The Festival of Holy Light III (IC)

[Greater Orcadia]

"A fine morning, thank you for asking." She responded. She examined all the papers and gave stamps of approval. "Glad you folks arrived safely and hope you will enjoy the festival and stay with us. Thank you for your cooperation and please enjoy yourselves."


Strange looking people indeed but well many said the same for islanders so it was best to keep such thoughts inward. Still the people were inspected, their posessions made note of. "Very good, things are in order. Please enjoy your stay with us and enjoy the festival."

Sojourner & Kyrksen
"Aye we will" comments Kyrksen, "great flight into the islands, now to find our lodgings, its somewhere in the centre of town" he says, taking his passport back off the police officer,

"Seems like its a busy morning too, lots of boats in the harbour, we had a storm last time we were here, so hopefully that wont happen this year" replies Sojourner, who then turns to Kyrksen, "lets go" she says with a smile.

---

Tricia and Nebraska
Tricia and Nebo were used to strange looks, in fact they hardly notice it now. Tricia was around 18 when her tattoo started, Nebo was 18 when she had her tongue cut in half and the spikes put into her head, she has not looked back ever since, however despite this hardcore look, Nebraska is actually quite warm hearted. Their feline companion looks up at the border official, convinced he might have a kitty bit to hand out, he thinks EVERYONE has a kitty bit to give him so he lets out a soft meow.

"Thanks, thats what we're here for" replied Tricia, picking up her backpack and putting her passport away. "...Thats it Nebo, a week away from work, yeehaa! first thing is, lets find our guesthouse, they know what we look like and are expecting us"

Nebraska smiles, "and we intend to have not just a good time, but a great one" she says, whipping out a camera from her bag and hanging it around her neck off a strap

[AHSCA]

Joel Miller
Kino, Corona
Before I can reply anything to the young saleswoman, whose voice sounds like music to my ears, Sarah beats me on the spot.
"I would like to maybe try a few bandeaus first Miss, it would look good for our stay in the Malditas. What do you say Auntie Maria?" she asks to Tommy's wife.
"You're right Sarah," replies my sister-in-law with a smile. "That is if your father agrees." she adds as she turns to me with hope in her eyes.
"Hey, who am I to deny things to my daughter when she asks so nicely?" I reply as I ruffle Sarah's hair, to which she replies "Dad" with a small whine, before laughing and hugging me.
"You'll look great in that honey." I reply as I hug her back. "So Miss," I ask as I turn back to the saleswoman, "do you mind helping them in their choice of bandeaus, my brother and I will take a look at the wood carvings meanwhile."

As I move to get closer to the wood blocks to take a closer look, I pass really close to the young vendor. And somehow, our hands touch, which causes me to feel as if I was hit by lightning and freeze on the spot. As I come back quickly to my senses and shake my head to focus my attention again, I turn to the woman. "Ehe... sorry about that." I say with a sheepish smile as I rub the back of my head, before clearing my throat and moving back to the wood block carvings.

As I take a closer look, I can feel my brother joining me at my side. However, as I raise my head to look at him, he has a sly smile on his face.
"What?" I ask with a raised eyebrow.
"Oh nothing," he replies with the same smile, "just happy to see my brother falling in love again." he whispers after having cast a sideways glance to make sure the vendor, who was helping Sarah and Maria a few meters away, wouldn't hear us. And even so, given the fact we were speaking in Astarian, our native tongue, she would not have understood."
"Come on Tommy, don't be stupid. Let's take a look at these instead." I say as I motion to the carvings.
"Oh I'm not stupid big bro, just really attentive of the people around me." he replies as he looks too at the carvings.
"Man shut up!" I finish as I lightly hit him on the shoulder.

But even so, what he says is true in a way. This spark, I've never felt it before, only when I met Sarah's mom back in the day. But as I try to cast those thoughts aside, I can't help but feel a nice feeling starting to bloom in my heart.



Staff Sergeant Abigail "Abby" Anderson
Port Aya, Hoshino
As I listen to the two waitresses try to arrange the situation with the table not being available, my thoughts are interrupted by the two customers siting at said table, apparently adressing Owen. If I'm not mistaken, Ii could have sworn that I heard one of the waitresses refer to one of the customers as "Her Highness." Which means only one thing: I can not fuck this up, no matter how high those people are on the local social ladder. And as I cast a quick glance to Owen, I can see in his eyes that he thinks the exact same thing.
"Thank you Sir, we wouldn't want to intrude, but since you offer this to us, it would be very impolite to refuse." he says with a large smile and a bow of his head.
-Indeed, thank you Sir." I add as I also bow my head in thanks, before following the man to his table, where his wife apparently named Ya-Xi sits. I'm sure I've heard that name before... I think silently as we sit at the table, putting our bagpacks on the ground next to our chairs.
"Thank you Miss for having us." I say to the lady with a smile, before introducing myself. "Staff Sergeant Abigail Anderson, 44th Ranger Regiment, Astarian Imperial Army. My colleague Corporal Owen Rekker." I continue as I point to Owen with my head, as he says "Good morning. Nice to meet you Miss. Me and Abby are assigned as security to the Islas Malditas, which our country is currently in the processs of redevloping. So since we heard many good things about this Festival, we thought we would come and see by ourselves how it is. And let me tell you, even though we have only arrived, we have nothing to say but good things about your lands." he finishes.

Kino, Corona

She blushed a little "Oh that's quite all right, it's a bit tight in here. I'd be glad to show you some of the clothing offers and carvings we have. I'll help out the ladies so take the time you want to look around we have plenty more. If we don't I can always suggest a merchant who will. A-anyway..." She rather hastily moved over to assist the women in their decision. "Now we have various sizes to make them to you desires. I mean in how showing you wish them to be. Not all like to show so much. Uuuh" She was a bit red, maybe still flustered from her little encounter with the handsome man but also dealing with tourists, trying to be friendly and not offensive and knowing every place as their own sensibilities when it comes to showing skin. "Well if you'd like to try, I have a space you can do so."

As she helped them a rather burly large figure emerged from the back. "Sunplena. ĉu mi volas helpi ilin?"

"jes, papa."

"Liking what ya see? I got a real nack with a blade and not to bad with the brush neither. This paticular one my pride and joy." He pointed out the woodblock print of a girl standing and large waves coming up around her "A real family effort. Carved the wood, wife painted. I did a little touch up here and there."

Port Aya, Hoshino

"Well it'd also be rude of me to let guests who have traveled far just for our festival to be left standing. This place is popular ya know, not full for nothing." He chuckled leading them along to their table Ya-Xi looked up and stood up "Oh hello." She greeted their guests "Hope you don't mind, they just got in as the place filled up. Thought they might sit with us."

"Not at all, I'd be glad to. Please." She ushered them to sit down "Good to meet you and welcome again. Islas Malditas huh?" Ya-Xi pondered a moment. She recalled hearing lots of the little islands around the UIS were being grabbed up by others. "Sounds familiar..."

A woman's voice interrupted as she seemingly appeared out of nowhere "Because Milady nations like their own have grabbed islands before."

"Waaa, Ha-chan! When did you get here!? And why are you here anyway, I told you to take the day off!"

"Forgive me, Milady but with so many people from all over I dare not let my guard down."

"I've got Shinya. Shinya can protect me from anything."

"Of course, I don't mean to imply your are weak, Milord, I know you love your wife and would protect her with all your strength. I suppose old habits just die hard."

"Well as long as you're here, might as well join us." Ya-Xi insisted.

"Very well. Oh forgive my lack of manners, Hanoi Trang. Her Lady's Lady. Bodyguard, confidant since she was but a little child." Indeed the ambiguously aged Bodyguard spoke the truth. "So tell me, there's many islands around the deep seas of the South Oceans here. Just which one you came from?"

"Hanoi, don't be rude."

"Milady I'm only trying to make conversation."

"You're probing again." Ya-Xi muttered as their waitress set down several drinks. Beer that was ordered by the few. Tea for Shinya and Ya-Xi. "There you are. Oh Hanoi, you want tea?"

"Please, my usual order."

"Coming up."

---

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Twin Palms Shop.
Kumiko seemed to have everything well in hand, but I saw Yasmin's scepticism in her eyes at the floral pattern - she was more someone for a solid colour, and a darker red tone, I knew.
As they left me with Dad and whichever other customers were in the shop, she told Kumiko that politely. We would wait here and wait for her to come back with the first model on the list, the classical procedure.
I decided to look around with Dad, who had found something from home and from Mervay and elsewhere - someone had been busy, I noticed with a smile.
Another patron entered, a beautiful woman, a bit timid, but still with enough courage to start idle conversation: "Busy day isn't it?"
I smiled. "It sure looks like it.", I said with a nod, "As is to be expected with a festival on. I still find it wonderful, that the staff has the time to attend individual customers, like my stepmother."
Dad nodded.

Aonas Folracht of the Tribe of Wicklow.
Port of Kino, Corona Island.
I enjoyed the hug - which man would not enjoy being hugged by a beautiful woman?
And while she dismissed her fellow Islanders, I watched Ayla. I nodded at Kuko's request: "Sure, but no promises about him letting you ride!", I joked.
And then, it was only Ayla and me.
"I'm really thrilled you could make it all the way here. I know it couldn't have been an easy trip, especially with this fine fellow.", she said and stroked Asalcloig's glossy coat. He seemed to like the attention. "Not usual we get people here with their animals, unless they're traders from smaller nearby places. But can't say I mind."
"I promised you, that I'd come, so I came.", I said simply, "It is wonderful to be here, too. Asalcloig likes it, too... though he has to be cleaned and washed. The ship's crew wasn't really forthcoming when it came to water, understandably, but his hygiene suffered." I smiled a bit forlornly. "And to be honest, mine, too."
I let a beat pass.
"But first...", I said, "...let's introduce you properly. Hold your hand out for him to smell."
I was sure, that Asalcloig would like her.

Nela, Prinzessin von Zieselhaven und Elms.
Port Aya, Hoshino.
The street had been busy, but nevertheless, my ears caught the distinctive cry of a little girl: "Misteerrr Haaaat!!", she cried.
This was accompanied by a little sun hat rolling up to our feet, me quickly snatching it up before someone stepped on it by accident.
A bit away, a little girl stood, catching her breath, looking a bit distressed and worried about Mister Hat, who had escaped her and her head.
I smiled, motioned for Rena to follow me as I approached the girl. I was 1.91 meter tall, then heels, so I would tower over the girl, which was, of course, unacceptable for the Big Sis of the Herzogtum dealing with a distressed little girl, so I squatted down, showing her the hat.
"Is that yours, my dear?", I asked softly, smiling.
Rena, meanwhile watched two steps away, smiling.

Twin Palms, Aurora

"Ah yeah, Kumiko really does work hard to make sure all her guests are taken care of. I imagine they're not quite used to this deluge of customers but honestly, nothing really scares her." She twirled her hair a bit bashfully and blushing from talking of her lovely wife now. "I'm not quite used to it, this is actually my first festival in a long while. I'm usually out to sea until the rains come but this year well it's special."

In behind her popped Kumiko's daughter, Mamiko and now Reina's stepdaughter. "Oof." She muffled getting a little pushed into her. "Oh, Mamiko, thought you wanted to wait outside?"

"Well I did but also wanted to say hi to mama and Miss Aya."

"They're very busy right now. Might be a bit before I can get what we need."

"That's okay." Mamiko looked up to see Aurelia. "Oooh hey, I remember you! I saw you hear last time! I gave you a pretty picture to take home with you!"

Kino, Corona

"Well I'm really glad you did make it. If he needs a wash I can help on that too." She said while she followed his instructions of gently reaching out to allow the horse to get a better feel of her. "Such a lovely boy aren't you?" She praised the horse

Port Aya, Hoshino

Kaori seemed to find the hat and found her hat had been scooped up by a giant! She looked up a bit unnerved but he seemed to be speaking kindly to her and came down to face her on her level so clearly he was a nice colossus. "uuuh....Uh-huh." She nodded. "The wind took it away. It's my favorite hat."

Sojourner & Kyrksen
"Aye we will" comments Kyrksen, "great flight into the islands, now to find our lodgings, its somewhere in the centre of town" he says, taking his passport back off the police officer,

"Seems like its a busy morning too, lots of boats in the harbour, we had a storm last time we were here, so hopefully that wont happen this year" replies Sojourner, who then turns to Kyrksen, "lets go" she says with a smile.


Tricia and Nebraska
Tricia and Nebo were used to strange looks, in fact they hardly notice it now. Tricia was around 18 when her tattoo started, Nebo was 18 when she had her tongue cut in half and the spikes put into her head, she has not looked back ever since, however despite this hardcore look, Nebraska is actually quite warm hearted. Their feline companion looks up at the border official, convinced he might have a kitty bit to hand out, he thinks EVERYONE has a kitty bit to give him so he lets out a soft meow.

"Thanks, thats what we're here for" replied Tricia, picking up her backpack and putting her passport away. "...Thats it Nebo, a week away from work, yeehaa! first thing is, lets find our guesthouse, they know what we look like and are expecting us"

Nebraska smiles, "and we intend to have not just a good time, but a great one" she says, whipping out a camera from her bag and hanging it around her neck off a strap

"Very busy. Probably our busiest yet. So lodging in the center of town you said? Then I think you're looking for the Palm Leaf, just straight on down the path here, perfectly aligned to the Statue of the Great Chief. You can't miss it. Good luck and have fun!" She bid them

---

"Where you folks staying, might I ask? We can always direct you to where you're going. Or have you not picked a place and hoped to snag something when you arrived? Lots of folks do that."

[Astares Amauricanum]

Kino, Corona

She blushed a little "Oh that's quite all right, it's a bit tight in here. I'd be glad to show you some of the clothing offers and carvings we have. I'll help out the ladies so take the time you want to look around we have plenty more. If we don't I can always suggest a merchant who will. A-anyway..." She rather hastily moved over to assist the women in their decision. "Now we have various sizes to make them to you desires. I mean in how showing you wish them to be. Not all like to show so much. Uuuh" She was a bit red, maybe still flustered from her little encounter with the handsome man but also dealing with tourists, trying to be friendly and not offensive and knowing every place as their own sensibilities when it comes to showing skin. "Well if you'd like to try, I have a space you can do so."

As she helped them a rather burly large figure emerged from the back. "Sunplena. ĉu mi volas helpi ilin?"

"jes, papa."

"Liking what ya see? I got a real nack with a blade and not to bad with the brush neither. This paticular one my pride and joy." He pointed out the woodblock print of a girl standing and large waves coming up around her "A real family effort. Carved the wood, wife painted. I did a little touch up here and there."

Port Aya, Hoshino

"Well it'd also be rude of me to let guests who have traveled far just for our festival to be left standing. This place is popular ya know, not full for nothing." He chuckled leading them along to their table Ya-Xi looked up and stood up "Oh hello." She greeted their guests "Hope you don't mind, they just got in as the place filled up. Thought they might sit with us."

"Not at all, I'd be glad to. Please." She ushered them to sit down "Good to meet you and welcome again. Islas Malditas huh?" Ya-Xi pondered a moment. She recalled hearing lots of the little islands around the UIS were being grabbed up by others. "Sounds familiar..."

A woman's voice interrupted as she seemingly appeared out of nowhere "Because Milady nations like their own have grabbed islands before."

"Waaa, Ha-chan! When did you get here!? And why are you here anyway, I told you to take the day off!"

"Forgive me, Milady but with so many people from all over I dare not let my guard down."

"I've got Shinya. Shinya can protect me from anything."

"Of course, I don't mean to imply your are weak, Milord, I know you love your wife and would protect her with all your strength. I suppose old habits just die hard."

"Well as long as you're here, might as well join us." Ya-Xi insisted.

"Very well. Oh forgive my lack of manners, Hanoi Trang. Her Lady's Lady. Bodyguard, confidant since she was but a little child." Indeed the ambiguously aged Bodyguard spoke the truth. "So tell me, there's many islands around the deep seas of the South Oceans here. Just which one you came from?"

"Hanoi, don't be rude."

"Milady I'm only trying to make conversation."

"You're probing again." Ya-Xi muttered as their waitress set down several drinks. Beer that was ordered by the few. Tea for Shinya and Ya-Xi. "There you are. Oh Hanoi, you want tea?"

"Please, my usual order."

"Coming up."

---

"

Sarah Miller,
Kino, Corona
"Don't worry Miss." I reply with a warm smile to the vendor, "showing skin is not a problem for us, well, to a certain extent at least. But as long as the panties are not a G-string or something, I think we'll be good. So could you please show me and my aunt some models?" I ask as Auntie Maria nods.
I have no idea what is happening, but there is something that just bloomed to life between this woman and Dad. And whatever it is, I intend to have it succeed. I think to myself.

Joel Miller
"Good morning Sir." Tommy and I say in unison as the vendor's father appears.
"This carving is indeed a very beautiful piece." continues my brother as he takes a closer look. "You can really feel the innocence and beauty of this girl and the nature surrounding her. Is it your daughter depicted here?" asks my brother.

---

Staff Sergeant Abigail "Abby" Anderson
Port Aya, Hoshino

As we sit with the lady Ya-Xi and her husband Shinya, before Owen or me can reply anything, we are interrupted by another woman arriving at our table, startling me a bit and causing me to start sliding my right hand towards my back to grab my gun, but stopping it right away when I see she poses no threat at all.
As the woman introduces herself as the bodyguard of Ya-Xi, Owen and I look at each other with comprehension finally coming to our eyes. How could we not remember it?! Vicerine Ya-Xi Li and Viceroy Shinya Li, the governors of Hoshino Island, with Ya-Xi having been part of the Royal family of a small island destroyed by a massive volcano explosion a few years back, island which was, as you may guess, now part of the Malditas and that we had named Malditas 6.

As our beers arrive, I thank the waitress with a smiling nod and a "Thank you", just like Owen, before we both turn back to the Lis and their bodyguard.
"Your Highnesses." I start with an apologetic tone, "please forgive us for not having recognized you sooner. And Miss Trang, nice to meet you too." I add to Hanoi with a smile.
"Likewise." continues Owen. "To answer your question Miss Trang," he continues, "we currently occupy all of the Malditas, and our unit is currently based on the one we call Malditas 7, where and airfield will be built. Although the last few days before coming here, my squad, which Abby here leads, was stationed on the nearby Island of Malditas 6, which apparently was still settled a few years back, but a gigantic volcano eruption forced the inhabitants to flee. Do you know anything about it Your Highness?" asks Owen with a genuine tone as he turns to Ya-Xi.

[Kyrenaia]

[...]


Twin Palms, Aurora

"Ah yeah, Kumiko really does work hard to make sure all her guests are taken care of. I imagine they're not quite used to this deluge of customers but honestly, nothing really scares her." She twirled her hair a bit bashfully and blushing from talking of her lovely wife now. "I'm not quite used to it, this is actually my first festival in a long while. I'm usually out to sea until the rains come but this year well it's special."

In behind her popped Kumiko's daughter, Mamiko and now Reina's stepdaughter. "Oof." She muffled getting a little pushed into her. "Oh, Mamiko, thought you wanted to wait outside?"

"Well I did but also wanted to say hi to mama and Miss Aya."

"They're very busy right now. Might be a bit before I can get what we need."

"That's okay." Mamiko looked up to see Aurelia. "Oooh hey, I remember you! I saw you hear last time! I gave you a pretty picture to take home with you!"

Kino, Corona

"Well I'm really glad you did make it. If he needs a wash I can help on that too." She said while she followed his instructions of gently reaching out to allow the horse to get a better feel of her. "Such a lovely boy aren't you?" She praised the horse

Port Aya, Hoshino

Kaori seemed to find the hat and found her hat had been scooped up by a giant! She looked up a bit unnerved but he seemed to be speaking kindly to her and came down to face her on her level so clearly he was a nice colossus. "uuuh....Uh-huh." She nodded. "The wind took it away. It's my favorite hat."

[...]

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Twin Palms Shop.
While Reina explained and praised her friend - I had no idea, that they had married - the cute saleswoman from my first time here, who had made me aware of this shop, arrived. Mamiko was cute as ever and she recognized me almost immediately.
I smiled.
"Yep, that's me.", I said and gave her a small wave, "And your picture is in a place of honour." It really was in a place of honour, in a small box together with other souvenirs from my trips to the UIS. "You are cute as ever."
"Indeed, young lady.", Dad said and smiled with a small bow.
"That's my Dad.", I introduced with a grin. I knew, that Dad was not good with children and was not a fan. "He and my Stepmum are here with me this year - honeymoon, you see?"
I winked slightly. Maybe they had a good souvenir for two people on a honeymoon?

Aonas Folracht of the Tribe of Wicklow.
Port of Kino, Corona Island.
Asalcloig liked her, especially after the comment.
He sniffed her hand, then nuzzled it.
"He likes you.", I said with a smile, then nodded, glad all went well. There had been other reactions over the years. I was half-tempted to add: I like you, too. But that thought stayed in my head for now. "But yeah... let's get him cleaned. Is there a small creek nearby or something?"

Nela, Prinzessin von Zieselhaven und Elms.
Port Aya, Hoshino.
I smiled, placing it softly on her head.
"I can imagine.", I said, softly, "You look cute with it. I'm Nela and the redhead over there..." I pointed to my companion and best friend. "...is Rena."
"Hi, kid!", she greeted with a wave from a meter away. Horses were less suspicious to her then children.
Turning back to the little girl, I asked: "Where's your Mother or your Father?"
We would bring her back should she have escaped supervision.

[Greater Orcadia]

Kyrk and Sojourner

"Very busy. Probably our busiest yet. So lodging in the center of town you said? Then I think you're looking for the Palm Leaf, just straight on down the path here, perfectly aligned to the Statue of the Great Chief. You can't miss it. Good luck and have fun!" She bid them

"oh we will" comments Sojourner before making her way with Kyrksen down the path.

"So the Great Chief, hmm cant be difficult to spot then, I think it would be great to mention the Great Chief in the video" comments Kyrk, walking down the pathway towards the town, his boots making a healthy crunching sound on the gravel

"aye, be good for the channel as well" replies Sojourner.

---

Meanwhile, over in Port Aurora

Nebraska smiles when she recalls the name Port Aurora, for a while, the Mercantile Ferderal Republic of the Aurora Confederacy had its capital in a similarly names city, Valeria Port Aurora, though for the last few years it has been at the city of Lake Hai'lu'kai, a far less hostile place in winter, for it is below the arctic circle, Nebraska herself is from Barentsburg, a city that is blessed, (or some may say cursed) with a polar climate so can get brutal winters - she has yet to meet the Winter storms that the northern isles of Greater Orcadia can whip up, the highest hill in Shetland which has a record of almost 200mph, just before the measuring equipment was blown down the hill!

With customs cleared, they too began to make their way to the hotel, a bit of a hippy chiqe lodgings where Nebraska's alternative style may go down better

"This is a lot better than the Port Aurora that I am familiar with" comments Nebraska, "though i do miss my apartment in Barentsburg sometimes, cracking little place, mind you Trish, I gotta say, I do like the new house we have in Northampton" however it was at that point that Tricia spotted a food stall

"Breakfast?" she asks

"yeah, why not" replies Nebo (Nebo being the short name for Nebraska Ikari Sinclair)

[Polish Prussian Commonwealth]

The two girls were noticed to be dressed the same, but easy to discern they were classmates. But to look fresh out of school? Well that was something else but things checked out. "One bayonet, noted. All right do be careful with your weapon. Enjoy your stay here and do enjoy the festival. "

---

Otulissa von Sarmaten was greeted by the attending officers. "Good day, Madam. May I please see your weapon?" She asked to give it a small inspection and make a note on the documents. "Very good, please be careful and do enjoy the Festival with us. Enjoy your stay here and the Festival."

Eanswythe Thornton
Well, that was thankfully quick. We were through customs and now, on the island.
"Oi, Alice, what you've got planned now?"
"Now?" she asked, arching an eyebrow. "Fuck if I know."
I felt a knot form in my stomach. "You...you didn't arrange anything? At all?"
"Just a place to sleep."
I sighed in relief. "Alright, at least we have that...Where?"
"Follow me."

And just like that, Alice started off, leaving me with little choice but to follow.

---

Otulissa von Sarmaten

After getting through customs, my chief thought was storing my shit in an inn. I didn't have much of it, but still, I wasn't in the mood to lug around a briefcase, no matter how light, around half of the damned port.
After a few minutes of looking lost, I finally gave up and headed inland. After a short bit, hopefully, I would find an inn. With luck it would have an opening, and wouldn't be too costly.

Although, granted, both of those things were mutually exclusive for the most part, sadly. I wasn't too worried about room quality; I had slept in some shitty places in the sandbox, and if they had a working toilet and a somewhat-clean bed, that would be enough for me.

[Mervay]

"Ah going to ride out the rains with your dear wifey huh? To be that young and in love again, I think it's wonderful and admirable. You two will do fine here together and wherever else you like. I'm glad you were able to check out and get here. I know travel restrictions have been really tough on some folks and well with a modern plague going on it's no surprise. I've seen my share in my lifetime, some I was given blame for but they do go away eventually. Well putting that aside I think it's going to be another lovely festival, wouldn't you all agree?"

They chimed their agreements with her.

"Manager, please take a few steamed buns for yourself and the staff back with you." Hiromi set out a bag for her.

"They'd love that. I know I will too. Oh Hiromi, we do miss you there, but you trained the kitchen staff up well they know your recipes down by heart"

"I'm glad things are still going well. How is it, very busy over there?"

"The morning rush is starting to come in. I rather hate to leave Ren to her self to handle check ins but I figure this would be the least busy time"

Satou nodded and spoke, "Ren is really capable and she has Natsume with her. If anything Natsume won't be pushed around by anyone."

"She has spirit that one. It's really no surprise given her time on the sea." She finished off her tea "Ladies, I do hate to drink and run but I feel I should be getting back. Hiro if I can make time I will stop by again, I want to wish you all the luck"

"Thank you, manager."

"And Satou, enjoy your time off with Tess here. I really do feel you two are fine cute couple." She stood bowed slightly and excused herself.

Animlapolis

The young girl giggled "Why it's right here sir" she pointed to the backside of her "If you be needing a place to stay, we have space here. Come on in." She urged him to follow her inside. "Mama, papa! We have a guest!"

A lady emerged from behind and came to the desk "Thank you, Yumeha."

"You're welcome!"

"Welcome, sir, needing a room?" She pulled out a book and pen to jot his information.

Tess Dileva
Aurora Village
It was a love that will always stay strong, no matter the distance. But it was true that they would do great here and anywhere else, but excepting for honeymoon, perhaps they stay around the islands or Mervay. She was surprised to hear that time ago Ma'am Kinoshita was blamed for some diseases; she has really lived through a lot of things and was even at the center of them. As for the question, Tess chimed with the rest in agreement about that. Hopefully it will be a great festival.

Then they focused on the Kitan and about if Ren would be able to cope with the possible influx that will certainly follow; to which Satou answered that she will be able and has backup in case she needs help. Certainly after two years of such tourism during the festival dates, she will certainly be able to handle it.

Still just to make sure, Tsubasa's sudden visit was cut short and decided to return back to the Inn to help out; promising to visit the new entrepeneur later on and then congratulated the couple before excusing herself.

"Understood Ms. Kinoshita, have a nice day!" She told her with a smile while she went back to the Kitan.

As soon as she left, Tess looked at Satou and thought of some ideas to do. It was a lot to think, but the islands offered many things to have fun and she also wanted to hear her wife's proposals.

"Well dear, so what do you want to do today?? The day is all yours for the choosing." Tess told her smiling while sipping her tea and enjoying her pie, whatever Satou proposed Tess would accept it.

Eduard De La Mercant
Port Tsubaki
Ohh, so it was right in front of him?? He should had guessed it without problem, albeit considering the fact that it was his first time around here, no surprise. Eduard smiled at the little girl while he followed inside to what he found out was, a family run Inn.

As soon as the soldier noticed the woman in the desk he smiled back and nodded to her question.

"Indeed Ma'am, I appreciate the fact you have one available. I guess I should thank your daughter." And so he did, looking at the girl which was called Yumeha and grinned at her.

"Thank you for it young girl." Eduard said grinning at her to then focus back on the girl's mother and giving his information. "The room is to the name of Lt Colonel, Eduard De La Mercant from Mervay... Here's my ID and passport just in case." And so the soldier handed both documents for her to verify.

"I would like to advice that I'm carrying a sword with myself which is sealed. Is that alright??"

[Middle Barael]

Ah, it was a beautiful day for a vacation. At least Chloe thought so. See, this is why she became a member (and later the leader) of the Greens: she wanted to protect all of this. However, now was not the time for politics, as this was her girl's weekend with her friends Carrie and Estel Caterina.

Carrie Bat-Ijlana Çospeaos was Speaker of the Parliament, as well as the leader of Pax Unio and chair of the Peace Committee in Parliament. But this trip, first proposed by Chloe and seconded by Estel, was meant to be a break from the political chaos that seemed to always persist despite the 15 extra seats that their coalition, the Alliance for Progress, had which provided them with an absolute majority most of the time. Carrie did feel that she needed a break from the stuffy air of the Parliamentary halls and the constant autumnal breezes of Scania caused by a weather irregularity, yet she would not tell either of her friends, for fear of one of Estel Caterina's "I told you so"s.

Estel Caterina Ferrer was the only non-politician among them, yet her longtime boyfriend, Jujab Jaghof Sant-Pau, happened to be the Foreign Minister, and as such Estel was able to join Carrie and Chloe. Estel Caterina, who sometimes went by just Estel despite them both being first names, was an actual Catalan (as opposed to a member of the Catalan Community of Middle Barael), hailing from the Eixample district of Barcelona. Estel was a veterinarian by trade, but still had a very good understanding of the inner workings of politics and diplomacy from her boyfriend. Estel desperately wanted Jujab to "pop the question", but she was still nervous about it and was anxious about how it might affect her life and the life of her 3 kids, all from a previous marriage.

Anyways, the three ladies had decided to go on a girl's weekend vacay, and after a series of votes (obviously using IRV ranked voting, which Carrie and Chloe were big proponents of), the United Islands of AHSCA were chosen as their destination, specifically the A in AHSCA, Aurora. This was not a government event, so they had to travel on their own dime, but they begged their friend Solomon, elected King of Middle Barael, to chip in, as they did not want any of their husbands (or boyfriend in Estel Caterina's case) to know the cost of the trip.

Unbeknownst to them, however, Solomon secretly informed Foreign Minister Sant-Pau of their trip, knowing that Jujab wanted to ask Estel to marry him, and thinking that this would be a perfect opportunity. Jujab Jaghof agreed, and started to make plans for his surprise arrival. Unfortunately, neither of them knew which island the girls were travelling to, but Jujab incorrectly hunched that they'd visit Corono due to its famously traditional way of life for the natives.

Anyway, the "3 Caballeras", as they called themselves jokingly from time to time, were arriving by an electric ferry produced by the Aquinas brand of AFEA Barael, Middle Barael's largest electric vehicles company. They were excited for their trip, though Carrie was worried about the mosquitos, which according to some blog were rampant on Aurora, having flown in from Hoshino during the summer. Jujab Jaghof Sant-Pau, meanwhile, was worried that he wouldn't be able to find them in time, but he was still excited at the prospect of finally proposing to Estel after 7 years of friendship and 4 years of dating.

[Shiatoru]

AHSCA Airspace, 12 Nautical Miles off the Coast of Aurora

The surely very, very slow ATC tower of the local islands was about to get a surprise alarm--at least, Audrey hoped they would. Had she set the radio right? She'd ask her instructor--you know, if he was conscious. And they hadn't been flying for maybe a couple hours in the wrong direction while she tried to figure out how to work the damn thing. Desktop flightsim games did all this stuff for you, unless you were hardcore. And Audrey was not hardcore--she had taken this lesson on a whim. She was surprised she hadn't been intercepted--were they really that lost?

It was no matter. Her instructor had taught her how to basically work the plane... and then promptly passed out. She didn't know if it was a seizure or heart attack or what. It probably didn't matter anymore--he was breathing, but still unconcsious. She had a feeling he wasn't getting out of this one. Her job now was to get out alive herself.

She pressed on her earpiece, praying that someone, anyone would pick up. "Mayday, mayday, mayday! This is callsign A-S-C-P-C-C. Whoever's picking up, I'm a student pilot... my instructor passed out, and I went way off course while I was trying to contact ATC. I'm low on fuel... um... I do not think I'm making it to the land, that kind of low on fuel."

[AHSCA]

---

Present. Aurora Island.

"I can't believe I actually came with you." Felipe said as they made it past customs. He was only met with his sister's smile. "So, what's on the itinerary?" He put on his sunglasses, completing his tropical look white tank top, grey sunhat and shorts. Letizia similarly wore a white blouse and grey shorts.

"Oh, we'll think of something."

"We? What do you mean 'we'? You telling me this whole thing is on the spot?"

"No no. Not really. I did some research. There's at least one place we can anchor down before we start exploring."

"Lead the way." Felipe. They soon headed to the Kitan.

"I'll do the English speaking." she said. Heading towards the inn, they took in the sights as they went by. When they arrived, they approached reception hoping it wasn't too full, but being a festival that's doubtful. "Hello, are you people full for today? We'd like a room."

Ren finished with the last of the guests. "Just in luck, scooped up another free room for today." Ren noted down their information. "All right, welcome to the Kitan." She summoned another one of the employees over "Can you please show our guests to room 4C?"

"Certainly. Please follow me." She took them up the stairs to their room situated atop the fourth floor a few more doors down from where the guests from the PPC were staying. "Here we are." She opened the door for them, walking inside and opening the drapes and window for them "Hope it's to your liking. If you need something I'm sure we can accommodate. For now beds are stored right behind the frame there, just pull or there are futons in your closet if you wish to go at it the islander way. We offer turn down service and light your lamps for you by nightfall. If you need a place to eat, we do have a restaurant next door, it's included with your stay here."

---

Sarah Miller,
Kino, Corona
"Don't worry Miss." I reply with a warm smile to the vendor, "showing skin is not a problem for us, well, to a certain extent at least. But as long as the panties are not a G-string or something, I think we'll be good. So could you please show me and my aunt some models?" I ask as Auntie Maria nods.
I have no idea what is happening, but there is something that just bloomed to life between this woman and Dad. And whatever it is, I intend to have it succeed. I think to myself.

Joel Miller
"Good morning Sir." Tommy and I say in unison as the vendor's father appears.
"This carving is indeed a very beautiful piece." continues my brother as he takes a closer look. "You can really feel the innocence and beauty of this girl and the nature surrounding her. Is it your daughter depicted here?" asks my brother.


Staff Sergeant Abigail "Abby" Anderson
Port Aya, Hoshino

As we sit with the lady Ya-Xi and her husband Shinya, before Owen or me can reply anything, we are interrupted by another woman arriving at our table, startling me a bit and causing me to start sliding my right hand towards my back to grab my gun, but stopping it right away when I see she poses no threat at all.
As the woman introduces herself as the bodyguard of Ya-Xi, Owen and I look at each other with comprehension finally coming to our eyes. How could we not remember it?! Vicerine Ya-Xi Li and Viceroy Shinya Li, the governors of Hoshino Island, with Ya-Xi having been part of the Royal family of a small island destroyed by a massive volcano explosion a few years back, island which was, as you may guess, now part of the Malditas and that we had named Malditas 6.

As our beers arrive, I thank the waitress with a smiling nod and a "Thank you", just like Owen, before we both turn back to the Lis and their bodyguard.
"Your Highnesses." I start with an apologetic tone, "please forgive us for not having recognized you sooner. And Miss Trang, nice to meet you too." I add to Hanoi with a smile.
"Likewise." continues Owen. "To answer your question Miss Trang," he continues, "we currently occupy all of the Malditas, and our unit is currently based on the one we call Malditas 7, where and airfield will be built. Although the last few days before coming here, my squad, which Abby here leads, was stationed on the nearby Island of Malditas 6, which apparently was still settled a few years back, but a gigantic volcano eruption forced the inhabitants to flee. Do you know anything about it Your Highness?" asks Owen with a genuine tone as he turns to Ya-Xi.

Kino, Corona

"I did use her as a model for it, but it's general enough to be any girl. Wanted to capture the forces that we live with here. The rolling tides and crashing waves. So I do feel it's my very best. I'd be glad to offer it to you for a tidy sum. But I also have this." He pulled out a traditional painting in frame. Depiction of a group of Coronan fisherman in rough seas. "Not by me but another painter from the islands. I bartered something in exchange with her, she's a fine young lady, very talented. We sometimes trade to offer up to our customers.

"In that case maybe something like a sarong then for your bottom half." She pulled one out tying it around a waist "I think it looks good on you. Don't you? Many color options."

Port Aya, Hoshino

"Please, don't even worry about it, we're just enjoying the festival like everyone else." Ya-Xi waved away the concerns.

"Yes just as I suspected with many of those islands being rapidly developed. No doubt the land we once called our home before nature forced us to flee."

"I do remember the volcano, yes. But with so many islands nearby, Hanoi, are you certain they own and occupy that now?"

"Well as certain as I can be now, Highness. Based on the time we spent adrift, factoring wind, waves and currents. It had to be nearby and nearby is what these people have now come to own."

"Still, it was a while ago, but we were there. It was an explosive eruption, I can't imagine it left anything or anyone behind it must have leveled the whole island."

"It did but it did not take the whole mass with it."

"Well I suppose it belongs to them now. That's the way it is."

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Twin Palms Shop.
While Reina explained and praised her friend - I had no idea, that they had married - the cute saleswoman from my first time here, who had made me aware of this shop, arrived. Mamiko was cute as ever and she recognized me almost immediately.
I smiled.
"Yep, that's me.", I said and gave her a small wave, "And your picture is in a place of honour." It really was in a place of honour, in a small box together with other souvenirs from my trips to the UIS. "You are cute as ever."
"Indeed, young lady.", Dad said and smiled with a small bow.
"That's my Dad.", I introduced with a grin. I knew, that Dad was not good with children and was not a fan. "He and my Stepmum are here with me this year - honeymoon, you see?"
I winked slightly. Maybe they had a good souvenir for two people on a honeymoon?

Aonas Folracht of the Tribe of Wicklow.
Port of Kino, Corona Island.
Asalcloig liked her, especially after the comment.
He sniffed her hand, then nuzzled it.
"He likes you.", I said with a smile, then nodded, glad all went well. There had been other reactions over the years. I was half-tempted to add: I like you, too. But that thought stayed in my head for now. "But yeah... let's get him cleaned. Is there a small creek nearby or something?"

Nela, Prinzessin von Zieselhaven und Elms.
Port Aya, Hoshino.
I smiled, placing it softly on her head.
"I can imagine.", I said, softly, "You look cute with it. I'm Nela and the redhead over there..." I pointed to my companion and best friend. "...is Rena."
"Hi, kid!", she greeted with a wave from a meter away. Horses were less suspicious to her then children.
Turning back to the little girl, I asked: "Where's your Mother or your Father?"
We would bring her back should she have escaped supervision.

Twin Palms Shop

"Hee, I'm so happy!" Mamiko beamed with a bright smile. "Safe and sound as a keepsake, I sure hope so. Mamas do the same with many of my drawings now, make sure they go in a safety keep box thing you know so they won't get ruined if we have a big storm or something."

Reina gently put her hands down on Mamiko's shoulders. Being addressed as "mamas" still strange but a sweet ring to it no less.

"We certainly do our best to make sure everything precious is kept that way." she agreed with little Mamiko.

"Oh honeymoon, that's so nice! Oooh he's your papa huh? That's also really nice that he'd be here with you. And with your new mama too! You're lucky."



"Aww I like him too" Ayla giggled feeling the horse against her skin "Well I know a good woman who can help us out, she's not at all far from here so just follow me." Ayla urged the two of them to follow her. She had them follow just outside the village square to the rougher road ahead but it was like she said, not far at all, a little rice farm just off the town center. "To be honest this port has been built upon a lot of rice and fruit farms. Considering we try to avoid imminent domain we've just sort of built up around them."

Already hard at work picking a lot of grains and rice a young female at it. "Hey Iffy!"

"Oh, Ayla, hello! And you have a guest with you?"

"Sure do. Very special guest. His name is Aonas and he's from The Freelands. And this is his loyal companion with him, Asalcloig."

"Oh what a pretty horse. So far over the seas with such a lovely fellow."

"Iffy really knows her way around animals so believe me you got nothing to worry about."

The young girl approached the horse with the same gingerness as Ayla gently extending her hands to allow him to get her scent. "Oh hey, where's your brother at today?" Ayla asked her

"Oh Melo, I sent him to Aurora yesterday to fetch a few things and he should be back by today. Honestly everything deep down in my skin is telling me it's going to be a big deluge this season. I really want to be ready." She instinctively looked at the sky, still blue (save a few high puffy clouds but nothing threatening)

"You always did make a better farmer than a cop." Ayla nodded.

"What can I say, going back to my roots is my penance for my behavior two years ago. Not to mention thanks to you for ---" Honestly she didn't want to go on in front a of a perfect stranger about the sort of trouble she dragged herself and her brother into during the 2018 festival. That was done

"Well make it up further to the Goddesses, this guy here..." Ayla patted the horse "Could use a cleaning. You know animals well and best ways to clean them and groom them."

"Yeah, I'd be glad to help. If you don't mind sir. I really do like animals and not every day I can see such a lovely horse here on my own little plot of land. I'd be glad to help the two of you out."

Port Aya, Hoshino

"Oh....No papa, only mama and The Matron. And mama is with her working at the Temple right now. She said I could walk around so long as I didn't get in the way and made sure to be back at the Temple before too long passed. But I've had to chase my hat around a good little while because of the wind. Oh this here" She held up her rabbit puppet "He's Georgie also with me."

"Hello." She deepened her voice to make it sound like her rabbit was speaking.

"oh we will" comments Sojourner before making her way with Kyrksen down the path.

"So the Great Chief, hmm cant be difficult to spot then, I think it would be great to mention the Great Chief in the video" comments Kyrk, walking down the pathway towards the town, his boots making a healthy crunching sound on the gravel

"aye, be good for the channel as well" replies Sojourner.


Meanwhile, over in Port Aurora

Nebraska smiles when she recalls the name Port Aurora, for a while, the Mercantile Ferderal Republic of the Aurora Confederacy had its capital in a similarly names city, Valeria Port Aurora, though for the last few years it has been at the city of Lake Hai'lu'kai, a far less hostile place in winter, for it is below the arctic circle, Nebraska herself is from Barentsburg, a city that is blessed, (or some may say cursed) with a polar climate so can get brutal winters - she has yet to meet the Winter storms that the northern isles of Greater Orcadia can whip up, the highest hill in Shetland which has a record of almost 200mph, just before the measuring equipment was blown down the hill!

With customs cleared, they too began to make their way to the hotel, a bit of a hippy chiqe lodgings where Nebraska's alternative style may go down better

"This is a lot better than the Port Aurora that I am familiar with" comments Nebraska, "though i do miss my apartment in Barentsburg sometimes, cracking little place, mind you Trish, I gotta say, I do like the new house we have in Northampton" however it was at that point that Tricia spotted a food stall

"Breakfast?" she asks

"yeah, why not" replies Nebo (Nebo being the short name for Nebraska Ikari Sinclair)

The great statue of Chief Kino did stand tall and proud in the village square so thus very easy to spot and of course gather for tourists to admire the hand carved stone monument to the island's fallen leader and great hero. Many remarked how handsome he looked and must have been some choked back tears reading the memorial plaque about him. So that was that, the buildings encircling around him had signs mostly written in Esperanto including Gastejo, Taverno the name of a specific store Tajda Domo. And of course open stands were all around with merchants and people giving goods and information.

---

Plenty of Inns around to pick from and most had just enough space for any handful of guests to still come and stay with them, including the ever lovely Kitan, but if cost was a big concern there was always The Great Temple of Aurora which gave free room and board in a voluntary exchange for maybe some service but only if they wanted. Other affordable options existed the choices would be Otulissa's at the end of the day.

---

Tess Dileva
Aurora Village
It was a love that will always stay strong, no matter the distance. But it was true that they would do great here and anywhere else, but excepting for honeymoon, perhaps they stay around the islands or Mervay. She was surprised to hear that time ago Ma'am Kinoshita was blamed for some diseases; she has really lived through a lot of things and was even at the center of them. As for the question, Tess chimed with the rest in agreement about that. Hopefully it will be a great festival.

Then they focused on the Kitan and about if Ren would be able to cope with the possible influx that will certainly follow; to which Satou answered that she will be able and has backup in case she needs help. Certainly after two years of such tourism during the festival dates, she will certainly be able to handle it.

Still just to make sure, Tsubasa's sudden visit was cut short and decided to return back to the Inn to help out; promising to visit the new entrepeneur later on and then congratulated the couple before excusing herself.

"Understood Ms. Kinoshita, have a nice day!" She told her with a smile while she went back to the Kitan.

As soon as she left, Tess looked at Satou and thought of some ideas to do. It was a lot to think, but the islands offered many things to have fun and she also wanted to hear her wife's proposals.

"Well dear, so what do you want to do today?? The day is all yours for the choosing." Tess told her smiling while sipping her tea and enjoying her pie, whatever Satou proposed Tess would accept it.

Eduard De La Mercant
Port Tsubaki
Ohh, so it was right in front of him?? He should had guessed it without problem, albeit considering the fact that it was his first time around here, no surprise. Eduard smiled at the little girl while he followed inside to what he found out was, a family run Inn.

As soon as the soldier noticed the woman in the desk he smiled back and nodded to her question.

"Indeed Ma'am, I appreciate the fact you have one available. I guess I should thank your daughter." And so he did, looking at the girl which was called Yumeha and grinned at her.

"Thank you for it young girl." Eduard said grinning at her to then focus back on the girl's mother and giving his information. "The room is to the name of Lt Colonel, Eduard De La Mercant from Mervay... Here's my ID and passport just in case." And so the soldier handed both documents for her to verify.

"I would like to advice that I'm carrying a sword with myself which is sealed. Is that alright??"

"Well as a matter of fact, I'd like to go to the Aurora Theater. They have a few good shows on today and their prices are really discounted for the festival. What do you say, want to see a play or two with me?" She stood and offered her hand to Tess to pull her to her feet so they could go for a walk down to the little theater.

"Oooh a play!" Hiromi chimed "Now that's a great date for you two. Go for it, Miss Tess they have lots of great shows going on now and a brand new one they just opened. Go see it!"

Tsubaki

"Hehe she's done very well. Kikiyo, why not go get some milk to drink, okay? You've done very well all morning"

"Sure mama." The little girl dashed along back. "Very good Lt. Col. Eduard De la Merchant all the way from Mervay." She wrote down his name in lovely script.

"And a sword is fine. Many of us have them even my husband and I. Please come along then and I'll show you to your room." she grabbed an unlit lantern, obviously they wouldn't need it now but it would be ready for him by nightfall. She took him down a hall. A couple young boys ran on past "Easy does it, boys, mind the guests here."

"Sorry, ma"

"Sorry mama."

"My sons." She chuckled as she lead him all the way to the end of the hall, She slid open the door for him "Here you are. Have you ever been to the islands before sir? Things are going to be quite different than most places but I assure we offer good services here and good conditions. You'll find this a most pleasant place to be."

Ah, it was a beautiful day for a vacation. At least Chloe thought so. See, this is why she became a member (and later the leader) of the Greens: she wanted to protect all of this. However, now was not the time for politics, as this was her girl's weekend with her friends Carrie and Estel Caterina.

Carrie Bat-Ijlana Çospeaos was Speaker of the Parliament, as well as the leader of Pax Unio and chair of the Peace Committee in Parliament. But this trip, first proposed by Chloe and seconded by Estel, was meant to be a break from the political chaos that seemed to always persist despite the 15 extra seats that their coalition, the Alliance for Progress, had which provided them with an absolute majority most of the time. Carrie did feel that she needed a break from the stuffy air of the Parliamentary halls and the constant autumnal breezes of Scania caused by a weather irregularity, yet she would not tell either of her friends, for fear of one of Estel Caterina's "I told you so"s.

Estel Caterina Ferrer was the only non-politician among them, yet her longtime boyfriend, Jujab Jaghof Sant-Pau, happened to be the Foreign Minister, and as such Estel was able to join Carrie and Chloe. Estel Caterina, who sometimes went by just Estel despite them both being first names, was an actual Catalan (as opposed to a member of the Catalan Community of Middle Barael), hailing from the Eixample district of Barcelona. Estel was a veterinarian by trade, but still had a very good understanding of the inner workings of politics and diplomacy from her boyfriend. Estel desperately wanted Jujab to "pop the question", but she was still nervous about it and was anxious about how it might affect her life and the life of her 3 kids, all from a previous marriage.

Anyways, the three ladies had decided to go on a girl's weekend vacay, and after a series of votes (obviously using IRV ranked voting, which Carrie and Chloe were big proponents of), the United Islands of AHSCA were chosen as their destination, specifically the A in AHSCA, Aurora. This was not a government event, so they had to travel on their own dime, but they begged their friend Solomon, elected King of Middle Barael, to chip in, as they did not want any of their husbands (or boyfriend in Estel Caterina's case) to know the cost of the trip.

Unbeknownst to them, however, Solomon secretly informed Foreign Minister Sant-Pau of their trip, knowing that Jujab wanted to ask Estel to marry him, and thinking that this would be a perfect opportunity. Jujab Jaghof agreed, and started to make plans for his surprise arrival. Unfortunately, neither of them knew which island the girls were travelling to, but Jujab incorrectly hunched that they'd visit Corono due to its famously traditional way of life for the natives.

Anyway, the "3 Caballeras", as they called themselves jokingly from time to time, were arriving by an electric ferry produced by the Aquinas brand of AFEA Barael, Middle Barael's largest electric vehicles company. They were excited for their trip, though Carrie was worried about the mosquitos, which according to some blog were rampant on Aurora, having flown in from Hoshino during the summer. Jujab Jaghof Sant-Pau, meanwhile, was worried that he wouldn't be able to find them in time, but he was still excited at the prospect of finally proposing to Estel after 7 years of friendship and 4 years of dating.

The group arrived on the island would have been processed checked and cleared to enter. Aurora again, the bustling port with plenty to do and see. Grabbing a place to stay would certainly be the top priority for anyone, at least to unload baggage and and get settled in then maybe explore but still the adventurous travelers would find anything tempting them. Plenty of nice looking people walking about, open stall vendors selling this and that, Priestesses roaming about busy with errands but never to busy to stop and help someone or talk to someone if they were needed. Fresh off the boat travelers (or small plane if that's how some wealthier folks arrived) would be dazzled by the archaic but charming little port city. The skeeters easily kept at bay with some decent repellent or just dressing a bit more appropriately but they weren't as much of an issue this year thanks to a relatively dry enough winter. Well dry in the islander sense of "AHSCA has two climates, wet and wetter!" But pleasant day for new people to arrive.

AHSCA Airspace, 12 Nautical Miles off the Coast of Aurora

The surely very, very slow ATC tower of the local islands was about to get a surprise alarm--at least, Audrey hoped they would. Had she set the radio right? She'd ask her instructor--you know, if he was conscious. And they hadn't been flying for maybe a couple hours in the wrong direction while she tried to figure out how to work the damn thing. Desktop flightsim games did all this stuff for you, unless you were hardcore. And Audrey was not hardcore--she had taken this lesson on a whim. She was surprised she hadn't been intercepted--were they really that lost?

It was no matter. Her instructor had taught her how to basically work the plane... and then promptly passed out. She didn't know if it was a seizure or heart attack or what. It probably didn't matter anymore--he was breathing, but still unconscious. She had a feeling he wasn't getting out of this one. Her job now was to get out alive herself.

She pressed on her earpiece, praying that someone, anyone would pick up. "Mayday, mayday, mayday! This is callsign A-S-C-P-C-C. Whoever's picking up, I'm a student pilot... my instructor passed out, and I went way off course while I was trying to contact ATC. I'm low on fuel... um... I do not think I'm making it to the land, that kind of low on fuel.

As busy as a time this was for most in Government, it wasn't without those being vigilant. Between police on the islands themselves to maintain law & order and protect and serve there was obviously the UISDF always watching the area. No incidents had happened really in many many years but there were always room for surprises. A mayday call came on to ATC. Maydays weren't common but not unheard of. This part of the world was known as the ITCZ so occasional weather mishaps from passing boats or aircraft sometimes came into their area of responsibility. The gal watching the radars today was ready and on the radio "Roger that, Mayday ASCPCC, this is UISDF, acknowledge distress if you can turn header 2-1-0 do so, if not can you prepare for an emergency landing." It was a bit to work with the poor young lady on the radio in distress but calm and collected she walked her through ditching procedures "Roger, ASCPCC, acknowledged low fuel and low altitude unable to proceed, let's walk through a ditching procedure." She waved one of her fellow soldiers over to jump on the horn with her, as she stayed on the line with Audrey the other girl got on with UISDF Air-Naval services "Attention, distressed craft landing at" a few coordinates putting her pretty close to Aurora, hopefully without much incident or harm to her or to passing ships they could get her down and on the ground safe.

"Roger. Air Unit en route ETA 20."

"Roger."

"Okay ASCPCC we got help on the way, follow my steps and you'll be able to get through this, you're doing great, just hang in there."

A chopper roared on through the sky. Truly a bizarre mix of the primitive lifestyle of the islands matched with the technological readiness of any developed nation. Most wouldn't likely believe it if they saw it but here it was in action. With just enough time on their side UISDF Air Force services were able to be on sight and ready to pull the poor girl and her instructor out of a quickly sinking plane. A rescue diver was able to grab her and get her out. She was injured but not too badly. "Strong cross, we gotta bail." The chopper co-pilot said.

"Command, this is 6-4, we're having strong crosswinds and we are unable to maintain a steady position Our diver has our victims and plenty of ships nearby can pull them up. Requesting to pull out and return to base. " And she repeated

"Roger, 6-4, flag a boat if you can ,get her on Aurora."

"Roger that, 6-4 pulling out."

A few signals to their diver in the water and the chopper unfortunately had to bail but again she was in good hands with her rescue diver. Police would have to handle it from there and there was a police boat right there to grab them and get them to dry land. "Let's get her medical attention, quickly" The officer said applying pressure to her wounds.

"The man?"

"No signs of life. I'll try CPR."

A quick race back to shore for them. Well what a festival this was turning out to be indeed. "Hang on there, we'll get you to land quickly."

[Shiatoru]

As busy as a time this was for most in Government, it wasn't without those being vigilant. Between police on the islands themselves to maintain law & order and protect and serve there was obviously the UISDF always watching the area. No incidents had happened really in many many years but there were always room for surprises. A mayday call came on to ATC. Maydays weren't common but not unheard of. This part of the world was known as the ITCZ so occasional weather mishaps from passing boats or aircraft sometimes came into their area of responsibility. The gal watching the radars today was ready and on the radio "Roger that, Mayday ASCPCC, this is UISDF, acknowledge distress if you can turn header 2-1-0 do so, if not can you prepare for an emergency landing." It was a bit to work with the poor young lady on the radio in distress but calm and collected she walked her through ditching procedures "Roger, ASCPCC, acknowledged low fuel and low altitude unable to proceed, let's walk through a ditching procedure." She waved one of her fellow soldiers over to jump on the horn with her, as she stayed on the line with Audrey the other girl got on with UISDF Air-Naval services "Attention, distressed craft landing at" a few coordinates putting her pretty close to Aurora, hopefully without much incident or harm to her or to passing ships they could get her down and on the ground safe.

"Roger. Air Unit en route ETA 20."

"Roger."

"Okay ASCPCC we got help on the way, follow my steps and you'll be able to get through this, you're doing great, just hang in there."

A chopper roared on through the sky. Truly a bizarre mix of the primitive lifestyle of the islands matched with the technological readiness of any developed nation. Most wouldn't likely believe it if they saw it but here it was in action. With just enough time on their side UISDF Air Force services were able to be on sight and ready to pull the poor girl and her instructor out of a quickly sinking plane. A rescue diver was able to grab her and get her out. She was injured but not too badly. "Strong cross, we gotta bail." The chopper co-pilot said.

"Command, this is 6-4, we're having strong crosswinds and we are unable to maintain a steady position Our diver has our victims and plenty of ships nearby can pull them up. Requesting to pull out and return to base. " And she repeated

"Roger, 6-4, flag a boat if you can ,get her on Aurora."

"Roger that, 6-4 pulling out."

A few signals to their diver in the water and the chopper unfortunately had to bail but again she was in good hands with her rescue diver. Police would have to handle it from there and there was a police boat right there to grab them and get them to dry land. "Let's get her medical attention, quickly" The officer said applying pressure to her wounds.

"The man?"

"No signs of life. I'll try CPR."

A quick race back to shore for them. Well what a festival this was turning out to be indeed. "Hang on there, we'll get you to land quickly."

Shortly Off the Coast of Aurora
If that one guy could land a Boeing in the Hudson, Audrey could sure as hell land a Cessna in the ocea--

Have you ever been in turbulence? Imagine that but twenty thousand times rougher. That's what even the most ideal ditching is like. And the ITCZ is not the Hudson. This would be a challenge for even an experienced pilot, without crosswind. Under most circumstances, a first-timer might as well have just went full nose-down and darted the damn thing into the ocean for about the same result they could expect. But Audrey... Audrey was a fighter. She didn't look it or even really think it of herself, but her fear of death translated to an incredible will to live.

Which is why she was able to fight the odds, her autism, her anxiety, and even the very planet itself as the Cessna (modified with very loud audio warnings in compliance with Shiatoruan regulations) screamed "CAUTION--PULL UP" at her in objection to her suicidal maneuver. And even as she slammed into the water with incredible force, throwing her forward. She just barely managed to avoid hitting her head, though her unconscious instructor was not so lucky.

Everything was sore. Everything was spinning. She could barely think. But she was alive, she was alive and she was being rescued and she'd probably be an incredible story of a miracle all over the world soon... soon. She just nodded as she was taken by the diver to shore...

[Cartoonia]

Kitan Inn
The Cartoonian guests would also be greeted by Ren at the lobby desk. "Greetings. Do you have reservations? I can see what kind of space I have if you don't. If you be needing anything to eat then we have a lovely place to eat right next door."

“Ah, good afternoon” Jellal says in greeting to Ren. “I do believe I made a reservation for a room for two under Fernandes a week ago. If it doesn’t show up, I can purchase the next available room. Just for the two of us”. The last part looking at and referring to Erza, as she blushed with joy.

---

Aurora Village
Jay Sherman heads into town, feeling sweaty from walking long ways from the port. Feeling hungry, he decides to go inside the nearest bar in the town for a meal. He has heard of all the food that are served as local delicacies and can’t wait to try them. He takes a seat at one of the bar stools. He waves to the bartender there.

“Hello, I’ll have a beer, and some fish please”.

[Kyrenaia]

[...]

Twin Palms Shop

"Hee, I'm so happy!" Mamiko beamed with a bright smile. "Safe and sound as a keepsake, I sure hope so. Mamas do the same with many of my drawings now, make sure they go in a safety keep box thing you know so they won't get ruined if we have a big storm or something."

Reina gently put her hands down on Mamiko's shoulders. Being addressed as "mamas" still strange but a sweet ring to it no less.

"We certainly do our best to make sure everything precious is kept that way." she agreed with little Mamiko.

"Oh honeymoon, that's so nice! Oooh he's your papa huh? That's also really nice that he'd be here with you. And with your new mama too! You're lucky."



"Aww I like him too" Ayla giggled feeling the horse against her skin "Well I know a good woman who can help us out, she's not at all far from here so just follow me." Ayla urged the two of them to follow her. She had them follow just outside the village square to the rougher road ahead but it was like she said, not far at all, a little rice farm just off the town center. "To be honest this port has been built upon a lot of rice and fruit farms. Considering we try to avoid imminent domain we've just sort of built up around them."

Already hard at work picking a lot of grains and rice a young female at it. "Hey Iffy!"

"Oh, Ayla, hello! And you have a guest with you?"

"Sure do. Very special guest. His name is Aonas and he's from The Freelands. And this is his loyal companion with him, Asalcloig."

"Oh what a pretty horse. So far over the seas with such a lovely fellow."

"Iffy really knows her way around animals so believe me you got nothing to worry about."

The young girl approached the horse with the same gingerness as Ayla gently extending her hands to allow him to get her scent. "Oh hey, where's your brother at today?" Ayla asked her

"Oh Melo, I sent him to Aurora yesterday to fetch a few things and he should be back by today. Honestly everything deep down in my skin is telling me it's going to be a big deluge this season. I really want to be ready." She instinctively looked at the sky, still blue (save a few high puffy clouds but nothing threatening)

"You always did make a better farmer than a cop." Ayla nodded.

"What can I say, going back to my roots is my penance for my behavior two years ago. Not to mention thanks to you for ---" Honestly she didn't want to go on in front a of a perfect stranger about the sort of trouble she dragged herself and her brother into during the 2018 festival. That was done

"Well make it up further to the Goddesses, this guy here..." Ayla patted the horse "Could use a cleaning. You know animals well and best ways to clean them and groom them."

"Yeah, I'd be glad to help. If you don't mind sir. I really do like animals and not every day I can see such a lovely horse here on my own little plot of land. I'd be glad to help the two of you out."

Port Aya, Hoshino

"Oh....No papa, only mama and The Matron. And mama is with her working at the Temple right now. She said I could walk around so long as I didn't get in the way and made sure to be back at the Temple before too long passed. But I've had to chase my hat around a good little while because of the wind. Oh this here" She held up her rabbit puppet "He's Georgie also with me."

"Hello." She deepened her voice to make it sound like her rabbit was speaking.


[...]

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Twin Palms Shop.
As Reina placed her hand on Mamiko's shoulder, I felt, that Dad stiffened lightly.
I could feel it from miles away. It was the kind of stiffness he got, when he was entering a diplomatic mine field.
When Mamiko cheered about me being here with my Father and my Stepmother, I nodded with a smile. "It is. My third time here, so I can now show them the really cool places.", I said.
"So far, she hasn't disappointed.", Dad said with a charming smile. "Though, I am afraid, that I must ask..." He let a beat pass. "...you mentioned, that your 'Mamas', plural, were keeping your drawings safe." He looked at Reina. "If I may ask, does that mean...?"
He made a hand gesture, which could be interpreted this way or that way.

Aonas Folracht of the Tribe of Wicklow.
Port of Kino, Corona Island.
I followed Ayla to her friend, Miss Iffy, and bowed my head at being introduced. She seemed to know her stuff, that was for sure, and she seemed quite young. I had no idea about what she did two years ago and if I were honest, it was not my bloody business. She seemed to be content here and that was the main part.
When she offered her help, I smiled, bowing my head lightly.
"I...", I was struggling with myself and I knew, it was visible. A Marcach cared for his horse, first and foremost, then his weapons and equipment, then himself. It was part of the ethos. "...it's fine. I just need a bucket of water and I can take care of the rest. If you want to help, you're both welcome, though. I can sure, that we can learn a bit from one another, Miss Iffy."
I smiled charmingly at the last part, trying to cover my previous uncomfortableness.

Nela, Prinzessin von Zieselhaven und Elms.
Port Aya, Hoshino.
So, Mother at work, half-orphan, allowed to roam free for a bit - until the hat blew off.
And I hadn't seen the rabbit.
I smiled at his introduction, Rena suppressing a laugh with a snort.
"Good morning, Sir.", I greeted the stuffed animal politely with a small bow of my head, smiling myself. My brother had vibrant memories of my own stuffed animal collection and, in particular, of a stuffed Grey Wolf, which a friend of our father gifted to me. I had carried that guy around everywhere. And I was sure, that Rena had similar memories of her own little sister, Sunna. And Pfote was still sitting on my bed in Schloss Leythauß. "Lovely day for a little stroll with a lovely young lady, isn't it?"
I winked at the girl at that.

[Astares Amauricanum]

Kino, Corona

"I did use her as a model for it, but it's general enough to be any girl. Wanted to capture the forces that we live with here. The rolling tides and crashing waves. So I do feel it's my very best. I'd be glad to offer it to you for a tidy sum. But I also have this." He pulled out a traditional painting in frame. Depiction of a group of Coronan fisherman in rough seas. "Not by me but another painter from the islands. I bartered something in exchange with her, she's a fine young lady, very talented. We sometimes trade to offer up to our customers.

"In that case maybe something like a sarong then for your bottom half." She pulled one out tying it around a waist "I think it looks good on you. Don't you? Many color options."

Port Aya, Hoshino

"Please, don't even worry about it, we're just enjoying the festival like everyone else." Ya-Xi waved away the concerns.

"Yes just as I suspected with many of those islands being rapidly developed. No doubt the land we once called our home before nature forced us to flee."

"I do remember the volcano, yes. But with so many islands nearby, Hanoi, are you certain they own and occupy that now?"

"Well as certain as I can be now, Highness. Based on the time we spent adrift, factoring wind, waves and currents. It had to be nearby and nearby is what these people have now come to own."

"Still, it was a while ago, but we were there. It was an explosive eruption, I can't imagine it left anything or anyone behind it must have leveled the whole island."

"It did but it did not take the whole mass with it."

"Well I suppose it belongs to them now. That's the way it is."

Joel Miller,
Kino, Corona
Before I can utter a word in answer, my brother Tommy replies to the man: "I really like this painting, I will gladly take it." he says as he points to the one depicting the fishermen. "It reminds me a bit of my job as a lumberman. You always ave to comply to what nature tells you. And I believe my brother here will gladly like this one with the girl, won't you Joel?" he asks as he turns to me, a sly smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth.
Oh Tommy, I hate it when you can read me like that, oh I hate it! But you have always been right for what was good to me, so I can't really be angry with you.
"Of course." I reply after clearing my throat. "I really like it."
"Which one, the girl in particular or the painting as a whole?" asks Tommy with the same smirk.
"The gir... I mean the painting!" I stutter. "The painting as a whole. Yyou're right Sir, you are very talented." I add as I straighten my back. "So how much would it be for those two?"

By the Stars, what is happening to me? I feel that something beautiful is blossoming inside me, but yet I'm afraid of it at the same time. Freyja, Star of Love, please help me through this endevaour.

Sarah Miller
"Indeed it looks really good on me, what do you think Auntie?" I ask to Maria.
"I can not say anything else, except that if a boy sees you like this back home, Joel will have to fight a lot of pretenders." replies my aunt with a small laugh. "You look marvellous sweetheart.
"Well thank you very much Auntie." I reply to Maria, before turning back to the saleswoman. "And thank you very much to you too Miss. Now, for the color, which one do you think would bring out my eyes?" I ask.

---

Staff Sergeant Abigail "Abby" Anderson
Port Aya, Hoshino
"Thank you Your Highnesses." I reply to Ya-Xi and Shinya as I take a sip of my beer. "So, do you want to be called your Highnesses or simply Mr and Mrs Li?"
"To answer your question Your Highness," continues Owen as he adresses Ya-Xi, "the eruption didn't leave many traces of the places your people occupied. Just a few structures here and there where the lava had not flowed. Now, the vegetation is starting to take the land back, and so far, the only thing we have erected on Malditas 6 is a monitoring station for the volcano, where vulcanologists and archaeologists can reside and monitor their discoveries. Until we have a better understanding of the volcano, and we have uncovered more structures of your people, villages and so on, we won't build anything else. And even so, I've heard that the place will be kept as a wildlife sanctuary." finishes Owen as he takes a sip of his beer too.

[AHSCA]

Shortly Off the Coast of Aurora
If that one guy could land a Boeing in the Hudson, Audrey could sure as hell land a Cessna in the ocea--

Have you ever been in turbulence? Imagine that but twenty thousand times rougher. That's what even the most ideal ditching is like. And the ITCZ is not the Hudson. This would be a challenge for even an experienced pilot, without crosswind. Under most circumstances, a first-timer might as well have just went full nose-down and darted the damn thing into the ocean for about the same result they could expect. But Audrey... Audrey was a fighter. She didn't look it or even really think it of herself, but her fear of death translated to an incredible will to live.

Which is why she was able to fight the odds, her autism, her anxiety, and even the very planet itself as the Cessna (modified with very loud audio warnings in compliance with Shiatoruan regulations) screamed "CAUTION--PULL UP" at her in objection to her suicidal maneuver. And even as she slammed into the water with incredible force, throwing her forward. She just barely managed to avoid hitting her head, though her unconscious instructor was not so lucky.

Everything was sore. Everything was spinning. She could barely think. But she was alive, she was alive and she was being rescued and she'd probably be an incredible story of a miracle all over the world soon... soon. She just nodded as she was taken by the diver to shore...

The police let the poor girl calm down a bit before trying to ask her questions. She was fine but it wasn't good for her instructor. "Nothing." She shook her head. "Damn. Well at least she's alive. She's lucky here." They radioed back "On land in 5, one survivor one casualty"

Acknowledge over.

"Easy does it now, we're gonna get you checked out and hopefully into something dry."

It wasn't much longer the police boat pulled ashore in Aurora. Doctor Toka Takanashi was already waiting on them, having been quickly found. "Okay watch your step." The officers gently helped her along off the boat onto a large crate. "Not ideal but it'll do. Let's get a privacy tarp up for her." The police quickly erected a small privacy barrier by the thin blue tarp. "Let's get her out of her wet clothes." They did undress her and wrapped her up in a fresh blanket. All right the doctor's gonna check you out now just relax."

"Afternoon." Toka said to Audrey "Just try to keep relaxed, I want to check you out." With a little mag light she checked her eyes and listened to her heart with a stethoscope. "So far she seems no worse for the wear, amazing considering what she'd been through." Checking her lucidness she told her, "Miss, you've been involved in a plane crash. You're in the AHSCA Isles. You were just rescued by the UISDF and police here. I don't see any immediate signs of trauma, her pupils are already dilated is high but I expect that's adrenaline. Neck seems okay too. She has some cuts and bruises." She reached into her medical bag to pull out a little disinfected and a cloth. "Glasses appear cracked. How much do you rely on your lenses? I can easily get you a replacement pair."

---

“Ah, good afternoon” Jellal says in greeting to Ren. “I do believe I made a reservation for a room for two under Fernandes a week ago. If it doesn’t show up, I can purchase the next available room. Just for the two of us”. The last part looking at and referring to Erza, as she blushed with joy.



Aurora Village
Jay Sherman heads into town, feeling sweaty from walking long ways from the port. Feeling hungry, he decides to go inside the nearest bar in the town for a meal. He has heard of all the food that are served as local delicacies and can’t wait to try them. He takes a seat at one of the bar stools. He waves to the bartender there.

“Hello, I’ll have a beer, and some fish please”.

"Let's see." She flipped a few pages "Ah yes, here we are. All right." she noted down the rest of their information. "Excellent, welcome. Okay Suzuka here will help you along to your rooms. Please show our guests to 2E."

"Right away. Please follow me." The young lady lead the people along to their room on the second floor. She opened the door allowing them to enter. Opening the window, and explaining the room.

"All right I hope you'll enjoy your stay with us. We have beds and futons available for your preference. We offer turn down service and we light up the lamps in the evening. We have a restaurant next door that's apart of your stay here. So if there's anything more we can do for you, let us know."

---

The waitress noted Jay's order. "Certainly, how would you like your fish prepared? Broiled, steamed, charred, maybe you'd like a sushi roll?"

---

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Twin Palms Shop.
As Reina placed her hand on Mamiko's shoulder, I felt, that Dad stiffened lightly.
I could feel it from miles away. It was the kind of stiffness he got, when he was entering a diplomatic mine field.
When Mamiko cheered about me being here with my Father and my Stepmother, I nodded with a smile. "It is. My third time here, so I can now show them the really cool places.", I said.
"So far, she hasn't disappointed.", Dad said with a charming smile. "Though, I am afraid, that I must ask..." He let a beat pass. "...you mentioned, that your 'Mamas', plural, were keeping your drawings safe." He looked at Reina. "If I may ask, does that mean...?"
He made a hand gesture, which could be interpreted this way or that way.

Aonas Folracht of the Tribe of Wicklow.
Port of Kino, Corona Island.
I followed Ayla to her friend, Miss Iffy, and bowed my head at being introduced. She seemed to know her stuff, that was for sure, and she seemed quite young. I had no idea about what she did two years ago and if I were honest, it was not my bloody business. She seemed to be content here and that was the main part.
When she offered her help, I smiled, bowing my head lightly.
"I...", I was struggling with myself and I knew, it was visible. A Marcach cared for his horse, first and foremost, then his weapons and equipment, then himself. It was part of the ethos. "...it's fine. I just need a bucket of water and I can take care of the rest. If you want to help, you're both welcome, though. I can sure, that we can learn a bit from one another, Miss Iffy."
I smiled charmingly at the last part, trying to cover my previous uncomfortableness.

Nela, Prinzessin von Zieselhaven und Elms.
Port Aya, Hoshino.
So, Mother at work, half-orphan, allowed to roam free for a bit - until the hat blew off.
And I hadn't seen the rabbit.
I smiled at his introduction, Rena suppressing a laugh with a snort.
"Good morning, Sir.", I greeted the stuffed animal politely with a small bow of my head, smiling myself. My brother had vibrant memories of my own stuffed animal collection and, in particular, of a stuffed Grey Wolf, which a friend of our father gifted to me. I had carried that guy around everywhere. And I was sure, that Rena had similar memories of her own little sister, Sunna. And Pfote was still sitting on my bed in Schloss Leythauß. "Lovely day for a little stroll with a lovely young lady, isn't it?"
I winked at the girl at that.

Aurora

"Oh. I'm Mamiko's stepmother now." Reina responded with a blush and a shy smile Again, such musical words to her ears she still couldn't believe it she found someone like Kumiko. She wasn't sure how to interpriate him, granted not everyone in the world approved of same-sex marriage or relations of that, maybe he didn't either she didn't know and she wouldn't push it or argue with him in the shop. Maybe on the sea if he made an issue about it she'd deck him hard if he made an offhand remark about them but not here. Still she tightened up her grip on Mamiko a little just should the child try something foolish. Mamiko really didn't notice her grip on her tightening it wasn't any morose than when Kumiko would hold onto her for something.

"Step or not, she's still my mama now too." Mamiko responded with a strong sense of certainty. "That's why I made that special drawing to give to her!" She pointed back up at Aurelia and addressed her Because you gots a special lady you really like a lot!"

A special lady who so happens to be our Duchess.. Reina thought but didn't say aloud. Honestly, she didn't have a strong sense of politics or anything but it still was surprising the woman who lead them as a nation had this lovely girl from a far off desert land she loved and vice versa.

Corona

"A bucket and water is something I can help with easily. Honestly you didn't need me for this, I'm sure he's more than skilled enough."

"Of course he is, Iffy, but at the same time it's been a long trip for him. I know animals can be a bit temperamental when suddenly getting washed, I'd just figured a few extra helping hands would be appreciated."

"Well hang tight, I'll grab a bucket and water for him." Iffy excused herself. Ayla smiled back at him. "Well then if there's anything else you need, feel free to ask and I'll get it for you. You're my guest so I want you to be at home."

Hoshino

Kaori blushed a little, bashful and happy. "Mmmhm. It's pretty today. Sunny, puffy white clouds. Not big scary storm clouds in sight."

In her deeper voice she spoke through Georgie "Kaori don't like the thunder much."

"It's true I don't. Oh and I'm also not allowed to anywhere near the shoal caves but I promise I'm staying away as I was told. Are you people visiting from far away? here for the festival? The Goddesses would appreciate your visit I'm sure."

---

Joel Miller,
Kino, Corona
Before I can utter a word in answer, my brother Tommy replies to the man: "I really like this painting, I will gladly take it." he says as he points to the one depicting the fishermen. "It reminds me a bit of my job as a lumberman. You always ave to comply to what nature tells you. And I believe my brother here will gladly like this one with the girl, won't you Joel?" he asks as he turns to me, a sly smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth.
Oh Tommy, I hate it when you can read me like that, oh I hate it! But you have always been right for what was good to me, so I can't really be angry with you.
"Of course." I reply after clearing my throat. "I really like it."
"Which one, the girl in particular or the painting as a whole?" asks Tommy with the same smirk.
"The gir... I mean the painting!" I stutter. "The painting as a whole. Yyou're right Sir, you are very talented." I add as I straighten my back. "So how much would it be for those two?"

By the Stars, what is happening to me? I feel that something beautiful is blossoming inside me, but yet I'm afraid of it at the same time. Freyja, Star of Love, please help me through this endevaour.

Sarah Miller
"Indeed it looks really good on me, what do you think Auntie?" I ask to Maria.
"I can not say anything else, except that if a boy sees you like this back home, Joel will have to fight a lot of pretenders." replies my aunt with a small laugh. "You look marvellous sweetheart.
"Well thank you very much Auntie." I reply to Maria, before turning back to the saleswoman. "And thank you very much to you too Miss. Now, for the color, which one do you think would bring out my eyes?" I ask.


Staff Sergeant Abigail "Abby" Anderson
Port Aya, Hoshino
"Thank you Your Highnesses." I reply to Ya-Xi and Shinya as I take a sip of my beer. "So, do you want to be called your Highnesses or simply Mr and Mrs Li?"
"To answer your question Your Highness," continues Owen as he adresses Ya-Xi, "the eruption didn't leave many traces of the places your people occupied. Just a few structures here and there where the lava had not flowed. Now, the vegetation is starting to take the land back, and so far, the only thing we have erected on Malditas 6 is a monitoring station for the volcano, where vulcanologists and archaeologists can reside and monitor their discoveries. Until we have a better understanding of the volcano, and we have uncovered more structures of your people, villages and so on, we won't build anything else. And even so, I've heard that the place will be kept as a wildlife sanctuary." finishes Owen as he takes a sip of his beer too.

Kino

"Well great, glad you're interested. Painting will run you 1100 Credits, the block 400. Sunplena" he called his daughter over "We got ourselves paying customers."

"Right" she double checked the prices with him and added them up "All right for the bundle it's 1500 total for the art. The clothes I'll take a little off because you've been such good customers. First of our day in fact ya know. So early bird specials" She winked. She returned to the ladies "Frankly, I think the orange would look great on you. You're familiar with Pacifica right? One important leader she loves the orange. There's also yellow which i think would look great on you."

---

Hoshino

"Li is fine." Shinya agreed "We're off duty anyway. "

"Oh that's very interesting." It actually made her feel better her old home could be a resting place and let nature reclaim it. Her old kingdom was no more she'd accepted that but it was good to know others would still treat it with reverence. she sniffled back a tear "Thank you very much. I know nations need to develop and expand and that but my old home still has an echo with me. I'm glad some folks out there will be kind with it. Thanks again. Hey meal on us."

Shinya agreed "Yeah so order whatever you like."

[Shiatoru]

The police let the poor girl calm down a bit before trying to ask her questions. She was fine but it wasn't good for her instructor. "Nothing." She shook her head. "Damn. Well at least she's alive. She's lucky here." They radioed back "On land in 5, one survivor one casualty"

Acknowledge over.

"Easy does it now, we're gonna get you checked out and hopefully into something dry."

It wasn't much longer the police boat pulled ashore in Aurora. Doctor Toka Takanashi was already waiting on them, having been quickly found. "Okay watch your step." The officers gently helped her along off the boat onto a large crate. "Not ideal but it'll do. Let's get a privacy tarp up for her." The police quickly erected a small privacy barrier by the thin blue tarp. "Let's get her out of her wet clothes." They did undress her and wrapped her up in a fresh blanket. All right the doctor's gonna check you out now just relax."

"Afternoon." Toka said to Audrey "Just try to keep relaxed, I want to check you out." With a little mag light she checked her eyes and listened to her heart with a stethoscope. "So far she seems no worse for the wear, amazing considering what she'd been through." Checking her lucidness she told her, "Miss, you've been involved in a plane crash. You're in the AHSCA Isles. You were just rescued by the UISDF and police here. I don't see any immediate signs of trauma, her pupils are already dilated is high but I expect that's adrenaline. Neck seems okay too. She has some cuts and bruises." She reached into her medical bag to pull out a little disinfected and a cloth. "Glasses appear cracked. How much do you rely on your lenses? I can easily get you a replacement pair."

The AHSCA Isles? Oh God, she really had gone off course, hadn't she? She took a breath. "Th-that's a long way... I'm from Shiatoru." The relative distance between the modern socialist island-continent and the underdeveloped islands was fairly small in planetary scale, but an incredible chasm in student-pilot-getting-lost scale. This was perhaps even more miraculous than it first appeared. "I, uh, was mostly focused on flying straight and contacting someone. That might be why I'm here... might have hit a radio deadzone."

She sighed, pushing her glasses up. "...That'd be really appreciated. I... I can be a little blind without then."

[Kyrenaia]

[...]

Aurora

"Oh. I'm Mamiko's stepmother now." Reina responded with a blush and a shy smile Again, such musical words to her ears she still couldn't believe it she found someone like Kumiko. She wasn't sure how to interpriate him, granted not everyone in the world approved of same-sex marriage or relations of that, maybe he didn't either she didn't know and she wouldn't push it or argue with him in the shop. Maybe on the sea if he made an issue about it she'd deck him hard if he made an offhand remark about them but not here. Still she tightened up her grip on Mamiko a little just should the child try something foolish. Mamiko really didn't notice her grip on her tightening it wasn't any morose than when Kumiko would hold onto her for something.

"Step or not, she's still my mama now too." Mamiko responded with a strong sense of certainty. "That's why I made that special drawing to give to her!" She pointed back up at Aurelia and addressed her Because you gots a special lady you really like a lot!"

A special lady who so happens to be our Duchess.. Reina thought but didn't say aloud. Honestly, she didn't have a strong sense of politics or anything but it still was surprising the woman who lead them as a nation had this lovely girl from a far off desert land she loved and vice versa.

Corona

"A bucket and water is something I can help with easily. Honestly you didn't need me for this, I'm sure he's more than skilled enough."

"Of course he is, Iffy, but at the same time it's been a long trip for him. I know animals can be a bit temperamental when suddenly getting washed, I'd just figured a few extra helping hands would be appreciated."

"Well hang tight, I'll grab a bucket and water for him." Iffy excused herself. Ayla smiled back at him. "Well then if there's anything else you need, feel free to ask and I'll get it for you. You're my guest so I want you to be at home."

Hoshino

Kaori blushed a little, bashful and happy. "Mmmhm. It's pretty today. Sunny, puffy white clouds. Not big scary storm clouds in sight."

In her deeper voice she spoke through Georgie "Kaori don't like the thunder much."

"It's true I don't. Oh and I'm also not allowed to anywhere near the shoal caves but I promise I'm staying away as I was told. Are you people visiting from far away? here for the festival? The Goddesses would appreciate your visit I'm sure."

[...]

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Twin Palms Shop.
Das had nothing bad in mind, quite on the contrary - he approved of my relationship with Marcella, after all!
He smiled and bowed his head lightly. "Then I believe, that congratulations are in order.", he said and rose a moment later, putting a hand on my shoulder. "May Manat watch over you three."
I smiled.
"Dad and I are from a land, where relationships between two women are unusual and actually quite frowned upon.", I said, placed a hand on Dad's shoulder. "But you never minded, did you?"
"As long as my daughter is happy, I am happy.", he said and smiled at me, then at Reina, "And what sort of hypocritical... bottom would I be, if I were to decry a relationship just like the one, that makes her happy?"
My smile would tell everyone, that I was not only happy about his reply, but also happy to have such a girlfriend as Marcella.

Aonas Folracht of the Tribe of Wicklow.
Port of Kino, Corona Island.
I smiled and bowed my head lightly.
"Thank you for your hospitality, Ayla.", I said and meant it. Then I exhaled. "You can actually help me, if you want..."
I would have to remove bridle and saddle on the lad before I started washing him, but there were a few items, which I wanted safe, first of all, my sword.
Carefully, I unlatched the sheath of the short blade from the side of the saddle, the sword still in it. It was a leaf-shaped weapon, the blade seventy-five centimeters long, the scabbard decorated with silver inlays. The pommel was shaped to look like a horse's head. It was not an ideal weapon for a horseman, but a Lannadui was a form from the Age of the High Kings, over sixteen centuries ago, when horsemen were a social elite. Of course, mine was hardly nine years old.
As I unloaded him, I also looked for something and, after a minute, said: "Here we go!"
There was a comb in my hands, which I held out to Ayla.
"Can I ask you to comb out his mane and tail?", I asked of the woman with a smile.

Nela, Prinzessin von Zieselhaven und Elms.
Port Aya, Hoshino.
I smiled.
"We are from a faraway land called Teressien.", I explained to both girl and rabbit, "It's colder there, especially around this time of the year." I let a beat pass. "We are here for the Festival of Holy Light, but also because this is a beautiful place and the two of us needed a short vacation."
No need to tell a little girl, that we also needed a good destination for the maiden voyage of a boat a guy gifted to my best friend because he wanted to bone her... I was quite sure, that this was not exactly something her mother would appreciate.

[Aurora Confederacy]

The great statue of Chief Kino did stand tall and proud in the village square so thus very easy to spot and of course gather for tourists to admire the hand carved stone monument to the island's fallen leader and great hero. Many remarked how handsome he looked and must have been some choked back tears reading the memorial plaque about him. So that was that, the buildings encircling around him had signs mostly written in Esperanto including Gastejo, Taverno the name of a specific store Tajda Domo. And of course open stands were all around with merchants and people giving goods and information.



Plenty of Inns around to pick from and most had just enough space for any handful of guests to still come and stay with them, including the ever lovely Kitan, but if cost was a big concern there was always The Great Temple of Aurora which gave free room and board in a voluntary exchange for maybe some service but only if they wanted. Other affordable options existed the choices would be Otulissa's at the end of the day.

History is something Kyrksen has a deep interest in, often on holidays he would visit burial grounds to look for interesting people then during his time on breaks and at work, or when his wife, Sojourner, is at the wheel of his truck he will browse the internet researching on any interesting people he has found in the burial ground, this statue is something similar and as an Auroran citizen, or rather an Australian living as a citizen of the Mercantile Federal Rep. of the Aurora Confederacy, not much is taught about the ASCHA although one of the island names have come for some confusion and so he makes his way to the statue and takes out a video camera and films the statue then films the plaque at its foot however he did so with respect before turning to face Sojourner.
"He's one to read up on" he says

Sojourner nodded,
"aye" she said, taking in the statue "he's been intricately carved too"

"yeah, some work has gone into him, and they look to keep him clean too go to some cities around the world and statues are sometimes covered in bird poop, not this one" he says "and I think our hotel is down there" points Kyrksen.

With that, and his arm around his wife, Kyrk makes his way down a narrow alley way between 2 buildings to his lodge, gently pushing on the door he lets Sojourner in first before walking in and once inside he taps the service bell.

DIIIINNNNNNnnnnng!

---

Elsewhere in the ASCHA, Nebraska and Tricia were also making their way to their lodgings, Nebo's scalp spikes attracting some attention, and so after doing some research on a satellite linked smart phone which is about as thick as 3 iphones with a small stubby antenna the size of a suppressor for a pistol and similarly shaped, Tricia chooses the Kitan and so using a map app is able to make her way there, Nebraska sliding her arm around the much larger Tricia (who is somewhat plus sized) and keeps her other hand in control of a leash which has a cat at the other end, (a cat that seems to want to stop every few minutes to sniff and see what is around him).

"How much is the Kitan costing?" asks Nebo

"Nebs, less than what it cost to park my truck at Strensham services for a night" replies Tricia as she makes her way to the hotel

[Astares Amauricanum]

Kino

"Well great, glad you're interested. Painting will run you 1100 Credits, the block 400. Sunplena" he called his daughter over "We got ourselves paying customers."

"Right" she double checked the prices with him and added them up "All right for the bundle it's 1500 total for the art. The clothes I'll take a little off because you've been such good customers. First of our day in fact ya know. So early bird specials" She winked. She returned to the ladies "Frankly, I think the orange would look great on you. You're familiar with Pacifica right? One important leader she loves the orange. There's also yellow which i think would look great on you."



Hoshino

"Li is fine." Shinya agreed "We're off duty anyway. "

"Oh that's very interesting." It actually made her feel better her old home could be a resting place and let nature reclaim it. Her old kingdom was no more she'd accepted that but it was good to know others would still treat it with reverence. she sniffled back a tear "Thank you very much. I know nations need to develop and expand and that but my old home still has an echo with me. I'm glad some folks out there will be kind with it. Thanks again. Hey meal on us."

Shinya agreed "Yeah so order whatever you like."

Joel Miller
Kino, Corona
"Okay then, 1500 Credits it is." I reply as I hand the sum I took from my bagpack to Sunplena's father (Sunplena, what a really lovely name.) "And thank you very much for the discount Sir." I add. "Do you mind if we leave those to you for now, and come back later to fetch them? It wouldn't be very practical to cary them all day with us, especially since we have still so many things to see." I say with a smile.
"Especially with a certain vendor..." says Tommy in Astarian with a sly tone.
"Brother, can you please just shut up for once?" I reply in Astarian.

Sarah Miller
"Indeed, we've heard of Pacifica, she's your head of Congress right?" I reply to Sunplena (the more I look at her and Dad, the more it becomes clear they're made for each other.) "You're right Miss, I'll take the orange one, thank you very much. And what color would you recommend for my Aunt Maria?" I ask as I point to the latter.

---

Staff Sergeant Abigail "Abby" Anderson
Port Aya, Hoshino
"Okay then, Li it will be." Owen replies to Shinya with a small chuckle.
"You're very welcome Miss Li. And thank you very much for the meal, you didn't have to." I reply to Ya-Xi with a soothing tone, before handing her a paper tissue to wipe her tears if she wants. "Although nor me or Owen had a role in it. But we'll be sure to relay your thanks to the higher-ups. Besides, we already have more than enough ressources and land to develop with the rest of the Malditas to allow ourselves to leave one of them untouched. Just to ask, what was the original name of your Island? I'm sure that once they learn it, our superios will want to give it back its original name."
"Also Mr Li," asks Owen to Shinya, "what would you recommend for us to order for the meal? Any local food or dish we should try?"

[Lux Pulchrae]

Ren finished with the last of the guests. "Just in luck, scooped up another free room for today." Ren noted down their information. "All right, welcome to the Kitan." She summoned another one of the employees over "Can you please show our guests to room 4C?"

"Certainly. Please follow me." She took them up the stairs to their room situated atop the fourth floor a few more doors down from where the guests from the PPC were staying. "Here we are." She opened the door for them, walking inside and opening the drapes and window for them "Hope it's to your liking. If you need something I'm sure we can accommodate. For now beds are stored right behind the frame there, just pull or there are futons in your closet if you wish to go at it the islander way. We offer turn down service and light your lamps for you by nightfall. If you need a place to eat, we do have a restaurant next door, it's included with your stay here."

"Wow, the fourth floor." Felipe said as they were guided to their room. They listened as their guide gave them a quick tour of the room, thanking her as she left and closing the door. They dropped their luggage and thought of what to do next. "So what now? We walk around like lost dogs?"

"No, not really. We could just ask for an event list or something." at that moment her stomach grumbled "Maybe we should eat first. That ship food could have been better."

"Yeah maybe. The lady said there was a restaurant nearby." Felipe agreed, though he was busy staring at his muscles in the bathroom mirror. They weren't huge like say a Schwarzenegger, but he was pretty well defined and maintained it well.

"You done Narcissus?"

"Narcissus? Calm down I'm not that into myself." he put his tank top back on and grabbed his holstered gun, following Letizia out the door.

"Uh, wait. Where you going with that?" She asked, wondering about the gun.

"Same place you are."

"You are not walking around with that on you hip. You're on an island, not Medina.

"I'm Guardia Civil. I have to carry this."

"No you don't, we're on vaca- whatever, I don't want to waste time. Can't believe this." she mumbled as they headed downstairs to tackle lunch.

They were about to head to the restaurant when Felipe noticed something. A gun. A woman with a gun. "Hey miss, I see I'm not the only paranoid one here." he motioned his hip to flash his holster "Baretta 92. I'm Felipe, but English speakers call me Felix. And this is my sister Letizia."

Letizia greeted the stranger with with a smile, a nod, and a hello. She then whispered to her brother "Are you going to be here long? I'm going to go get some food."

"Yeah I'll meet you in a second. he responded, turning his attention back to the woman. His sister said waved again at the woman before leaving.

[AHSCA]

The AHSCA Isles? Oh God, she really had gone off course, hadn't she? She took a breath. "Th-that's a long way... I'm from Shiatoru." The relative distance between the modern socialist island-continent and the underdeveloped islands was fairly small in planetary scale, but an incredible chasm in student-pilot-getting-lost scale. This was perhaps even more miraculous than it first appeared. "I, uh, was mostly focused on flying straight and contacting someone. That might be why I'm here... might have hit a radio deadzone."

She sighed, pushing her glasses up. "...That'd be really appreciated. I... I can be a little blind without then."

"This area is pretty sparse." An officer noted "Not a big surprise you might have gone without contact a while. If you are feeling up to it now, Miss, we want to get some information from you to notify your home nation you're here and safe. Given the circumstances of how you arrived we don't feel a need to hold you over at our Diplomatic until someone can get you or until you can take board a ship out to get back to your home or nearest airport. Doctor, what's your opinion?"

"Well as far as I can tell she's physically okay. I don't see anything serious, no trauma and only a few cuts and bruises which should heal fine. I really wouldn't mind keeping an eye on her a few days but if she wants to head home she can."

"If money is a concern I'm sure you can get a waiver, even then most currencies are considerably stronger than our own. You picked a funny time to have a crash in the area given we're in the middle of our biggest festival and about to enter the rainy season. So a lot of those in the bureaucracy will be out for a few days. Meantime I think we also ought to get her a fresh pair of clothes."

A couple officers went to scourer what they could find. Toka also asked to see her glasses to get a general idea of what the frames might be, seemed simple enough. "Yes I should have a pair that's close enough for this, should tide you over for a while. Give me about 20 minutes and I'll have them for you here."

The officer continued to gather information from Audrey. Name, age, basic things like that. She mentioned already she was from Shiatoru a student flying when her instructor had a sudden medical issue causing her to have to take sole control which lead to her crash. "Nothing short of a miracle that's for certain. All right we'll get information set home as soon as possible. Well, what do you want to do, wait here a few days or try to get on a ship out as quickly as possible?"

---

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Twin Palms Shop.
Das had nothing bad in mind, quite on the contrary - he approved of my relationship with Marcella, after all!
He smiled and bowed his head lightly. "Then I believe, that congratulations are in order.", he said and rose a moment later, putting a hand on my shoulder. "May Manat watch over you three."
I smiled.
"Dad and I are from a land, where relationships between two women are unusual and actually quite frowned upon.", I said, placed a hand on Dad's shoulder. "But you never minded, did you?"
"As long as my daughter is happy, I am happy.", he said and smiled at me, then at Reina, "And what sort of hypocritical... bottom would I be, if I were to decry a relationship just like the one, that makes her happy?"
My smile would tell everyone, that I was not only happy about his reply, but also happy to have such a girlfriend as Marcella.

Aonas Folracht of the Tribe of Wicklow.
Port of Kino, Corona Island.
I smiled and bowed my head lightly.
"Thank you for your hospitality, Ayla.", I said and meant it. Then I exhaled. "You can actually help me, if you want..."
I would have to remove bridle and saddle on the lad before I started washing him, but there were a few items, which I wanted safe, first of all, my sword.
Carefully, I unlatched the sheath of the short blade from the side of the saddle, the sword still in it. It was a leaf-shaped weapon, the blade seventy-five centimeters long, the scabbard decorated with silver inlays. The pommel was shaped to look like a horse's head. It was not an ideal weapon for a horseman, but a Lannadui was a form from the Age of the High Kings, over sixteen centuries ago, when horsemen were a social elite. Of course, mine was hardly nine years old.
As I unloaded him, I also looked for something and, after a minute, said: "Here we go!"
There was a comb in my hands, which I held out to Ayla.
"Can I ask you to comb out his mane and tail?", I asked of the woman with a smile.

Nela, Prinzessin von Zieselhaven und Elms.
Port Aya, Hoshino.
I smiled.
"We are from a faraway land called Teressien.", I explained to both girl and rabbit, "It's colder there, especially around this time of the year." I let a beat pass. "We are here for the Festival of Holy Light, but also because this is a beautiful place and the two of us needed a short vacation."
No need to tell a little girl, that we also needed a good destination for the maiden voyage of a boat a guy gifted to my best friend because he wanted to bone her... I was quite sure, that this was not exactly something her mother would appreciate.

Twin Palms

Reina smiled "I guess I'm a better sailor than I am a card player." Well she did always lose games oddly, considering her often steely expression but oh well. "Thank you very much, many folks here are happy that The Duchess has found someone she's so fond of. Speaking of I'm sure you have special plans with her soon, so hope you have a nice festival together. It's supposed to be a very nice one this year."

"Sorry to keep you all waiting." Kumiko walked out with her customer whom she had dolled up with a flashy red yukata and something for her hair. "Well I think she likes it and I know I like it. I tried out a few different hair accessories to really bring out her new outfit. If you really like it, it's all included and we have plenty others for just a Credit a piece. Well what do you think?"

Kino, Corona

"Aww it'd be my great pleasure to comb this lovely mane and tail."

Iffy returned a bucket full of water and a few scrub brushes of various sizes, styles and strengths. "I don't have a lot of brushes so if you don't think anys good I can always give you a simple cloth. Until then, this should hopefully be enough for you. Chief I think the two of you really got this, I do have a few other things around I need to do today if you really don't mind."

"All right, that's fair. Thanks again for helping us out, Iffy."

"Sure, my home is yours. Especially for such a lovely looking horse."

"Then Aonas, let's get to getting this fella cleaned up and ready to be the shining star he is!"

Port Aya, Hoshino

Kaori went wide eyed "Wow. I don't know where that is but it does sound far. Most folks who come here come from nearer nations like Mokastana, Kuronami, Lamoni, Holy Marsh. I think some people come for to see the Duchess. It must have been far over the long rolling seas. I've never been on the wide open seas before, only between islands to Aurora and Truce. "

Through Georgie again, "You come very far but now here you can have fun."

Her again, "See the temple. The Matron is the nicest lady you'll ever meet. Or you can swim in the ocean, it not too cold."

History is something Kyrksen has a deep interest in, often on holidays he would visit burial grounds to look for interesting people then during his time on breaks and at work, or when his wife, Sojourner, is at the wheel of his truck he will browse the internet researching on any interesting people he has found in the burial ground, this statue is something similar and as an Auroran citizen, or rather an Australian living as a citizen of the Mercantile Federal Rep. of the Aurora Confederacy, not much is taught about the ASCHA although one of the island names have come for some confusion and so he makes his way to the statue and takes out a video camera and films the statue then films the plaque at its foot however he did so with respect before turning to face Sojourner.
"He's one to read up on" he says

Sojourner nodded,
"aye" she said, taking in the statue "he's been intricately carved too"

"yeah, some work has gone into him, and they look to keep him clean too go to some cities around the world and statues are sometimes covered in bird poop, not this one" he says "and I think our hotel is down there" points Kyrksen.

With that, and his arm around his wife, Kyrk makes his way down a narrow alley way between 2 buildings to his lodge, gently pushing on the door he lets Sojourner in first before walking in and once inside he taps the service bell.

DIIIINNNNNNnnnnng!


Elsewhere in the ASCHA, Nebraska and Tricia were also making their way to their lodgings, Nebo's scalp spikes attracting some attention, and so after doing some research on a satellite linked smart phone which is about as thick as 3 iphones with a small stubby antenna the size of a suppressor for a pistol and similarly shaped, Tricia chooses the Kitan and so using a map app is able to make her way there, Nebraska sliding her arm around the much larger Tricia (who is somewhat plus sized) and keeps her other hand in control of a leash which has a cat at the other end, (a cat that seems to want to stop every few minutes to sniff and see what is around him).

"How much is the Kitan costing?" asks Nebo

"Nebs, less than what it cost to park my truck at Strensham services for a night" replies Tricia as she makes her way to the hotel

The little tucked away inn in Kino almost would look like any building, again the only thing to mark it was the sign, which had a helpful wood sign with a pictogram of a bed and a person sleeping underneath the writing of native word for inn. The dinging bell naturally caught the attention of a young girl high atop a step latter trying to make a little patch in the ceiling that weathered away, "Oh just a seeeec" She toppled over but an older girl entered, her older sister. "Kompa? Are you okay?"

"I'm fine." She popped up adjusting her oversized glasses. With the verbal response, the new arrivals were attendant to "Welcome, needing a room I take it? I can scribe you in." she pulled out a book of names getting their information "All right then. Rate is 100 a night. Upfront deposit of 350 is required, this'll be refunded upon your departure provided things are in good order and repair. Kompa, take them to their room."

"R-right, right!"

Aurora

Ren was still the main girl at the booking podium to welcome guests and confirm reservations or get them in. "Welcome to the Kitan. Reservations on hand or are you looking for an opening?"

---

Joel Miller
Kino, Corona
"Okay then, 1500 Credits it is." I reply as I hand the sum I took from my bagpack to Sunplena's father (Sunplena, what a really lovely name.) "And thank you very much for the discount Sir." I add. "Do you mind if we leave those to you for now, and come back later to fetch them? It wouldn't be very practical to cary them all day with us, especially since we have still so many things to see." I say with a smile.
"Especially with a certain vendor..." says Tommy in Astarian with a sly tone.
"Brother, can you please just shut up for once?" I reply in Astarian.

Sarah Miller
"Indeed, we've heard of Pacifica, she's your head of Congress right?" I reply to Sunplena (the more I look at her and Dad, the more it becomes clear they're made for each other.) "You're right Miss, I'll take the orange one, thank you very much. And what color would you recommend for my Aunt Maria?" I ask as I point to the latter.


Staff Sergeant Abigail "Abby" Anderson
Port Aya, Hoshino
"Okay then, Li it will be." Owen replies to Shinya with a small chuckle.
"You're very welcome Miss Li. And thank you very much for the meal, you didn't have to." I reply to Ya-Xi with a soothing tone, before handing her a paper tissue to wipe her tears if she wants. "Although nor me or Owen had a role in it. But we'll be sure to relay your thanks to the higher-ups. Besides, we already have more than enough ressources and land to develop with the rest of the Malditas to allow ourselves to leave one of them untouched. Just to ask, what was the original name of your Island? I'm sure that once they learn it, our superios will want to give it back its original name."
"Also Mr Li," asks Owen to Shinya, "what would you recommend for us to order for the meal? Any local food or dish we should try?"

He nodded. "Yeah we can hold 'em here for you. No issue, we'll keep them wrapped and ready for you here."

Suneplena beamed a smile, "She is all right. For now, I mean things can always change and Miela could take the position but whatever. Orange will look great on you. Let me think Sinjorino Maria I think a deep navy would be great on you." she pulled out the dark blue cloth and held it against her. "Jes jes I think it would be perfect for you."

Hoshino

Ya-Xi took the tissue with a thankful nod. "It-well it was called Liánhuā, named because it was always ripe with lotus flowers. The prettiest flowers ever. My name is actually an older derivative of Lotus flower in different context and verbiage anyway. Some called it the island of ash. The mountain that took the island was always active but seldom explosive and dangerous as it became that day. But that's enough of that old story."

Shinya segewayed when asked about dishes "There's lots of good things to try here. You can go with some kind of rice based dish mixed with some type of fish. There's also Mokan dishes from Mokastana that mix and match islander tastes. I like this place's Special on that, they really know how to mix and match everything perfectly"

"All a bit too spicy for me," Ya=Xi mused taking a look at the other specials "So I think I'll stick with something a bit on the blander side. I like polished white rice with ham cubes myself. The islands all have many rice farms that hand cultivate all the grains. We grow so much it's become a big export now a days."

---

"Wow, the fourth floor." Felipe said as they were guided to their room. They listened as their guide gave them a quick tour of the room, thanking her as she left and closing the door. They dropped their luggage and thought of what to do next. "So what now? We walk around like lost dogs?"

"No, not really. We could just ask for an event list or something." at that moment her stomach grumbled "Maybe we should eat first. That ship food could have been better."

"Yeah maybe. The lady said there was a restaurant nearby." Felipe agreed, though he was busy staring at his muscles in the bathroom mirror. They weren't huge like say a Schwarzenegger, but he was pretty well defined and maintained it well.

"You done Narcissus?"

"Narcissus? Calm down I'm not that into myself." he put his tank top back on and grabbed his holstered gun, following Letizia out the door.

"Uh, wait. Where you going with that?" She asked, wondering about the gun.

"Same place you are."

"You are not walking around with that on you hip. You're on an island, not Medina.

"I'm Guardia Civil. I have to carry this."

"No you don't, we're on vaca- whatever, I don't want to waste time. Can't believe this." she mumbled as they headed downstairs to tackle lunch.

They were about to head to the restaurant when Felipe noticed something. A gun. A woman with a gun. "Hey miss, I see I'm not the only paranoid one here." he motioned his hip to flash his holster "Baretta 92. I'm Felipe, but English speakers call me Felix. And this is my sister Letizia."

Letizia greeted the stranger with with a smile, a nod, and a hello. She then whispered to her brother "Are you going to be here long? I'm going to go get some food."

"Yeah I'll meet you in a second. he responded, turning his attention back to the woman. His sister said waved again at the woman before leaving.

Hyeon-Mi had excused herself momentarily to use the facilities before they'd go over to eat, leaving Ji-yun standing alone a short moment. Approached by the strange men didn't make her coil especially considering he introduced himself in a friendly manner noting they were both carrying.

"I wouldn't call it paranoia so much as cautious. Good to meet you, sir, Ji-yun." She introduced herself back. No mention she was a bodyguard, wasn't important. "Also here to see the sights. I'm waiting on my traveling buddy that I'm here with, we're just about to go eat ourselves."

Hyeon-Mi returned in a short bit "Oh hello." She said to him.

"And here she is now." Ji-Yun smiled "All set?" she asked Hyeon-Mi

"Yes I am."

"Well, sir, I hear tables go up fast next door, but maybe we could join you? A couple bumpkin tourists like ourselves surely won't cause you too much trouble. Fellow carriers after all. If you don't mind, Hyeon,"

"No I don't mind."

[Shiatoru]

"This area is pretty sparse." An officer noted "Not a big surprise you might have gone without contact a while. If you are feeling up to it now, Miss, we want to get some information from you to notify your home nation you're here and safe. Given the circumstances of how you arrived we don't feel a need to hold you over at our Diplomatic until someone can get you or until you can take board a ship out to get back to your home or nearest airport. Doctor, what's your opinion?"

"Well as far as I can tell she's physically okay. I don't see anything serious, no trauma and only a few cuts and bruises which should heal fine. I really wouldn't mind keeping an eye on her a few days but if she wants to head home she can."

"If money is a concern I'm sure you can get a waiver, even then most currencies are considerably stronger than our own. You picked a funny time to have a crash in the area given we're in the middle of our biggest festival and about to enter the rainy season. So a lot of those in the bureaucracy will be out for a few days. Meantime I think we also ought to get her a fresh pair of clothes."

A couple officers went to scourer what they could find. Toka also asked to see her glasses to get a general idea of what the frames might be, seemed simple enough. "Yes I should have a pair that's close enough for this, should tide you over for a while. Give me about 20 minutes and I'll have them for you here."

The officer continued to gather information from Audrey. Name, age, basic things like that. She mentioned already she was from Shiatoru a student flying when her instructor had a sudden medical issue causing her to have to take sole control which lead to her crash. "Nothing short of a miracle that's for certain. All right we'll get information set home as soon as possible. Well, what do you want to do, wait here a few days or try to get on a ship out as quickly as possible?"

Audrey listened to all this, processing everything. "Man... sorry I interrupted your festival, the beach probably got quite a show." She lets out a nervous laugh. "On the bright side, you're probably gonna get a lot more attention for it really fast... hell, they might even give the ATC person a Solidarity Medal." (A Solidarity Medal was the highest honor that the Shiatoruan government could bestow on a foreigner.) "...I mean, that'll probably be at least 70% flattery to avoid an international incident on the state's part, but they really did help me so much. I only got out of that alive because of them. Tell them I said thanks, yeah?"

When she asked what she wanted to do, she took a second to think about it. She wanted to go home... but she didn't want to risk overexerting herself after that mess. She was exhausted, and still kind of sore, and probably traumatized and in need of therapy. She needed to relax. Plus, an unplanned vacation on a tropical island having a party couldn't hurt, right? "...I think I wanna stay here a few days. Where can I stay?"

[Polish Prussian Commonwealth]

Eanswythe Thornton

I'm not sure how it happened, but it had turned into a race.

Alice suddenly sprinted off, leaving me with little choice but to rush after her. In my fucking shoes to boot.
The two of us probably stuck out like a sore thumb as we raced through the city, skirts fluttering a little. Thank God that the wind wasn't too heavy, otherwise at least one of us would have been embarassed at some point.

Note to self; next time, remember to bring along more trousers.
As we rushed through the town, I caught up with Alice. "Oi! Lipka! Where the bloody 'ell we headed anyway!"
"There's an inn called the Kitan, just a few dozen yards from here! We'll leave our shit there!"

With that, she sped ahead, before abruptly tripping and falling hard on the pavement. I skidded to a halt and turned around to help her, and she was up quickly, but her uniform sleeve was torn and her nose very quickly began to trickle blood.

"Lipka, you alright?" I asked, looking over her wounds.
"Aye, just a scratch and a noseblood. Comeon, let's move."
"You sure?"
"I ain't an infant, Thornton." Alice grumbled. "Comeon, let's go."

With that, we went on, and soon entered the inn.

Alice's nosebleed and scrape might attract attention, but we both paid no heed to any odd looks.
Instead, we headed to the clerk, and began to check in.
"A room, two people." Alice said, before I could speak up. "How much for, say, a week's stay? And you got a tissue?"

---

Otulissa von Sarmaten
I had checked into an inn and was about to enter my room, when someone called to me.
"Hey miss, I see I'm not the only paranoid one here. Baretta 92. I'm Felipe, but English speakers call me Felix. And this is my sister Letizia."

I turned around, and my heart skipped a beat. I had nothing to reasonably fear, of course, but...something still caused me to freeze up.

I turned around, slowly, and took a few deep breaths to calm myself.
"Good day." I replied, my hand going to my M1911. "Felix who? And who do you work for?"

[Kyrenaia]

[...]

Twin Palms

Reina smiled "I guess I'm a better sailor than I am a card player." Well she did always lose games oddly, considering her often steely expression but oh well. "Thank you very much, many folks here are happy that The Duchess has found someone she's so fond of. Speaking of I'm sure you have special plans with her soon, so hope you have a nice festival together. It's supposed to be a very nice one this year."

"Sorry to keep you all waiting." Kumiko walked out with her customer whom she had dolled up with a flashy red yukata and something for her hair. "Well I think she likes it and I know I like it. I tried out a few different hair accessories to really bring out her new outfit. If you really like it, it's all included and we have plenty others for just a Credit a piece. Well what do you think?"

Kino, Corona

"Aww it'd be my great pleasure to comb this lovely mane and tail."

Iffy returned a bucket full of water and a few scrub brushes of various sizes, styles and strengths. "I don't have a lot of brushes so if you don't think anys good I can always give you a simple cloth. Until then, this should hopefully be enough for you. Chief I think the two of you really got this, I do have a few other things around I need to do today if you really don't mind."

"All right, that's fair. Thanks again for helping us out, Iffy."

"Sure, my home is yours. Especially for such a lovely looking horse."

"Then Aonas, let's get to getting this fella cleaned up and ready to be the shining star he is!"

Port Aya, Hoshino

Kaori went wide eyed "Wow. I don't know where that is but it does sound far. Most folks who come here come from nearer nations like Mokastana, Kuronami, Lamoni, Holy Marsh. I think some people come for to see the Duchess. It must have been far over the long rolling seas. I've never been on the wide open seas before, only between islands to Aurora and Truce. "

Through Georgie again, "You come very far but now here you can have fun."

Her again, "See the temple. The Matron is the nicest lady you'll ever meet. Or you can swim in the ocean, it not too cold."

[...]

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Twin Palms Shop.
Any reply to Reina's well wishes was cut off by Kumiko and Yasmin returning.
The latter wore a deep-red yukata, a few accessories in her hair and a graceful smile on her lips. She moved so gracefully and wore that little smile...
I glanced over to Dad, who was as if mesmerized.
Yasmin tittered. "I think, that's a winner.", she said and looked to me. "What do you think, Aurelia?"
I nodded. "I'd think so, too. He likes it, you like it and I think you look splendid as well.", I said, "Where did you learn to move so gracefully?"
"I was my Father's Tea Maid whenever I was at home during the summer.", she said with a small, wistful smile. "Aischa taught me a few tricks."
I nodded. Aischa Alchikha was the Chief Handmaiden of the Qasrjabal, the seat of government of the Khanate of Tanin.
"She did a very good job.", Dad said lovingly, then bowed his head lightly at Kumiko. "And so did you."
Yasmin and I nodded in agreement.

Aonas Folracht of the Tribe of Wicklow.
Port of Kino, Corona Island.
I bowed my head in gratitude to Miss Iffy as well, promising myself to make it up to her, especially since I had only two brushes, one being my own toothbrush and the other being a brush for this guy, who was at the center of attention of myself and Ayla.
I smiled at her enthusiasm.
"Indeed, let's get to it!", I said and took off my t-shirt. It revealed nothing, which Ayla hadn't already seen on the beach, the same muscular upper body, no pumping, but still lean muscles and a few small scars, ready to use it all. I winked at Ayla. "My last good shirt!"
We would most likely get a bit dirty ourselves during our work.

Nela, Prinzessin von Zieselhaven und Elms.
Port Aya, Hoshino.
"Swimming in the ocean sounds good.", Rena said with a smile, her being an active woman, that hardly surprised me. Besides, she had the bikini under her clothes, which should be telling enough.
I smiled at her, then at Kaori and Georgie. "That sounds very nice. Do you two know any nice spots?", I asked and then leaned over slightly, as if to tell a secret: "If the spot is really nice, there's ice cream in it for you!"
Rena snorted lightly, while I winked at Kaori.

[Astares Amauricanum]

He nodded. "Yeah we can hold 'em here for you. No issue, we'll keep them wrapped and ready for you here."

Suneplena beamed a smile, "She is all right. For now, I mean things can always change and Miela could take the position but whatever. Orange will look great on you. Let me think Sinjorino Maria I think a deep navy would be great on you." she pulled out the dark blue cloth and held it against her. "Jes jes I think it would be perfect for you."

Hoshino

Ya-Xi took the tissue with a thankful nod. "It-well it was called Liánhuā, named because it was always ripe with lotus flowers. The prettiest flowers ever. My name is actually an older derivative of Lotus flower in different context and verbiage anyway. Some called it the island of ash. The mountain that took the island was always active but seldom explosive and dangerous as it became that day. But that's enough of that old story."

Shinya segewayed when asked about dishes "There's lots of good things to try here. You can go with some kind of rice based dish mixed with some type of fish. There's also Mokan dishes from Mokastana that mix and match islander tastes. I like this place's Special on that, they really know how to mix and match everything perfectly"

"All a bit too spicy for me," Ya=Xi mused taking a look at the other specials "So I think I'll stick with something a bit on the blander side. I like polished white rice with ham cubes myself. The islands all have many rice farms that hand cultivate all the grains. We grow so much it's become a big export now a days."

Joel Miller
Kino, Corona.
"Thank you very much Sir." I reply to Sunplena's father. "In the meantime, your daughter also mentioned something about customized fishnets and blades, can you show us some of these please?" I ask.

Sarah Miller
"Indeed, it looks really great on you Auntie." I say to Maria with a smile. "Uncle Tommy will fall heads over heels for you again." I add with a small smirk.
"I believe so too." replies my aunt with the same smirk, before turning back to Sunplena. "Thank you very much Miss Sunplena, it looks marvellous. You really have an eye for matching clothes with people. In the eantime, do you have any accesories that would go well with these?" she asks as she designates the sarongs. "Bracelets, pendants, anything?"

---

Staff Sergeant Abigail "Abby" Anderson
Port Aya, Hoshino
"Liánhuā it will be then." I reply as I take out my smartphone to write down the name on the notepad app to remember it, before putting it back into my pocket. "It's a really lovely name, just like the Lotus flower. I do not mean to bring back sad memories Miss Li, bt would you maybe, eventually, like in the future to come back to it?" I ask with a cautious tone, careful in my choice of words.

"Don't worry, eating spicy foods is very usual for us Astarians." replies Owen to Shinya with a smile. "So I think I'll maybe try this place's Special as you say. What do you say Abby?" he asks as he turns to me.
"Yeah, I'll also take that, very well spiced please." I reply to Owen.