Comin' together to Celebrate (IC)

by **Minroz** » Thu Apr 11, 2019 6:40 am

“Sounds about right.” Lianhua agreed with the maiden statement. She then looked at the old man for a moment in response to his last question as if her husband is in the military. Well, the old man couldn’t be wrong.

“I see, haha~.” Tieguang replied to the Maiden and the Selkie elder, smiling sheepishly. He accepted their words, considering he’s no trained archer. “It’s true I didn’t practice. Truth be told, I’m good with guns than a bow and arrow. Elder (old man) sir, you are right. I am from military in my homeland. My wife and I were off-duty for vacation as a break from work.” He admitted with humility despite his rank as a colonel. Besides which, there’s no point for him to lie about it. His honesty as an honourable warrior at heart prevented him to consider lying about a simple truth as a military man.

“Like he said.” Lianhua joined in, giving out her friendly smile. “Believe it or not, I’m his superior officer by rank. It’s a long story but we ended up married.”

“Hmm. By the way, elder.” Tieguang addressed the said Selkie old man respectfully. In Minrozian and East Yazhou cultures, the elders and seniors are to be respected. “If you don’t mind asking, you said something about Faolchu. What is Faolchu?”

The last word, he’s not familiar with or no knowledge of. Then again, he and his wife are visitors in a foreign land, different from their motherland.

by **Lillorainen** » Thu Apr 11, 2019 7:37 am

En route to the Marcach Camp.
Hilda nodded.
"Sounds like a plan!" - she said. "And indeed, taking one's own job and duty seriously surely can't harm - as long as it doesn't entirely take over one's personality and life outside the duty-hours. I have to admit, though, that I do know worse examples of that than Alena. Then again, Dad is nowadays way less of a control freak than he was a few years ago."
She remembered well, that she and Fred had already told about their oldest brother being escorted to his graduation ball with blue lights and sirens on. A funny story to them and to everyone except for himself.
"Life happens, and with life come occupational illnesses - an old cop saw within our parts" - she concluded. "And quite a true one."

The Shop.
Of course, Mr. Folaíochta had known for sure, what had happened back then in in their room in Coileán Inn, Dumhach, every night. Chris didn't blush - for he rarely did -, but had to grin sheepishly and just managed to shrug once, until the old man hugged both him and Cel the same time.
He smiled back at his comment on him now being part of the family. "Oh right!" - he said, "Where did I leave my manners?" He took a deep breath and said, in the best Selkie-accent he could manage, with rolling R's, dropped and a melodic sing-song, but not exaggerating it too much, "I can well imagine, that she missed me dearly - now, so did I. It's been quite some time ago, after all. Now how've ya been doing in the time being?"
He also tried to hide how it warmed his own heart, the term fireannaigh being well-familiar to him, the reason for that not requiring any further explanation - completely hiding it did not want to succeed, though, as his smile had turned just as soft as his girlfriend's.

by **Polish Prussian Commonwealth** » Thu Apr 11, 2019 11:19 am

Marie paused for a bit.
"Anyway...After that, started reading up on the world outside. Requested books by the wagon-load from the library, to the point that they actually had to ask me to slow down, since I was borrowing so many at a time that there weren't any left for the others. But other than that, the sisters almost seemed pleased that I was showing interest in the world beyond the 10 by 10 mile plot that was Ochojno. My obsession with the outside world culminated with a student exchange with Warsaw Imperial Infantry/Artillery, when I was 14."
She shook her head. "I thought the sisters were strict when they smacked kids for setting off fireworks, but then I met the drill sergeants...They never got me, of course, being an exchange student and not a cadet. In any case...I suppose I got lucky. Met plenty of wonderful people there, but two in particular..."
She rubbed her eyes a little. "Their names were, respectively, Karl and Irene. Karl...Son of a captain in the Imperial Navy, and very much intrested in continuing the family business. Irene...You'll call bullshit, but she was, at the time, Crown Princess of Bavaria."

Klaus signed off the papers, wondering how the hell they managed to get past airport security when they had forgotten to include a return address on their Visa application. "By the way..." he started. "...is breakfast still being served? Didn't get much to eat on the way in."
Anne chuckled. "Only because you were too busy clenching the armrests to pick up your utensils, and I was too busy trying to force-feed you."

by **Folaisia** » Thu Apr 11, 2019 12:15 pm

"Sure thin'," chimed Gordon, "I can make use of the Scipeals."

Alpin and Fiona nodded to the same thing.

"Oh, also, let me try a few breadrolls. I'm kinda curious about them," said Fiona.

"Well, that settles it," Marie replied, dropping the "t's." She then turned to Kiah, "I'll pay for the breadrolls. I'd ought to have some intervention in this, so that you wouldnon have to spend much of your money," she said with a somewhat motherly smile before turning back to the cashier to pay alongside Kiah.

by **Kuronami** » Thu Apr 11, 2019 12:27 pm

The Selkie wrote:Pina and her beloved took a moment to stop their snogging, after which they separated with a long gaze into each other's eyes.
Lorgaire stopped his running around, sat down at a snap of his fingers by the young man, who then kissed Pina's nose, before they separated. He knelt down to greet his dog, grinning in a different way then when he had looked at Pina.
A bit later, he rose, grinning over his shoulder at the Kuronamis. “Hi.”, he greeted, then turned to Pina, “Friends of yours?”
Pina nodded. “If I may introduce? James and Charlotte, the kids are Billie and Jo.”, she introduced, “This is my boyfriend, Donnchadh Urdhún of the Tribe of Cork, Captain of the Póraitheoir High School Younger Militia Regiment.”
He grinned. “I prefer to go by the name of Donny!”, he added.

Jamie gave a quiet nod of greeting Charlie smiled and said "Hello." The two kids said hello as well. "Pleasure is ours, Donny!" Charlie enthusiastically replied. "We're form Kuronami and Pina has been so kind to talk to us."

The Selkie wrote:Mara and Mavie watched with pride, too, as the boy took Rona's hands and led her into a dance, given a bit of a berth by the other dancers. As the piece was slow, a tad bit romantic, the two kids held each other close, Rona resting her head on Ciaran's shoulder.
It was adorable beyond anything ever observed, if one asked the proud mothers.
“That's the important part.”, Mavie said, “That your heart is in it. And his heart certainly is in it.” She smiled. “He's a good lad.”
Mara nodded.

"How cute!" Mei held her blushing cheeks at the two little kids going to share a dance.

"Rona is full of spirit and pep. She really makes you proud. Well I'm afraid I have two-left-feet when it comes to dancing." Tsukasa admitted

"Hehe it's true, Tsu-chan can't really dance but that's okay!"

by **The Selkie** » Thu Apr 11, 2019 1:05 pm

Leonard nodded.
"The fool assumes, he knows everything. The wise man asks.", he quoted, "An old proverb, which my Grandpa is quite fond of... and he is right. Asking, admitting to not knowing, is the first step in learning." He smiled. "And while we are at it - The UIS. I only know it from a few reports in the newspapers. What sort of place is it?"

"Well...", Elin said from the head of their little caravan. "...we're there."
She smiled as the street opened into a wide square, which was open on two sides to the place, where the Mór River and the Cuas met to form the Imeall, mighty and wide. The square, a scaffolding of wood, was about five metres over the surface, dozens of stairs leading down to smaller wharfs, where riverboats were moored.
And to both sides of the square, the scaffolded wooden street continued, hundreds of metres, with shops and houses on one side and small wharfs out onto the river - and more then once, there were also houses, some of which served as miniature shipyards to this day.
People walked along the wood, laughed and watched and had fun, enjoying the river breeze.
"The Stilted Quarter.", Elin finished. "Best seafood in all of Cuan, right from the source!"

The waitress had gathered already, that he wasn't a Selkie - and, by his both humorous and respectful tone (at least it seemed to her), that he respected their faith. For her, that was a good start.
She was sure, that he wanted his faith to be respected, so it was good, that he respected hers.
"Don't worry.", she said with a grin, "There'll be TV cameras and enough private people making photographs, at least of the official part. That official part lasts from 13:00 to 13:20. After that, they'll retreat into the temple for the arcane part."

The older Gwen agreed with a nod.
"Indeed he does. His cute, over-sized puppy act should not distract from his favourite meal, though...", the younger Gwen said with a grin, "He loves scrotal sacks."
As if to confirm, Srol gave a bark.
Both women had gathered, that Jan was quite quick to distract from any issue there might be, typical delaying tactics... and the older Gwen, as the closest thing to an aunt, that the younger Gwen had, family not by blood, but by deed, had a very keen eyes for such things.
For now, however, she smiled. "Come, Gwenny, Jan - Fynn brought his Tines again and they are fluffy as ever!", she said and Gwen almost squealed.

Finnegan grinned.
"It's a lot simpler then that.", he said as he led them past his anvil and forge, the hammers and other tools and workstations, past a showcase with two fully finished and furbished Cathéide Armour Sets, the half-cuirass the Selkie were so famous for, past half-finished projects, into the back room, where a young man was setting out the cups and utensils for seven people and cake. Finnegan grinned as Berkant, his apprentice, asked Mona to not help him, this was her special day after all. "Please, have seats. Anyway... it's a lot simpler. I am a tinkerer. Every time I have free time, I build some sort of toy or mechanism. I sell them through my shop and once every blue moon, Eithne comes around, I show her a few pieces and when she likes something, she buys it for her company. She then sells it though a section of it... unique toys, you named it, right?"
Eithne nodded.

Mediama wrote:Kathleen nodded, and followed the Selkie into the bakery. While she was awestruck at the variety of food and drink that was available on the storefront, the current matter at hand weighed heavily on her conscience.

The fact that for some reason, her friend had ran off.

Miranda admitted to her herself that she had at least some sort of girl crush on the Selkie. And that was the most she got out of her when it came to her own romance. Though she made it a habit to talk about what was and wasn't romantic in the literary sense, she had hardly, if ever, mentioned her own part in the romantic drama in Queen Victoria Girl's Academy.

Still, that didn't mean Kathleen had no idea what she preferred. Being a friend of Dorothy's herself, she kinda had a general idea the moment she noticed that Miranda, normally a chatty girl when she's in her environment, fell silent when the conversation turned to boy talk.

Eventually, she came clean with Miranda, and they briefly became a little more than friends for a few months. She introduced her to Cassandra and Valerie, both older seniors who were also like them, and so they created their own little group.

Of course, then somehow the staff found out about Cass and Val, and that scared Miranda back into the closet.

She abruptly stopped her train of thought as they arrived to the back of the bakery, where the kettle was on. She put a hand on Fiona’s shoulder and cut to the chase, “Now that we’re somewhere private, what happened?”

Back in the equestrian commons, Miranda looked briefly at the militiawoman who was keeping her distance and minding her own business. She looked back down at her notebook, and wrote down some words, maybe a sentence or two, as a short story began to fill her head.

Of course, she was gripping her pencil too tightly, and she was still jittering around.

She was trying to figure out what to do.

More importantly how to get back, if she wanted to get back.

But all she can do, was focus on her writing, and the surroundings before her.

Minutes passed by... maybe hours, Kat wasn’t sure of it herself. Time seemed to pass quickly in the shed. As she fixed her dress, she couldn’t keep the smile off her face.

They had their first time, and despite the awkwardness... well, it was just something for them to think about and for us not to know for the sake of their privacy.

And with that, all Kat could do was sigh as she laid next to Liv, processing what just happened and letting time pass by in the shed with a dark, scarlet blush. Though, her mental clock was aware there was so much other stuff to do, but that was a bridge they’ll cross maybe later.

As for now, a comfortable silence was in the air.

Fiona was silent for a bit.
The old baker brought out the tea, set down two cups and left them alone again.
Then, she spoke: "I don't know. When you got lost, Miranda calmed me down, we hugged... actually, we hugged quite often, and all was wonderful and... I told her, that she was my friend, she replied that she saw me like that, too, and then I hugged her again and then she ran away, pushed me away... she looked like a deer in the headlights."
She sighed.
"I saw in her eyes, that she sees me as more then a friend, but I don't want to hurt her, because if we started a fling, it would hurt you the moment you would have to return and I could not bear that thought, but...", she buried her head in her hands, "...and I am unsure myself, whether I like boys or girls and if I am dominant or not and... and..."
By now, tears were streaming down her cheeks.
"...and I am stupid...", she said between sobs.

The militiawoman, with practiced ease, checked the reins and the saddle, the weapons and the armour, as well as the additional equipment, before a friend called her to a small fire.
She went, received by the other young woman with a kiss on the cheek, which was quite lovingly. The two did not look like siblings.
She sat down with half a dozen other girls, all armoured and armed themselves, swords and crossbows, their horses peacefully grazing.

Snuggled up to Kat, her clothes in a bit of disarray (not that she cared much, if she was honest, not right now), Liv enjoyed what might as well be called an afterglow.
They had done it.
Praised Searc.
And She would be rather satisfied with that praise, Liv was quite sure of that! In any case, her own mental clock knew, that they were cutting the chase with the tour, but she did not care, she only had to be there to her own public appearances as part of the delegation.
But there was time until that.
Time, which Liv used by moving her head slightly, her ear onto Kat's chest - she liked the sound of Kat's heart.

The old man grinned.
"Ah, a fellow military man!", he said and saluted, "Master Chief Petty Officer Conchobar Ceansaitheoir of the Tribe of Wexford, 11th Regiment of Dragoons, II. Squadron, 6th Company... although retired by now!" He dropped the salute. "My golden days are long since over... to me, a Faolchú was not a wolf, which is, what happens when you look the term up in the dictionary. No, to me, a Faolchú is an APC. Thirteen tons of steel, almost a tank in its own right! And I drove one... later even commanded one!"
He nodded down the gallery.
"Nowadays, though, I am an archer. More by hobby then by occupation, but its the thought, that matters, I think.", he said with a nod, "Gotta teach these whippersnappers a few tricks from the old days!"
He then turned to the gallery and in three quick motions, he fired three arrows in fifteen seconds - three arrows, which hit their mark on three different targets roundabout in the middle.
He nodded in approval as the other archers gave respectful claps.

En route to the Marcach Camp.
Marla nodded at Hilda's old proverb.
"True, true... as so many old proverbs.", she admitted, then smiled a bit sheepishly, "Though, we might want to look forwards, slightly to the right."
It was indeed a good idea, for now, they would be able to see Field Fortifications of Selkie-Horsemen in their purest form, namely a wagon fort. Enclosing a circular area by a little creek, around two dozen wagons formed a circle, with one wagon acting as the gate. Colourfull banners fluttered in the wind between the few smokestacks of campfires while all over the area, people were sitting and chatting and running around and tending to horses or equipment, tents erected in one corner, horses grazing in the other.
It was a peaceful scene, belying the fact, that these formations had, a mere century ago, served in actual war plans.
"He, hey!", someone called, another person, which Hilda might remember, tall and with a mark on his right shoulder, a swordsman of high renown: Tyran Cróimiam of the Tribe of Cork, Marla's Father and a generally a nice person to be around. "Look who we got here!"
They were now At the Marcach Camp.

The Shop.
My boss laughed.
"That sounded quite good already, me lad, though it still takes a bit until you can pass fer a Selkie!", he said and petted Chris' shoulder, getting us out of the hug. He looked at all four of us, specifically at us girls. "Cel, Enya, I'm afraid, that I need yer help in a specific matter..."
I nodded. I knew, what he was getting at and while Enya did not give milk (yet ; )), she could still hold a bottle.
"Admit it, you just want to have a conversation amongst men!", I said with a grin, but I went towards the door.
"A little bit of this and a little bit of that.", my boss admitted with a grin.
I went inside, Enya in tow. I was working on the cords in the back of my holder already as I saw a few hungry, vulpine faces.
I heard my boss begin: "Al'ight, lads... sit. We have a few things to talk about!"

Polish Prussian Commonwealth wrote:
The Selkie wrote:
Kiah smiled as she listened.
So Marie was gan teach na dtuismitheoirí, without parental home, as the Selkie called it. Grown up in a nunnery, too... not unheard of in Selkie-Lands, although there were no nunneries in the sense of Christian Nunneries, but it rarely happened.
And she grew up sheltered, too, first exposure to the outside with ten - a prisoner in the nunnery that became her home. Quite hefty, if one asked Kiah.
Although that didn't differ too much from kids, who did not feel the need to leave their home villages until they were about that age.
Still...
She nodded, asking Marie to continue.

The receptionist smiled at the uniformed man.
"Good morning, Sir. Give me a moment to look.", he said and looked through his book of reservations. A moment later, he looked up: "Indeed, there you are. Room 3-12. A porter will be with us in a moment... we have a few formalities to clear, though..."
He said and turned the book around, indicating to a specific line where Klaus would have to sign, then a few other formalities.
Meanwhile, a porter would take their bags upwards, to Room 3-12. It was not a bad room, one of the larger ones, with a large double-bed, a small bathroom, two closets, a medium-sized table for up to four people under a large window, which looked out over the main street and the busyness on it.
A fruit basket with fresh apples and pears stood on the table.

Marie paused for a bit.
"Anyway...After that, started reading up on the world outside. Requested books by the wagon-load from the library, to the point that they actually had to ask me to slow down, since I was borrowing so many at a time that there weren't any left for the others. But other than that, the sisters almost seemed pleased that I was showing interest in the world beyond the 10 by 10 mile plot that was Ochojno. My obsession with the outside world culminated with a student exchange with Warsaw Imperial Infantry/Artillery, when I was 14."
She shook her head. "I thought the sisters were strict when they smacked kids for setting off fireworks, but then I met the drill sergeants...They never got me, of course, being an exchange student and not a cadet. In any case...I suppose I got lucky. Met plenty of wonderful people there, but two in particular..."
She rubbed her eyes a little. "Their names were, respectively, Karl and Irene. Karl...Son of a captain in the Imperial Navy, and very much intrested in continuing the family business. Irene...You'll call bullshit, but she was, at the time, Crown Princess of Bavaria."

Klaus signed off the papers, wondering how the hell they managed to get past airport security when they had forgotten to include a return address on their Visa application. "By the way..." he started. "...is breakfast still being served? Didn't get much to eat on the way in."
Anne chuckled. "Only because you were too busy clenching the armrests to pick up your utensils, and I was too busy trying to force-feed you."

Kiah was... surprisingly unimpressed.
"A friend of mine from the Priest Courses learned how to write together with the future Ilkhana of Utica.", she said with a small shrug, "Of course, no one knew, that she was a Kyrenaian Princess because her father was a cowardly idiot, but that's another story."
She shrugged.
"So... you met Karl and Irene.", she gave Marie a prompt to return to the topic, "I take, that Karl is not the boy trouble we are talking about?"

The receptionist looked over to the restaurant area, which was still packed full.
"Indeed, we still do.", he said and handed over the keys, "One moment, though." He waved a waiter over, had a small conversation in Selkie and nodded in the end. The waiter departed again. "Well, I'm afraid, that we are completely full, as far as the restaurant is concerned. No spots free." He shrugged. "I would recommend the Rollchóstóir Bakery. Out of the door, to the right and then five buildings and you are there - especially their ham breadrolls!"

Donny smiled.
"Yes, that sounds like my beloved.", he said with a huge grin, "So... Kuronami. A beautiful place from what I've heard. I would love to travel there with Pina and our motorcycles one day..."
"Her big sis...", Pina said with a grin and a nod to Joey, "...is a mechanic."
"Then we already have one maintenance stop, where we will, by sheer coincidence, meet friends?", he asked with a grin.

Mavie smiled at the two lovebirds from Kuronami.
"That's not the important part - if you are a good dancer or not, I mean.", she explained, "The important part is having fun and someone you love close to you. At least it is for me..."
Mara smiled and bedded her head onto her wife's shoulder. "And yes, we are proud of here, in every moment awake and unawake.", she added.

Kiah nodded, looking to her sisters to say, what they wanted as breadrolls.
She was not sure, if Marie had Gil, but when the Main-Cashier looked at them, the many bags filled with breadrolls and Scipeal and everything else, and said "That makes a total of a Gil!", Kiah smiled.
Five Umha for the Scipeal, ten for the breadrolls due to the Scipeal being made from leftovers and the breadrolls being breadrolls.
Kiah gave eight Umha, Marie would have to pay seven, the middle-sister shooting Marie a look, that booked no argument.
Meanwhile, her sisters distributed the load... mostly to the boys.
When all was said and done, though, the young man behind the register got nervous. "Miss, if I may ask..." Kiah raised an eyebrow. "...well, are you, by any chance, Kiah Cíochach of the Tribe of Navan? The swimmer of the UoF Swimmer Team?"
Kiah nodded. "Indeed I am."
As they left, Kiah knew, by the smile of the cashierer, that she just made his day.

by **Port Ember** » Thu Apr 11, 2019 2:32 pm

Jan Breytenbach with Gwen

Jan gulped very softly when he heard Gwen informed him that Srol's favourite snack was.. scrotum sacks. Like the darned honey badgers found back home. He very well believed it, Srol was indeed a domesticated wild animal. Domesticated yes - wild.. yes. He also knew that his scrotum sack was safe for now, since Srol's loyalty and bond to Gwen was one of complete dedication, and Jan did not intend to test Srol's loyalty to his master any time soon.

Jan smiled softly when the conversation changed direction. His tactic had worked. In military and political terms, its coined "handling" a person. A skill that he had mastered by now. He had the feeling that this skill would have to be put into play quite a number of times before the end of his visit to the Free Lands.

As the older Gwen spoke of their incoming plans, Jan already deduced that Fynn was the husband of the older Gwen, and he was some sort of animal handler or zookeeper perhaps. When an animal was mentioned, 'Tines', Jan was immediately curious. He has never heard of such an animal, but judging from Gwen's reaction upon hearing this news, he was sure that he was in for a treat.

by **Foxfound** » Thu Apr 11, 2019 2:36 pm

The Selkie wrote:
Foxfound wrote:"Well... I ran into Kiri in the middle of this dark swampy forest. She was there because..."

She seemed unsure about something, and glanced at Kiri, who smiled and continued for her.

"Z doesn't want to say anything because she thinks it'll upset me, but it's fine. I was there because that was where I... died. Yeah. I didn't know where my parents had gone, and most people I met were scared of me, so I just hid there for a long time. Like... a really long time. Z was looking for artifacts there one day when she found this red ribbon. Ghosts need something important from their lives to anchor them to this world, and that's what the ribbon is for me. Anyway, I thought she was some kind of thief, so I followed her, but it turned out that she just didn't know it belonged to anyone, so we ended up being fast friends. I was her roommate for a while before I found my parents, which wouldn't have happened if I'd never met Z."

She seemed pretty happy now for someone who had been through so much. It seemed it didn't bother her so much anymore.

"Having friends like Z has helped me a lot, really. I used to stutter all the time because I was nervous, but I haven't done that for a while now."

Ren had blushed at Branwen's comment. "I don't know about that... I mean, I suppose I'm doing alright today, but usually I'm not very good at... talking... or... social... things... at all." She had her head down slightly.

Macha nodded, slowly.
Well, that Kiri was a ghost had been well-established beforehand, but the exact logistics were a bit beyond her. This was a glance into a world, which was literally not hers.
It was exciting.
She smiled however.
“It is nice to see, that you not only found a friend, but also your family. I spoke with your Mam on Piffle and she is a wonderful woman.”, Macha said, “Misfortune can breed the greatest of friendships...” She giggled. “Sorry, I just remembered, how I first met Áed – Áed the Hunter, that is, the High King, who ruled from 321 to 338, CE.”

Branwen smiled, realizing her mistake of maybe being a bit too forward.
“I'm sorry.”, she said, softly, softly placing a hand on Ren's cheek. “All the age and wisdom in the world do not prevent a mischievous mind from speaking too quickly... but that should not prevent you from having fun, my dear.” She leaned over to whisper into Ren's ear: “Or to find a charming lad...”

Kiri nodded. "She is very nice."

The inner, impatient, chaotic side of Z was getting impatient about the food, even though it had probably been only a few minutes. The other, more civil side of her continued to prevail for now, though, and the conversation helped. "Áed the Hunter? I don't think I've read about him yet, though I've tried to read up on this place."

Ren smiled weakly. "It's alright... and I'm sure I'll find someone someday," she said quietly.

by **Mediama** » Fri Apr 12, 2019 3:04 am

Kathleen sat down and listened intently to Fiona’s recollection. She wasn’t the kind of person to sit up straight for hours on end, neck poised like a swan, but she should at least be polite enough for a girl who’s on the verge of tears.

As she continued to listen to the details, she nodded her head as she pieced two and two together. Her own guesses were right.

Kathleen, being the less touchy feely of the two, awkwardly and gingerly placed a hand on Fiona’s back.

“Trust me, it’s not entirely your fault. She just as scared about this as you are.”

She gingerly continued to stroke her back. “Back at home, there are some places that don’t exactly see eye ta eye when it comes to shite like this, our school just happens to be one of them.”

She briefly stopped to take a sample of the baker’s tea, “Let me tell you a story.” Kathleen scuffled her feet on the floor and she started, “When Miranda and I first met in the first year of high school, Miranda was quiet on her own romance.”

She smiled to herself “Of course, that didn’t stop her from talking about romance in books and comparing them to high school gossip. She focused more on her own writing and her own dramatic escapades most of the time.”

Kathleen took another sip. “It took some time, but I finally managed to figure her out near the end of fall. She hardly looked at other boys, didn’t even talk all about her own love of ‘em whenit came to gossip, hell she was asked out by one of the local towns boys, she put on the most uptight air you’ve ever seen. But every once and a while, I’d see her eye up a lass or two.”

Kathleen stared at her tea, trying to rub off a blush in embarrassment, “At first I thought she was sizing everyone up, we were all growing ya know.” A pause. “But as the months wore on, I started to recognized that she had longing every time she looked at another girl fondly.”

She looked back up at Fiona “Eventually, I don’t know how, or why, but she trusted me enough to say she was in love with the fairer sex.” Kathleen took another brief sip. “Soon we ended having a secret relationship with each other, experimentin’ an’ all that. Met another couple along the way, a German and an American who were about to graduate, Valerie Faust and Cassandra Newman. Miranda kept in regular touch with them looked up to them since she was still trying to figure out some stuff on her own.”

Kathleen looked back at the tea and sighed, “It didn’t last though, this year, in the fall, Valerie was caught with Cassandra kissing in the common by one of the teachers, and they were sent off never to return again. Miranda hasn’t been the same when it came to romance ever since.”

She briefly held Fiona’s hand, “The point being is, I think Mira’s just a little skittish after what happened months ago, she doesn’t want to be kicked out anywhere, and who knows, she might be doubting whether or not she still likes girls or she could will herself to mary a boy.”

She then moved her hand and gave Fiona a shoulder pat gingerly. “The point is, the blame can be put all around, all you can do is try again.”

She snorted to herself, “Besides, not sure you have to worry about who’s dominant yet... unless you have more... naughty things planned out for her.” Kathleen playfully waggled her eyebrows, trying to cheer her up, or maybe leave her flustered, who the hell knows? “Feel a bit better knowin’ what the feck happened on our end?”

As Miranda looked back up, she looked just in time to see two women kiss on their cheeks. She looked a bit longer as they sat with their group.

As she continued to write, she juggled between looking at the group, and looking at the notebook and writing based on what she saw.

It would be hard to tell whether or not she was people watching, or spying, but she knew one thing.

She felt jealous she could tell from her rising anger and the amount of pressure she was applying to the pencil on the paper, jealous at what they possibly had and what she might not. Angry and sad at the mysterious emptiness in her heart.

But still, she has to deny it.

Can she?

Kat smiled and glowed with a flush as she felt Liv move around in her chest, listening to her heartbeat. As she rested her head back onto her chest, Kat stroked Liv’s hair, her scalp, and eventually down her arm.

It was an unavoidable conclusion, Liv was simply too cute to her own good.

“Being quite a little black fox aren’t you?” Kat joked, making reference to many of the animals mentioned in their correspondences.

And they’ve certainly literally, and figuratively come a long way since they first met in the fall. From kisses, to letters, to stolen moments yelling out for the gods above. She felt content, satisfied with life and what she’s achieved so far.

She sighed as she, too, took in the afterglow, and all of the heat they shared.

However, after a few more minutes, she leaned in and kissed Liv’s cheek as she asked, “Mmh, as much as I’d like to stay here like this Livvie, how much time do we have until Finnegan tries to hunt us down?”

Kat nuzzled into Liv’s scalp, “Not that I’d be that much of a rush.”

by **Minroz** » Fri Apr 12, 2019 3:07 am

The Minrozians also joined in the claps with the other archers in congratulating the old man. They’re impressed by the archery skills of the old man. Even though, the two knew some individuals who’re master archers in their own right and perhaps better archers than most Selkies in the gallery. Nevertheless, the Minrozians are impressed by Conchobar as a mortal man who never gone through magical augmentations. They’re also impressed that this Selkie elder used to be in the military. It’s really a compliment coming from people who lived for over hundred years, thanks to magical arts and their statuses as nobles.

“Wow~!” Tieguang whistled as he continued clapping. “Not bad for an old man, Elder Ceansaitheoir. You must be passionate about archery, I’d say~.”

“Your golden days may have been long past but you have a vigorous soul and spirit in you, elder.” Lianhua complimented Conchobar. “Aiya, I’m sorry, where are our manners…” She flustered and coughed to clear her throat.

“My name is Lianhua of the Sun family, Plain Red Banners of the Eight-Banners.” The Minrozian woman introduced herself, bowing her head. “And this is my dear husband.” She then giving cues for her Tieguang’s turn to introduce himself.

“I am Tieguang of the Yi family, Plain Red Banners of the Eight-Banners. I am Lianhua’s Second-in-command in our division.” The brunette introduced himself, bowing his head in greetings. “I was lucky to met her when I was first joined the military. You wouldn’t believe how strict she was, you mistaken her for stony statue. Heh, somehow as times passes, we fall in love and then we got married in the order. Kind of strange twist of fate, haha~.”

“Aiya…” Lianhua made a mock pout and gave a playful nudge to Tieguang. “He was naughty. I’m not that bad as he makes me out to be. To be fair, I had to make sure everyone under my command to be at their ready. The Eight-Banners are elite troops trained to fight in every environment. Of course, I have to be strict with my warriors.”

However, the Minrozians didn’t mention their own military ranks upon their introductions. Partly, they don’t want to invite unnecessary attention onto them by the locals. It’ll sound weird for a young couple to hold senior ranks in the military. Sun Lianhua is a general while Yi Tieguang is a colonel. They’re simply not sure how the Selkies reacted to magic which are considered ordinary in the world of Iclamia.

by **Lillorainen** » Fri Apr 12, 2019 6:20 am

At the Marcach Camp.
Following Marla's advice to look forward, slightly to the right, Hilda, Sophus, and Mia were indeed able to see the simple, yet practical fortification enclosing the Marcach Camp, a circle of wagons. Indeed, the fact that these formations with wagons and colorful banners had served in war plans, not even an awfully long time ago, somewhat went under - the scenery of people running around or sitting, horses grazing, and the campfires burning, seemed too peaceful.
As they passed the 'gate' (read, a wagon serving as one), Hilda already heard a familiar voice - and indeed recognized Tyran, Marla's father, whom she had already met in Shella. Thanks to modern communication technology, he already had known before, that Hilda was going to arrive.
"Surprise!" - Hilda said, grinning.

The Shop.
Not only for the vixens, yet also for that one fireannaigh from distant shores with the Rhenish tongue which yet needed to work at its Selkie-performance a bit, it was obvious, that Mr. Folaíochta rather sought an excuse to have a chat amongst men - even though it was, according to his own statement, rather 'A little bit of this and a little bit of that'.
Chris didn't manage to hide his grin - honestly, he didn't even try. Remember, this was family.
While Cel and Enya went inside to feed the Cubs, Chris sat down."Well, then fire away!" - he said.

by **The Selkie** » Fri Apr 12, 2019 8:39 am

Both Gwen's led Jan, the younger one with her arm linked, the other walking on the far side, telling some story about how they set the Petting Zoo up and exchanging greetings with other people there from time to time.
She smiled as they walked past a section, where a relatively wide field was free between the tents, a few kids playing catch with a Star Lynx, Ayden, as he was called, the large feline 'hunting' the children, who laughed, touching them with his nose to catch them.
In another corner, a Guarding Fox sat on a girl's lap, being brushed and enjoying it visibly.
And then came one of the larger sections, where a small field of grass housed a fenced off area, where a number of little animals were sitting, tended to by people, with kids playing with them and adults keeping watch.
It was a peaceful image.
The animals were badger-like, with a dark back and a beige stomach, their ears triangular. Eyes red like rubies shone. They had both a wide tail and, on their heads, a comb, almost like a mowhawk.
"Those are Tines.", Gwen said and swung herself onto the fence, picking one up with ease and handing it to the younger Gwen, who turned him a bit in her arms, so that he was stomach up. The Tine squeaked in delight as the young woman began to scratch his belly. "My husband breeds them."

Macha smiled and wanted to explain, who Áed the Hunter was, as their food arrived - steaming plates of breakfast, hot tea and everything else one could wish for, a good and great meal, ideal to start the day with much energy.
Once everything was on the table, Branwen looked at the assembly with a smile: "Alright, girls... may the Gods be thanked for both meal and company. And may our appetite be good!"
And so, the eating started.
"Now, where were we?", Macha said, "Oh, yes, Áed... he was... a man. They don't make men like him anymore. A poet with a sword, a man of music and verses, but also a good ruler, fair in judgement and mind... and he was... quite..." Macha visibly searched for a word. "...skilled in certain other regards."
"Macha...", Branwen cautioned, "...they're cubs."
"Sure.", Macha threw Z a wink, "I'll not go into detail."

Mediama wrote:Kathleen sat down and listened intently to Fiona’s recollection. She wasn’t the kind of person to sit up straight for hours on end, neck poised like a swan, but she should at least be polite enough for a girl who’s on the verge of tears.

As she continued to listen to the details, she nodded her head as she pieced two and two together. Her own guesses were right.

Kathleen, being the less touchy feely of the two, awkwardly and gingerly placed a hand on Fiona’s back.

“Trust me, it’s not entirely your fault. She just as scared about this as you are.”

She gingerly continued to stroke her back. “Back at home, there are some places that don’t exactly see eye ta eye when it comes to shite like this, our school just happens to be one of them.”

She briefly stopped to take a sample of the baker’s tea, “Let me tell you a story.” Kathleen scuffled her feet on the floor and she started, “When Miranda and I first met in the first year of high school, Miranda was quiet on her own romance.”

She smiled to herself “Of course, that didn’t stop her from talking about romance in books and comparing them to high school gossip. She focused more on her own writing and her own dramatic escapades most of the time.”

Kathleen took another sip. “It took some time, but I finally managed to figure her out near the end of fall. She hardly looked at other boys, didn’t even talk all about her own love of ‘em whenit came to gossip, hell she was asked out by one of the local towns boys, she put on the most uptight air you’ve ever seen. But every once and a while, I’d see her eye up a lass or two.”

Kathleen stared at her tea, trying to rub off a blush in embarrassment, “At first I thought she was sizing everyone up, we were all growing ya know.” A pause. “But as the months wore on, I started to recognized that she had longing every time she looked at another girl fondly.”

She looked back up at Fiona “Eventually, I don’t know how, or why, but she trusted me enough to say she was in love with the fairer sex.” Kathleen took another brief sip. “Soon we ended having a secret relationship with each other, experimentin’ an’ all that. Met another couple along the way, a German and an American who were about to graduate, Valerie Faust and Cassandra Newman. Miranda kept in regular touch with them looked up to them since she was still trying to figure out some stuff on her own.”

Kathleen looked back at the tea and sighed, “It didn’t last though, this year, in the fall, Valerie was caught with Cassandra kissing in the common by one of the teachers, and they were sent off never to return again. Miranda hasn’t been the same when it came to romance ever since.”

She briefly held Fiona’s hand, “The point being is, I think Mira’s just a little skittish after what happened months ago, she doesn’t want to be kicked out anywhere, and who knows, she might be doubting whether or not she still likes girls or she could will herself to mary a boy.”

She then moved her hand and gave Fiona a shoulder pat gingerly. “The point is, the blame can be put all around, all you can do is try again.”

She snorted to herself, “Besides, not sure you have to worry about who’s dominant yet... unless you have more... naughty things planned out for her.” Kathleen playfully waggled her eyebrows, trying to cheer her up, or maybe leave her flustered, who the hell knows? “Feel a bit better knowin’ what the feck happened on our end?”

As Miranda looked back up, she looked just in time to see two women kiss on their cheeks. She looked a bit longer as they sat with their group.

As she continued to write, she juggled between looking at the group, and looking at the notebook and writing based on what she saw.

It would be hard to tell whether or not she was people watching, or spying, but she knew one thing.

She felt jealous she could tell from her rising anger and the amount of pressure she was applying to the pencil on the paper, jealous at what they possibly had and what she might not. Angry and sad at the mysterious emptiness in her heart.

But still, she has to deny it.

Can she?

Kat smiled and glowed with a flush as she felt Liv move around in her chest, listening to her heartbeat. As she rested her head back onto her chest, Kat stroked Liv’s hair, her scalp, and eventually down her arm.

It was an unavoidable conclusion, Liv was simply too cute to her own good.

“Being quite a little black fox aren’t you?” Kat joked, making reference to many of the animals mentioned in their correspondences.

And they’ve certainly literally, and figuratively come a long way since they first met in the fall. From kisses, to letters, to stolen moments yelling out for the gods above. She felt content, satisfied with life and what she’s achieved so far.

She sighed as she, too, took in the afterglow, and all of the heat they shared.

However, after a few more minutes, she leaned in and kissed Liv’s cheek as she asked, “Mmh, as much as I’d like to stay here like this Livvie, how much time do we have until Finnegan tries to hunt us down?”

Kat nuzzled into Liv’s scalp, “Not that I’d be that much of a rush.”

Fiona covered her mouth with her hand, visibly shocked by the end of the story.
For her, a woman loving another woman was one of the most normal things in the world, so normal, it did not even bear mentioning. To the point of not being an issue. Same with men loving men.
Liberals often praised the Free Lands for that liberal attitude towards such matters, until someone raised a hand and said, that it was tradition - conservative, even.
But... apparently, Mediama had places, where that wasn't the case.
Where girls could be thrown out of schools for who their heart chose.
Silence passed.
"Searc, forgive me...", Fiona said, whispered almost, took her cup. It shook. "I did not know..."

The half-dozen of horsewomen laughed and chatted, one had the crossbow unloaded and was twiddling with the mechanism, obviously trying to repair something or the other.
One of the horses gave a short neigh, raising the suspicion of the horsewomen, who rose, went over and checked, even looked once underneath the equine. She came up again with her face slightly red.
It was Spring, after all, certain... things came to life.

Liv smiled, at peace, wanted to answer to Kat's question with a small "Enough time...", as someone knocked on the door.
"Don't want to interrupt, but I need a few tools from the shed.", the person outside said, "So..."
Liv sighed.
"Well, it's not Finnegan.", she explained, "But the gardener. One moment!" Her call was confirmed from the outside. Liv turned to Kat, kissed her lips, no tongue this time. "Seems like we should get at least dressed."
Liv sighed as she got out of Kat's arms, collected the Holder and began to put it on, before she grinned at her girlfriend.
"I hope, that you liked this part of the tour!", she teased.

MInroz wrote:The Minrozians also joined in the claps with the other archers in congratulating the old man. They’re impressed by the archery skills of the old man. Even though, the two knew some individuals who’re master archers in their own right and perhaps better archers than most Selkies in the gallery. Nevertheless, the Minrozians are impressed by Conchobar as a mortal man who never gone through magical augmentations. They’re also impressed that this Selkie elder used to be in the military. It’s really a compliment coming from people who lived for over hundred years, thanks to magical arts and their statuses as nobles.

“Wow~!” Tieguang whistled as he continued clapping. “Not bad for an old man, Elder Ceansaitheoir. You must be passionate about archery, I’d say~.”

“Your golden days may have been long past but you have a vigorous soul and spirit in you, elder.” Lianhua complimented Conchobar. “Aiya, I’m sorry, where are our manners…” She flustered and coughed to clear her throat.

“My name is Lianhua of the Sun family, Plain Red Banners of the Eight-Banners.” The Minrozian woman introduced herself, bowing her head. “And this is my dear husband.” She then giving cues for her Tieguang’s turn to introduce himself.

“I am Tieguang of the Yi family, Plain Red Banners of the Eight-Banners. I am Lianhua’s Second-in-command in our division.” The brunette introduced himself, bowing his head in greetings. “I was lucky to met her when I was first joined the military. You wouldn’t believe how strict she was, you mistaken her for stony statue. Heh, somehow as times passes, we fall in love and then we got married in the order. Kind of strange twist of fate, haha~.”

“Aiya…” Lianhua made a mock pout and gave a playful nudge to Tieguang. “He was naughty. I’m not that bad as he makes me out to be. To be fair, I had to make sure everyone under my command to be at their ready. The Eight-Banners are elite troops trained to fight in every environment. Of course, I have to be strict with my warriors.”

However, the Minrozians didn’t mention their own military ranks upon their introductions. Partly, they don’t want to invite unnecessary attention onto them by the locals. It’ll sound weird for a young couple to hold senior ranks in the military. Sun Lianhua is a general while Yi Tieguang is a colonel. They’re simply not sure how the Selkies reacted to magic which are considered ordinary in the world of Iclamia.

At the mentioning of the unit the two of them belonged to made a few eyes go wide - the Eight Banners had a bit of a reputation in the Free Lands, thanks to Operation Spartacus and the fact, that they fought side by side with men and women of the Mobile Forces Command.
Someone even said "Blimey!" under the breath.
Conchobar bowed his head to the two Monrozians - he was a civilian now. "It's a pleasure, Sir, Ma'am.", he said, figuring, that they were officers. Maybe Lieutenants, Captains in the best of cases. He certainly did not think, that they could be a General and a Colonel. "And thank you for your compliments. As you might have guessed, we did hear about the Eight Banners already. Donny and Leonard have kids with the MFC."
Two of the archers waved.
"Strictness with your warrior, Ma'am, is something to not be ashamed off, quite on the contrary. Discipline is the most effective weapon.", Conchobar continued, nodding, "I say that both as a Marcach and as a former Master Chief."

At the Marcach Camp.
Tyran grinned, moving in to hug Hilda with a smile.
He had gotten a bit older, but he was still the nice man from back when in Shella, still strong, maybe even stronger, with arms approaching tree trunks - quite a few girls envied Hilda for the hug she received so easily.
"Good to see you, lassie!", he said and grinned at her, "You look good. How's your horse?"
Marla and Leonard smiled, rounding the other two Lillos up to have them introduced.

The Shop.
The old shop-owner grinned, motioned for the two to sit, while the women were occupied inside.
"Now, the first thing we have to talk about, is not something from my side.", he began and looked to Finnegan. "Your cue, me lad."
The green-haired man nodded. "Well...", he began, "You see, Enya and I are getting married and during our marriage ceremonies, there is two persons called the finnéachti, you might translate that as 'witness'." He gulped, getting more nervous by the word, which was unusual for him. "Usual for him, that's a couple, which is close friends with the bride and the groom. And, well, we, that means Enya and me, we would be happy, if you and Cel could do that for us?"
He waited with baited breath.

by **Solisian Union** » Fri Apr 12, 2019 8:46 am

The Solisian journalist smiled yet again and said to the old man,

"It is very nice to meet you, Mr. Raidri. And you too, lady Asteria." She had nodded to her before she straightened and told them both,

"Well, his name is Finnegan. He's a student I met when I was here in your country, I think a few months before." She paused to then say, "I remember meeting him during one of the festivals of this country. I can't remember what the name was though. I met him somewhere not in Cuan."

She blushed as she recalled him and really strongly hoped she'd find him or another handsome lad like him.

by **Lillorainen** » Fri Apr 12, 2019 9:47 am

At the Marcach Camp.
Hilda hugged Tyran back and, unlike her two amused friends rounding up, she completely ignored the quite obviously envious lassies around, who surely wouldn't have minded receiving such a hug, too.
Tyran had indeed gotten a tiny bit older - other than that, Hilda couldn't tell a difference for now.
"Oh, he's fine!" - Hilda replied. "Apart from being suspected to be the father of a recently new-born colt, that is ... but well, things are going on, and he's still the whirlwind he's always been, so it's all fine."
She shrugged, grinning.
"Oh, and I brought two friends - neither of who is the owner of the steed in question, luckily!" - she said and motioned to Sophus and Mia with her head. "Sophus Andresen, Mia Boserup."
Both bowed their heads, when their names were mentioned.

The Shop.
Chris nodded along, when Finnegan explained the favor he was going to ask for. While the term finnéachti itself was new to him, he did get what it meant - something along those lines was a thing in Lillorainen, too.
When finished, he waited for Chris' reply with a bated breath, maybe not necessarily expecting a downright No, yet still seriously wondering what kind of reaction would come now.
Chris nodded again, smiling. "Count me in!" - he said. "It would be a pleasure for me!"

by **Mediama** » Fri Apr 12, 2019 1:36 pm

"Don't beat yerself over it." Kathleen said, "I can safely say we were all surprised and just as shocked about the horse sacrifice for the Spring Festival." Kathleen smiled. "Keep in mind the school we go to is a private school, so they have a little more leeway with what they want to do. It's less acceptable to pull the shite they do here in public schools."

From emotions to fecking politics, hope to god it doesn't turn into a rambling.

Given the recent turn of events, Kathleen decided that maybe politics wouldn't be a good idea to bring up now with time being of the essence. "The point being is, not everything is lost. At least, I hope that's just a shite theory." Kathleen drank the last of her tea, "I think if you maybe explain to her how you feel, and what's goin' on, maybe take it a bit slow, she'll be able to fall into step to it. Besides, it's not like she's alone if any of the other teachers find out. She has us."

She rested her chin against her right hand, thinking aloud, "Speaking of which, we've got to find our little Irish friend, any idea where she could've run off to?"

Miranda couldn't help but blush at the implication of what the horsewoman saw. She chewed on her lip as she figured out what to do next. She was immediately concerned to the fact that she was lost in an area of the city she was not familiar with.

Even if she wanted to return to the cafe, to try to confront Fiona's feelings for her, it wasn't exactly possible for her to do so when she couldn't find her way home.

And then there was the concern of what she should do from there? Should she embrace her feelings? Reject them. Queen Victoria's was a school that set high standards, they had a reputation to uphold. That meant they had to get rid of people that might sully that reputation.

Is she willing to throw all of that prestige away for a funny feeling in her gut?

So much was running through her head. She decided that since she didn't have any choice in the matter to where to go, that she would take a closer look at the group of horsewomen in the field.

She couldn't shake the memory of two seemingly complete strangers, both of the same gender, kissing each other in the cheek as if it were normal, common place, and no one berated them. It reminded her of the days when she was with Kathleen, when things seemed more simple and they felt like they could challenge the world together.

Come to think of it, Kathleen had the same spirit that Fiona had. It's just Kathleen was more wild, Fiona was more tame, manageable... even if she took things a little too quickly in the one hour they were with each other.

She watched the group of horsewomen as she tried to figure out what to do, and continued to debate with herself whether or not she should start something with the Selkie.

Kat smiled and nodded as she took her dress and slipped it on. "It was really, really wonderful. And I guess something that would really excite Searc." She leaned in and gave Liv another peck to the lips as she knelt down and collected her belongings. She slung her travel backpack and slipped her camera over her shoulders.

She looked over her lover again, looking at her with meticulous detail, until she noticed it, one of the shoulder strings was loosely tied.

"Hold in." Kat leaned in, and grabbed the two strings together, crossing them and then creating two loops before she she double tied them to make sure the strings wouldn't come loose at an embarrassing or inopportune moment.

"There." she said. She then fixed Liv's hair, before she leaned in and kissed her on the nose.

by **Minroz** » Fri Apr 12, 2019 11:37 pm

Tieguang nodded in understanding and waved back at the two said archers whom he assumed to be Donny and Leonard.

“Why thank you, elder Conchobar. Indeed, discipline is the most effective weapon.” Lianhua replied to Conchobar, scratching her cheek and continue speaking with humility. “In fact, discipline is the soul of an army. Without it, the military is nothing more than an unruly mob. I admit it is tough work as a commander. Especially when it comes to managing a large group of people from all walks of life under your care but I always make sure everyone do their jobs. As a matter of fact, the Eight-Banner Army as a whole is comprised of people from all over the empire. It is hard work but I’ve enjoyed it. Haha~.”

“I joined the Eight-Banners when I came straight out of highschool.” Tieguang piped up. “Let’s just say family tradition of mine. My wife’s family is the same. Our families have long history of military service. Haha~, I cannot imagined myself being not in the military. If I don’t join the Eight-Banners, my life might be different and I won’t be able to meet the love of my life~.” He gave a quick peck with his wife on the cheek affectionately.

“Haha~.” Lianhua chuckled. The two don’t seem to be afraid to show affections for each other. Long time ago in Minroz, public displays of affection is frowned upon and considered it to be ‘shameful’ by more conservative-minded Minrozians. Nowadays with a more liberalized generation, public displays of affection became acceptable but overly displays of it are considered to be a big no-no.

Pixiv · by **Wolfenium** » Sat Apr 13, 2019 4:42 am

Stoc Inn, Cuan, Free Lands of the Selkie
Hilda Odegaard

'Stupid girls.' That was the first thing that Hilda summed up about her trip to the Spring Festival so far. Armed with her guitar and rock singles for autographs for some of the local bands, Hilda Odegaard had planned long for the trip to Cuan. In all honesty, the music stage was pretty much all she was interested in, and given the option, she would have likely went elsewhere. But there was a reason for her to pick the Spring Festival for her off-season trip; it felt quite lonely travelling solo. Unfortunately, the appeal of pagan celebrations and medieval fair had utterly failed to persuade her fellow members, all of whom ended up barraging her with a multitude of excuses.

"Sorry! I'm heading for Theunissen to visit my grandmother this Spring!"

"I'm heading back to Ingolstadt to spend some time with my parents."

"Papi is taking me on a trip through Europe!"

"I'm sorry, Hilda, but I'm going back to Tristania for a little bit... It's hard to obtain permits into the military zone as it is..."

"My passport isn't renewed yet."

"Ugh..."

"Stupid girls," grumbled the singer as she laid on her bed, often ruing her career course away from her beloved path. Dressing up in frilly costumes and singing lovey-dovey songs may be fun after a while, but she did fret over the lack of company she would have. None of them liked rock music, at least to her knowledge. In fact, it was even a miracle they could hold together at all, with their multitude and varying levels of talent. Such was the life of a pop idol.

Of course, all that was past now, and she now had to make the best of her trip. Getting on her feet, she wondered where to start on the fair. Washing up for the morning and changing out of her pajamas, she decided to check out the inn's breakfast first.

by **AHSCA** » Sun Apr 14, 2019 9:46 am

The Selkie wrote:Leonard nodded.
"The fool assumes, he knows everything. The wise man asks.", he quoted, "An old proverb, which my Grandpa is quite fond of... and he is right. Asking, admitting to not knowing, is the first step in learning." He smiled. "And while we are at it - The UIS. I only know it from a few reports in the newspapers. What sort of place is it?"

"Your grandpa a wise man no doubt in my mind. Oh the UIS huh? It's a beautiful wonderful place!"

"Yeah it's our home and we love it dearly!" Hina added

"Weather can be fickle but it can be lovely. Beaches, hot sands, lots of creatures roaming around, crystal clear ocean, lush rain forests as far as the eye can see. Many of us, my family included, are quite religious too. Quite a pious people one would say."

"Mmm mmm" Hina nodded in firm agreement. "As I'm sure it is for you people here, our faith is important to us!"

"In a sense, I'd say AHSCA is somewhat like here, The Freelands and we are like you, The Selkie people. A sense of tradition and values that doesn't waver and continues strong. Of course our core beliefs are different and our deities differ but we have similar values we grow up with and teach. That's what made this place sound so appealing for a visit."

The Selkie wrote:"Well...", Elin said from the head of their little caravan. "...we're there."
She smiled as the street opened into a wide square, which was open on two sides to the place, where the Mór River and the Cuas met to form the Imeall, mighty and wide. The square, a scaffolding of wood, was about five metres over the surface, dozens of stairs leading down to smaller wharfs, where riverboats were moored.
And to both sides of the square, the scaffolded wooden street continued, hundreds of metres, with shops and houses on one side and small wharfs out onto the river - and more then once, there were also houses, some of which served as miniature shipyards to this day.
People walked along the wood, laughed and watched and had fun, enjoying the river breeze.
"The Stilted Quarter.", Elin finished. "Best seafood in all of Cuan, right from the source!"

"Ooooh I can go for some good food right about now!" Shizuka clapped her hands together in joy at the sound of having some tasty seafood. "Just allow me to treat for tea, okay!?" She gave a wide smile and a wink.

by **The Chuck** » Sun Apr 14, 2019 10:09 am

Jeremiah Colton

As they walked through the forge area, Jeremiah looked around with a sense of belonging as he listened. No matter where he went, home for him was the forge. Following Finnegan, he also noticed the suits of armor and other wares that were being worked on. Once they got to the back room, he took a seat and listened as Finnegan discussed what he did for a living. When Finnegan explained how he was a bit of a tinkerer, Jeremiah smiled, he could most definitely relate to that. As Finnegan slowed down, he took the opportunity to ask a question that had been on his mind for quite some time before coming to the Free Lands.

"Finnegan, I would first like to offer my compliments to you and your apprentice for such a fine shop. Second,I've heard stories of the quality of Selkie metal from journeymen and fellow craftsman the world over. In your own thoughts, what do you think contributes to such high standards? Is it the quality of the metal when it is mined out of the ground or is it the process of how craftsmen like you work with the metal or is it a combination of both? If you have trade secrets you'd rather not divulge, I wholly understand."

by **Kuronami** » Sun Apr 14, 2019 10:43 am

The Selkie wrote:Donny smiled.
"Yes, that sounds like my beloved.", he said with a huge grin, "So... Kuronami. A beautiful place from what I've heard. I would love to travel there with Pina and our motorcycles one day..."
"Her big sis...", Pina said with a grin and a nod to Joey, "...is a mechanic."
"Then we already have one maintenance stop, where we will, by sheer coincidence, meet friends?", he asked with a grin.

"Hehhe and my big sis is the best mechanic in all of Thunder Creek! Maybe the best in all Clarines, or all of Kuronami!"

"Well don't know bout that" Billie added "But she has helped lots a folks outta pinches when they need something fixed."

"Well wherever sis falls, she's plenty good so you stop by she'll give y'all a good tune up! Right now she's actually in Kyrenaia where she's helpin out taking care of horses there! Given we're all farmers, it's pretty suited work for her!"

The Selkie wrote:Mavie smiled at the two lovebirds from Kuronami.
"That's not the important part - if you are a good dancer or not, I mean.", she explained, "The important part is having fun and someone you love close to you. At least it is for me..."
Mara smiled and bedded her head onto her wife's shoulder. "And yes, we are proud of here, in every moment awake and unawake.", she added.

"Well said." Mei nodded with a smile. "Tsu-chan is important to me." She took Tsukasa's hand again to give it her loving squeeze. "She might not be a dancer but she never misses a recital of mine. Actually our first sort-of-date was that."

"Oooh nooo." Tsukasa blushed turning her head away a bit embarassed but nothing she could do to stop Mei now

"It was my first recital in town since moving there. Well long story short, in came Tsu-chan, covered in mud fresh from the rice fields."

"J-just I had to work really long and hard so I could make it. I couldn't leave it all to my grandparents and cold weather was coming!"

"hehehe." Mei giggled she loved the story and loved Tsukasa's cute embarrassed look. Mei meant well by the story, it showed how close they were.

by **Port Ember** » Sun Apr 14, 2019 1:53 pm

Jan Breytenbach with Gwen

Jan enjoyed walking arm in arm with Gwen, looking around at the.. exotic animals. He has offcourse heard and read of some animals found within the Free Lands, but it was quite an experience the see these strange creatures first hand.

Jan liked the Star Lynx, finding it cute that the wild feline played so gently with the children, the same with the Guarding Fox.

Once they arrived at the Tine's exibit, Jan was actually excited. The Tines were a strange but fascinating creature, resembling a badger slightly, albeit much more friendly, furry and more.. punkish. Like a cute fluffy punk badger.

Jan admired badgers for their extreme toughness and feroucity, thus seeing a Thine created confusion in Jan's head. Jan laughed softly and joined the petting session, gently rubbing its stomach whilst he spoke: "I have a friend back home who is the head zookeeper of the city zoo. She will have a few heart attacks from over-excitement if she ever met you little buddy"

by **The Selkie** » Sun Apr 14, 2019 2:30 pm

Raidri gave a sad smile.
"I'm sorry, but... the Free Lands are big. And we Selkie celebrate a lot.", he said with clear sadness in his eyes, then looked to his granddaughter, "How was old song again? I learned English with that one..."

I celebrate the Spring with you,
On Bunaít's Frozen Shores,
Your hug shall be my source of warmth,
As we observe Cian's Meditations
In the Swamps of the Conall.
To Crarae we come in time for Borvo's Feast,
The Geata's Fortresses we pass
When Aeval's winds blow.
Wembury's Galleys are on our tails
On Amaethon's Holy Day.
Kilanda we pass, when Tigernmas heats the Forge,
Droichid we visit, for Luchta wants his share.
In Shella by the Harvest,
We drink on Taranis and Rhiannon
And stay a few days, where Macha found her hon.
Dumhach is our destination,
But it's not final, for Praise be to Cailleach.
Stay in the North, away from me and my beloved!

Asteria softly sang, a beat passed at the end: "A place you recognize amongst those?"

At the Marcach-Camp.
Tyran bowed his head lightly in reply as well.
"Pleasure's mine, lads.", he returned the greeting, his eyes falling onto Leonard's horse and the backpacks on it. "Well, seems like you're here to camp! Come, I'll show you, where you can set up shop!"
He motioned for them to follow while Marla leaned over and explained to the Lillos: "He's Camp Commander, you know?"
"And the best I had in a while, believe me!", Leonard chimed in from the other side.

At the shop.
Finnegan wanted to reply to Chris agreeing, grinning, as an excited squeal broke out from the shop, which made both locals snort in amusement.
"Well, that's Cel most likely agreeing.", Finnegan said, then looked at Chris, still smiling, "Thank you, though, Chris. It's an honour to have you two with us that day. We don't know the exact date yet, but we hope for still in Spring." He let a beat pass. "Don't worry, you'll get the invitation as soon as all arrangements are made!"
He exhaled.
"The other two Lillos from the beach in Dumhach, the chap, who's Amy's boyfriend, and that girl, which Raidri worked on half of the evening - I'm sorry, I forgot their names - do you still have their numbers? I don't want to ask Amy... shall be a bit of a surprise for her when he comes...", he admitted.

Mediama wrote:"Don't beat yerself over it." Kathleen said, "I can safely say we were all surprised and just as shocked about the horse sacrifice for the Spring Festival." Kathleen smiled. "Keep in mind the school we go to is a private school, so they have a little more leeway with what they want to do. It's less acceptable to pull the shite they do here in public schools."

From emotions to fecking politics, hope to god it doesn't turn into a rambling.

Given the recent turn of events, Kathleen decided that maybe politics wouldn't be a good idea to bring up now with time being of the essence. "The point being is, not everything is lost. At least, I hope that's just a shite theory." Kathleen drank the last of her tea, "I think if you maybe explain to her how you feel, and what's goin' on, maybe take it a bit slow, she'll be able to fall into step to it. Besides, it's not like she's alone if any of the other teachers find out. She has us."

She rested her chin against her right hand, thinking aloud, "Speaking of which, we've got to find our little Irish friend, any idea where she could've run off to?"

Miranda couldn't help but blush at the implication of what the horsewoman saw. She chewed on her lip as she figured out what to do next. She was immediately concerned to the fact that she was lost in an area of the city she was not familiar with.

Even if she wanted to return to the cafe, to try to confront Fiona's feelings for her, it wasn't exactly possible for her to do so when she couldn't find her way home.

And then there was the concern of what she should do from there? Should she embrace her feelings? Reject them. Queen Victoria's was a school that set high standards, they had a reputation to uphold. That meant they had to get rid of people that might sully that reputation.

Is she willing to throw all of that prestige away for a funny feeling in her gut?

So much was running through her head. She decided that since she didn't have any choice in the matter to where to go, that she would take a closer look at the group of horsewomen in the field.

She couldn't shake the memory of two seemingly complete strangers, both of the same gender, kissing each other in the cheek as if it were normal, common place, and no one berated them. It reminded her of the days when she was with Kathleen, when things seemed more simple and they felt like they could challenge the world together.

Come to think of it, Kathleen had the same spirit that Fiona had. It's just Kathleen was more wild, Fiona was more tame, manageable... even if she took things a little too quickly in the one hour they were with each other.

She watched the group of horsewomen as she tried to figure out what to do, and continued to debate with herself whether or not she should start something with the Selkie.

Kat smiled and nodded as she took her dress and slipped it on. "It was really, really wonderful. And I guess something that would really excite Searc." She leaned in and gave Liv another peck to the lips as she knelt down and collected her belongings. She slung her travel backpack and slipped her camera over her shoulders.

She looked over her lover again, looking at her with meticulous detail, until she noticed it, one of the shoulder strings was loosely tied.

"Hold in." Kat leaned in, and grabbed the two strings together, crossing them and then creating two loops before she she double tied them to make sure the strings wouldn't come loose at an embarrassing or inopportune moment.

"There." she said. She then fixed Liv's hair, before she leaned in and kissed her on the nose.

Fiona had to agree: Miranda, if shit hit the fan, had them and she had one powerful argument as well. They came here to experience the Free Lands, so where was the issue, if she experienced something, that was only natural around these parts?
Nowhere.
And if that argument failed, too, there were other options.
As Kathleen came to the point of finding Miranda though, Fiona drew blank.
"I... don't have any clue.", she said, "She ran off, I quickly lost sight of her. She could be anywhere within Cuan..."

As Miranda sat there and watched the horsewomen, someone joined her.
She was a woman, black hair, dark eyes - her hair was a black cascade over her back, her eyes shone with motherly concern as she sat down next to Miranda, though that concern was not directed at the lost Mediaman. Much rather, she was concerned about people not in the picture.
She was silent, as if she was waiting on or for something, watching the Militia Girls as well... but she did not see them.
The girl next to her - she did see her, but she was not watching her.

Liv smiled, liking it as Kat adjusted the straps, which she had 'missed' and then kissed her.
It felt wonderful, made her heart beat faster, butterflies dancing in her stomach.
It felt wonderful.
Then they had to face the gardener, who, as they exited, grinned and tipped his hat. Liv almost wanted to hit him, if she was honest, but she grinned back.
As soon as we were out of his earshot, mainly because he went into the shed, she smiled at Kat. "So... where were we with the tour again?", she asked a bit sheepish.

For the Selkie, the shows of affection were not a problem, especially not so small ones. Lovers were lovers and if they wanted to show that, who were they to judge?
In any case, Conchobar grinned.
"For my family, it's not a tradition, but... considering how young, the SDF actually is, it can not exactly be.", Conchobar said, then admitted: "I joined after High School as well, though, NCO training program and from there, to my Regiment. Went along for quite a while..."
"You were in Kupandukira, right?", one of the other Marcach, a young man, asked, Conchobar nodded, "My Uncle was there, too. His legs are still there."
"Peace Missions, eh?", Conchobar said with a good portion of bitterness, which caused grim chuckles and nod.

The Stoc Inn was currently enjoying a few moments of respite, most guests eating and the staff having a moment to breathe.
A few, rare spots were still free on the inside, but finally, they had also opened up the outside, tables and chairs. The waitress, which intercepted Hilda, directed her outside with the promise of sending someone out in a moment.
Sadly, they would not grill, as they would have to do that either on the street or too close to the buildings. The Stoc Inn had survived several centuries by now, they would not risk that good streak!
In any case, outside, in the morning sun, there were still tables free and while some were already occupied.
One was occupied by two young women, one of them a silver-haired one with brown eyes, the other a blonde with green eyes. Those, who knew the Selkie-Music Scene might recognize them, Alaina Trasnaigh of the Tribe of Clonmel and Layla Dearg of the Tribe of Waterford - otherwise known, amongst the Selkie, as the Selkie-Rock-Duo Leannáin.
Both of them sat there completely unmolested despite for their status as what passed as celebrities around the Free Lands.
And they were a tea and breakfast, traditional ones with egg done from both sides and battered sausages, as well as fat... and lots of it, ready to be wiped up with bread.

AHSCA wrote:
The Selkie wrote:Leonard nodded.
"The fool assumes, he knows everything. The wise man asks.", he quoted, "An old proverb, which my Grandpa is quite fond of... and he is right. Asking, admitting to not knowing, is the first step in learning." He smiled. "And while we are at it - The UIS. I only know it from a few reports in the newspapers. What sort of place is it?"

"Your grandpa a wise man no doubt in my mind. Oh the UIS huh? It's a beautiful wonderful place!"

"Yeah it's our home and we love it dearly!" Hina added

"Weather can be fickle but it can be lovely. Beaches, hot sands, lots of creatures roaming around, crystal clear ocean, lush rain forests as far as the eye can see. Many of us, my family included, are quite religious too. Quite a pious people one would say."

"Mmm mmm" Hina nodded in firm agreement. "As I'm sure it is for you people here, our faith is important to us!"

"In a sense, I'd say AHSCA is somewhat like here, The Freelands and we are like you, The Selkie people. A sense of tradition and values that doesn't waver and continues strong. Of course our core beliefs are different and our deities differ but we have similar values we grow up with and teach. That's what made this place sound so appealing for a visit."

The Selkie wrote:"Well...", Elin said from the head of their little caravan. "...we're there."
She smiled as the street opened into a wide square, which was open on two sides to the place, where the Mór River and the Cuas met to form the Imeall, mighty and wide. The square, a scaffolding of wood, was about five metres over the surface, dozens of stairs leading down to smaller wharfs, where riverboats were moored.
And to both sides of the square, the scaffolded wooden street continued, hundreds of metres, with shops and houses on one side and small wharfs out onto the river - and more then once, there were also houses, some of which served as miniature shipyards to this day.
People walked along the wood, laughed and watched and had fun, enjoying the river breeze.
"The Stilted Quarter.", Elin finished. "Best seafood in all of Cuan, right from the source!"

"Ooooh I can go for some good food right about now!" Shizuka clapped her hands together in joy at the sound of having some tasty seafood. "Just allow me to treat for tea, okay!?" She gave a wide smile and a wink.

Leonard grinned.
"That sounds a lot like the Archipelago, from the landscape, at least.", he said, "But other then that, it also sounds wonderful." He smiled. "If everyone there is as beautiful in mind and soul as you are, Haru, then I will surely visit!"
He stopped.
"Alas, however, first we have a pair of glasses to fix.", he said and motioned to the side, to a half-timbered house with a large shop window, which showed toys of the plenty. A sign hung above the entrance, saying, that this was the Íon Tinkerer Shop in Selkie. This deep in the town, English was usually not used on signs, mostly because tourists rarely came here without a guide or at least rudimentary knowledge of the tongue. "And this will be the place, where we will do that."
He grinned.
"Shall we?", he asked, offering Haru his arm to link.

"Alright, if you insist!", Elin said with a grin, then stopped in her tracks. Her expression changed, grew harder, her muscles tensed. Branwen followed her example. The dog ears on their heads twitched, swirled.
Tense seconds passed.
Then, Elin breathed a sigh of relief.
"Sorry about that.", she said to both her sister and Shizuka, "I thought, I... felt something."
Branwen put a hand on her sister's shoulder. "It's no biggie.", she said, and suddenly smiled, "I think, that I heard about a restaurant with a good reputation down this way! They are supposed to have a very good tea as well!"
Elin nodded, smiling at Shizuka. "Everything's alright.", she said and moved to her other side as Branwen took the lead. "Maybe we should hold each other's hands, so that we don't loose each other?"

As they sat down at the table, Finnegan replied.
"A little bit of both, actually.", he said, motioned to a small shrine in the corner, dedicated to a God. "Tigernmas blessed these lands with wonderful iron ore, especially around Áitadagantiarann. You might know that city as Ironcastle." He let a beat pass. "He also blessed us with the skill to work it correctly into what we need... and what is ideal for our needs."
He smiled.
"So, what about the Chuck? I did hear, that your people also work metals well.", he said. The 'well' was not meant as an insult - he said about himself, that he worked metals well, so he did not see a problem with that term. "Good iron deposits or good metalworkers? Or both?"

Kuronami wrote:
The Selkie wrote:Donny smiled.
"Yes, that sounds like my beloved.", he said with a huge grin, "So... Kuronami. A beautiful place from what I've heard. I would love to travel there with Pina and our motorcycles one day..."
"Her big sis...", Pina said with a grin and a nod to Joey, "...is a mechanic."
"Then we already have one maintenance stop, where we will, by sheer coincidence, meet friends?", he asked with a grin.

"Hehhe and my big sis is the best mechanic in all of Thunder Creek! Maybe the best in all Clarines, or all of Kuronami!"

"Well don't know bout that" Billie added "But she has helped lots a folks outta pinches when they need something fixed."

"Well wherever sis falls, she's plenty good so you stop by she'll give y'all a good tune up! Right now she's actually in Kyrenaia where she's helpin out taking care of horses there! Given we're all farmers, it's pretty suited work for her!"

The Selkie wrote:Mavie smiled at the two lovebirds from Kuronami.
"That's not the important part - if you are a good dancer or not, I mean.", she explained, "The important part is having fun and someone you love close to you. At least it is for me..."
Mara smiled and bedded her head onto her wife's shoulder. "And yes, we are proud of here, in every moment awake and unawake.", she added.

"Well said." Mei nodded with a smile. "Tsu-chan is important to me." She took Tsukasa's hand again to give it her loving squeeze. "She might not be a dancer but she never misses a recital of mine. Actually our first sort-of-date was that."

"Oooh nooo." Tsukasa blushed turning her head away a bit embarassed but nothing she could do to stop Mei now

"It was my first recital in town since moving there. Well long story short, in came Tsu-chan, covered in mud fresh from the rice fields."

"J-just I had to work really long and hard so I could make it. I couldn't leave it all to my grandparents and cold weather was coming!"

"hehehe." Mei giggled she loved the story and loved Tsukasa's cute embarrassed look. Mei meant well by the story, it showed how close they were.

Donny nodded in approval.
"Kyrenaia is a good place for horses.", he said with a smile, "And for those, who know how to treat horses. But when it comes to motorcycles..." He grinned. "I might be able to show her a trick or two!"
Pina rolled her eyes, looking at Billy's Mom. "Men...", she said with exasperation, which caused a few laughs around her - mostly from young women around her age.
"Hey!", Donny protested with a smile.

Mara and Mavie laughed with them.
"We met in a stormy night as well.", Mavie recounted for Mei and Tsukasa, Mara letting her. "You see, there's this network of long-distance traveling roads, the aptly named Old Travelling Roads, which snake through all of the Free Lands. I rode one of them down one day..."

I remember that day well.
It was the most important day of my life, after all.
The sun had shone in the morning, when I departed from the village I spent the night in, it had shone at midday, when I made a break for me and my horse by a small creek, it had shone an hour ago.
Now it poured down so hard, that my oilskin was useless.
A heavy rainstorm, pelting me like there was no tomorrow.
I was freezing and the day came to an end as well. It was not summer, so it would be cold during the night.
And the next village was still a few riding hours away. Wonderful...
The road led through the Silver Mountains as well, so the road was a little river by now, and an overflowing one at that, which was not conductive to traveling speed.
Great. Just great.
And I saw a light from the corner of my eye. Well, can't get any worse.
I decided to turn towards the ledge, which hung above a small campfire, where a horse rested, no rider in sight. Hm...
I swung myself off of my horse, raised my hands to calm the other horse, then took the reins of my own and led it under the ledge. "Relax... we're just searching for a place to wait until the rain passes.", I told the equine, which seemed to relax.
"Maybe you also want to warm yourself at my fire?", a voice asked, the sweetest voice I ever heard.
I was... confused, looking at the horse. "Nah..."
"It's okay, there's plenty of warmth for everyone.", the voice said invitingly.
"I'm...", I looked to my horse. "I'm hallucinating, right? The other horse did not just speak, right?"
My horse looked at me a bit deadpan as the voice from before broke out in loud, sounding laughter, soon revealing itself to be a young woman, around my age, golden hair and emerald eyes. She was the most beautiful woman I'd ever seen, even with tears of laughter about me running down her cheeks in addition to the rain.
"I assure you, that I am human and that my horse can not speak, lassie!", she said and motioned to me to come closer, "And that the fire is warm."
Well, suffice to say, that we spent the night snuggled up to each other... 'to share warmth'.

Mavie looked at Mara with a mischievous grin. "And we shared a lot of warmth, didn't we?", she asked and pecked her wife on the lips.

Both Gwens saw, how fascinated he was by Ayden the Star Lynx and maybe they would be able to arrange, that he could introduce himself later, but that was for later.
For now, there was a little 'cute fluffy punk badger' to take care off. Although they did not know of his thoughts, they would be amused by the phrasing.
The older Gwen laughed lightly, a sound like silver bells: "Oh, Fynn would love to hear that! They are his pride and joy... though I doubt, that he would voluntarily give some away, unless he knows, that they're well taken care of." She smiled. "Maybe you want to bring joy and heart attacks to your friend with an offer?"
Jan's Gwen nodded with a bit of enthusiasm - that, in fact, sounded like a wonderful idea!

by **Danceria** » Sun Apr 14, 2019 3:06 pm

The Selkie wrote:The waitress had gathered already, that he wasn't a Selkie - and, by his both humorous and respectful tone (at least it seemed to her), that he respected their faith. For her, that was a good start.
She was sure, that he wanted his faith to be respected, so it was good, that he respected hers.
"Don't worry.", she said with a grin, "There'll be TV cameras and enough private people making photographs, at least of the official part. That official part lasts from 13:00 to 13:20. After that, they'll retreat into the temple for the arcane part."

Typically, the man thought, that a "once in a lifetime event" would be the same as something completely rare. But then again, it was a public affair from the waitress's description. "Sounds like I need to make myself a reservation." the man concluded. "Any other sights worth seeing?"

by **Minroz** » Mon Apr 15, 2019 2:50 am

The Selkie wrote:
For the Selkie, the shows of affection were not a problem, especially not so small ones. Lovers were lovers and if they wanted to show that, who were they to judge?
In any case, Conchobar grinned.
"For my family, it's not a tradition, but... considering how young, the SDF actually is, it can not exactly be.", Conchobar said, then admitted: "I joined after High School as well, though, NCO training program and from there, to my Regiment. Went along for quite a while..."
"You were in Kupandukira, right?", one of the other Marcach, a young man, asked, Conchobar nodded, "My Uncle was there, too. His legs are still there."
"Peace Missions, eh?", Conchobar said with a good portion of bitterness, which caused grim chuckles and nod.

The Minrozian couple paused with silence upon hearing ‘Kupandukira’ and ‘Peace Missions’. While the two had admittedly no knowledge of what’s going on but they have a good idea of what they’re talking about.

Not wanting to be rude and make the atmosphere depressing, they’ll not try to prying, knowing what’s like to have the feeling of bitterness. Tieguang and Lianhua were veterans of many battles meaning they’ve seen a lot in their time in the military, whether glorious or tragic. They may not say it out loud; they immediately understood what’s like to lost people and loved ones they know into afterlife.

“Say elder Conchobar, I would like to ask?” Lianhua asked a random but pleasant question as a way to change subject, steering away from more depressing talks. “Since my husband and I were foreigners in your land, would you happen to know any good restaurants or cafes around here? We would like to try traditional Selkie food for adventurous experiences.” She smiled. “For a lunch or dinner today.”

Tieguang meanwhile, he decided to go for another shot at archery. He wants to do archery again in order to make up for his earlier embarrassment. Bit unsure, the brunette asks the same Selkie maiden. “Pardon me, ma’am. Can I have another go with the bow and arrow? I still have some arrows in my quiver to go.”

by **Lillorainen** » Mon Apr 15, 2019 6:11 am

At the Marcach-Camp.
Hilda nodded, as they all were motioned to follow Tyran. Leonard and Marla explained to the three of them, that Tyran was the Camp Commander in here - and not exactly a particularly bad one.
"I can well imagine" - Hilda replied. "Though ... even if he wasn't, there's no way he could be worse than the self-nominated commander back then in our summer camp ..."
"Oh, don't remind me ..." - Mia said, sighing. "Björn Rosborg - the guy whose sense of humor seemed to scream, 'Everyone look, I still know all jokes your grandparents told each other in their bowling clubs!' - but struggled over his own feet."
"Didn't he downright love telling his old jokes to you, Mia?" - Sophus wondered.
"Which part of 'don't remind me' is beyond your understanding?" Mia tried to pretend seriousness, but had to grin.
"Well, I'm amused."

At the shop.
Chris had to snort, too, for there was only one possible cause for the excited squeal - Enya must have asked Cel.
Finnegan asked for a possible communication line to Chris' friends from home; Chris was sure to know, that they still had the same numbers, for they had texted just recently. He had to grin about the imagination of Amy suddenly meeting Dragan again - similar to the way Chris had surprised Cel by showing up here.
He took his phone, a pen, and a little scratchpad out and said, "This shouldn't be the problem - Dragan and Janina still have theirs."
He quickly found the correct numbers in the contact list - awfully long numbers, of course, especially when calling from abroad -, wrote them onto the pad with the respective names next to them, tore the paper off and handed it to Finnegan.

Comin' together to Celebrate (IC)

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