From The General:

Well, Ladies and Gentlemen, it has been two weeks since the Explorer II landed somewhat safely and not so worse for wear, although the came can't be said for several poor members of the crew. Though, it is what it is and from time to time these things can not be helped. All in all the maiden voyage of the Explorer II was a fantastic time. I must also say that being present for the breaking of the sound barrier was quite a privilege although I suppose it pales in comparison to cutting through time. STILL it was something I have never experienced before and was quite fun.

Lord Bobbins and some of his Crew and Financiers

The crew of the Explorer II were a bunch of fine young lads ever willing to lend a hand and carry your bags or any number of menial tasks that are clearly below most of us. This amazing crew was headed by the wonderful Lord Hasting Robert Bobbins, the mad genius behind the whole endeavor. With a handful of bankers and a few less engineers Lord Bobbins created the Explorer II as if from thin air. Although credit where credit is due, I think he is a very humble chap and did A LOT more work than he lets on. The ship was wonderfully built with beautiful art adorning the hallways, unique signs to mark the rooms, and an atmosphere that I dare say could not be replicated. I must also say that the engines were marvelously built, adding a beautiful and ever present hum to the journey. 
 

One of many fun signs

The unfortunate murders, ensuing investigation and finger pointing did not quite so much take away from the journey as it did to make it much more FUN and interesting. Of course everything was settled in the end, rather good timing if you ask me. Amidst the chaos everyone seemed to be having a good time. The clothing was stunning, everyone turned out in their "Sunday best" everyday. It was quite a sight. Of course the entertainment was superb, so many interesting people and discussions as well as spending the evening with other Citizens of the Red Fork Empire that had not been encountered before. The Minster of (dis)Information and Prop(er)ganda and The Ministress of Science were in attendance. 

All of the Citizens of the Red Fork Empire in attendance

Cherie Priest

Taxidermy is cool

The "high priestess of steampunk" Cherie Priest was there to talk about her new wonderful novel Dreadnought, as well as other guest speakers covering topics ranging from "Where do we go from here; the future of steampunk" to "taxidermy throughout the ages" to "creating a persona" all so very interesting. And not to be forgotten is the evening entertainment such as the "Elegant Wonderland Deco Rococo Salon" and a performance by Eli August as well as other musical guests.

Airship Archon

A special thank you to several people:

Cherie Priest

The Emperor of the Red Fork Empire

Meagan Maude

Austin Sirkin

Samantha Rei

The Airship Archon

Lord Hastings Robert Bobbins

And of course we cannot forget the grand creator, Lord Hastings Robert Bobbins!

See MORE photos here!

-Disclaimer-

NOW, if you have no idea what the above recount is all about then you missed out on one of the most fun and DEFINITELY the most immersive conventions I have ever attended: TeslaCon in Madison WI. It was truly an experience and I urge you all to attend in 2011, I have it in good confidence that Lord Bobbins will be venturing 20,000 Leagues beneath the Aether.