INTERSECTIONS

Over five years ago, the spelljammer Endeavor left on a journey of
exploration. They didn't know how, or even if, they would return. They
left without charts, and with only the vaguest idea of the conditions in
the pholgisten and in other spheres. Nevertheless, they were as prepared
as N'Ferra could make them, with as many masters of different powers as
were available.

Today the ship is loaded with artifacts and information from over 70
spheres. The hold is full of charts, seeds, strange animals bottled in
alchol, and an enormous number of photographs, drawings, and journals.
They've charted a route from the Dark Sphere and back that was
previously unknown. The ship has suffered fire storms, meteor showers,
and attacks by wildlife, natives, and other spelljamming vessels. Still,
they have lost only six members of their original crew, and collected
more crew from a score of spheres.

As N'Ferra sphere draws ever closer the crew becomes more anxious to
tell Mirtil and the other newcomers of the wonders of N'Ferra: the
firepools of Above, the beanstalks which extend from ground to orbit,
even the sun, which they say isn't like the sun in any other sphere but
are at a loss to say how its different. Each talks about his home with
love and caring, and, in the cautious voices people use when they fear
ill luck, wonder if their god Ferris would grant them gifts for this
voyage of exploration.

Three days before they are due to reach the Dark Sphere, the captain
puts the extra energy produced by the expected homecoming to good use.
The ship and crew are thoroughly inspected. The ship is brought as close
to prime condition as it can. Decks are holystoned, metalwork is
polished, ropes are newly tarred, and, to finish up, a new coat of paint
is applied to the ship's exterior. The same energy is applied to the
crew as uniforms are mended and leathers are polished. Though no one
would mistake the Endeavor for a new ship, Mirtil didn't think anyone
would take the ship for being more than five years out of its home port
either.

The most remarkable thing about the process is the way that people don't
discriminate between common and extraordinary skill. Though his six
months aboard the vessel have made him appreciative of the daily hot
baths in conjured water heated by a coal boiler, the N'Ferrans extend
that eclecticism to the everyday tasks of mending, where the being who
can sew a straigth seam is just as much in demand as the mage with a
Mending spell.

Finally, the ship approaches the crystal sphere. In spite of having seen
it many times before, Mirtil still feels a small frisson. It doesn't
seem like its possible for something to be so huge. Still, the entry
goes without problems as an earth mage creates an opening and the
Endeavor passes into the sphere. Every moderately strong telepath on
board is locked into a gestalt as they attempt to make contact with any
N'Ferrans in the sphere. Before long, the result is known. The N'Ferrans
are there and eagerly awaiting the ship! The captain halts the ship as
arrangements are made to teleport a gatemaster aboard so that the ship
can reach the entry to N'Ferra proper as quickly as possible.

The gatemaster teleports aboard and an hour's rest brings him to his
peak. A psionic, a spirit, a healer-mage, and several powerstones help
absorb the backlash as the gatemaster creates a gate bridging the
unimaginable distance between the edge and center of the Dark Sphere.
The ship dives through the gate to see Base N'Ferra lying before them; a
lighted circle in the midst of the darkess. Exclamations of wonder come
from the crew. When they had left, only a single spelljamming vessel
marked this location. Today there's a small city.

The landing is without incident. Afterwards the ship is swamped by well-
wishers and those excited by what is currently the longest trip away
from the Dark Sphere. Guards are placed on the ship to prevent it from
being damaged in people's enthusiasm, and the captain gives a portion of
the crew leave for R&R.

Mirtil is calling into the captain cabin, where the captain explains
that, for his quest, it would probably be best for him to leave the ship
here. He is given a paper with instructions for reaching several
diviners, as well as the harbor office where they keep charts and
records they have collected from other spelljamming races. "If need be,
you can also attempt the diplomatic office. Instructions for reaching
them are on the sheet as well." The captain also explains that he can
probably live for six months or more on the stories of his time aboard
the Endeavor if he works it properly. There may be other people seeking
him out in the future, but his journals will be all they need for the
time being.

-----

Mirtil collects his belonging and heads onto the base where he is
immediately swamped by people wanting to do him favors and hear his
tale.

With a wide smile, Mirtil says: "Good people, thanks for your interest,
but I think I need some rest and time to look around here first. But
then, as I'm a minstrel by profession, I will be more than glad to sing
my songs to you. I will even try to translate some in your language.
Now, can somebody show me the way to the harbor office?"

Right around this time Jane is walking around Base N’Ferra trying to
make sense out of the place, she notices the hubbub around the ship and
moves closer to see what is going on.

Jane is 5'0" tall and slender (100 lbs.). Yellow Blonde hair, dark green
eyes, Caucasian features. Jane is a slender but very beautiful woman,
she looks a lot like Grace Kelley, though perhaps not quite as
glamorous. She does appear to be physically weak, though athletic and
healthy, she has a certain healthy and wholesome beauty (think All
American Girl). She wears her hair in a pony tail. She is dressed in a
black BDU which does somewhat clash with her appearance.

With her is Sheena; she's noticeably taller than Jane, but not unusually
so; she is slim and well-proportioned, as far as anyone can see under
the long skirt and long-sleeved blouse she wears. She is quite
attractive, though not world-class. Her hair is blonde with many black
streaks, and she allows it to hang free. She wears sunglasses and
appears slightly shy, but is looking about her with obvious interest,
showing that she is not at all used to this sort of thing.

As Jane scans the crowd, she can notice a tall and slim man, dressed in
dark blue clothes. He somehow tries to escape the crowd without being
too rude, protecting his lute packed in a leather bag from destruction,
and asks where to get to the harbor office.

Jane looks at the scene and frowns slightly, then she goes a little
closer trying to figure out what the hubbub is all about. She is packing
a series of nasty looking weapons (a two handed sword, almost as long as
she is, strapped to her back. A couple of revolvers. A big knife), but
somehow she doesn’t look very threatening.

If Mirtil asks for directions from her she will say "Well uh, it’s kind
of, uhm," then she will look a bit nervous and say "Well Mr . . . I
guess I could show you . . ." She seems very apprehensive about not
causing any offence and will gladly show him the way.

Sheena stays in the background. She is a head taller than Jane, but
seems even more self-effacing. As she has little else to do, she will
tag along with Jane.

Most of the crowd does a quick fade after looking at Jane's weapons, but
there are still a few who quickly offer to show Mirtil to the
harbormaster's and help him find a room and whatever else he needs.

"That would be very kind of you, ladies," he replies with a noticeable
accent, "Call me Mirtil." Then he glances shortly at the weaponry
carried by Jane. "Dangerous place, this base?"

"God, I hope not," says Sheena. "It's strange enough as it is without
being dangerous too."

Mirtil, looking around: "Strange, hmm, that's exactly what I would say,
but, what surprises me, is that you say it. I thought that you are,
well, native here. Is the sword as heavy as it looks like?" he asks,
looking at the greatsword at Jane's back.

"Native?" replies Sheena. "No, not at all. I'm from a city called New
Tr'oy. I was studying at NTSU, when I was picked up."

Jane nods, then she says "Yes Mr Mirtil, it seems neither of us are
local, and it’s not really heavy, only about seven pounds". She then
adds "But I do know the way to the harbour office, kind of the centre of
things around here Mr Mirtil".

A couple of the other people volunteer that it's just across the way,
pointing towards one of the buildings ringing the central dock.

Hearing this all, Mirtil says: "I see that there is much more about this
place that I had a chance to hear or see. I believe that it's some
crossroad, or better to say a meeting point between absolutelly
different worlds. By the way," he looks at Sheena, "you said you have
been picked up? What does it mean?"

Sheena looks back at Mirtil. "It means that I was in danger; the police
were looking for me with the intent to shoot first and forget the
questions. I was rescued from that place by an agent from this place,
and brought here." She smiles, revealing long, sharp canine teeth. "I'm
beginning to think that it's the best thing that ever happened to me."

Seeing the teeth, Mirtil smoothly jumps back, his hand flying to his
rapier hilt. He don't draw the weapon, but he is obviously ready for
fight. A second later he relaxes a bit, as his mind takes over the
reflexes again, and says, slowly removing the hand from the hilt: "I
don't want to be rude and too fast in my judgements, but I never
expected to see a vampire walking a street openly with other people. How
do you feed, lady, without harming other citizens here?"

When Mirtil jumps, Sheena jumps also, appearing just as startled.
"Vampire?" she asks, stunned. "Feed?" She blinks in confusion, then
begins to giggle. This turns to laughter, which she gradually brings
under control.

"I'm sorry," she chuckles, removing her sunglasses and wiping the tears
from her eyes. "I wasn't laughing at you... no, I'm not a vampire." She
looks him in the eye; her eyes, now visible, are a vivid green, with
slit pupils. "I'm a were-leopard."

"A wereleopard? You?" Mirtil seems to be completelly fascinated by that,
and looks at her with amazed smile. "Wonderfull!" He steps towards her.

"Can I?" he asks, slowly rising his hand.

"Uh.. sure," she replies uncertainly.

He touches gently her cheek and hair, and strokes her hair as one who is
used to live with cat and likes them a lot would caress a cat.

Sheena giggles nervously; her lips twitch into a smile despite herself.

"I would love to see you once, when you are in your leopard shape. Oh, I
mean if you don't mind. I don't want to be rude in any case, I'm just...
that's fascinating! That must be a good omen that I have met you here!"

Sheena blushes furiously. "You - you would? It - it is?" She looks at
him searchingly. "You really don't mind that I can turn into a leopard?"

"Nay," Mirtil says softly with a charmed smile, "Why would somebody
mind?" Then he adds with sudden concern, getting serious: "Does this
mean that somebody hates you because you are a wereleopard? Are you in a
_danger_? Well, just tell me if you are in trouble and need a hand."

Sheena sighs sadly. "No, I'm not in trouble. Well, not anymore." She
looks at the sunglasses in her hand, then hooks them into the top of her
blouse. "It was on my home world -- they call it Urt. I was at
university at New Tr'oy, just trying to get along, when some people,"
she bites off an incipient sob, "with no sense of privacy and a really
strange sense of humor caught me in all my glory." She looks over at
Mirtil. "I've had to cover up all my life," she explains. "I've got
telltales all over my body." A reflective pause, then she continues. "I
tried to just ignore it, but there's a tradition on Urt that strange
looks means bad. So some people invaded my dorm room with silver
weapons. I had to -- I had to kill them. So then the police came after
me. And then I was picked up. Just in time, as it happened." She glances
at Mirtil to see how he's taking this. "So no, I'm not in trouble. But
if I ever went back there, I'd be dead."

Jane’s reaction is a bit odd, when she hears the story she actually
looks away for a moment, she seems almost guilty. Then she manages, sort
off, to go back to looking like her normal reasonably pleasant self.

Mirtil seems to be rather sad than disgusted, as he hears about it.
"Good that it's over," he says after a moment, lost in thoughts. "You
lived throught it to learn. You can probably understand much more now,
that they would ever do." He suddenly looks back at her again: "But...
but you are really worried that you killed those people who attacked
you, are you? Don't blame yourself. You were just a tool in the hand of
Fate. Those you have killed will enter the Wheel again, in different
bodies, on different places, but they will live... and learn. Even from
their previous deaths. It's never easy to kill, but sometimes it's
necessary."

Once more Jane’s reaction is odd, she seems both sad and a tad guilty.

He absently strokes her hair again, as somebody would stroke a worried
cat to comfort it.

Sheena half-smiles as he strokes her hair. "If I were in leopard form
right now," she murmurs, "I'd be purring." She looks down at the blouse
that she's wearing, as if for the first time. "You know, I just
realized. I don't need these anymore." With a few deft moves and a
slight ripping noise, she tears the sleeves from her blouse; they seem
to come off more easily than would be expected. Underneath are the
sleeves of her bodystocking, which she rolls up. Her arms, thus
revealed, bear the stippling of leopardskin markings, from shoulder to
wrist. As a finishing touch, she removes her skirt; the body-stocking
covers her to the ankles, but a long leopard tail is revealed, curling
about her legs. Rolling the blouse sleeves within the skirt, she tucks
the bundle under one arm and smiles at Mirtil. "Now I'm ready to face
the world," she declares with a grin.

A couple of nearby nurha glance at Sheena and say something in their
growly language. That's followed up by chuffing sounds that Mirtil,
Jane, and Dustin recognize as nurha laughter. Dustin also notices that
the redhead is looking as Sheena with undisguised dislike, but wipes the
expression away when Mirtil glances in her direction.

Sheena wrinkles her nose; "Whew!" she says, half under her breath. "They
ever hear of deodorant? Or manners?" She looks from Dustin to Jane to
Mirtil. "Any of you guys understand what they were saying?"

[GM note: no word in Peshka for deoderant, and its a good thing they
weren't paying too much attention, because "unscented" is a strong
insult in most nurha cultures.]

Dustin shakes his head,"No, I've spent most of my time learning about
other things...I'd like to learn the N'Ferra languages some day...but
there's just so much to do!"

"You're not kidding," replies Sheena dryly.

"Not a single word," says Mirtil. "Not that I care... until they will
keep away." He throws the nurhas a nasty grin, interposing himself
between the wereleopard and them.

Sheena shrugs unconcernedly. "I don't think they'll bother me."

Jane smiles a little at this, then she says "They were laughing", then
with a little wink she adds "Maybe they fancy you Miss Sheena?", she
blushes a little after saying this though.

Sheena chokes a little at this, then giggles. "Oh, you're kidding," she
says. Then she looks more closely at Jane. "You *are* kidding .. aren't
you?" she asks doubtfully.

She looks back at the couple and muses half to herself, "I know I get
along well with big cats but..." Her voice trails off.

Jane adds "You look nice, no one should ever have to hide their true
nature, and around here no one condemns you for who or what you are".
She smiles strangely and says "You learn to appreciate it Miss Sheena":

"Trust me," replied Sheena firmly, "I do."

Jane nods, then she mutters in a really low voice "So do I".

Jane smiles a little then she says "Don’t knock it till you tried it",
she blushes even further and looks away, then she says "Uhm, I mean ...
That ... not you know, quite what I wanted to say". She seems a bit
embarrassed before she says "Kind of kidding, I don’t know, maybe they
DO fancy you ...", she smiles embarassedly and it is clear that she is
blushing (though it only makes her look prettier).

"Uh yeah, I think I get what you're on about.. but there's a problem."
Sheena pauses. "I, uh, don't see felines, uh, *that* way unless I'm
being the leopard, you understand?" she says. She waits for her blush to
subside before continuing. "When I'm upright, it's more of an
understanding thing. I can tell 'em what to do and they do it."

Jane nods at this, then she says "I like cats ...", she seems a bit sad
though as she says it. Then she smiles a little and whispers "Have you
ever ... I mean with a feline", she stops short and says "Uhm must be
strange ...", she is blushing rather heavily now.

If Mirtil can overheard that Jane likes cats, he adds: "Well, the
felines are wonderfull. I like cats much... I think their nature fits
mine perfectly. They can be independent, but friendly, and they can
respect others as equals - no master - slave relationship as canines
prefer. No ownership needed and required. No false and empty
flattering... we have to learn from them a lot."

Jane will smile a little and say "I see Mr Mirtil, they are rather
graceful", and then go back to her whispered conversation with Sheena.

Sheena looks at him and smiles, then says, "Is that why you said that
meeting me was a good omen -- or was there another reason?"

Sheena blushes heavily as well. "No, not as such," she whispers in
return. "I never got close enough to the zoo to try." She pauses,
embarassed, then continues; "But *ooohhhhh* there were some nice-looking
leopards in the cage..." She licks her lips slowly, with a wicked grin.

Jane looks a little shocked, but it soon goes into a little giggle, she
then whispers "Oh Miss Sheena", she sounds mock shocked. Then she says
(still whispering) "It sounds really interesting, maybe next time I can
give you a boost over the bars ... or sneak you in one night ...".

Sheena looks thoughtful. "Well... if we found leopards in the wild
somewhere.." Then she covers her mouth to hide a giggle. "Why bother?
Mirtil's right here, and he looks as good as that leopard did.."

Jane smiles, then she whispers "Uh, huh, he’s nice", she smiles even
wider and leans close to whisper "Now HE really fancies you, who knows
maybe you could have some fun in your leopard shape ...". She gasps a
little herself as she realises what she just said, but she is smiling
and a bit flustered.

"Jane!" says Sheena, shocked at what she has just heard. Her blush
deepens, but she cannot suppress a giggle. Forcing a straight face, she
whispers, "Perhaps we had better let *him* be the judge of that..."

She looks over at Mirtil and flashes him a quick smile if he sees her,
then turns back to Jane. "But yes," she whispers, "I have to admit; he
*is* very yummy."

"I really like him," Sheena confides to Jane. "He sounds like he would
respect me as a person or as a leopard.." She closes her eyes for a
moment. "I've been looking for someone like that for *so* long.." she
sighs.

Jane nods, then she whispers "I know what you mean, I have always wished
I could find someone that would love me, and respect me, for what I am,
and not be ... weirded out".

Sheena looks around. "Well," she says softly, "I think you've come to
the right place."

Jane smiles and giggles herself, she whispers back "Well at least you’ll
have good reason to purr, no matter what shape you’re in ...", she stops
and seems shocked that she is going so far, then she says "Miss Sheena,
sorry, but you got a good one, time to reel him in".

"Oh, I intend to," replies Sheena with a smile. "I intend to."

"Now, that is interesting," says Mirtil with a real interest, and walks
around her once to see her from all the sides. "Do you feel more like a
great cat, or human? I mean psychically, in your mind. This seems as an
unfinished change... very interesting from the point of view of Art
practicioner. There is something in your mind, which blocks the complete
change, I think. You just refuse to turn completelly into a human's
form.

"Sometimes," she confesses, "I feel like a leopard that can turn to
human. Other times I'm a human that can turn to leopard. But there's
something called 'genetics' that I've heard about; some of my people
have surmised that we need human and animal genes to change properly,
and that I don't have enough human genes to change fully."

Jane seems like she wants to say something, but she keeps her mouth
closed instead.

"Well, considering how perfect you felines are compared to humans and
humanoid, I can understand. But if you want, I can try to study it...
not that it's too important."

"You can study it if you really want. But I don't see it as important
either - now. I'm quite happy as I am, and I'm accepted here." She
smiles brightly.

There is a slight smile on Jane’s face when they talk about being
accepted.

"I think that you look really cute as you are now. Only that there can
still be some intolerant idiots somewhere who would ask for some
trouble."

"Thanks," she replies with a slight blush. "And yes, you're right. But
none could be as intolerant as where I came from, so I think I'll be all
right. Besides," she continues in a different tone, "I *can* take care
of myself." She favors him with a toothy grin.

Dustin (who, let's face it probably has nothing better to do than hang
out with Jane and is thus probably there) is immidiately drawn to the
Minstril,"Hello there sir!"

[Actually, both Jane and Sheena know that Dustin is taking a heavy load
of classes at the local college and various other enterprises. He was
glad to take the time to escort two lovely ladies though.]

"Greetings!"

"How many instruments do you play?"

"Just my lute here, and I also sing sometimes."

"Amazing. I have always wanted to learn to play one. My mentor always
thought I should learn music; at least some anyway."

"Let your mentor to say whatever he or she likes, and do whatever you
like. If you like music, learn music; if your mentor likes music, he -
or she - can learn music. Who is your mentor, anyway?"

"He died . . . sort of . . . it's very hard to explain . . . His name .
. . well we just called him the doctor . . . and I'd like that . . . how
hard is the lute to learn?

"Hmm. I would say that it is fun. Not easy all the time, but fun."

Dustin smiles,"well, as Doc used to say, you can't learn something
that's really worth learning unless you put some effort into it...

Jane listens but does not say anything.	She is, however, glad to see
that Dustin and Mirtil are being good friends.

The crowd of you make your way over to the harbormaster's office. In
addition to Dustin, Jane, Mirtil, and Sheena there's a short, sweaty
male human who's quite overweight, a tall red-haired human female (sort
of attractive) and another human female who's so ordinary she's
completely forgettable.

During the walk to the hb. office Mirtil asks: "As we are almost all
newcomers here, and you have been around longer than me, can you tell me
if there is some chance to get a well paid work? I think I will need
some money to the beginning. I'm good enough mage, I can handle the
sword, and of course, I'm a musician. What do you do for living, if I
may ask?"

The short man volunteers that there's always a market for outsphere
music. He could easily set something up for you. "Do you use magic in
your act?"

The redhead gets as close to Mirtil as she can and says, "I'm sure a
strong, handsome person like yourself won't have trouble finding
whatever work you want."

Sheena fights down a subvocalized growl and answers her sweetly, "I'm
sure he won't -- darling." Despite her honeyed tones, her tail flicks
from side to side while anyone watching can see her nails digging into
her palms.

"I can hadle this," says Mirtil, putting his hand reassuringly on
Sheena's shoulder. "And I think I can answer for myself," he adds
softly, but smiles at Sheena as he turns to the redhead.

Sheena says nothing, but relaxes slightly and lets her tail curl around
one of his legs.

Mirtil observes her from above with a wide grin, saying: "I certainly
don't mind _some hard work_ , mylady, but currently I'm short of funds,
so I can't afford, well, everything." Looking at her pointedly, and the
smile, while perfectly courteous, is almost mocking, but of course, also
lecherous, so the redhead can hardly say whether he is mocking her, or
playing with her.

Jane looks quickly from the red haired woman to Sheena, she seems a bit
concerned, about to say something even, but then she quickly withdraws
into her shell and stays quiet.

The womans leans back and then slugs Mirtil; hard. She's obviously had
some sort of training in hand to hand, since she takes him totally by
surprize bloodying his nose and knocking him unconcious. [No, this is
not GM's fiat, Mirtil got some lousy rolls and I'm as surprized as
anyone.]

Sheena reacts instinctively, stepping forward to stand over Mirtil's
prone body. Her lips roll back in a snarl, showing her teeth. Her eyes
narrow, and her tail lashes back and forth. She crouches slightly and
brings her hands up keeping them open, but doesn't strike out yet. Her
fingers crook slightly and razor-sharp claws, each perhaps an inch long,
slide out from beneath her nails.

"Back off, bitch!" she snarls, her voice laden with menace.

Jane seems shocked at the woman's reaction, but she just pulls away
slightly, seemingly uncertain of what she is going to do. When she sees
Sheena's reaction she moves to stand behind Sheena, so she can support
her if something goes wrong.

She seems very flustered as she steps back. "Oh . . . I didn't mean . .
. "

Sheena stands down, retracting her claws and reducing the snarl to a
scowl. She will drop to one knee beside Mirtil and cradle his head,
trying to see if he's badly hurt.

Jane will merely be standing around trying to seem non-offensive, and if
asked give help with Mirtil (Jane carries around a first-aid kit in her
BDU's), she is rather skilled in giving first aid.

As Sheena checks Mirtil over she sees that both eyes are bruised, his
nose is mashed, and there's a scrape over one cheekbone. However, his
neck is fine, and his pupils respond to the light. His nose is broken,
but three or four days rest should put him right again.

Her companion speaks to her, "Dina, that was totally unneccesary, a
simple slap would have been sufficient." Turning back to the rest of the
group she says, "I apologize on behalf of my companion. Mirtil isn't too
badly hurt, and he made it clear he isn't interested, so we'll go
elsewhere."

Sheena simply growls, deep in her throat and stays with Mirtil.

Jane nods and tries to seem conciliatory.

Assuming a general brawl doesn't break out, they proceed to leave.

Dustin scratches his head,"I don't think you have to leave..." though in
matters such as this he's hardly an expert,"maybe we could just talk it
out or something..."

Sheena watches them go, her green eyes smouldering with suppressed
violence.

Jane will touch Sheena and whisper "Talk about ...", she then use a
couple of words regarding certain women that should not be uttered in
public, including a few in French and English. Jane then goes back to
helping Mirtil get back on his feet, hopefully her ministrations should
help.

Jane ministrations set Mirtil's nose, stopping the bleeding and bringing
him back to conciousness.

Jane leans closer and whispers "Miss Sheena, if I didn’t know any better
I would think that the green eyed monster had paid a visit ...", she
smiles a little at her joke, then she adds (in a low voice so Mirtil can
not hear) "I think he likes you, actually I think he’s falling in love
with you ..."

Sheena replies in an equally low voice, "I think he just finds me exotic
and attractive; I have to admit, I find it flattering, but I want to
find out how he really feels about me, not just the part that can turn
into a leopard..."

Jane nods, then she says (in a low voice) "I think it’s more Miss
Sheena, even if that’s a big attraction, he likes you ... Nice guys are
rare, so if you find one you’d better not let go".

Sheena looks at her with big green cat eyes. "Seeing this is the *first*
nice guy I've ever met, who was OK with what I am, you can take that to
the bank."

Jane nods and says "Yeah, if they don’t like you the way you are they’re
not nice at all".

Sheena says nothing, just nods.

Once Mirtil is back on his feet, the conversation continues . . .

"Oh my Goddess," he gasps, as he sits, shaking his head," this is really
a hard country. But," looking heavenwards," thanks for the lesson."

Sheena kneels beside him, carefully helping him sit up. "Are you all
right?" she asks anxiously. "Your nose looks bad -- maybe you should sit
down for a while until you feel better." She will give him one of the
torn-off sleeves of her blouse to staunch the blood, holding his head
carefully.

"That's it," she says quietly. "I'm staying by your side every minute
until we're away from here. I don't want any other people attacking
you."

"Thanks, I will be fine" says Mirtil, "but believe me or not, normally
I'm quite capable to care for myself, Goddess knows. Nobody ever managed
to get me so easily as she did now. That was obviously a lesson from
above. Maybe the Goddess is upset by my pride, so she has sent this
woman to show me that I behave wrongly. Well, after all, it was enough
to tell the woman that I'm not interested, politely, and not to try to
be damn clever and mock her. Oh well."

Mirtil draws his hand across his face in an odd gesture and his
incipient bruises disappear altogether. He then proceeds to remove the
brace Jane had put on his nose.

"I knew you weren't interested in her," says Sheena, "but she really
shouldn't have hit you like that without warning." She gently traces the
lines of his face with her fingertips.

Jane smiles a little as she watch the two sit together, she also seems a
bit less concerned with Mirtil's situation than she should. Although she
gives the two some distance she seems almost amused, although she also
seems a tad jealous of Sheena.

Jane will whisper to Dustin "There's a lesson for you, be nice to women,
don't mock them or anything, or else someone might just punch you in the
nose."

After that she simply follows the group around, happy that Sheena has
managed to find someone that cares about her.

Dustin is rather quiet about the whole affair with the punch...he seems
rather extremely concerned about it...it may just be concern for Mirtil,
but it's hard to say...he nods to Jane.

Dustin nods,"Yeah, I think the gate people are hiring, they hired us.
They seem to like people with experience going out and doing stuff, and
what kind of spells do you know?" he seems rather eager to learn more in
this area-VERY eager,"What do I do?" Dustin shrugs,"Well, at the moment
learn -- really -- as much as I possibly can."

"Maybe you can tell me more and arrange a meeting with your employer,"
Mirtil says. "I think I would like it to work with you all. If you want
to learn something, I will gladly teach you. Do you have the knack for
magic? I know several handy spell of healing."

Dustin nods,"Sure, they seem to be eager to hire people with experience
going to other worlds. I think he'd be glad to have you aboard. I've
been told I'm pretty good at magic, and a healing spell would sure be
useful alright!"

At the harbormaster's office, Mirtil asks for somebody who can help him
with information concerning a person who has arrived about 20 years ago
on a spelljammer ship.

After Mirtil explains what he's after the harbor office explains that
N'Ferra was confined to its private sphere until 7 years ago. You would
have to consult a librarian and see if they've purchased any records
that might shed a little light on your problem. They also suggest you
consult a manist and diviner. They also tell you how to reach the office
where analysis of records concerning the flow are located in case they
have something that might help you.

Jane once again seem about to say something, but then again seems to
think the better of it.

After the harbor office you make your way to the offices of the 'Base
N'Ferra Reader' which is the local newpaper and also brokers various
types of publications. If Mirtil's memoires are in a N'Ferran language
and script, they will offer him $250 up front and 10% of gross sales. If
they aren't in a local language, they won't offer any money, but will
make arrangements to translate. Mirtil can either translate them
himself, recite into a recorder (N'Ferra recording technology is at the
wax cylinder level), or the paper will hire a mage to borrow knowledge
of your language and script and have someone else translate.

"Oh well," says Mirtil. "Now, where's the best hunting place around?"

Dustin shrugs,"We used to do a lot of hunting back in the Dryads...but
you'd probably want to go to one of the planets...around here, I
wouldn't guess much..."

The short man tried to convince you to let him broker your memoires, but
left without saying where he could be reached shortly after you reached
the Reader.

The memoires are in N'Ferran script and language. Mirtil has been
working on them on his journey to the sphere. Mirtil agrees with the
arrangement with the Reader. Looking at the money he got, he asks
others: "Can somebody tell me how much is this worth?"

Dustin answers. "Well, a person can live on $200 a month. $100 if he's
really frugal. A newspaper subscription is 1 cent a week, and books
range from 10 cents to 20 dollars. A cheap meal is 20 cents, an
expensive meal is 15 bucks. The daily cost of a room is about twice the
cost of a single meal."

Jane nods a little, she is about to say something but as usual she stops
herself just before doing it.

After leaving the Reader, Dustin notices the time. He has to pick up
some lecture notes from a person in one of his classes. The remainder of
the party can join him or go elsewhere. At this point in time, Dustin
has been on Base N'Ferra for about six months, Jane for about three
months, Sheena for about two weeks, and Mirtil, of course, arrived
today.

Assuming the group agrees to go with Dustin, he leads you to a tavern in
the section of the base where most students live. There you meet Nefsiya
Ulbain, a handsome human male in his early 20's who politely requests
that Dustin introduce him to the other people in his party.

Dustin will point everyone out, explaining what limited amounts he knows
about them, but mainly just saying their names and what he thinks
they're good at.

When she is introduced Jane will pronounce her name in proper French
"Jane Guillard, very pleased to meet you Mr Ulbain", offer her hand to
be shaken or kissed.

Nefsiya shakes Jane's hand firmly and bows.

After the introduction, Nefsiya hands over his lecture notes from last
year saying, "Old fossil face hasn't changed his lectures since the
college was established so you won't be missing much."

Jane giggles a little at Nefsiya’s joke.

Shortly thereafter the host calls Dustin over to give him two letters.
One is from his guidance councillor, and the other is from the teacher
of Temporal Theory.

As Dustin reads the letters, the rest of the party looks around. The
tavern is quite crowded. The occupants cover the gamut of the N'Ferra
races and ages but tend to center on 20ish. From the snatches of
conversation people can hear there's a lot of studying and gossiping
going on. (Two students are comparing spiritualism and magic rituals
while another pair is comparing the unacceptable courting behavior in
the dominant sex of two different races. [i.e. they're bitching about
their boyfriends.])

Jane smiles slightly, but she hides it from them, it is strange that
some things never change, no matter how far away from home you come.

As the rest of the party waits, Mirtil unpacks the lute and plays one
slow tune in F minor - (actually fantasy on a Dark elven song about
their lost home, with all the painfull lust for their homeland
revealed), then he plays and sings elven love ballad (in Elven
language), which goes more or less in slow beat, but while romantic,
it's not completelly sad (imagine something like Greensleeves, Peggy
Gordon, or The lass of Patie's mill, or Marble halls from Enya), and
finally he plays fast and merry dance (again, without singing, imagine
something like Mylady's Hundson puffe or Miss Winter's jump from John
Dowland or The sailors hornpipe from Mike Oldfield).

Sheena not only taps her foot to the tune, but her tail twitches in time
as well.

Dustin pays RAPT attention to this, absorbing every word, and nuance. He
pays particular attention to how he sings and the emotion conveyed as he
sings it.

Dustin is definantly interested and tries to remember as much of the
songs as possible. He is awed by the sway that Mirtil has upon the
audience and now understands why his Mentor set such power in music.

Jane seems enchanted with the music, she does not react to it in anyway
beyond standing there and listening with rapt attention, she seems quite
fascinated. When it is over she is smiling beatific, but quickly
recovers her composure and starts to move along with the others.

The music is truly marvelous, and there is applause from the surrounding
crowd when Mirtil is done.

While Sheena stays close, Mirtil thanks for the applause, packing the
lute, and then he asks locals, how is it with professional musicians
here; what are the customs, where to get any contacts, and so on.

As drinks are purchased for the entire party, various people explain
that things are pretty loose on the base. You can pretty much put your
hat out anywhere. There are people who can act as agents for various
artists and Mirtil is told where to find them. For 'tavern gigs' you
need to talk to whoever manages the tavern you want to perform at.
'House gigs' (private performances) are how to get real money, but you
should really hire an agent if you're interested in those.

Jane will nod slightly at this, it reminds her of how things were done
at home. She doesn’t say anything though, just listens.

Once everyone has grabbed a drink and a bite, Nefsiya offers to act as a
guide to some of the more interesting locations on the base.

Mirtil asks if Nefsiya can show him the library and the place where
they're analyzing records of the flow. Nefsiya agrees. He was planning
on showing you the second anyway.

At the Flow Studies Unit, Nefsiya first shows you the map. Over 200
glassy rings are connected by silver springs. The rings represent
crystal spheres while the springs represent the currents between them.
Nefsiya points out the Dark Sphere, and when the people working on the
model learn that Mirtil came in on the Endeavor, they encourage him to
pick out a ring to represent his home sphere. Unfortunately, no one
who's there can help with his quest. If Mirtil is willing to spend $50
they can set someone to go through the archives and see if they can find
anything. Before the party leaves they see a pyrokinetic heat up an iron
to solder the precisely measured silver springs to a new glass ring.

Mirtil pays without waiting, and also shows the man who is going to make
the search a small picture of a beautiful elven woman.

Jane avoids the map as best as she can, and occasionally she gives it a
worried glance. She also avoids the pyrokinetic. She tries to stick
close to Nefsiya, in fact she tries to keep him between herself and the
map.

Sheena, with an attack of morbid curiosity, tries to see where her home
sphere is.

After asking her a few questions, the people there explain that this is
a map of spelljammer routes, not alternate dimensions. Her world may or
may not (more likely not) be on the map, but since she came through a
gate to get here they can't match it to a sphere.

This is accepted by Sheena quite readily. She never wants to go back.

Jane is a bit curious if her Earth is on the map, but she really doesn’t
want to ask, and like Sheena she doesn’t want to go back home.

From the Flow Studies Unit you visit an enchanter. This particular
enchanter is working on a 12 by 15 foot flying carpet which also acts as
a power booster for psionic levitation. The warp of the fabric is formed
from threads of gold, tin, and silk already connected in a few
locations. In the meantime the enchanter knots individual colored silk
threads around the warp threads, cuts them, and beats them down with a
sort of comb.

Sheena watches this process with great interest. "Those things are just
*too* cool," she says to the group at large.

Jane nods a little, then she says "Yes they are very nice ... I always
wanted one of those when I was a little girl, but ...", she shrugs and
then says "No public magic on Earth". She then clams up again.

"Earth? What a strange name," replies Sheena. "Where I come from is
called Urt; I wonder why they sound so much alike?"

Jane shrugs, then she says "Perhaps the word roots are the same Miss
Sheena, they sound a lot alike too ... Maybe both planets were visited
by the same gods and aliens".

Sheena shrugs also. "I guess."

Nefsiya speaks up, "Unfortunately, flying carpets are much too expensive
for common use. Only organizations can afford them." He peers around a
little. "Of course someone may make a breakthrough any day that would
make them cheaper, but people have been looking for ways to make
enchantments cheaper since the dawn of recorded time. Even a cheap
levitation amulet costs $1,500."

Jane smiles and says "Really Mr Ulbain? I don’t know much about magic,
or this place", she then adds "Please tell me more".

"I'd be happy to tell you more." Nefsiya shrugs, "but I really don't
know what to say. Do you have any particular questions?"

As you walk towards the library Nefisiya says how glad he is to live at
the Base. "Sure they're doing more within the sphere, but here you get
things first."

Jane quickly comments "Exactly so Mr Ulbain, it must be a wonderful
learning opportunity". She seems to be doing her best to agree with him.

After leaving the enchanter you visit the library. Thousands of books
and papers are on display, and the librarians are eager to explain the
cataloguing system and tell you what hasn't been catalogued yet. In
addition to the books and papers there are also psi crystals which put
illusions directly into your head, dream pillows which can entertain you
while you sleep, and illusion wands which can produce very specific
images.

[Jane has problems in the library as the scent of incense lingers on
everything. There's none in the air, but it smells to her as if every
book or object was doused in incense before being shelved. No one else
notices anything.]

Jane staggers slightly when she is in contact with the more heavily
doused objects. She will in fact try to avoid the books and such as best
as she can, and then excuse herself saying "I need a little fresh air,
sorry", then she rushes outside.

Sheena goes outside to see that Jane is all right.

Jane is drawing fresh air and seems a bit woozy, still she recovers
quickly enough when she is away from the incense. Seeing Sheena Jane
says "Uhm, the air got really stuffy in there, I just need some fresh
air".

Sheena lends an arm if necessary. "That's funny," she replies absently.
"I've still got a leopard's sense of smell, and I didn't notice anything
like that."

Jane just shakes her head and seems to recover quickly. [But see the
"Jane and Sheena" thread.]

Sheena returned with Jane in tow; between them, the pair were quite a
bit more lighthearted than when they set out.

As you head from the library you run across a street performer who has
trained some glowing, flying squid to spell out symbols in the air.

The squid are about 1' long, including tentacles.

This gets a giggle from Sheena.

Jane also smiles, then she says (in a low voice) "I wish I had one of
those illusion wands, wish they would work for me".

"Why wouldn't they?" asks Sheena.

Jane looks at her and then says "I am resistant to magic Miss Sheena,
very much so in fact, most magic items and such will not work on me or
for me", she shrugs and says "I guess it’s both good and bad.

Sheena blinks. "I never thought of that," she confesses. "The old tales
say that magic used to exist on Urt, but it went away. Like about ten
thousand years ago."

Jane nods, then she says "Maybe it just got weak ... I mean you’re at
least a little magical, right?".

Sheena looks doubtful. "I guess.. I never really thought about it. It
was just something I could do."

Jane says "Back on Earth they told me all Lycantrophes are a little
magical, that is why ... certain things affect them and happen to them".

Sheena nods. "Oh yes. Guaranteed."

(Dustin is very familiar with the spigri (the squid-like creatures).
Back home they used to net wild ones, skin them, and dry the meat for
lean seasons. Not one of his favorite tasks.)

The performer (a Slahses neuter) calls out, "No illusions here miss." He
tosses a wreath of flowers into the air where the squid catch it and
proceed to place it on Jane's head.

Jane actually seems happy when that happens, she smiles widely and sighs
slightly, she also seemed rather surprised when it approached her, as if
she didn’t expect it to do so.

He then bows as several passers-by toss coins into a small box. "True
understanding of animals takes time," the Slahses calls out, "but with
patience and understanding, it's amazing what animals are capable of . .
." One of the squid has been lingering just behind Jane, but she's kept
track of it and is instantly aware when it tries to steal one of her
knives.

Jane will smile as she stops the squid, gently hold it in her hand for a
moment and let it go, then she will say "Yes ... amazing", once again it
would seem like there is more too her reaction than meets the eye. She
will actually be rather extravagant when it comes to giving a donation,
handing over around $20 rather than the usual contributions.

The trainer turns the incident humorous, and the part heads off to the
greenhouses where they're attempting to grow new seeds from many
different worlds, and genetically engineer or enchant plants to meet
specific needs.

Jane seems a bit concerned, even if she doesn’t say anything.

>Nefsiya asks her, "Is something wrong? We can skip the greenhouses if
>you'ld rather." > >Jane shakes her head slightly, then she says "No Mr
Ulbain, I ... I just >remembered something from home that is all". If
asked what she >remembered she will say "Giant plants that walked around
and killed people, they were created through genetic engineering, often
with a bit of unintentional magic. Oh and a new grain mixture that led
to premature ageing and extreme aggression". She blushes slightly and
mutters>something like "Sorry, guess I worry a lot Mr Ulbain". 

> >"Ew,"
says Sheena. "Sounds nasty." > >Jane just nods softly, and then says
"Yes it was".. > >Sheena blinks a few times. "Uh," she ventures, "What,
uh, happened?" > >If asked what happened to the plants she will say in a
soft voice "First >variety mobile was killed by a combination of
chemicals and fire, the >second variety died when the water supply was
cut off. The grain mixture >was just removed from the market, and the
violence and ageing blamed on >a heatwave". She hesitates before she
says "I hear the local description >of my world includes the term High
Local Dominance", she looks at >Nefsiya and says "I guess Mr Ulbain is
better suited to explain such >things", then she smiles shyly before she
looks away again.

Nefsiya frowns, "Hmmmm, if your realm is capable of work like that it's
lucky you haven't had any _serious_ problems yet." Then he smiles
reassuringly, "But you don't have to worry about anything like that
here. This is primarily a testing facility for new plants to see if its
worth sending them to the better developers in the sphere.

Jane will merely be quiet, and wait for Nefsiya’s ‘expert opinion’
which she will be very interested in, with a lot of "Oooh, I see"’s and
such. She will also ask some questions she is pretty certain he can
answer without any trouble.

As you walk around around the rim of the base, Nefsiya points out the
"boxes" which contain the gates to other dimensions and mentions how
much he envies you that you're actually going to be able to go there.

Sheena shrugs. "It's no big deal," she tells him. "I mean, we're nothing
special. A month ago, I was like you, just going to university and
learning stuff. This time round, I'm gonna go out there and use the
talents I've been given to do the right thing." She looks around. "Right
guys?"

Dustin nods rather solemly at this. He isn't entirely sure WHAT he's
supposed to do in life, but he does know he wants to do the "Right
thing"

Jane nods, then she says "Yeah, a few months ago I was ...", she stops
short then she says "I’m looking forward to it, you know doing the right
thing and all". She then smiles and says "Though it can get in the way
of a personal life".

Nefsiya smiles, "If Shifting Alchemy is hiring you, I bet you're a lot
more competant than you think. Dustin certainly shows enough potential
for ten people. Besides, I'm training as a general analyst. It will be
seldom that I get a chance to get out and visit the places that I'll
hear about."

Jane smiles shyly at Nefsiya and says "Analyst? Really? You must be very
intelligent". She doesn’t quite have the courage to go on, but she does
eye him occasionally.

Nefsiya laughs, "Tell me what intelligence is and I might be able to
agree with you. There are problems that I'm good at, and others that I'm
terrible at."

>The party actually has to pass through a smalll field and a couple of
>orchards to reach the greenhouses. The party finds the greenhouses
>heavily climate controlled. As opposed to the constant 78F temperature
>of the base the greenhouses range from freezing to over 150F and having
>nearly as many humidities. Luckily protective amulets are available. >
>Jane actually likes the heat, although the humidity bothers her a bit.
>She is however a bit bothered by the freezing cold, and strangely
enough >her protective amulet seems to go missing when she enters it,
she will >shiver slightly and say "Cold". She will move slightly closer
to >Nefsiya, giving him a chance to offer her protection if he wants to,
if >he does not she will ‘find’ her amulet again. 

Sheena is rather
amused by this byplay, but will not let it show. She >herself seems to
be comfortable at a slightly greater temperature range >than most;
however, she will use an amulet. 

> >Nefsiya is very solitious about
finding her the exact right amulet when >she loses hers. [The amulets
are magical, but some still manage to keep >Jane at the right
temperature.]

Mirtil is surprized to notice that many of the plants are highly magical
including one which could almost be an (immature) elven Tree of Life.
Also, though the mana never changed throughout his walk in the city, he
notices it shifting as he moves through the greenhouse.

-----

"We're going to do some serious, heavy-duty shopping," grinned Sheena.
"We should be back soon."

Jane nods eagerly, then she says "Yeah, we're going to go shopping,
where's the closest mall?" Then with a smile "Or whatever it is you use
over here."

Individual shops often run by individual craftsmen and creating
customized goods.

Jane has a rather big shopping list, dresses, suits, new camouflage
clothing, perfumes, and stuff in general. Lots of stuff, including a
pair of pink bunny slippers ("Ooooh their so cute"), a nice pyjamas
(with lots of "fluffy" decorations), some chewing-gum, some jewellery
(gold, no silver, though gemstones are fine), a set of combs, some
make-up, some regular cotton (or the closest local equivalent)
underwear, and some books on learning different languages (especially
whatever alphabet Peshka uses).

Sheena actually hasn't thought too hard about what she wants to shop
for; however, she will quite happily go along and take inspiration from
what Jane gets. [Note: chewing gum is RIGHT out]. She will try to get at
least one item of clothing in a leopardskin pattern.

Shopping turns out to be an extremely leisurely affair in N'Ferra. The
salespeople discuss whether you want off-the-rack, modified, or custom
(even for the perfume). They discuss fit, local fashion (tight from the
waist up, loose from the waist down, with metallic piping at the seams
and little print, pattern, or embroidery for human females), hats (not
wearing a hat marks you as a college student). You learn that only
prostitutes have pierced ears, and that makeup is discussed in tones
suitable for sexual aids (which they are quite open about). Bathing
suits have to be custom made (no pools or rivers), but shorts and
halters are not a problem. The potential selection of colors and fabrics
is enormous, but the salepeople explain that prices depend on what the
ships have brought in recently.

Well, Jane would like some normal dresses and skirts and such, of a wide
variety, most not too tight. She will however also get some really tight
fitting numbers, for that special date or whatever. She will also get
some local clothing in green or blue patterns. She will get several
hats, not too outrageous, but nice ones. As for make-up, get some, but
don’t use it unless you have to, that is be discrete. As for perfume,
well nothing too obvious, just nice smelling things in general.
Strawberry flavoured chewing-gum by the way, bubble-gum would be best.
She might also get some sexual aides when Sheena is not watching, though
nothing too perverse.

Sheena does not indulge in perfume. She is quite satisfied with the way
she smells, thank you very much. :-P

The pyjamas should be nice and loose, and reasonably tough, rip stop is
good, also if it gets ripped to shreds it should still (at least
partially) cover crotch and chest. As for the bunny slippers, Jane will
be specific "They should not look or be alive, cute yes but not alive,
pink fluffy fur, and heated on the inside, body temperature mind, oh and
it should be hard to slip in them, and they should be waterproof". She
might tell them "I still have bad dreams about the time I put on a fur
coat only to discover it was a carnivorous mimic, so whenever there’s
the slightest chance that something similar might happen I try to
clarify things". If asked what happened to it she will say "It made me
angry", and leave it at that.

Sheena will raise an eyebrow at that. "Oh," is her only comment.

As for her BDU’s and camouflage her requirements are firm. First of all
rip stop materials, several pockets, combat webbing is good, several
places in which knifes, pistols, and such can be hidden. She wants them
in several patterns (one for each BDU that is), she can describe new
patterns if they are missing some.

[All camoflage patterns are available (although hardly stylish). Rip
Stop isn't available, mainly because N'Ferra has fabrics that are much
tougher than modern synthetics at the same price.]

A fashion neccesity for human (or Nurha) females in N'Ferra is the
_ellaf_. An ellaf is a piece of cloth worn around the upper arm and
fastened with a pin. Style permits multiple ellaf to be worn on a single
arm (it doesn't matter which), but never on both arms together. There
are as many styles of ellaf on N'Ferra as there are of earrings on our
world. Unlike base clothing ellaf-cloths often use prints and patterns.

Sheena will definitely get one. No prizes for guessing what pattern she
wants it in. The shop proprietor reccomends a black silk cloth with gold
markings and a faience pin which Sheena almost literally purrs over.

Jane will also get some, probably in green and blue, she will not be too
interested in patterns, she will go for the expensive materials simple
pattern approach.

Jane can pick up whatever books she wants, but she still won't be able
to read any of them as there's nothing available in the English language
using Latin script. However the bookseller does tell her how to get
ahold of a tutor, or how she can visit the library and have someone cast
a Lend Language spell on her.

Jane would prefer a tutor, even if Nefsiya is probably taken. She would
prefer a intensive training course rather than a spell, she doesn’t
really trust magic.

Sheena is willing to go the magic route; how much will the Lend Language
spell cost? (She wants to learn Nurha, among others.)

[In general, having a maintainable non-healing spell cast on you costs
$0.60 an hour and you will be required to use a Lend Strength wand to
aid the mage against the backlash. (Dustin already has a Lend Strength
wand, and Mirtil can purchase one for $50.) Note that Lend Language will
not help you learn Chff, it allows you to read books in that language,
but not study the language itself. Of course, you could use the spell to
write a translating dictionary if you can spare the time and pay the
fees.]

Jane is not all that good with clothes, and when it comes to dresses she
will often ask for Sheena's opinion. Jane has a tendency to choose
clothing which is either prim and proper (1950's style), or somewhat
wild and a bit provocative (think 1960-70). She really wants to fit in
and look good, but she likes just buying tons of clothes. Her taste in
jewellery can be a tad gaudy at times, she likes gold, and lots of it,
as well as pearls and jewels.

Sheena will go more subdued, but she will quite cheerfully appraise what
Jane looks like in any new outfits.

Jane will appreciate this, and she will buy a lot of stuff, she will
avoid most hats though, she doesn’t really like them. Unless stopped she
will soon need a porter to carry all the things she have bought.

Sheena will also avoid buying personal jewelry. She will make subtle
attempts to keep the level of Jane's buying to the merely ridiculous.
:-P

Jane might not notice any subtle attempts at first, but she will
eventually restrain herself to only what she herself can carry (then
again, she is a strong girl ...) Her personal jewellery is quite
interesting, not all that ostentatious, but she does buy a lot of it,
and she likes gold and gems. Jane mentions to Sheena "Helen let me
borrow hers sometimes Miss Sheena, she had such wonderful good taste".

"Well, I'm not into jewelry so much," smiles Sheena. "But I might borrow
some of yours from time to time..."

If Sheena is not careful Jane will somehow find a body hugging leopard
pattern outfit (bodysuit), and say "Wow, this looks great Miss Sheena,
if this doesn't drive the men wild ...". She then quickly adds "Oh, I
mean, maybe you don't like ..." she seems a bit insecure all of a
sudden, realising that it might be a tad too daring for Sheena.

Sheena will giggle and model a two-piece bathing suit... "I already have
the pattern.." On her back and shoulders, she actually has fur with
leopardskin markings; this fur continues down her legs and arms, getting
thinner as it goes; however, the markings stay visible to her wrists and
ankles.

But she'll probably buy it anyway.

Assuming you buy something else in that shop the shopkeeper lets you
have it for free. "I took in trade off a jammer crewman and haven't been
able to get rid of it." She also tells you about a place where they do
full-body makeovers for a number of different races. "Sheena dear,
you'ld look marvelous with long fur at your wrists and ankles. It's a
very popular style."

Sheena blinks, then looks at her wrists. "Oh," she says. "It normally
does grow long there; I've been in the habit of keeping it clipped
short, that's all." She turns her wrist over and fluffs up the little
that's grown out. "It's very fine, so it doesn't usually show when it's
this short." She smiles at the shopkeeper. "But thanks for reminding me.
I'll be sure to let it grow right out."

Jane nods herself, and takes note of where she can get the full-body
makeovers, she is somewhat interested in getting one herself (actually
she is interested in a full package bath, massage, full-body makeover).
One of her big interests is seeing if it is possible to cover up her
birthmark, even temporarily.

Sheena thinks that this package deal sounds wonderful; perhaps she can
get the fur growth accelerated. It strikes her as funny that she was
already fashionable before she came here.

Jane will nod, then she says "Wow, you certainly got the figure for both
of them ...", she then adds "I remember when those things were new", she
indicates the two-piece bathing suit. She might try one herself,
although she prefers one piece, she does however fill it out nicely.

Actually this is undercloths, not swimsuits. The shopkeeper would be
happy to dye it to match Sheena's coloring, though she can't match the
exact pattern of spots.

Sheena will giggle and not be particular about it.

Sheena might also want to try Nurha styles (basically a harness with
metal buckles and a cloth skirt-like affair). While it has its
advantages (particularly for the tail and when shapeshifting), it's
_extremely_ indecent by the standards Sheena grew up with and leaves her
breasts completely uncovered and unsupported.

As Sheena is a little well-endowed in that department, she decides to
pass on the Nurha styles.

However, she will skip the lingerie section altogether. Jane will not
really notice, and might actually be a little grateful.

She will also (when she thinks Sheena is not watching), get some condoms
or other prophylactics, as well as some refined undergarments. She will
be rather embarrassed if Sheena notices her buying any of this though.

You are unable to find prophylactics in the shops. If you quietly ask
someone, they show signs of incipient laughter and direct you a nearby
spiritualist.

Well Jane is too shy to ask, but she makes a mental note of checking the
literature for hormone treatments, after all they have advanced bio-tech
in this place.

Sheena very carefully does not notice this.

Jane will quickly tuck her little secrets away and then return to Sheena
asking "So maybe we should get something to eat Miss Sheena?".

"Sure," replies Sheena. "Anything you fancy?"

Jane thinks, then she says "Well ice cream would be nice ... I like
Cajun cooking, real spicy", if asked Jane will explain what Cajun means,
and also talk about spicy foods. Unless Sheena comes from a culture
similar to the Mexican or Indian she will probably feel like there are
flames coming out of her mouth if she tries any of the food Jane likes.
She prefers dishes with lots of meat in them, but she also likes fish.
She also likes her food so fat that you could almost get a coronary just
from looking at it. Her desert will be ice cream.

Sheena actually prefers food that's more bland than anything; if it's
too sharp, she'll get tears in her eyes from just inhaling in its
vicinity. She's familiar with forms of ice cream (and considers it a
treat) but she unconsciously tends toward the non-fattening end of the
scale. Lots of meat and fish are quite acceptable for her.

Jane will seem a bit worried when she notices Sheena’s reaction to her
food, she comments "Sorry, I didn’t think Miss Sheena ...".

"It's all right," replies Sheena. "I'll just have to remember to breathe
through my mouth..."

She will restrain herself to less pungent, but still very spicy, foods.
Jane seems not to worry much about the fat, she comments "This is great
stuff Miss Sheena." Jane also orders some wine, and she drinks it a bit
fast.

Sheena is very fastidious while eating; she has a few fish and fowl
dishes with evident enjoyment. She will also try the wine, but
sparingly.

She will, however, finish off with a huge bowl of vanilla ice cream.

While they can't get the exact food they want, they can get pretty close
equivalents. They end up dining at a place completely run by Rachak, so
they get the pleasure of seeing their food prepared and served without
being touched by a hand or even an eye tendril.

There is a slight problem when Jane's food turns out to be too bland,
but the cook comes out and apologizes, explaining that the wait person
didn't tell the cooks that Jane was magic resistant. A few spells later,
the food is perfectly seasoned and both meals are free of charge (and
Sheena is thinking of volcanos, ulcers, and how long a person can live
with no stomach lining).

Jane will clearly be enjoying the food, she definitely likes it really
hot, and she comments "This is very good, almost like being home".

Sheena enjoys her meal as well, going for seconds. And then thirds. She
carefully does not attempt to inhale the odors of what Jane is eating.
And she will definitely finish off with the closest equivalent of ice
cream that they have.

[Does she have the collar yet? -- Yes. The collar didn't demand too much
custom work and was ready a couple days ago.]

When they are done eating Jane will say "Well Miss Sheena, that was
really delicious, don’t you think?". She waits for a response while they
let the food digest slightly, if she can have something similar to
coffee she will.

[Coffee is available, but the host recommends a hot cocoa liqueur for
Jane and a buttered-caramel tea for Sheena. (Sorry Sheena, cocoa liqueur
is poisonous to your metabolism.)]

Sheena is about to answer, but belches gently instead. With an
embarassed giggle. she replies, "I think that answers your question,
doesn't it?"

Jane giggles herself, but she tries not to make it too embarrassing for
Sheena, then she says "Uhm OK".

While they drink the coffee, or whatever else they have Jane will ask
"So, uhm, Miss Sheena, did you notice that Nefsiya? He was kind of good
looking wasn’t he? I mean do you think he noticed me?". She seems a bit
flustered, but clearly it is a subject close to her heart, and she is a
bit nervous.

Sheena pauses teasingly, then answers. "I think he's very nice too,
Jane. And, well, I don't know if he noticed you as such, but I saw him
looking at you a couple of times." She smiles slyly. "Of course, the
best way to find out if he's interested is to ask him..."

Jane nods softly, then she says "Yeah but he’s ... I mean he’s so cute
and ...". She stops, then she says "I mean I don’t want him to think
that I’m loose ... I mean ... oooh, I really like him but I have no idea
what to say, and I worry that if I do something then he might think I’m
loose or run away". She looks a bit annoyed then she says "The guy is
supposed to take the initiative".

Sheena presses her lips together in an attempt to hide a smile. She
reaches across the table and puts her hand over Jane's.

"Jane," she says seriously, "I had far too much time in college with
guys trying to 'take the initiative' with me, when I didn't want any
sort of intimacy at all. Trust me, having someone who isn't trying to
shove you into a relationship is a breath of fresh air." She giggles.
"Next time I see Mirtil, I think I'm gonna climb right into his lap."
Suddenly aware that she has said a little more than she intended, she
blushes and covers her eyes with her hand. "I said that out loud, didn't
I..?" she says in a small voice.

Once her blush has receded somewhat, she continues. "My advice to you?
When you see Nefsiya again, go right up to him and ask him if he wants
to have dinner sometime." She shrugs. "It can't hurt. I mean, maybe he's
waiting for you to make the first move. But I can tell you this -- if
*you* don't do anything, and if *he* doesn't do anything, neither of you
will get anywhere."

After a while Jane will ask "Maybe we should go somewhere and take a
look at our shopping?". Jane herself will go wherever Sheena suggests,
be it to her place, or to Jane’s place, or to some third location.

"I think that's a good idea," smiles Sheena. "Where are you staying,
anyway?" She gives her own address as well, hoping they are near each
other. She will suggest that they go to Jane's place for the unpacking
and checking out of purchases.

[OOC: Are they close?

Depends on how you define it. It's about a half mile travel distance.
However, Sheena lives in a flipside hostel only about 100 yards
straight-line from Jane's topside residence.]

Jane’s place is nice enough, living room, bedroom and bathroom. Not so
very big, but in a reasonably good neighbourhood, pretty much
middle-class. Jane has very little stuff there, basically just some
military gear (no weapons though, TL7), some food, and of course her
recent purchases. She comments "I would have tidied up if I had known
there was going to be visitors Miss Sheena, but ...".

Sheena looks around. "I can't see any mess, Jane," she says truthfully.
"Remember, I came here from university." She indicates the various
packages lying around. "So where do we start?"

Jane smiles and says "Oh thank you", then she adds "Helen was ...", then
with stern expression for once (which looks a bit odd on her face)
"Helen IS very tidy". Jane then starts help stack and unwrap the packs,
all the while smiling and showing Sheena what she got (the packets with
"naughty" items will be quietly stowed away, she tries to hide this from
Sheena).

Once again, Sheena will allow herself to be distracted. If she knows of
the existence of such items, she shows no sign of it.

Jane would like to start with the clothing, basically checking out local
fashion, she will say "It’s a bit odd, but I’ve seen weirder stuff". She
will even try some of it on, the tight upper body of the local clothing
will show that she does have a very nice figure, even though she is
quite slim and athletic (proportions are right). She then asks Sheena
"So what do you think?".

"I like it," replies Sheena. "It looks good on you." She starts trying
on some of the casual clothes she bought, most of which are somewhat
looser in the chest than Jane's. An exception is the leopardskin-pattern
catsuit, which she will need some persuading to try on; she maintains
that she looks naked in it.