Many have requested more information about Davutus, and indeed, many have searched the internet in vain for the mysterious background of this incredible musician. In these pages of the "stories" section, I, Basio, will attempt to give you some details regarding Davutus, The Estate, and the companions that sometimes accompany Davutus on his journeys. Following are "thumbnail sketches" that will be elaborated upon in the future.

The Estate- Twenty-six acres of beauty with the house on a knoll at the top of the second hill. Visitors cannot believe the incredible collection of artwork that adorns each room. Artifacts from ancient civilizations, statues from a palace of Atlantis, paintings of the great masters and trinkets from ancient Egypt mix with rocks from the moon and vials of perfume from Olympus, each object having it's own story. The grounds of The Estate are an interesting collage of ever changing beauty, seeming to be slightly different in appearance from day to day (Alban's work). A "state-of-the-art" studio for the musical work of Davutus takes up much of the second floor. The studio was expanded several years ago to accommodate the growing number of symphony players that are sometimes needed. One of the most interesting features of the grounds is the gate at the end of the drive that welcomes visitors. If open, all are welcome. If shut, the gates are vine-covered and no amount of force is able to penetrate the deep green foliage.

Davutus- People in the surrounding towns cannot remember a time when Davutus did not occupy this beautiful Estate. He is referred to as "the musician on the hill".

Alban- Our gardener here is quite a unique individual. Although some of the acreage here is in deep forest, one would think that keeping the gardens of "The Estate" beautifully manicured would be too much for one person. But you would be wrong! Alban can work miracles when it comes to anything green. Let me give you an example of one of the "abilities" of Alban. On a journey to Atlantis, we were on a long walk through the rocky hills, tired, hungry and thirsty. As we sat down to rest, Alban said that she would return in a moment. Going on ahead of us, down one of the dusty ravines, she returned about twenty minutes later with a vine covered basket of incredibly delicious berries! Raspberries, strawberries, boysenberries and clangonberries, all chilled and ready to eat! We were deliriously happy! No one questioned her. We simply accepted the gift and were grateful. She is assisted in her work by Ryannus, our newest staff member.

Zyndal- The history of our guide is cloaked in mystery. Rumors of Druidic study and travels in ancient Persia and India make sense once you've seen him in action. His abilities are beyond question and he is at the right hand of Davutus on any adventure. Having been a resident of The Estate for many years, he might be missing for months at a time. He and Davutus have explored many areas of the world together, both ancient and modern, and are constantly poring over old maps determining the next "journey". He makes quite the colorful character, with his jewel-topped staff in hand, striding across ancient ruins. He seems to know, with precision, the exact route to take (although there have been some hair-raising surprises). When he makes an appearance after a long time away, we can be assured that there is something exciting in the near future!

Xanthe- Our cook here on The Estate comes to us from a distant time and place. Davutus originally made her acquaintance in Atlantis, at the palace of Palontry Chames, a nobleman of the Corstion order. Her extraordinary talent in the culinary arts made such an impression on Davutus that when he made his second journey to that troubled island, he spoke to Xanthe about returning to The Estate with him. This did not sit well with Palontry, who sent out a number of his soldiers to prevent her departure. More on that at another time.

Kalandry- Sister of Xanthe, her magical abilities are astonishing. Zyndal himself has taken her under his wing to continue her education in the arts of magic and alchemy. Unbelievable! We are fortunate indeed that she and Xanthe reside at the Estate and seem to be quite happy here!

Caleshpa- Crusty and opinionated, but warm-hearted indeed, Caleshpa joined us over ten years ago. When put to the test, she can work magic in the duties of keeping the household on an even keel. Another valued traveler, she has an innate ability to read the minds of those she encounters. Fortunately for us, on our recent journey to the Moonian Landscape, she was able to discover the true plans of the Princess Konikotkoo.

Ryannus- An interesting character that helped us out of a tight spot when Alban had fallen victim to an enchantment beneath the surface of the earth. His incredible eyesight, honed in his own underground kingdom, has helped in a number of our adventures. Davutus invited this strange young man to accompany us for the rest of that trek and afterwards, offered Ryannus a place at the Estate. He is now a faithful helper to Alban in the care of the gardens and a valued fellow traveler.

Basio- I hesitate to write about myself, preferring to let my deeds speak for me, but know that I am the "right-hand man" to Davutus, and am the first one he calls upon for help in any situation. I have a number of "abilities" that need not be explored at this time, but know that if danger lurks ahead, I will be there!