The Lair, and e-mail

Fair day, all.

My name is Tessa and I'm a member of Dream Teller's staff. Several of you have e-mailed and asked what it is that we all do here at the Lair and what it is like to work for Dream Teller. While the office is a place of business, it has none of the sterile feel to it one might find in other offices. The furnishings lend it a homey atmosphere with just the right touch of understated elegance one would expect of our resident author. I would have to say that Dream Teller is one of a kind; a professional who gets things done but with a homespun nature. How do those stack up in her line of work and business? Simple; she is a tough competitor, relentless in her efforts to succeed in all that she believes, is fiercely protective of loved ones and friends, enjoys giving of herself to others... Well, I could go on and on but you get the picture.

The nature of the most important business conducted from the Lair might lead you to think that our offices would reflect something to do with that. But such isn't the case. Were you to walk in, you would assume the pleasant atmosphere is in keeping with the work of an author; worlds apart from the work of one who deals with Beings of other Kinds, and all that entails. There are, of course, subtle hints sitting about but one would have to know what to look for.

Because there are many things going on at once from this location our staff is split into small groups; each working on a particular area of business. But each of us is trained, or in training, so that any one of us can move from one area to another, as the need arises. Certainly there are things some can manage and others cannot; dependant upon our natural talents. In other words, the Outsiders among us can't tend to business that requires the gifts of a Witch, etc. But they can learn to aid and assist, and all here are capable of doing so. What we have is a well-trained group and each of us knows our capabilities; thus we work like a well-oiled machine.

As with any business there are the mundane tasks related to office management; that to do with the author's business. Of course that is meant to be the outward appearance, for obvious reasons. That also lends cover for those who come and go, at all hours of the day and night. The cover works because we even have law officers and deputies who stop by in the late hours for a cup of coffee and a chat, without a clue as to whom they are among or the nature of their business.

Assuredly, none who come through here are attired in such a way as to attract suspicion. And while certain attire is neccessary to ritual, things of that nature are carried out in different, 'safe' locations. While he prefers more revealing attire, it isn't unusual to see our resident Vampyre Garth, dressed in faded jeans and such. And while the Warlock Gregory prefers the color black and more formal wear befitting his station, he too dresses down when visiting the Lair. Logic tells you that blending in with regular society is the order of the day for those who are of a different society.

For all outward appearances, the Lair is a private suite of offices given to conducting ordinary business. What goes on behind the scenes stays that way and nothing can be misconstrued as anything other than what it appears. Just recently, Dream Teller leased a suite of offices to a friend; the lady who designs and creates the lovely capes you've heard Dream Teller talk about. And while the lady is well aware of the other business (she lends assistance when needed), her business lends us an added air of the ordinary; a designer in residence.

So now you know what goes on here and I assure you that each of us who is employed at the Lair thoroughly enjoys what we do; be it ordinary or extraordinary. We are friends, cohorts, allies, and family and each of us is ever mindful of the need for caution, and dedicated to protecting our own.

We have received e-mail from some who declare us charlatans, others who claim our team doesn't exist at all, and still others who condemn us for the nature of our existence. To those I say, think what you will. We will continue to thrive, to work for the good of all, and to raise awareness for the co-existence of all Kinds. Health and happiness to all, Tessa.

Bonjour mes amies. I hope you enjoyed hearing from Tessa. She is by far one of Dream Teller's staunchest defenders (obvious, non?) She is also the driving force of her group; a true friend; and a Witch very dedicated to our cause. Along and along, at Dream Teller's request, you will hear from other members of the staff. Some balk at the idea of a public forum but they, too, will eventually come around. For what purpose? Because Dream Teller feels that hearing from each of us will give you a well-rounded idea of how different personalities can and do work well together, and all for a common purpose. Too, she believes that hearing what we do from different points of view will also give you a better idea of the nature of our business. In other words, just hearing from me, Kaithlin, most of the time will soon grow stale. And 'tis in our best interests to keep you informed. And now to post answers to more e-mail:

To Range Rider in Nevada: One's gender and age have no bearing on when or where interest in things of a supernatural nature might come calling. Even a forty-something cowboy is no' exempt if 'tis meant to be. Aye, your fellow men could well think you "have lost your mind", as you put it, so I would say to you, keep your interest to yourself. Remember, there is purpose for all things, and all things have purpose. That you were drawn to that particular place of business in your search for a 'pretty' gift for your sister, may or may no' be of particular consequence. However, the feelings you described upon entering, and the pieces you were drawn to 'touch' and examine are of consequence. Stones and crystals radiate 'stirrings' when in the hands of one meant to 'feel' their power. Some are subtle stirrings while others are more powerful. What is important is your need to keep them in your home in your personal space. As to the dreams you have begun having: do no' fear them, allow them to unfold, and therein will you find what you seek. Blessed May You Be.

To May in Texas: I have no idea what your son is involved in, but it sounds something you need to investigate. At fifteen, you are his first line of defence, whether he likes it so, or no'. If 'tis what you fear, he could well get in over his head without a clue as to the danger. You might first make discreet inquiries concerning the adult such as who else knows of him and what he is doing in town. Listen to your son, for eventually one of his age will give something of what he is doing away; keep an eye on him for any outward changes in appearance and behavior; and know where he is and whom he is with. Granted that may be difficult, but as you stated that he is shy and no' one to be out at all hours, you should be able to accomplish that. In the meantime, inquire about the establishment he has begun to frequent; go there, yourself. In other words, be a parent, but discreetly, so as no' to call attention to yourself. Blessed May You Be.

To Jess in Texas: Nay, for 'tis of your own doing. Aye, and all of us make mistakes but no' to that degree and with the intent to do so. What you have done will come back on you and there is purpose for that. Consider yourself blessed that 'tis no' worse than 'twill be and learn from it, otherwise....

To Karen in New York: Heads up. Meet Garth in the prescribed place at the precise time and he will take things from there. Blessed May You Be.

To Gwenyth in California: We are no' a proper investigative team regarding that matter. Hasten to contact your local law enforcement agency. Blessed May You Be.

To Danny in Delaware: Commanding and Compeling spirits to do your bidding is a dangerous game for those without proper and complete knowledge of the rituals and the bindings. You may well call upon one who has no desire to do your bidding, or will extract a high price you are no' willing to pay, for the doing. Leave it be and proceed in a normal fashion. Blessed May You Be.