When they formed up rather smartly he was even more impressed, enough to comment on it to no one in particular but loud enough that they all could hear.   "Boy it's some smart honor guard the governor has here, they clearly put all the others I've seen in the past to shame."    When Balkiir continued about the hunt information, Tal wondered why the ancients made the planet so primitive.    Maybe Alex would know why.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:58, Sun 06 Dec 2015.

Ken sat quietly during the trip keeping to himself.  He cursed himself for forgetting etiquette regarding that Qutzl.  It had been years since he had worked with Bruce and even back then it was all business.  Regardless he felt like an ass for having left his side arm back in his room.  Such was the start of a long evening...

I shall accept.

Says Alex.

I must, however delay until our mission is done.

When is the hunt? Where? And how shall I find you if I am alive to take it?

T'risa raised an eyebrow "I think you must be mistaking the purpose of my companions, Miss Dumont. I am only surrounded by friends, not bodyguards." She walked towards the guard commander inclining her head as a token of respect for the Quetzl in charge "An impressive feat, and one that I could never equal. Your courage, bravery and skill marks you and your set as paragons amongst warriors. Perhaps we could take some time to participate in some drills and training with you and your set prior to the beginning of our mission?"

Elsbeth stuck close to T'risa, eyeing the Quetzl honor guard with a critical, appraising eye.  Her face showed not disrespect - and actually very little emotion at all, but a simple curt nod to the members of the Three Kills Set was an acknowledgment of one seasoned warrior to another.

The edges of her mouth curled up slightly when Balkiir began to expound on the 'virtues' of the mountain Snow Cats.  She'd seen them along side the Valkiir marine sergeant in the wild.  They'd seen the Fenris Wolves as well.  But only at a distance.  There seemed little reason to get up close and personal with either of the predators; and Elsbeth had never hunted for sport - and didn't intend to start now.

Hanging just to the left of T'risa, the tall Praetorian moved with a light feral precision as she mirrored the Marshal's chosen path.  Despite T'risa assurances that Elsbeth and Balkiir were not her bodyguards, the two of them took her safety very personally.  And it showed in her demeanor and her deference to the Marshal.

She did raise an eyebrow at T'risa's offer to have the group train with the Quetzl honor guard.  It was a gesture born purely of professional curiosity at the possibilities, of course.  Personal curiosity and pride would never intrude on such an activity between highly decorated and competitive groups - despite what the young CMC marine might broadcast as surface thoughts on the matter.  Surface thoughts that were readily available to anyone 'sensitive' enough (and who'd been previously attuned) to read her ... like T'risa.  And Balkiir.  And possibly Alex...

With a bit more conversation the Emissary made a slight gesture toward the embassy and suggested everyone step inside where the environment would be more comfortable. The honor guard moved with precision as she led the group toward a large circular courtyard topped with brightly colored awnings, and banners with the pictograms of dozens of Quetzal clans and orders.

Inside stood several dozen guests of all races and sexes, dressed in garb ranging from the simple, to the gaudy, to the point the clashing colors and frippery was to the point of causing eye strain.

At the far side of the circular courtyard dressed in a Siple all black uniform, with badges of rank at his wrist, and on his collar stood a Singular Quetxl male, his posture that of a man quite used to being in charge, and full of a solid confidence that made him seem more imposing than his already impressive build and battered appearance made him look.

On crest rose as the group entered, the other missing, the ugly scar on the side of his face could only have one source. a close in blast from a plasma weapon. He bore a far more reptilian/saurian look than most Quetzl, hinting that his bloodline was more related tot he Kohl Kuhl race than human. the thick armored ridges of skin rose and shifted color as the Emissary approached the center of the room, and the honor guard moved to the perimeter.

The emissary spoke clearly, with a voice more powerful than the woman's thin build hinted at. She spoke in a series of pops, clicks, and trilling sounds that were the native language of the Quetzl.

She spoke fo several minute, the names of each member of the group followed by a long string of Quetzl.

"My lord, Commander. I present to you, Trisa K'mahda, Matriarch Colonel of the Colonial Marshals,Veteran of war,Her blade is stained with the blood of enemies. Defiant in the face of SHE, Honored Guest, Enemy of Our enemies, and friend of the Oligarchy. Pay tribute to her presence for Her name gives Prestige to ours, Her strength shall bring fear to those who oppose the Allied races.

I present Kendric Johnson, Know to us as a friend of the Oligarchy, bringer of justice,His blade is stained with the blood of enemies. Enemy of your enemies. Pay tribute to his presence for his name brings prestige to yours, His strength will bring fear to those who oppose the Allied races.

I present Alex, warrior, sword of order, His blade is stained with the blood of enemies. Enemy of your enemies. Pay tribute to his presence for his name brings prestige to yours, His strength will bring fear to those who oppose the Allied races.

I present, Tal Atvar, Hunter, Son of the cesti, First of his line, may it grow in prestige,His blade is stained with the blood of enemies. Enemy of your enemies. Pay tribute to his presence for his name brings prestige to yours, His strength will bring fear to those who oppose the Allied races.

I present, Lynn Winters, worker of machines, Daughter of Earth,Enemy of your enemies, Pay tribute to her presence for her name brings prestige to yours, Her strength will bring fear to those who oppose the Allied races.

I present to you, Elspeth, Warrior, marine, Guardian, Veteran of war, Colonial Marine,Her blade is stained with the blood of enemies. Pay tribute to her presence for her name brings prestige to yours, Her strength will bring fear to those who oppose the Allied races.

I present to You Balkiir Kovul, Thane of The Valkiir, Son of Kovul, Veteran of war, Colonial Marine, Keeper of tradition,His blade is stained with the blood of enemies.Pay tribute to his presence for his name brings prestige to yours, His strength will bring fear to those who oppose the Allied races.

I present PP-137Dn 2140 "Poppy" Child of Prometheus, Bringer of justice, Hunter of criminals, veteran of war, Her blade is stained with the blood of enemies.Pay tribute to her presence for her name brings prestige to yours, Her strength will bring fear to those who oppose the Allied races. "

She continued without pause through the list of the attending groups then began to speak of the battle of char, and the defeat of the Q'sa and rebel Tau, the destruction of a Q'sa dreadnought, and the capture of prizes of war. The ten-minute presentation was delivered without a single pause, to the point where poppy looked at her with a bit of surprise.being the current record holder for lengthy nonstop monologues.

ALL PAY TRIBUTE!

From the throat of every Quetzl in the room came a bloodcurdling howling screech that echoed off the walls. accompanied by the stamping of feet.

As she spoke six Quetzl clothed only in a few strips of cloth and bearing weapons that looked out of some ancient relic display, fashioned of bone, wood, and obsidian glass, filed into the room, they began ot dance and chant in Quetzl, going through a choreographed display that looked physically demanding, razor-edged weapons swung through ritualized katas advancing ever closer to the guests until the leader was face to face with T'risa at which point he dropped to one knee and offered the straight warclub inset with dozens of curved serrated teeth.


 the voice of the emissary comes into your heads. If any of you are skilled in close order drill this would be an appropriate time to display it...it is not expected that you know our ritual...presentation..but to return it in your own way would be diplomatic.
OOC:
anyone with military/dance/martial arts background can execute a common close order drill, your sidearms as a group...if T'risa is willing to coordinate psionically.

No need to go into extreme detail, simply express that you join the display...this is very similar to a Moari Haka, so it's a very polite gesture to show your skill, and not back down from the implied challenge to show your stuff.

and if I missed anyone please let me know and I can add it to the list....

If any large blade is available to use, Alex will take it and join in the show. Moving with dexterity in the mock battle.

Kendrick will do the same as alex, assuming he has a ceremonial sword on his hip.

Now I feel bad, my blade is not stained with the blood of enemies. Lynn gave an errant thought but didn't say anything. It was correct anyway, she wasn't much of a fighter. But even in her own head ran the train of flippancy and sarcasm.

She watched the tribute and gave a minuscule shake of her head when the voice asked if any wished to participate. It had been a very long time since she did any kind of displays, and she didn't have any weaponry on her anyway at the moment. Another errant thought started toward her past which she quelled with annoyance. He wasn't going to ruin her evening.

T'risa smiled, nodding graciously to the emissary "Ok everyone. Are we all ready? I appreciate that not many have had me direct you during a stressful situation, but it'll be fine. Consider my presence in your head as a coordinator. Together we can put on a display that will be worthy of our hosts and perhaps impress them enough to work with us. Let me know if you wish to participate." T'risa reached to her belt drawing her energy blade
This message was last edited by the player at 13:48, Thu 28 Apr 2016.

Well, I was intending to keep this hidden but if you have one I suppose it's no secret.

Alex draws his psi sword and joins her in the show,
This message was last edited by the player at 23:33, Mon 25 Apr 2016.

Almost immediately after being introduced, Elsbeth bowed slightly.  Her free hands open to show that she brandished no weapon.

Then with a tight, quick flourish, the Valkiir family blade (whose mate is prominently displayed upon Balkiir's belt) at Elsbeth's side found its way easily into the tall, thin Praetorian's right hand.  She took a simple step back and to the right to fall into line with the burly blue-skinned warrior with her own blade's mate next to her; the two appeared to be able to communicate on a subvocal level that was frighteningly well-synchronized.

Falling efficiently into lock step, her head nodded ever-so slightly to T'risa vocal and mental commands.  Elsbeth needed little to no prompting from the battle witch to crouched into a ritualistic stance, mirroring the stance of Balkiir who had taken up a similar set of positioning along with the others.

~It's not a party till they ask yo to dance~Balkiir whispered though T'risa link. He seemed fairly enthusiastic about the invitation and shot Elspeth a reassuring glance. a flurry f images too fast for the conscious mind to follow flowed from his memory to everyone in the group. the advantage of psionic links being that the conscious mind didn't have to register the information for the information to stick.

The movements were aggressive, and intended to demonstrate speed, and strength as well as the ability to handle the weapons they carried.he seemed to be basing the suggested routing on both Valkiir, and TAE Marine demonstration team drills.~It's a simple one, kids stuff really.~

I'll put a real show on later.....

OOC: just give me a straight 2d6 roll with a +2 bonus, add your social, or dex bonus, which ever is higher.

After a moment's hesitation and with him looking around both this way and that, Tal will separate his sword from his cane, putting the cane on the floor next to where they were all standing.   He falls into step with the others and at t'risa's lead will perform a dance.




OOC: 2D6 = 7 + 1 = 8 + 2 = 10
     20:41, Today: Tal Atvar rolled 6 using 1d6.
     20:41, Today: Tal Atvar rolled 1 using 1d6.
 +1 FOR DEXTERITY SINCE I DON'T HAVE THE SKILL DANCE SPECIFICALLY BUT MY COORDINATION ATHLETICS AS WELL AS MY ATHLETICS SKILLS ARE AT O.   I DIDN'T USE THE +3 FROM MY JOT SKILL BECAUSE REALISTICALLY SPEAKING, I COULD SAY THAT I AM RUSTY IN DANCING IN FORMATION ETC.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:54, Wed 27 Apr 2016.

It was quite obvious that Elsbeth had both a natural gracefulness as well as training, but there was always something slightly off-putting about her demeanor.  It was a touch difficult to put a finger on, but there's something almost feral in the way that she carried herself; obviously bred to be a warrior, she smiled with a touch too much tooth and her gaze was altogether distant and intensely focused all at once.  She had a thousand yard stare ... and yet could miss the nuances of social niceties sometimes with alarming regularity.

But when it comes to martial drills, the genetically-engineered girl appeared to be all business.  Her long association with both T'risa and Balkiir probably helped.  The psychic connection that the Marshal used to help direct the group seemed to offer no problems for Elsbeth, the barrage of images were readily incorporated into her movements.  That part of the young Praetorian frank's brain had obviously been cultivated and honed through both genetic engineering and hyper-accelerated adolescent teaching methods.

The blade flicked and turned with alarming speed and precision as Elsbeth went through the motions...

---

  23:20, Today: Elsbeth rolled 14 using 2d6+3.  Dex check: Martial blade dance (+2 DM).

T'risa led the group in the dance/kata, herself no real match for the warriors around her. Still she managed to do the others credit by showing off how well the group was coordinated as a whole. Part of the problem was the mental links to new people that she'd not had the opportunity to really know well. The main problem was trying to keep poppy in the link. Her time with the Steel Steeds had taught her how to use telepathy on machine sentiences and live, but it wasn't easy by any stretch of the imagination.

~ooooo tingly..shiatsu for the mind....How do you guys live in those cramped little spaces~ poppies voice came thrugh T'risa to everyone.to every one.~ I mean wow, it's smaller in there than my first apartment...oops not to say it isnt cozy in there, I mean some nice drapes, a few throw rugs...down right homey.~ Poppy smiled as she stood up wit the rest and drew her sidearms, spinning them in best old west style then strikingn a pose that looked downright lethal.~lets dance.~

The dance proceeded, with each person performing to their best ability. The group managed not to step on anyone's feet, or accidently decapitate one another moving in close quarters with live steel, plasma, and psionic energy drawn.The routine seemed to meet with the approval of the Quetzl who responded with open enthusiasm. By far it was Elspeth who stole the show, her strong clean movements and powerful presence leaving even Balkiir impressed as she ended up nose to nose with the lead Quetzal warrior, their unblinking gaze fixed on one another.

A long moment passed with not a mucle moving, or any shift in thier stance, until..the Quetzls inner eyelid flicked, and his stare dissolved as he stepped back relinquishing the center of the Floor to Elspeth. His feathered frill dipping slightly in respect as the Quetzl applauded and shouted in approval.

The ambassador and the Emissary approached, the powerful built Quetzl admiral smiling warmly as he extended a hand in greeting to T'risa.


"I see that life in the colonies agrees with you T'risa K'mahda. A mutual friend hinted it had brought out the potential in you."