The Festival of the Holy Light (IC)

[AHSCA]

-trim-
Kyrksen turns to look at the cruise ships, the small Auroran cruise ship, which with passengers and crew has 1800 persons on board and the larger MS Aegir bethed along side, he too pulls out a camera and takes a couple of photos. "Passengers on the MS Aegir get a good view down the funnels of the Eden Star" jokes Kyrksen,

"aye, and not a romantic view. being smoked out when that baby fires up, however the Eden was booked up, still, the crew of the Bergen wern't too bad though" replies Sojourner, taking her own photo, before continuing with her walk to the campsite.

Organized camping, a bit unusual in the UIS but opportunistic local enterpenuers took advantage of AHSCA's natural wild beauty of it's islands to set up for the off the grid rugged tourists who were really up for adventure. One was a man and his own family, previously just subsistence farmers until they began to cater to the tourism industry that was growing in the island. Yuki did much of labor work himself in maintaing the grounds, keeping the areas clean and free of trees and derbies that blew in from heavy storms or the occasional litter bugs. Though most of his farming days were behind, he did keep a pigpen nearby so he could serve up fresh meat for anyone who'd want it. He enjoyed it. His wife, Venta, did more of the hospitality work, getting guests booked and set up, answering questions they had. Their children, a son and daughter, helped out where they could but they also valued their education and free time, not something every parent did on the islands. Plus when a festival is around they should enjoy it a little too.

A small booth of thatch was set up with a sign reading, CAMPING HERE!

---

Karen and Jason
After passing through security and immigration, Karen, Jason and their feline companion, Marvin, were officially in AHCSA, and so Karen, after giving Marvin's ear a scratch, not for any other reason than Marvin seems to like it, she placed the little cat with even shorter legs, onto the floor. Marvin's head, body and tail are of normal proportions, his legs however are short and stubby but that doesn't seem to impair his mobility, much in a similar manner that a Daschund.

On the leash, Marvin is well behaved, at least for a cat anyway, as he walks between Karen and Jason his eyes are scanning the ground as he walks just ahead of Karen, occasionally pausing then running back up to Karen or Jason as they head towards the guest house.

"i hope they don't mind cats" asks Karen

"I think the person who owns the place has a couple" replies Jason, his eyes catching sight of a store just as the wafting scent caught Marvin's nose, Marvin moves towards the scent.

"Jase, hold Marv for a second, gonna get some food", says Karen, handing Jason the leash to Marvin.

And so Karen then makes her way over to the vendor.
"What is the meat?" she ask, pulling out a wallet with some local currency and some NS Dollars in it, as well as a few Northern Dinars, the currency of the Aurora Confederacy, the dark blood red notes with black images on them feature portraits of leaders past and present president, Zafferana Promura.

The stand ran by a family as well helped take orders, mostly through the help of their children. It was a much older couple, one around to remember the War and the times before it when it wasn't the UIS. Erisu was the one taking orders and relaying to her parents. Auroran was complicated, it was similar to Japanese but the island's isolated location rather mutated the language that even native Nippon speakers had trouble with it. Younger generations with more access to education than their parents were able to understand other languages enough. "The meat is a mash up of some fish from the waters around the islands. A bit odd I know but trust me, it'll taste good." She took the currency and put it in a pouch on her maid dress she wore after seeing it in foreign magazines. "Your business is appreciated, and food will be ready in just a moment."

[AHSCA]

While the announcement got repeated in German, French, Spanish, Russian, and Japanese, Ragnar and Majida got their stuff together, preparing to leave the ship.
Some others disembarked, but most travellers stayed on board, to continue their journey.

With the morning progressing on, surprisingly smooth thanks to the efforts of police people were getting processed very quickly and pushed on through. Though some issues were starting to arise, wind speeds were increasing slightly which meant the surf and tides were growing a bit more intense. Even strong swimmers might have their work cut out for them but anyone weak on that front could easily drown. Sometimes strong surf also was an indication of changing weather which had locals a bit concerned that the rainy season might be ready to punch in early but for now things looked fine and sunny and generally calm. "Welcome to the UIS" The Officers welcomed the two travelers after processing them. "Please enjoy your stay with us."

[AHSCA]

Tobias liked this officer. A cutie no doubt, and look at that uniform. Such a different color from the Theocracy, what with the reds and maroons of their security services. Had he broken the law? Perhaps. Perhaps he had. Then again, the line was awfully slow, and that was the greatest crime of all. Tobias stood a bit taller than the officer and was by most looks a bit more threatening, but didn't mean to be. It wasn't his fault that Tigris were more animalistic or 'feral' by look and was a bit of a free spirit to boot. He was off the ship and was happy to be off, but heck, that didn't mean they couldn't work together.

“Sorry about that,” he said, the lilting purr of a Tigris' natural voice mixing with the sweet air well enough for Tobias Tabby's tastes, “but that line was slow and my legs needed to get going. I was going stir crazy in there! All stay and no play makes for a dull day, you know,” he said with laugh before sighing. “If you want to check me, feel free. I've nothing to hide,” he said as he laid the suitcase down and stood apart from the officer, ready to twirl, whirl, put the claws up, and do whatever else was necessary as long as it didn't mean going back on the ship. His eyes caught the name on her tag.

“Izumi, is it? What a puurfectly Islander name. I've been looking forward to this for some time, you know.”

"Officer to you for the time being." Her voice tone did soften a bit but she still was trying to maintain her presences as an Law Officer. But still fellow animal type, feral or mimi was enough to get her to soften her stance a bit, especially a Marshite. Marshites and Islanders had long gotten along their two religions in near harmony with each other. The Church had a significant presence in the country some even practiced a mix and match of both religions. "I understand, long voyages are trying. I take it yours might have been a stormy one?" She asked growing sympathetic. She had been a ship's officer for sometime before and faced her share of harrowing voyages. She shook her head and resumed the terseness of her voice. "Well nevertheless, we officers have enough to do without people breaking rules. Let me inspect and you can be along your way." She did a quick over with his/her luggage looked at the ID which did identify as a female. "All right, Miss Tabby. You're set to go. Please mind your manners while here and stay out of trouble."

[Holy Marsh]

Tobias liked this officer. A cutie no doubt, and look at that uniform. Such a different color from the Theocracy, what with the reds and maroons of their security services. Had he broken the law? Perhaps. Perhaps he had. Then again, the line was awfully slow, and that was the greatest crime of all. Tobias stood a bit taller than the officer and was by most looks a bit more threatening, but didn't mean to be. It wasn't his fault that Tigris were more animalistic or 'feral' by look and was a bit of a free spirit to boot. He was off the ship and was happy to be off, but heck, that didn't mean they couldn't work together.

“Sorry about that,” he said, the lilting purr of a Tigris' natural voice mixing with the sweet air well enough for Tobias Tabby's tastes, “but that line was slow and my legs needed to get going. I was going stir crazy in there! All stay and no play makes for a dull day, you know,” he said with laugh before sighing. “If you want to check me, feel free. I've nothing to hide,” he said as he laid the suitcase down and stood apart from the officer, ready to twirl, whirl, put the claws up, and do whatever else was necessary as long as it didn't mean going back on the ship. His eyes caught the name on her tag.

“Izumi, is it? What a puurfectly Islander name. I've been looking forward to this for some time, you know.”

"Officer to you for the time being." Her voice tone did soften a bit but she still was trying to maintain her presences as an Law Officer. But still fellow animal type, feral or mimi was enough to get her to soften her stance a bit, especially a Marshite. Marshites and Islanders had long gotten along their two religions in near harmony with each other. The Church had a significant presence in the country some even practiced a mix and match of both religions. "I understand, long voyages are trying. I take it yours might have been a stormy one?" She asked growing sympathetic. She had been a ship's officer for sometime before and faced her share of harrowing voyages. She shook her head and resumed the terseness of her voice. "Well nevertheless, we officers have enough to do without people breaking rules. Let me inspect and you can be along your way." She did a quick over with his/her luggage looked at the ID which did identify as a female. "All right, Miss Tabby. You're set to go. Please mind your manners while here and stay out of trouble."

Tobias had to stifle a bit of a giggle at the Miss Tabby part. Oh, he knew full well why, of course, had even come up with the name himself before leaving home port. But tabby cats were what...house cats, right? Tigris were related to the Sparky War Tigers in some sense. Tobias may have once been human but he knew full well which one he'd rather be if given the choice of house cat or tiger, hence the somewhat jokey name. But the officer was very professional and managed to inspect him and he was all set to go. He liked her! Polite, kind, but firm. Very nice. "Stormy? Maybe a little. Can't say I was a fan of that, not one bit. But I need to stretch my legs, run a bit. I have a lot of energy I need to expel, and being stuck on a ship..." his tail twitched from place to place, "it was like being in a cage, after a while. So freeing to be off! Speaking of freeing, Officer Izumi, where'd you recommend a tourist like me go first? I'm here for the festival and all that, but I think you'll have a good idea of where to send me running off to for some fun as well!"

[AHSCA]

obias had to stifle a bit of a giggle at the Miss Tabby part. Oh, he knew full well why, of course, had even come up with the name himself before leaving home port. But tabby cats were what...house cats, right? Tigris were related to the Sparky War Tigers in some sense. Tobias may have once been human but he knew full well which one he'd rather be if given the choice of house cat or tiger, hence the somewhat jokey name. But the officer was very professional and managed to inspect him and he was all set to go. He liked her! Polite, kind, but firm. Very nice. "Stormy? Maybe a little. Can't say I was a fan of that, not one bit. But I need to stretch my legs, run a bit. I have a lot of energy I need to expel, and being stuck on a ship..." his tail twitched from place to place, "it was like being in a cage, after a while. So freeing to be off! Speaking of freeing, Officer Izumi, where'd you recommend a tourist like me go first? I'm here for the festival and all that, but I think you'll have a good idea of where to send me running off to for some fun as well!"

"I-I never liked the stormy voyages much either. Aahem" She kept trying to keep her composure but something about him was rather enticing to her. "Well you are Marshite a visit to the Great Temple might do you good. You can also walk about the village and peer into shops while here. Given you're a bit cabin feverish, I wouldn't suggest boarding a ferry to Animalpolis just yet. But I'll be heading back tonight when my shift here is over. If you need a place to stay, I'll be willing to help out."

[Kyrenaia]

Aurelia looked at both items and nodded.
"I agree to your professional opinion with my unprofessional opinion.", she said with a smile, then blushed as the first part of the sentence caught up to her. "And thank you. For the compliment, I mean... I believe, its also very much to thank to the seamstress or tailor, who made this Yukata."
She let a beat pass.
"Now, about those adjustments...", she said and tried her full range of movement. She thought, that she had a good excuse to keep it to slow dances tonight in this dress, not that she didn't mind, but other then that... "It is a bit tight around the chest, to be honest... I'll get used to the sleeves." She stopped and looked at Azusa. "Other then that, I think its a perfect fit." She let a beat pass. "Thank you for all of your help, Miss."

"Very good! Certainly Izumiko-sama knows her stuff. If you like I can ease up the area in the chest a bit but if I may be a bit honest, your pretty well endowed so maybe a little flaunt wouldn't hurt." She winked at her as if she somehow knew she had a girlfriend. She didn't know, she certainly didn't know she was the Duchess' lover, but she figured Aurelia could very well find some kind of romance while here. "Kumiko, what do you think?"

Kumiko took a moment from fitting the Kuronami girl to examine Aurelia "Yes, it looks perfect! How's it feel?"

"She said feels good but tight in the chest. I am offering to loosen up that area a bit but I almost think she'd be best keeping it a bit tight there."

"Mmmm well it is your choice, Ma'am but modifications won't take long."

For a moment, Aurelia almost felt caught, as if her hand was in a metaphorical cooking jar, with the wink, but that feeling quickly vanished: Azusa did not know.
In Kyrenaia, it had been an issue, quite a big one as homosexual relationships were still very much frowned upon, but unlike before, she had friends now, who held to her. She had experience. She did not fall into a pit of dispair, regular letter-contact with Marcella by the Embassy (Ambassador Kunya was an old friend of her father) and her own father had helped her a lot.
As the thoughts returned to the present, and the issue of the Yukata being a bit tight around the chest, the hummed in thought for a moment, then decided: "I think, you are right. Let's show them off a bit." She nodded to Azusa, in appreciation of the honesty and the compliment. "So... what else? Do I need to keep anything in mind while wearing this yukata?"

[Cartoonia]

Aurora Village, Aurora Island, AHSCA, August 27, 2018, 1:30 PM

it took them an Hour to get to the village but they made it. Not knowing how hot it would be at this time of year (when Cartoon temperatures were starting to drop), Tamaki and Fry had to take off their jackets. Even still they were sweating more than normal.

“Well, we made it” Fry says out of breath “aw jeez it’s hot”.

“I know it’s the Caribbean, but with walking. Man, It’s just unbearable” Tamaki says as he is wipes sweat off his forehead. Rose looks like she is barely sweating.

“It’s not that bad” Rose says. “I walk around my village all the time.

“Well, I’t doesn’t matter” says Fry. “We’re here”

The village seems to have come from medieval times, or possibly a fantasy world. It’s seems to be the size of Magnolia or Liore. It was small, nice, and charming.

“Well, let’s go to the restaurant” Tamaki Says as they start heading to the village square as they approach the restaurant.

[Holy Marsh]

obias had to stifle a bit of a giggle at the Miss Tabby part. Oh, he knew full well why, of course, had even come up with the name himself before leaving home port. But tabby cats were what...house cats, right? Tigris were related to the Sparky War Tigers in some sense. Tobias may have once been human but he knew full well which one he'd rather be if given the choice of house cat or tiger, hence the somewhat jokey name. But the officer was very professional and managed to inspect him and he was all set to go. He liked her! Polite, kind, but firm. Very nice. "Stormy? Maybe a little. Can't say I was a fan of that, not one bit. But I need to stretch my legs, run a bit. I have a lot of energy I need to expel, and being stuck on a ship..." his tail twitched from place to place, "it was like being in a cage, after a while. So freeing to be off! Speaking of freeing, Officer Izumi, where'd you recommend a tourist like me go first? I'm here for the festival and all that, but I think you'll have a good idea of where to send me running off to for some fun as well!"

"I-I never liked the stormy voyages much either. Aahem" She kept trying to keep her composure but something about him was rather enticing to her. "Well you are Marshite a visit to the Great Temple might do you good. You can also walk about the village and peer into shops while here. Given you're a bit cabin feverish, I wouldn't suggest boarding a ferry to Animalpolis just yet. But I'll be heading back tonight when my shift here is over. If you need a place to stay, I'll be willing to help out."

Tobias felt his ear twitch. Oh, was she feeling a little peckish around him? Couldn't blame her. Tigris were a very interesting breed of non-humans. More feral than others. Animalistic, even. Related in some strange fashion to legendary war-animals. And, thanks to The Shift, had smoking hot bodies that he was sure made a lot of 'keep the species pure' humans ashamed of some sneaky thoughts in their heads. Also rumors that Tigris emitted small amounts of pheromones, but that was likely just an urban legend. Then again, here was a police officer offering a place to stay. He had planned to lodge at a Shrine, but this seemed like more fun. "Well, thank you for the offer, Officer Izumi, that'd be purrfect. What time do you get off? I'll poke around a bit, see what I can do and experience, and then be sure to meet you back here," he said, the deep-grumble purring only slightly audible to anypony it wasn't intended for- and it was very much intended for Izumi.

[AHSCA]

For a moment, Aurelia almost felt caught, as if her hand was in a metaphorical cooking jar, with the wink, but that feeling quickly vanished: Azusa did not know.
In Kyrenaia, it had been an issue, quite a big one as homosexual relationships were still very much frowned upon, but unlike before, she had friends now, who held to her. She had experience. She did not fall into a pit of dispair, regular letter-contact with Marcella by the Embassy (Ambassador Kunya was an old friend of her father) and her own father had helped her a lot.
As the thoughts returned to the present, and the issue of the Yukata being a bit tight around the chest, the hummed in thought for a moment, then decided: "I think, you are right. Let's show them off a bit." She nodded to Azusa, in appreciation of the honesty and the compliment. "So... what else? Do I need to keep anything in mind while wearing this yukata?"

"Aha that's the spirit! But if you change your mind see us again we'll help make mods or repairs you need. All right" She put away her pad "I think we covered pretty much everything needed. I'll give you some good care instructions of proper folding and care of it. You got everything you need by the looks of it, you're about set to go. You're welcome to wear it out or we'll fold it and pack it for you."

[AHSCA]

Tobias felt his ear twitch. Oh, was she feeling a little peckish around him? Couldn't blame her. Tigris were a very interesting breed of non-humans. More feral than others. Animalistic, even. Related in some strange fashion to legendary war-animals. And, thanks to The Shift, had smoking hot bodies that he was sure made a lot of 'keep the species pure' humans ashamed of some sneaky thoughts in their heads. Also rumors that Tigris emitted small amounts of pheromones, but that was likely just an urban legend. Then again, here was a police officer offering a place to stay. He had planned to lodge at a Shrine, but this seemed like more fun. "Well, thank you for the offer, Officer Izumi, that'd be purrfect. What time do you get off? I'll poke around a bit, see what I can do and experience, and then be sure to meet you back here," he said, the deep-grumble purring only slightly audible to anypony it wasn't intended for- and it was very much intended for Izumi.

"I'll be off after sunset once the stars are out. If you are up for it, just meet me at the docks and we can take the ferry to Animalpolis anyway. I'll see you then." She blushed a little and about faced to go along her duties.

[Kyrenaia]

For a moment, Aurelia almost felt caught, as if her hand was in a metaphorical cooking jar, with the wink, but that feeling quickly vanished: Azusa did not know.
In Kyrenaia, it had been an issue, quite a big one as homosexual relationships were still very much frowned upon, but unlike before, she had friends now, who held to her. She had experience. She did not fall into a pit of dispair, regular letter-contact with Marcella by the Embassy (Ambassador Kunya was an old friend of her father) and her own father had helped her a lot.
As the thoughts returned to the present, and the issue of the Yukata being a bit tight around the chest, the hummed in thought for a moment, then decided: "I think, you are right. Let's show them off a bit." She nodded to Azusa, in appreciation of the honesty and the compliment. "So... what else? Do I need to keep anything in mind while wearing this yukata?"

"Aha that's the spirit! But if you change your mind see us again we'll help make mods or repairs you need. All right" She put away her pad "I think we covered pretty much everything needed. I'll give you some good care instructions of proper folding and care of it. You got everything you need by the looks of it, you're about set to go. You're welcome to wear it out or we'll fold it and pack it for you."

"I'd be thankful for those instructions, as well as if you could please demonstrate them to me when I changed out of it.", she said and already thought about what she could leave on her little boat and what not. "I still need to get washed, to be honest..."
She was a bit sheepish at the last admission.
But that quickly vanished as she had a rather sobering thought: "How much do I owe you? I'd like to take a full set of maps along as well, if you don't mind."
The maps would come in handy, she figured as she indicated to them.

[AHSCA]

Aurora Village, Aurora Island, AHSCA, August 27, 2018, 1:30 PM

it took them an Hour to get to the village but they made it. Not knowing how hot it would be at this time of year (when Cartoon temperatures were starting to drop), Tamaki and Fry had to take off their jackets. Even still they were swearing more than normal.

“Well, we made it” Fry says out of breath “aw jeez it’s hot”.

“I know it’s the Caribbean, but with walking. Man, It’s just unbearable” Tamaki says as he is wipes sweat off his forehead. Rose looks like she is barely sweating.

“It’s not that bad” Rose says. “I walk around my village all the time.

“Well, I’t doesn’t matter” says Fry. “We’re here”

The village seems to have come from medieval times, or possibly a fantasy world. It’s seems to be the size of Magnolia or Liore. It was small, nice, and charming.

“Well, let’s go to the restaurant” Tamaki Says as they start heading to the village square as they approach the restaurant.

Indeed the weather was hot and humidity was high so it might be tough for some. The village made up of old looking Old-Japan style buildings and thatch huts that still dotted the island. The restruant wasn't different but it was packed with people ready for their lunch. A young hostess, a child greeted them. "Welcome! We're a bit full right now, I got one table with one person sitting, if you don't mind sharing. Otherwise it's a bout a 25 minute wait."

---

"I'd be thankful for those instructions, as well as if you could please demonstrate them to me when I changed out of it.", she said and already thought about what she could leave on her little boat and what not. "I still need to get washed, to be honest..."
She was a bit sheepish at the last admission.
But that quickly vanished as she had a rather sobering thought: "How much do I owe you? I'd like to take a full set of maps along as well, if you don't mind."
The maps would come in handy, she figured as she indicated to them.

"Aah long trip huh?" She figured that meant she sailed in herself, not unsurprising many did when coming here. "If you want there's a really good public bathhouse just down the road a few buildings down they can take care of you there. But if seclusion is what you want, the onsens are always there but a bit out of the way." Azusa beckoned her to the back room so she could help her demonstrate with more space than what a change booth would have to offer. "Your total for everything will be 555 Island Credits."

[Kyrenaia]

"Aah long trip huh?" She figured that meant she sailed in herself, not unsurprising many did when coming here. "If you want there's a really good public bathhouse just down the road a few buildings down they can take care of you there. But if seclusion is what you want, the onsens are always there but a bit out of the way." Azusa beckoned her to the back room so she could help her demonstrate with more space than what a change booth would have to offer. "Your total for everything will be 555 Island Credits."

"Indeed, long trip.", Aurelia confirmed and nodded as she was tallied up, raising a finger to ask them to wait for a moment. She went to her things and pulled her wallet out, putting a total of 600 Island Credits onto the table. She smiled a bit unsure: "Short question, can you change me a bit of money into smaller notes? The bank only gave me larger ones and I'm not gonna pay a snack with a 100-credit-note."
A crass oversight on her part, she would freely admit, but she still needed the money a bit smaller.
She was also unsure, whether or not she would be allowed to give tips or if it would be a grave insult to these nice ladies, so she better didn't.
She followed Azusa to the back to see the folding techniques and everything in action... standing there only in a bikini, as Azusa folded her new dress up and she watched closely.
There were quite a few shops in Kyrenaia, who could learn a few things about customer service from this humble little shop, Aurelia thought.

[AHSCA]

"Indeed, long trip.", Aurelia confirmed and nodded as she was tallied up, raising a finger to ask them to wait for a moment. She went to her things and pulled her wallet out, putting a total of 600 Island Credits onto the table. She smiled a bit unsure: "Short question, can you change me a bit of money into smaller notes? The bank only gave me larger ones and I'm not gonna pay a snack with a 100-credit-note."
A crass oversight on her part, she would freely admit, but she still needed the money a bit smaller.
She was also unsure, whether or not she would be allowed to give tips or if it would be a grave insult to these nice ladies, so she better didn't.
She followed Azusa to the back to see the folding techniques and everything in action... standing there only in a bikini, as Azusa folded her new dress up and she watched closely.
There were quite a few shops in Kyrenaia, who could learn a few things about customer service from this humble little shop, Aurelia thought.

"I'd be happy to help with that, Miss." She took the bigger bills and gave several smaller denominations for small to moderate purchase handing it to Aurelia and then she proceed in folding up the nice new yukata and enclosing paper instructions on how to wear it, fold it and care for it. Wrapping it up in paper and placing it into a burlap sack for her. Azusa finished up "I think I oughta put one on too to really dress for the customers like Kumiko does. Or maybe a bikini to show our swimwear collection. Ah don't mind me, I'm thinking aloud again. But it's been a great pleasure to serve you this morning, thanks for your purchases. As a little token because you were our first customer this morning is please take this coupon. It'll give you 30 Credits off your next purchase with us. We hope you see you again."

[Lillorainen]

While the announcement got repeated in German, French, Spanish, Russian, and Japanese, Ragnar and Majida got their stuff together, preparing to leave the ship.
Some others disembarked, but most travellers stayed on board, to continue their journey.

With the morning progressing on, surprisingly smooth thanks to the efforts of police people were getting processed very quickly and pushed on through. Though some issues were starting to arise, wind speeds were increasing slightly which meant the surf and tides were growing a bit more intense. Even strong swimmers might have their work cut out for them but anyone weak on that front could easily drown. Sometimes strong surf also was an indication of changing weather which had locals a bit concerned that the rainy season might be ready to punch in early but for now things looked fine and sunny and generally calm. "Welcome to the UIS" The Officers welcomed the two travelers after processing them. "Please enjoy your stay with us."

"Thank you, Officers!" - Ragnar said, bowing his head in respect.
Majida did the same. "Thank you."
They moved on with their stuff, towards the Aurora Village Square. Indeed, it was a nice village - even more beautiful than they had imagined. No one was regretting having come here, on the contrary.
Ragnar had never seen such a tropical paradise. He wondered if it was the same with his new acquaintance.
"Saachens" - he said in brightest German dialect, jokingly. "Is this your first trip into the Tropes?"
"No, it's my second" - she replied. "Two years ago, I was on a cruise to Dumhach, that's in the Oileánra-Archipelago, in the Free Lands of the Selkie. And cruise back, too, of course. How about you?"
"First time" - Ragnar said. "I've already been abroad, but usually in colder countries."
Majida laughed. "Ah, I see. Everyone where they belong!"
They arrived at the village square.

[Cartoonia]

Indeed the weather was hot and humidity was high so it might be tough for some. The village made up of old looking Old-Japan style buildings and thatch huts that still dotted the island. The restruant wasn't different but it was packed with people ready for their lunch. A young hostess, a child greeted them. "Welcome! We're a bit full right now, I got one table with one person sitting, if you don't mind sharing. Otherwise it's a bout a 25 minute wait.”

“Sure, we’ll take the table” Fry responds as the young hostess brings them to their table. To them, child workers were not a surprise to them as child labor laws in Cartoonia were liberal, but restricted to certain jobs. The trio sat at the table with the person, and being nice folks, Tamaki decides to introduce themselves to the person.

“Hello” Tamaki starts. “My name is Tamaki. This guy is Fry and the woman here is Rose”.

[Kuronami]

“Sure, we’ll take the table” Fry responds as the young hostess brings them to their table. To them, child workers were not a surprise to them as child labor laws in Cartoonia were liberal, but restricted to certain jobs. The trio sat at the table with the person, and being nice folks, Tamaki decides to introduce themselves to the person.

“Hello” Tamaki starts. “My name is Tamaki. This guy is Fry and the woman here is Rose”.

Once Annabell had taken care of everything, payment, fitting everything she bid the shopkeepers farewell. She did politely decline the extra coupon not knowing if she'd be back on Aurora once her duties began and she had to keep a pretty stringent routine while here on her official service, even if not in their dorms. Not much luxury for shopping. Now dressed up sitting in a nice little restaurant to relax a while, eat and ponder everything she had to do to be ready for her time here. A waitress asked if she'd mind sharing her table with some extra arrivals. "Not at all, I'd be glad too." She responded to the hostess who seated the new guests. Looked like other travelers like her. "Nice to meet you all, I'm Annabell."


The waitress who had already serviced Annabell returned, a kitsune woman working in Aurora.


"Good afternoon." She greeted the new guests and Annabell. "Anything I can start you folks off with, and would you like another milk tea?"

"If you'd please. Thank you." she thanked the waitress and allowed her new table mates to order anything they might want for drinks or meals if they already had an idea of what they wanted.

[Aurora Confederacy]

Organized camping, a bit unusual in the UIS but opportunistic local enterpenuers took advantage of AHSCA's natural wild beauty of it's islands to set up for the off the grid rugged tourists who were really up for adventure. One was a man and his own family, previously just subsistence farmers until they began to cater to the tourism industry that was growing in the island. Yuki did much of labor work himself in maintaing the grounds, keeping the areas clean and free of trees and derbies that blew in from heavy storms or the occasional litter bugs. Though most of his farming days were behind, he did keep a pigpen nearby so he could serve up fresh meat for anyone who'd want it. He enjoyed it. His wife, Venta, did more of the hospitality work, getting guests booked and set up, answering questions they had. Their children, a son and daughter, helped out where they could but they also valued their education and free time, not something every parent did on the islands. Plus when a festival is around they should enjoy it a little too.

A small booth of thatch was set up with a sign reading, CAMPING HERE!

After a walk that seemed to last an eternity, and with the sign in view Kyrksen took out the smart phone from his pocket and took a photo of the sign as well as the campsite and using his satellite data plan uploaded it onto a website before writing a small visual review of the place and from there he along with his wife walked up the path towards the camp area.

Sojourner looks around for signs of a semi-official building that would be functioning as an office, "kyrk, I think we check in over there babes" she says before making her way to the small farm house door.

knocking gently 3 times on the door, Sojourner stood back as is the usual way in the Aurora confederacy, she waits patiently for someone to come to the door as Kyrksen comes up behind her and places his bag on the floor.

---

The stand ran by a family as well helped take orders, mostly through the help of their children. It was a much older couple, one around to remember the War and the times before it when it wasn't the UIS. Erisu was the one taking orders and relaying to her parents. Auroran was complicated, it was similar to Japanese but the island's isolated location rather mutated the language that even native Nippon speakers had trouble with it. Younger generations with more access to education than their parents were able to understand other languages enough. "The meat is a mash up of some fish from the waters around the islands. A bit odd I know but trust me, it'll taste good." She took the currency and put it in a pouch on her maid dress she wore after seeing it in foreign magazines. "Your business is appreciated, and food will be ready in just a moment."

As Karen waited for the food, Jason leaned back on the wall after scooping Marvin up, as Jason held Marvin, his paws on Jason's shoulder as Jason supported Marvin with one arm and held him in place with his other hand with which he gently stroked the young feline, all Marvin wanted to do was purr and purr he did, seemingly enjoying the fuss.

At the stand, Karen smiled, "you're welcome. Fish is quite popular back home, have you ever tried Lake Hai'lu'kai Salmon? the water they swim in is so clear and so clean it gives the fish a taste like nothing else" and as soon as the fish was handed to her, she took a bite and nodded with approval, "have you got any filleted and de-boned?" she asks.

[AHSCA]

After a walk that seemed to last an eternity, and with the sign in view Kyrksen took out the smart phone from his pocket and took a photo of the sign as well as the campsite and using his satellite data plan uploaded it onto a website before writing a small visual review of the place and from there he along with his wife walked up the path towards the camp area.

Sojourner looks around for signs of a semi-official building that would be functioning as an office, "kyrk, I think we check in over there babes" she says before making her way to the small farm house door.

knocking gently 3 times on the door, Sojourner stood back as is the usual way in the Aurora confederacy, she waits patiently for someone to come to the door as Kyrksen comes up behind her and places his bag on the floor.

"Just a moment!" The voice of Venta called from just beyond the counter and she emerged from a back door. Wearing a sarong and a bandeau and brandishing a rather intimidating looking scythe on her back. "Ah apologies thank you for waiting. Welcome to Serenaj bienoj. Interested in staking a plot? It's only 40 Credits for the plot, an extra 50 for added meal service. We also offer camping gear or a hut for 120 meals included there. "

---

As Karen waited for the food, Jason leaned back on the wall after scooping Marvin up, as Jason held Marvin, his paws on Jason's shoulder as Jason supported Marvin with one arm and held him in place with his other hand with which he gently stroked the young feline, all Marvin wanted to do was purr and purr he did, seemingly enjoying the fuss.

At the stand, Karen smiled, "you're welcome. Fish is quite popular back home, have you ever tried Lake Hai'lu'kai Salmon? the water they swim in is so clear and so clean it gives the fish a taste like nothing else" and as soon as the fish was handed to her, she took a bite and nodded with approval, "have you got any filleted and de-boned?" she asks.

"Ah I wish I say I could. AHSCAian trout and bass are what's commonly fished around these parts and I've never been off the island. We do have filleted and de-boned. Or if you're adventurous, crispy roasted fish where we roast it over open flame until it's very very crispy to the point of charred. Not for everyone but I like it myself among the other dishes we make here."

[Cartoonia]

“Sure, we’ll take the table” Fry responds as the young hostess brings them to their table. To them, child workers were not a surprise to them as child labor laws in Cartoonia were liberal, but restricted to certain jobs. The trio sat at the table with the person, and being nice folks, Tamaki decides to introduce themselves to the person.

“Hello” Tamaki starts. “My name is Tamaki. This guy is Fry and the woman here is Rose”.

Once Annabell had taken care of everything, payment, fitting everything she bid the shopkeepers farewell. She did politely decline the extra coupon not knowing if she'd be back on Aurora once her duties began and she had to keep a pretty stringent routine while here on her official service, even if not in their dorms. Not much luxury for shopping. Now dressed up sitting in a nice little restaurant to relax a while, eat and ponder everything she had to do to be ready for her time here. A waitress asked if she'd mind sharing her table with some extra arrivals. "Not at all, I'd be glad too." She responded to the hostess who seated the new guests. Looked like other travelers like her. "Nice to meet you all, I'm Annabell."


The waitress who had already serviced Annabell returned, a kitsune woman working in Aurora.


"Good afternoon." She greeted the new guests and Annabell. "Anything I can start you folks off with, and would you like another milk tea?"

"If you'd please. Thank you." she thanked the waitress and allowed her new table mates to order anything they might want for drinks or meals if they already had an idea of what they wanted.

“Well, we’ll have some tea ourselves as well, is there anything you would recommend us as probably an appetizer” Tamaki asked

[Kuronami]

“Well, we’ll have some tea ourselves as well, is there anything you would recommend us as probably an appetizer” Tamaki asked

"All right, tea all around. As for good appetizers, crab cakes are very popular if you like seafood. We also offer fruit bowls with the best island fruits to offer. Sweet rice is also very popular."

"Fruit bowl sounds great for me." Annabell requested "And I'd like rice porridge." If she was gonna be saddled with mostly rice dishes best get used to them.

"Ah a fine choice, young lady! The Rice Porridge is my favorite dish."

[Cartoonia]

“Well, we’ll have some tea ourselves as well, is there anything you would recommend us as probably an appetizer” Tamaki asked

"All right, tea all around. As for good appetizers, crab cakes are very popular if you like seafood. We also offer fruit bowls with the best island fruits to offer. Sweet rice is also very popular."

"Fruit bowl sounds great for me." Annabell requested "And I'd like rice porridge." If she was gonna be saddled with mostly rice dishes best get used to them.

"Ah a fine choice, young lady! The Rice Porridge is my favorite dish."

“I’ll have the fruit bowls please” Tamaki says.

“Me too” Fry says.

“I will also have the fruit bowl, and I’ll also try the rice porridge too please” Rose says

[Kuronami]

"All right fruit bowls all around and rice porridge all around? Sounds like a plan, I'll be back with your appetizers and tea in a few moments. If you need anything else please feel free to ask."

"Thank you very much." Annabell thanked and returned her attention to her new company. Nice to share a meal with some fellow travelers. "So you've come for the festival as well, I imagine?"

[Cartoonia]

"All right fruit bowls all around and rice porridge all around? Sounds like a plan, I'll be back with your appetizers and tea in a few moments. If you need anything else please feel free to ask."

"Thank you very much." Annabell thanked and returned her attention to her new company. Nice to share a meal with some fellow travelers. "So you've come for the festival as well, I imagine?"

“Well, we just wanted to get away from Cartoonia for a while”, Fry says “you know get away from the modern sounds of our cities and industries. Get some good vibes for a week, you understand?”

[Kuronami]

“Well, we just wanted to get away from Cartoonia for a while”, Fry says “you know get away from the modern sounds of our cities and industries. Get some good vibes for a week, you understand?”

"Surprisingly I actually do. Even though I'm from the countryside myself, I get why people flock away from cities to even the most remote places like these islands here to enjoy something a little different."