For relevent information to future plot devices, see _Phoenix_ 111. It will be interesting to see how Steve pulls these threads into the storylines of future novels. I certainly would like to see each and every one of them. :) Next, more related to recent topics, is the comment by Verra about the original discoverers of this world: Vlad: "The Jenoine?" Verra: "Before the Jenoine." This can be found on _Phoenix_ 117. Further comments by Verra indicate that the culture that discovered the world brought ideas with them, that were recorded when they should have been left to crumble into history. These ideas obviously include that of democracy, which is Padraic Kelly's cause throughout the Vladiad. But it makes it interesting--could the original discoverers of Dragaera been a space-exploring race of mankind, (I use the word to avoid yet ANOTHER meaning for humanity) There are certainly a great deal of indications that this might be the case (obviously, since Steve isn't an alien, and therefore his writing style is human) Anyway. Just some food for thought. Dig in. Jon <html><DIV> </DIV></html> _________________________________________________________________ MSN 8 with e-mail virus protection service: 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/virus