Journey Aboard the RMS Caloris (IC)

[Kuronami]

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Grand Harbor, Atlanta Confederation

It was getting onto 9AM. Today was the first of February in 1889, and the RMS Caloris was on its last stop before heading for home. Grand Harbor was added to the docket as the 1888 Voyage that was a straight shot from Cartoonia to Kuronami, was a bit more difficult than expected. Rough weather, well that was to be expected, slowed them tremendously and that ate up a lot more fuel which put the ship on pure wind power. The hybrid steam/sail powered ship, common for its time managed fine but it was decided an extra stop to resupply was warranted and thus Grand Harbor was added. It was good though for Green Sea, the owners of this fair vessel. Another stop did add to the trip length BUT it did mean a few more paying customers which was good for business naturally. Not as many immigrants on this trip, mostly a few returning home to Kuronami, more tourists. Cartoonian immigrants seemed to be making up the biggest bulk of non-natives going to Kuronami for the first time to make a new life for themselves or seek work for the time being. The state of the world can be like that, some countries struggle, others do okay. The miracle of steam had shaved off months from these journeys and luxury travel started to become a thing.

This voyage also had a new captain aboard, Captain Abraham Andrews a seasoned veteran of the Royal Navy and civilian maritime service. He was thrilled to take up the job. Last year's Captain, Captain Edward Jonah Braun was in command of another ship closer to home, running between Kuronami's coastlines and outlying island territories. Not that he didn't enjoy the long journey, but his two daughters were now in a stately boarding school. Captain Andrews had children yes, but his were all well grown now. A new captain came a new crew, officers down the row, including another one from Cartoonia, one whom joined at the start of this trip that departed Kuronami months prior. Thus far the trip had been nice, ups and downs, but no major events to speak of. Well there was always time for something to happen.

On the bridge, The Captain talked over with his Officers, if any had further concerns to voice, he would listen and act upon them. A good captain must trust his crew and work with them, not dominate them, it's one of the things this Captain learned from his own father and grandfather before him. What might add to some complications this trip was you had the ship's designer and Chairman of the Green Sea Line aboard this ship. They had naturally sailed on the ship's maiden voyage when she launched in 1881 so who knows what brought them aboard this particular voyage. Well it didn't matter, as Captain he had the final say at sea, owners be damned. He looked at his pocket watch, just after 9 AM now. People were already gathering on the pier to board or see people off.

For those who had already been aboard this morning, some would assemble in First Class dining for a morning tea or coffee. Otherwise the promenade was always open for people who wanted to take in the lovely morning without going out into the cool February air.

For those in second and steerage, breakfast accommodations were the same but not as ritzy or nice, but tea and coffee were certainly available. This was a good time to get up on deck and take in the fresh-air and sunshine while one could. Second class cabins were generally a little nicer, some had private cabin others might share with one or two others. Easier to get around to the upper decks. If you were third-class steerage this might be your once chance to see a foreign port or be able to get up into the fresh air. Some times harsh weather could keep you below deck in the dreary dim poorly lit hollow shell of the ship. Third-class was usually limited to a large dormitory all shared by both sexes with only a single lamp and coal stove for light and heat.

One little girl from third-class was Cordelia Barnes. Her mother and her were returning to Kuronami from Cartoonia after tragedy struck their poor family. Well it was new start for them now, at least they hoped. Now having endured what felt like forever at sea, it was nice to get above deck a little. Well right now Cordelia was by herself, her mother wanted some breakfast first before getting up and out. Thankfully this was one of the few ships that allowed all classes to go above deck. There were some ships that only let first class get the privileged of deck access.

"Cordelia!" A sweet voice called out to her, but not her mother in this case, the voice of another girl, Anastasia Palma a girl from First Class. But class often matters little to children when they find something in common. For them, it was a love of two things, cute kitty cats and books. Oh books! Cordelia was pretty lucky, being poor and being literate don't usually go hand in hand but her late father, a Cartoonian man, rest his soul, wanted his little girl to read and read she did! Cordelia had one book, a book she cherished, and read it over and over again. It was all she had on this trip. Anastasia of course, from wealth, privileged and class, she could have all the books she wanted, and she certainly had plenty in her trunk. She was happy to share with her new friend.

"Ana!" The two girls ran right up to each other

"Here I brought you a bun from dining!" Anastasia handed it over to her

She unwrapped from cloth a freshly baked bread roll .

"Oh really? That's so nice of you! You didn't have to!"

"I don't mind! I wasn't very hungry for breakfast anyway!"

Cordelia did scarf down the roll. She must have been more hungry than she realized when she came above. "Silly, you skipped breakfast to meet me?" Anastasia handed her a little cloth to wipe the crumbs off her face. "I would have waited for you. I have another book we can read together. When the ship set off we can watch together!"

"Sounds like it'll be fun!"

---

Certainly passengers were excited about getting underway soon and below decks, plenty of crew were working hard and around the clock to get things ready. The kitchen cooking meals for people and all the day down in the engine rooms, fireman stoking boilers and getting them ready to go. Mechanics overlooking every mechanism of the engines to make sure they'd get going and staying as such. Deck hands meanwhile inspected the masts and sails to ensure they could hold up and make repairs if any were needed. For all accounts The Caloris was ready to get underway on schedule. Now all that was left was to get passengers aboard.

Officers down on the harbor, boarding ramps being joined to allow those to board. Third-class passengers boarding would be given a health inspection for lice or other sickness that may be afflicting them. First and second class were usually rubber stamped along, tickets marked and officers and crew welcoming them aboard.

[Mountainus]

Howard Oakburn:

8:50 AM, 2-1-1889: Aboard the RMS Caloris, Grand Harbor, Atlantian Confederation:

Howard Oakburn, a 6'3" man with light bronze skin, grey-brown hair, and piercing blue eyes, stared out at the ocean before him. He was a 2nd class traveler aboard the RMS Caloris, heading on his way from his home in Brooklyn, USA to Kuronami (via the Atlantian Dominions). He had boarded just two hours earlier, had gotten settled in his private stateroom on the middle decks. Howard, feeling hungry, decided to make his way down below for a late breakfast and some socialization...

---

OOC: Edited for spelling checks

[Trenaka]

Tagging for now

[Atlantian Dominions]

Grand Harbor

It had been a lovely, peaceful morning. Of course, every morning was peaceful in Uptown. It was the part of the city where the wealthy, powerful, and influential lived, so it was well-policed and kept free of the sort of riffraff who might cause a ruckus or disrupt the morning calm. Of course, sometimes it wasn't someone from the outside who could cause a stir.

"You damn scoundrel! Blackguard! Get back here!"

"Papa, no, don't hurt him!"

Frederick Hennigen heard the grunt of effort from behind him, and he ducked low just in time to avoid being struck in the back by a hurled piece of porcelain. The empty vase shattered upon contact with the wall above him. That was a waste of fine china, he thought. No time to stop and mourn, though. The man who'd thrown the vase was still pursuing him, slowed down but not stopped by the young woman clinging to his arm. Daphne Taggart's long blonde hair was whipping around her head as she pleaded with her father to stop, but Nathaniel Taggart was in a bull rage. Frederick understood, academically, why the railroad magnate might be upset to find his beloved, and unmarried, daughter in bed with him. But really the old man should be thanking him. He'd certainly provided a better experience for Daphne than any of the dull Aristos who had been trying to court her.

He half-ran, half-fell down the stairs to the second floor, and rushed past the very confused butler towards the door. Nathaniel Taggart shouted from the top of the stairs, "Stop him, Smythe! Don't let him get away!" It was too late. He reached the door and flung it open. A final impish impulse overtook him, and he paused just long enough to turn back and blow a kiss to Daphne, who cried out, "Freddie, come back!" Then he was out onto the street, slamming the door behind him. Frederick raced down the street, around the corner, and then forced himself to stop, breath, and calm down. He smoothed out his clothes, which he had thrown on in a panicked frenzy when he'd heard Nathanial coming up the stairs that morning. Then he sauntered down the street, towards the docks. Daphne Taggart had been a good bit of sport, but it had run its course. The heat would die down eventually, but he needed to put some distance between himself and the many, many hired men that Nathaniel Taggart could employ to track him down.

He patted his vest pocket, and smiled. The ticket for the Caloris was still there. He'd spend some time at sea, then in this "Kuronami" place, and when things had cooled down here he'd catch a ship back to the Dominions and spend some time in Columbia, or Lemoyne. He'd bought a second class ticket - better to keep a low profile on the ship's records. He thought he'd have no trouble finding someone to entertain him while he was aboard, and maybe even for the length of his little vacation as well.

Boarding the ship went without a hitch, and he judged the private cabin to be acceptable. He washed his face in the bathroom and then went out onto the deck to walk around and get the lay of the land.

[Trenaka]

Otto von Hohenzollern would walk up the grand staircase, made of richly colored dark wood to his first class room, and would unpack his things. He would take off his heavy coat, placing it in the closet, and would walk to the dining area to get some coffee and socialize with the other wealthy, elite socialites.

[Brettenwald]

"Beautiful ship, isn't she?" Felix Hannekan called over the bustle of the docks and the squawking seagulls as he pushed through the crowd, looking out over the scene through bright, intelligent and still slightly boyish green eyes. "Indeed she is, my lord. The pride of the Green Sea Line," Hagan Kantari, His Lordship's valet and gentleman's personal gentleman replied, drawing himself and the majority of the pair's luggage to a halt at the end of the line for the first-class boarding ramp. The pair had arrived here on a different vessel but the Caloris was going somewhere more interesting after departing Grand Harbor, so here they were. Felix's father believed in a well-rounded education, and though the idea of a grand tour was now slowly becoming passé even back home in the Empire he had jumped at the chance. Expanding one's cultural knowledge beyond one's own national borders was easier than ever now that steamships had cemented their hold on ocean-going travel, so why not pack a trunk and see the world?

If he were to be honest, as he always was, the young count had not wholly enjoyed his time in the Atlantian Dominions. It was a fine country with pleasant scenery and friendly people but the defeated look in the eyes of the Indentured had turned his stomach, so he had instructed Kantari to tip like it was going out of style and be even more polite to his fellow servants than he usually was, and though that had let him sleep better at night he had nevertheless been privately counting down the days until the Caloris was to depart. Kantari would never have admitted it as he believed it wasn't his place to judge, but Felix had gotten the feeling he felt the same way. It didn't matter anymore now that they were about to depart. The boarding process went smoothly apart from a brief moment of confusion when Felix forgot that he'd given Kantari both the tickets, and the pair were soon ensconced in a large, richly appointed suite. "I'll be in the common dining area for a while, I believe. You can't get decent tea for love or gold in this country, but hopefully my luck will improve aboard this ship." Kantari smiled. "Very good, my lord. I will have everything unpacked and in order for you when you get back." And with that His Lordship left the cabin, eventually making his way to the dining room. "Good morning, miss." Waitresses, that was an unfamiliar sight. "Could I have a cup of tea, please? Thank you."

[Diarcesia]

A year has passed since Anne-Catherine Luna's (Losphortoenean: Anna-Karin Luna) first day in the RMS Caloris as one of her telegraphists. Green Sea had been impressed enough with her that they petitioned AK's employer to borrow her services in a later voyage. Not willing to pass up on a lucrative contract, AK jumped on the chance when she received it: she is getting more and more comfortable around telegraphs.

Having spent a decent amount of time within the confines of the booths of her assigned ships, there is little doubt that AK has a bit of an insular aspect in her personality. She has a preference to hang out with people who were more like herself. It made sense. Being a telegraphist is to be constantly on the move: not only between ports, but across different ships after a leg of a certain route, or when the final destination is reached. In the end, it all came down to the one question that remained unanswered: what has become of Kei, the other telegraphist during her previous stint in the Caloris?

An odd, but at the same time, fitting, question as she approached the ship.

On the way to the rendezvous point, AK made a quick detour to check on last-minute errands connected to her previous assignment. When she finally got in, she found that the ship already has a sizable number of passengers and crew inside. More were lined up on the ramp to come aboard. Some of the more brawny crew were doing the heavy lifting of the cargo.

"Can I..." she started asking one of the other members of the crew, but was cut short when she was rudely interrupted by someone running across the corridor. That guy appeared to be in a rush over something. With him out of the way, she continued. "Can I get a drink before we depart?"

[Democratu]

The stacks spew smoke as the boilers are warmed up to operating temperature. The bunker has been checked thrice as Bruce runs around the Engine Room ensuring that all 3 boilers are warming up evenly. Prior to this, Bruce had ensured that all 3 boilers had been shut down, every bit of them cleaned, coal bunker checked for quality and volume, a uniform bed of coal laid in each firebox to ensure an even burn in all 3 boilers before lighting off all 3. Crew chiefs had been appointed to coordinate the efforts of the crew of each boiler to ensure they were being brought up to operating temperature slowly but steadily. Once everything was in place and proceeding properly, Bruce picked up the mouthpiece for the telegraph. "Bridge from Engineering, all 3 boilers warming steadily, should be up to temperature by 6 bells on the forenoon watch (11 AM), ready for engine telegraph test on your mark."

[Cartoonia]

Grand Harbor, February 1, 1889. 9:01 AM

In the steerage dining room, two young men eat a simple breakfast of bread and coffee both poorly dressed, dirty, and barefoot. The one with pink hair only had a ragged vest and tattered pants. The other one with dark blue hair only had the tattered pants, where one pant leg was torn off years ago. It was better than what he had a few months ago. He only had one pair of ragged boxer shorts, before he scavenged the pants from the garbage. Their names are Natsu Dragneel and Gray Fullbuster respectively. Both were orphans that lived on the streets of Gallagher of the Cartune Isles, a colony of the United States of America. Natsu was abandoned when he was younger, not knowing his parents. Gray was made an orphan when his parents were murdered in cold blood. Their entire lives were occupied with scavenging, begging, and often thievery. They had a friend Jellal Fernandes who last year, immigrated to Kuronami for a better life, a life not available for many on the Cartune Isles. It’s been a year and now both of them want to find him and live a better life as well.

Just like Jellal, they pickpocketed two poor suckers with tickets for the RMS Caloris, and then boarded the ship at Port Gallagher with no questions asked. There were a few eyes turned seeing the tattered clothing that they wore, but they thought nothing of it too much. Many steerage were just as badly off as they were.

“You know” Gray says to his companion, quietly as though they were keeping a secret. “I never thought that we would be able to get on board a ship as big as this one”.

“I mean they didn’t ask much” Natsu replies, scarfing down. “Just the tickets and immigration papers. Easy to forge by the way”.

“I got to hand it to them, the conditions on this ship are spotless. Hardly any rats”.

“That’s too bad. It would have been nice to have something familiar to eat”. Natsu shivered a tad bit from the cold morning air, it wouldn’t help that his clothes were nothing but rags. “It’s a great ship, but still damned cold”.

“What are you talking about, it’s not cold at all”.

“That’s because you got used to it. Always walking through town just in boxers. You’re very lucky you were able to find those pants in the trash heap. Have some decency”.

“Oh, that’s rich” Gray responds sarcastically. “Coming from a guy who eats anything from the garbage”.

“At least I’m not a winter loving stripper”.

“Stupid rat eating hellfire spawn”.

“Fiery mouth breather”.

“Purvey popsicle”.

They fight as usual. this was common for these two to but heads since they really are polar opposites. Natsu prefers the heat, while Gray prefers the cold. Natsu is loud and jumpy, Gray is more laidback. Of course, this ends with them laughing it off. They are good companions after all.

“You think we will find Jellal wherever we are heading?” Natsu asks.

“I’m sure we might meet him there, if not immediately then later once we actually have money and work”.

“Kind of wish he would still contact us”.

“He’s like us. He doesn’t know how to read. But I’m sure we could find him. Even if it takes us the rest of our lives”.

---

An officer stands at the bridge of the ship, having a breakfast of toast and marmalade with a hot cup of tea, a lovely morning meal on a cold February like this one. He was a young man with short black hair that spikes in all directions and sharp green eyes. He wears the uniform of the second officer that was given to him at the start of the voyage. His name is Naofumi Iwatani, a young freelance officer that often worked on the steamboats around the Cartune Isles, having left the naval service. He worked his way up to the ranks of second officer, which was recognized by the United States Merchant Marine Board. A job listing offered him a job on board the RMS Caloris, he applied promptly. Since he applied before the ship left its home port, he traveled on board another steamship (a former Eturia class ocean liner purchased by the Occidental and Oriental Steamship Company), and arrived there the day before the ship departed. He has gotten acquainted with Captain Andrews and the rest of the officers and crew as well. He did his work diligently and without distraction, and during his time off he would speak with the passengers, often about the voyage or life in general.

He examines the harbour of which they are situated. Grand Harbor. The latest edition to the ship’s timetable. Of course, they were on time as usual. He looks over his pocket watch, checking the time. It was a little past nine, the cargo was still being loaded onto the ship and passengers were still coming on board. The pursuer came up onto the bridge and with no other officers close by, gave a list of passengers and cargo to him.

Upon receiving the list, Naofumi goes up to Captain Andrews to give a full report on all passengers and cargo.

“Sir” Naofumi starts, saluting the captain. “An updated list of all passengers and cargo aboard. It seems that almost all the cargo is on board. Mail destined for here has been offloaded and new mail bags have been delivered. Passengers are slowly being processed and shown to their cabins as well”.

---

Coming out of one of the large staterooms on the ship was the governor general of the Cartune Isles getting away for a holiday. Charles Montgomery Burns is not only a powerful governor for the American colonies of those isles, but also a major tycoon mogul of the tea industry owner of the tea manufacturing company St. Gloriana South Tea Company. The company produces and controls a good portion of the world market on tea. An old man himself inherited his wealth from southern tea and cotton plantations, he had everything he wanted and was willing to flaunt that wealth to others. He left the colonies in the care of the deputy governor, Benson Dunwoody. He was dressed in a formal morning suit and adorned a top hat. He walks to the staircase where he meets up with another businessman who agreed to accompany him on holiday.

A tall and slender man much younger than him, with pale-blond hair and blue eyes. He was dressed in straight black trousers and a pale blue blazer, under which is worn a long or short-sleeved white shirt and black Windsor-knotted silk tie, accented by a narrow purple band running vertically down its center length. His shoes shined in the morning cold. His name is Tamaki Suoh, a wealthy owner of large diamond mines on the isles. If anyone remembers the journey of 1888, is the adopted father of Erza Scarlet, whom he adopted from the streets years ago. He accompanies Mr. Burns of course, but his real reason to coming was to find his adopted daughter, whom he hasn’t heard of since last year.

“Ah! Ahoy there Mr. Suoh” Burns said, greeting the gentleman. “A lovely day for capitalism don’t you think?”

“But we're on holiday,” Tamaki replies. “We shouldn’t think too much of business”.

“Ah, that may be true about paperwork, but money waits for no man”. Tamaki chuckles, and Mr. Burns continues. “I want to extend my thanks for accompanying me on holiday. Perhaps a little rest would revitalize me from all of this governance”.

“Of course. On a grand ship like this, I wouldn’t miss an opportunity. Especially since my adopted daughter… lost contact with me after last year’s voyage”.

“Mr. Dickson was certainly upset. I bet she left because it is the nature of ragamuffins to not appreciate the life of us aristocrats. Like I always say, urchins will be urchins”.

“But that would have happened when she was younger. I raised her as a proper lady. I’m sure there is a clear explanation for this”.

“Well, all that besides the point. Come, let’s enjoy breakfast. I’d like to stroll the promenade deck afterwards”.

“Certainly”. Both would go to the first class dining saloon for a start to their day on the ship.

[Seleucid Pergamon]

Their stay within the Atlanta Confederation was a pleasant experience. Aside from the unsettlement from the standards of the Indentured, they had gotten their work's rest from the luxurious residences and hospitality from their counterparts at Grand Harbor. Now, with the Caloris in sight, the city will only be a tiny speck in the ocean.

Xanthippi and Gerasimos boarded the enchanting vessel with ease, their luggage being carried by helpers. And their private was full of surprises, one that would easily make them feel at home. After settling in, they went up on deck to take a walk around.

[Romextly]

"Do you have all my bags?" a man said in military uniform with a star on each shoulder. He was looking at a crew, who looked annoyed but managed not to say anything. The man, Brigadier General Aquila Petino, a rising general of the Romextlian Army, was on an expensive vacation. Moving up the stairs to the ships, he frequently asked crew on where his room was. After 30 minutes had passed, he had found the room, which looked pleasant enough. He set on hand luggage down and saw his bags also in the room. He walked on up to go to the deck, to feel some nice cool winds that seemed to occur often here. He just needed to relax and when he went back, he would have another star on his shoulder.

[Cartoonia]

Grand Harbour, February 1, 1889. 9:01 AM

A young lady dresses in her concert attire, which is her uniform, in her second class quarters. She styles her brown hair to make it straight. She puts on pearl earrings which she bought on her salary from other contracts throughout the year. The life of a musician goes on. Her name is Meg Griffin, or Megan Harland Oströk Griffin. Born to a Irish Catholic father and a Jewish Finnish mother. She was the black sheep of the family and often abused by his father. She decided to run away as soon as she was old enough to attend a school in the states. And so she did, traveling to the US in 1883 to the National Conservatory of Music of America and graduating with a bachelors in piano performance. She is one of the first female pianists in demand from many concert halls and private events. Her contractors, the L. K. & Schroder Music Firm had assigned her to RMS Caloris as the main pianist, she has become a favorite of many of the passengers on board.

Meg leaves her cabin with sheet music galor, making her way to the First Class Dining Saloon. There, she finds the piano just begging to be played. Elaborate decoration that creates a certain style and musical sounds. She puts up a sign that reads “Accepting musical requests, place suggestions on sign”. She opens up the piano and after warming up, she begins to play. The she performs is a Frederic Chopin piece “Polonaise in A♭ Major, Op. 53”

---

On the stern of the ship, A young man looks out from the deck towards the morning sky of Grand Harbor. He has no care in the world, just pure optimism and a happy-go-lucky attitude. A handsome man for his age, Steven Universe as he calls himself strums on his guitar that he brought from home. This is the only thing he has that connects him to his past life. He was in fact, the son and supposed heir to a wealthy plantation & mining family in Beach City. He left because he did not approve of his family, particularly his mother’s treatment of the workers and tenants as slaves. Besides, he had other interests that he would like to try, including music and poetry. He roamed around the Cartune Isles without a care in the world. Living off the land, working manual jobs, and playing his guitar on street corners. He didn’t mind, seeing poverty as a stepping stone to happiness.

He wanted to travel around the world, not just around the islands and had enough money to travel on board RMS Caloris in steerage with the money he earned. He didn’t have much on him. Just a handful of money, the patchwork clothes on his back, and his guitar. But overall he was happy. Steven intakes that fresh morning air.

“Ah, what a fine morning to be alive!” exclaimed Steven. “Freedom of the seas with no worries. This is the life”. He sits down at the bottom of the stern mast and begins to play on a tune on his guitar.

[Kuronami]

Howard Oakburn:

8:50 AM, 2-1-1889: Aboard the RMS Caloris, Grand Harbor, Atlantian Confederation:

Howard Oakburn, a 6'3" man with light bronze skin, grey-brown hair, and piercing blue eyes, stared out at the ocean before him. He was a 2nd class traveler aboard the RMS Caloris, heading on his way from his home in Brooklyn, USA to Kuronami (via the Atlantian Dominions). He had boarded just two hours earlier, had gotten settled in his private stateroom on the middle decks. Howard, feeling hungry, decided to make his way down below for a late breakfast and some socialization..

Second Class could be described as nicer accommodations than third, but not as nice as first. It was generally the class for well-to-do people but not as wealthy as those in the first class. That meant communal dining (well all classes had that) but not in a lovely grand room but a pretty ordinary looking dining hall. Breakfast was still going until departure, pretty light to pick from, coffee, tea, pastries, bread and the like. Plenty people from Kuronami were here, heading home from holiday or visits to relatives abroad. Kuronami's local economy was booming so it was certainly braining travelers to her from near and far and allowing more people to achieve a slightly higher quality of life. The food was served at a sort of lunch line style, buffet, stewards and stewardesses helping people gather what they might desire. "guten Morgen, sir!" A stewardess happily greeted the man "What might I serve up for you today? Breakfast in port is pretty light until we get underway but we have most light offerings."

Grand Harbor

It had been a lovely, peaceful morning. Of course, every morning was peaceful in Uptown. It was the part of the city where the wealthy, powerful, and influential lived, so it was well-policed and kept free of the sort of riffraff who might cause a ruckus or disrupt the morning calm. Of course, sometimes it wasn't someone from the outside who could cause a stir.

"You damn scoundrel! Blackguard! Get back here!"

"Papa, no, don't hurt him!"

Frederick Hennigen heard the grunt of effort from behind him, and he ducked low just in time to avoid being struck in the back by a hurled piece of porcelain. The empty vase shattered upon contact with the wall above him. That was a waste of fine china, he thought. No time to stop and mourn, though. The man who'd thrown the vase was still pursuing him, slowed down but not stopped by the young woman clinging to his arm. Daphne Taggart's long blonde hair was whipping around her head as she pleaded with her father to stop, but Nathaniel Taggart was in a bull rage. Frederick understood, academically, why the railroad magnate might be upset to find his beloved, and unmarried, daughter in bed with him. But really the old man should be thanking him. He'd certainly provided a better experience for Daphne than any of the dull Aristos who had been trying to court her.

He half-ran, half-fell down the stairs to the second floor, and rushed past the very confused butler towards the door. Nathaniel Taggart shouted from the top of the stairs, "Stop him, Smythe! Don't let him get away!" It was too late. He reached the door and flung it open. A final impish impulse overtook him, and he paused just long enough to turn back and blow a kiss to Daphne, who cried out, "Freddie, come back!" Then he was out onto the street, slamming the door behind him. Frederick raced down the street, around the corner, and then forced himself to stop, breath, and calm down. He smoothed out his clothes, which he had thrown on in a panicked frenzy when he'd heard Nathanial coming up the stairs that morning. Then he sauntered down the street, towards the docks. Daphne Taggart had been a good bit of sport, but it had run its course. The heat would die down eventually, but he needed to put some distance between himself and the many, many hired men that Nathaniel Taggart could employ to track him down.

He patted his vest pocket, and smiled. The ticket for the Caloris was still there. He'd spend some time at sea, then in this "Kuronami" place, and when things had cooled down here he'd catch a ship back to the Dominions and spend some time in Columbia, or Lemoyne. He'd bought a second class ticket - better to keep a low profile on the ship's records. He thought he'd have no trouble finding someone to entertain him while he was aboard, and maybe even for the length of his little vacation as well.

Boarding the ship went without a hitch, and he judged the private cabin to be acceptable. He washed his face in the bathroom and then went out onto the deck to walk around and get the lay of the land.

Among the second class passengers was Briony Mead not a particularly well known name. YET! As Miss Mead was on the cusp of finishing her great mystery novel, about a young woman detective who would solve mysteries. Well that is the future, this is now in the year of our lord, 1889. With just months to go, Mead was still trying to finish her story that she'd been writing since her last trip aboard the Caloris. Her voyage then made her focus her mystery aboard a vessel much like this and now she had all the players and characters, she had the mystery she had the setting. It was just putting the last pieces of the puzzle together in her head. She did make some progress, keyword some! Writing is tough sometimes, especially aboard a ship. She did have a good chunk already written down, just so happened last voyage when the seas turned against them, her bottle of ink spilled. Oh dear but it wasn't a total loss, only a few pages and ones she easily replaced. This time she'd have to be more careful but for now she was up enjoying the sights and sounds of this port city. Only a shame she didn't have time to disembark and see more of it for herself, but the ship would be departing by the late morning and she couldn't possibly go without an escort.

Briony wasn't from an extremely prominent family but she was well off, her father a deputy foreman at a mill, her mother a respected clothing designer with a little corner shop that was the draw for the mountain town of Landsbruck in the Eylstadt Domain. As she stared off into the distance her eyes did catch a gentleman boarding rather hastily. Looking at her watch it was still early in the morning. "Such a rush with so much time to go." She muttered to herself but well he vanished just as quickly from her sight and her eyes returned to the rooftops of the buildings in the harbor. She'd just as quickly forgotten about him, if not for the fact he reappeared quickly (well quickly in a general sense) on the deck seeming to also stroll. Last voyage she did strike up some conversation with a pair of unusual women, and maybe this voyage could the same. It did give her plenty to work with. Gathering the hem of her dress she strolled on over, casually to bid him "Good morning. I believe I caught sight of you boarding earlier so I take it your a new passenger?"

Otto von Hohenzollern would walk up the grand staircase, made of richly colored dark wood to his first class room, and would unpack his things. He would take off his heavy coat, placing it in the closet, and would walk to the dining area to get some coffee and socialize with the other wealthy, elite socialites.

First class dining even at breakfast was just as classy and lovely as it would ever be. It wasn't as crowded as it would be at dinner time but there were certainly people there. Gathered at one table in fact was a few gentlemen, first Mister, A.J. Ferguson Chairman of the Green Sea Line, then there was Tanjiro Fumitani the Head Assemblyman of Kuronami's National Assembly on a Holiday trip while The Assembly was in recess and finally there was James Smith the ship's designer and other ships in the Green Sea's Bottrop line of ships. From smallest to the biggest, he's had his hand in them over the years, and the Caloris was no exception. The men were talking about the ship, the trip this time, things to expect once home and just having an all around friendly conversation. A perfect time for Mr. von Hohenzollern to join them as there was a free seat at the table. The stewardess brought them coffee or tea to their preference.

"Beautiful ship, isn't she?" Felix Hannekan called over the bustle of the docks and the squawking seagulls as he pushed through the crowd, looking out over the scene through bright, intelligent and still slightly boyish green eyes. "Indeed she is, my lord. The pride of the Green Sea Line," Hagan Kantari, His Lordship's valet and gentleman's personal gentleman replied, drawing himself and the majority of the pair's luggage to a halt at the end of the line for the first-class boarding ramp. The pair had arrived here on a different vessel but the Caloris was going somewhere more interesting after departing Grand Harbor, so here they were. Felix's father believed in a well-rounded education, and though the idea of a grand tour was now slowly becoming passé even back home in the Empire he had jumped at the chance. Expanding one's cultural knowledge beyond one's own national borders was easier than ever now that steamships had cemented their hold on ocean-going travel, so why not pack a trunk and see the world?

If he were to be honest, as he always was, the young count had not wholly enjoyed his time in the Atlantian Dominions. It was a fine country with pleasant scenery and friendly people but the defeated look in the eyes of the Indentured had turned his stomach, so he had instructed Kantari to tip like it was going out of style and be even more polite to his fellow servants than he usually was, and though that had let him sleep better at night he had nevertheless been privately counting down the days until the Caloris was to depart. Kantari would never have admitted it as he believed it wasn't his place to judge, but Felix had gotten the feeling he felt the same way. It didn't matter anymore now that they were about to depart. The boarding process went smoothly apart from a brief moment of confusion when Felix forgot that he'd given Kantari both the tickets, and the pair were soon ensconced in a large, richly appointed suite. "I'll be in the common dining area for a while, I believe. You can't get decent tea for love or gold in this country, but hopefully my luck will improve aboard this ship." Kantari smiled. "Very good, my lord. I will have everything unpacked and in order for you when you get back." And with that His Lordship left the cabin, eventually making his way to the dining room. "Good morning, miss." Waitresses, that was an unfamiliar sight. "Could I have a cup of tea, please? Thank you."

Of course the titans of Green Sea were not the only high wealthy guests present in first class dining. Valery Palma, a coal tycoon and the father of the mentioned little Anastasia who was going about socializing with the girl from third class while her father poured over a morning newspaper, fresh from The Atlantian Dominions. He had an interest to always be up on the news wherever he was.

the waitress whom Mr. Hannekan had just requested some tea from also had just served up Mr. Palma a hot cup of tea. "Why yes, sir." She responded, "I will be glad to bring you some. Feel free to have a seat anywhere you like." She gestured to the table she had just come from as convenience but it didn't really matter, there wasn't assigned seating, just first come first served until spots opened up. But at breakfast time that was seldom an issue like it might be at dinner.

"Good man, good man," Mr. Palma had set down his paper a moment "A good man knows how to start his day is with something hot. Especially in these colder northern climates. Sit, join me why not, I've been on the same section of the same article for the last 20 minutes it seems. Just can't seem to focus this morning."

A year has passed since Anne-Catherine Luna's (Losphortoenean: Anna-Karin Luna) first day in the RMS Caloris as one of her telegraphists. Green Sea had been impressed enough with her that they petitioned AK's employer to borrow her services in a later voyage. Not willing to pass up on a lucrative contract, AK jumped on the chance when she received it: she is getting more and more comfortable around telegraphs.

Having spent a decent amount of time within the confines of the booths of her assigned ships, there is little doubt that AK has a bit of an insular aspect in her personality. She has a preference to hang out with people who were more like herself. It made sense. Being a telegraphist is to be constantly on the move: not only between ports, but across different ships after a leg of a certain route, or when the final destination is reached. In the end, it all came down to the one question that remained unanswered: what has become of Kei, the other telegraphist during her previous stint in the Caloris?

An odd, but at the same time, fitting, question as she approached the ship.

On the way to the rendezvous point, AK made a quick detour to check on last-minute errands connected to her previous assignment. When she finally got in, she found that the ship already has a sizable number of passengers and crew inside. More were lined up on the ramp to come aboard. Some of the more brawny crew were doing the heavy lifting of the cargo.

"Can I..." she started asking one of the other members of the crew, but was cut short when she was rudely interrupted by someone running across the corridor. That guy appeared to be in a rush over something. With him out of the way, she continued. "Can I get a drink before we depart?"

It was rather fortuitous for Green Sea to have found a pretty regular Telegraphist. Kei from the last voyage got another assignment by her employer, the Vander-Brown Wireless Company of Kuronami and adding to that matter, Green Sea was in a bit of a dispute with Vander-Brown company over rates and fees so until that would be resolved or another service could be contracted which meant finding a replacement fast.Thankfully someone who was already familiar with the layout and system in place was Miss Luna so that saved plenty of time on training and hiring.

Ms. Luna found herself one of the stewards whom complied, "Certainly ma'am! Anything in particular you want or simple spot of tea or coffee to do you for this brisk morning?" He asked

he stacks spew smoke as the boilers are warmed up to operating temperature. The bunker has been checked thrice as Bruce runs around the Engine Room ensuring that all 3 boilers are warming up evenly. Prior to this, Bruce had ensured that all 3 boilers had been shut down, every bit of them cleaned, coal bunker checked for quality and volume, a uniform bed of coal laid in each firebox to ensure an even burn in all 3 boilers before lighting off all 3. Crew chiefs had been appointed to coordinate the efforts of the crew of each boiler to ensure they were being brought up to operating temperature slowly but steadily. Once everything was in place and proceeding properly, Bruce picked up the mouthpiece for the telegraph. "Bridge from Engineering, all 3 boilers warming steadily, should be up to temperature by 6 bells on the forenoon watch (11 AM), ready for engine telegraph test on your mark."

Travis Witting a pretty young but already experienced Engine room operator. He'd cut his teeth as a fireman, stoking the hot boilers and shoveling coal on smaller steamers before, moving up to The Caloris to work as a mechanic in the engine room. Working with the new Chief Engineer of the ship, he took orders and worked at them diligently. With this last stop before heading home to Kuronami, it meant a through inspection of everything. His boss informed the Bridge they were ready for their telegraph test.

On the bridge First Officer Charles Dufer was there to recieve the message. "Aye." He simply replied and conveyed the message to Captain "Ready to begin EOT test, Captain."

"Very good, Mr. Dufer, commence the EOT."

"Yes, sir." This test ensured the communications were in working order. They had a couple of malfunctions already on this trip but right now they seemed to be in working order. Each marker was noted and responded to. "Bridge to Engine room, working order up here."

=snip=

So long as folks presented their tickets and passed health inspection they were fine. It wasn't the officer's duty to ask the detail about every single passenger and it's not like today where tickets often require verification. Simpler times perhaps in the 19th century. Indeed steerage on this ship was probably one of the better ones. Green Sea prided itself on accommodations for rich or poor, but it still wasn't a big trip of luxury. The large dormitory was crowded with other immigrating passengers from all over the world. It was prone to sea water coming in during stormy conditions and there was only one or two lanterns for light and a simple coal stove for heat. They were in the northern parts of the world now so that usually meant it was indeed chilly down here. But it was the start of a new life for many, and hopefully for Natsu and Gray. The dorm was pretty lively for the morning with music going, people chatting lively over their breakfast, children having fun and playing with one another. A young tanned female cradling an infant in her arms spoke to it in a language few probably understood. See she came from a very distant chain of islands, a chain that wouldn't be a country for another 108 years. For now it was a loose collection of islands together subject to the elements and each other. "tie tie, malgranda." She spoke to the child "preskaŭ tie. nur iomete pli longe." The baby wasn't hers, that much should be obvious considering the baby was fair skinned and already sprouting blonde hair and blue eyes. It was just a little wayward soul she picked up.

---

With the departure of the ship's previous Captain, so did a few of the officers who enjoyed serving under him. That included the previous First Officer whom was also Cartoonian. And now the ship's Second Officer. Well he was already shaping up to be a valued asset for this ship as he took it upon himself to oversee the cargo and passengers coming aboard while the sailors worked the decks or the land part. "Good man, Mr. Iwatani, you really are skilled at this." The Captain took the list gave it a quick glance over and set it aside. He would take time to read it throughly later, but now there was still plenty to do. "Mr. Iwatani, would you see if our Telegraphers are in station yet? I would like the sea reports before we leave if possible." That wasn't always possible, the sea reports which reported weather conditions, ice reports in the far north, traffic well that was dependent on other ships to adequately report that and not every ship did.

---

The First Class dining was starting to fill up a bit more for other patrons coming for a morning meal. Again, it would never get as full and crowded as it would at dinner time or in times of bad weather but there were a fair few diners already.

Enjoying her morning tea, Mrs. Sara Wiedenheft a woman who sort of fell into industry. Her husband brought the gas lamp to Kuronami turning the dark into the light and well the family had made millions in that fortune. Sara herself began to invest in a lot of smaller industries herself, running a few stores that might still be up and coming and others that had now firmly rooted. One could call her the 19th century version of a venture capitalist. She was alone on this trip, her family awaiting her back home. She'd been traveling to again see what new ideas and ventures could come to Kuronami, right now she didn't have much, but she enjoyed her time on the seas and in the strange lands. The sound of the piano caught her ears. There was a young lady playing. She sat at the piano to take in the music, not disturbing Meg, just wanting to let her finish.

On the other end of the dining room by herself, well not quite herself, she did have someone to attend to her needs, was another young artist indeed, one Hinako Sawai from Kuronami's distant eastern portion. Well not so distant when you get there, it's just a trip over the rails! Miss Sawai was a star of the stage! A respected theater actor and singer. She'd been taking a break after a series of shows that left her a bit exhausted with how many people were loving it and how many back-to-back shows. Unusual because most theater shows were limited engagements but something about this show had wowed the masses. Well I guess one can't complain about success. She was also reading the morning news, with her maid servant dutufly at her side. "What do you think?"

"About, Miss?"

"About the trip home. Think it'll be smooth, rough, or both?"

"Truth be told, I really can't say, Miss. I'm praying for a smooth trip home but often times it feels like prayers of that go unheaded. Are you hoping for smooth trip?"

"eh I guess either or. Sometimes being in such rough seas is kind of thrilling."

"Oh my, I personally find it kind of frightening myself."

"But a trip without peril is not a trip. Mmmm Akiyama-san, what do you think?"

"About, Miss?"

"About me writing a play of my own. I've been acting and it's fun and all but if I find a patron aboard this ship, I might be able to write something of my own."

"Is that also why you're thinking of the weather? For a possible play?"

"Nah I'm just thinking about it because I want some excitement. But that is a good idea."

"Hehe, certainly Miss. Miss it seems more are coming in, shall I secure the table?"

'Nah if folks wanna come sit with me, let 'em come sit. If I'm gonna find a patron, I'll need to talk to people."

---

Music alive on the ship with piano from first class dining and now the guitar playing Steven Universe. People had began to gather around to listen and some even danced.

Their stay within the Atlanta Confederation was a pleasant experience. Aside from the unsettlement from the standards of the Indentured, they had gotten their work's rest from the luxurious residences and hospitality from their counterparts at Grand Harbor. Now, with the Caloris in sight, the city will only be a tiny speck in the ocean.

Xanthippi and Gerasimos boarded the enchanting vessel with ease, their luggage being carried by helpers. And their private was full of surprises, one that would easily make them feel at home. After settling in, they went up on deck to take a walk around.

The still fair skies were prime for people who wanted to walk about the decks on this cold morning in A.D. The seas were starting to churn just a bit but otherwise it was a beautiful day and things were gonna be great for departure. Plenty of people were on deck and many starting to gather at the stern with Steven's playing there. Others just watching out over the horizion eagerly awaiting departure. Children running about and playing like they were in all other parts of the deck.

"Do you have all my bags?" a man said in military uniform with a star on each shoulder. He was looking at a crew, who looked annoyed but managed not to say anything. The man, Brigadier General Aquila Petino, a rising general of the Romextlian Army, was on an expensive vacation. Moving up the stairs to the ships, he frequently asked crew on where his room was. After 30 minutes had passed, he had found the room, which looked pleasant enough. He set on hand luggage down and saw his bags also in the room. He walked on up to go to the deck, to feel some nice cool winds that seemed to occur often here. He just needed to relax and when he went back, he would have another star on his shoulder.

The first whistle blew as the clock rolled onto 10AM. Just a short time away before departure. The ship was really getting ready to depart soon but the stewards and stewardess were plenty busy seeing of anyone desired anything. Like the Brigadier General the ship also had a few other military men aboard the ship heading home and they too were in uniform easy to spot when they were chatting and having a conversation.

[Cartoonia]

=Snip=

There was someone in steerage that caught Gray’s attention. A woman who he thought was beautiful. Natsu noticed her too.

“Ah! It seems you have the hots for someone” Natsu quietly says to Gray.

“W-well I-I… uh…”. Gray stutters.

“I hate to tell ya, but I don’t think any woman would wanna talk or hang out with anyone like us. I mean take a good look at yourself. Dirty, ragged, not to mention the smell from wallowing in the trash pits. She’ll think of you as nothing but a filthy pervert”.

“Would she? I mean, I don’t think anyone would care how poor we are. We’re in steerage after all”.

“But you got no decency”. Natsu examined the tanned woman with a child, also noting the difference in skin color between her and the child.

“Say, that child in her hands… do you think she…”

“You can’t just say that. You don’t know. She could have adopted the child, or perhaps they are both in the same situation like us… orphans in poverty”. The female in question looks over at the two men, resulting in Gray waving hello to her.

“Nice child you got there” Natsu says to her from his seat.

---

“Right away sir” he responds as he leaves to the wireless room. It would be wise to revive any ice reports from other liners ahead of them. He has often heard of other liners succumbing to the ice with several casualties. Most passengers would believe that modern ocean liners like this one are different. They believe that this ship is unsinkable. But of course, modern engineering does not mean safe travels. The latest reminder of which was back in 1870, when the White Star Liner SS Atlantic collided with rocks and sank near Nova Scotia, killing 535 people. A majority of which were women and children. Of course it wasn’t just engineering that didn’t help prevent disaster, it could easily have been through crew incompetence as well. He wanted nothing to do with a maritime disaster.

He carries on with his duty. He knows that one of the operators, a Diarcesian, should be coming in any minute now. Whether she was in the room or just around the ship. Still, it wouldn’t hurt to knock on the door. As he gets up to the wireless room, he knocks on the door.

“Hello, anyone there?”

---

Luckily for Miss Hinako Sawai, there is a well known patron of the arts on board the ship. Let it be known that Tamaki Suoh is not only one of the richest tycoons in the Cartune Isles, but is a patron of performing arts. Any play or opera performed wherever he was, you can rest assured that Tamaki would pay great interest and wealth to go watch. He has donated a good portion of his wealth to erect opera houses, concert halls, libraries, and theatres across the islands. He has also paid for construction of new conservatories and colleges to carry on the artistic traditions of the world (which still stands in the present). Not only was he a patron, but he was a man of artistic enterprise. He too had interests in writing, but more on the side of literary novels. He can play piano as well. It’s not just around the Cartune Isles and the United States. He has made patronage and investments in other orchestras and opera companies around the world, Kuronami included.

Mr. Burns and Tamaki enter the First Class dining saloon, taking in the grand interior of this great Victorian era. They noticed that the pianist was Meg Griffin, and it was always nice to see another familiar face on board. They look around the saloon to find a seat and someone catches Tamaki’s eyes.

“I say let’s sit over there” Tamaki says, pointing to where Miss Sawai was.

“With a stranger?”

“That is the point of this holiday. Meeting new people and making connections. Besides, that person looks awfully familiar”.

“Really?”

“Yeah. When I visited Kuronami with my daughter a few years ago, I went to a production of Giuseppe Verdi’s La Traviata and she played the role of Violetta Valéry. She had a lovely voice too… Ah! Hinako Sawai! That’s her name”.

“So she is most talented I see”.

“Of course! Let’s go sit down”. Both of them go and introduce themselves to the young actress.

“Excuse me, you’re Hinako Sawai aren’t you?”.

---

Meg plays the final chords of the Polonaise. Afterwards, she would play a piano march, which was common practice that a serious piece is followed by a march (a very popular form of music at the time), particularly Johann Strauss’ Radetsky March. After playing the march, she goes through her sheet music on which to play next when she notices a young woman listening to the music she was performing.

“Wonderful music isn’t it? I always try to pick the best pieces of great composers”.

---

A crowd started to form in front of Steven as he played on his guitar. Some listened with great intent while others danced. This is what Steven lived for. Performing for people, making them happy. He rarely did it for the money. Even so, a little pocket change wouldn’t hurt as he will need something to help him get by. He places his guitar case out for people to throw tips.

“Thank you all! I’m pleased to play for all of you. If anyone would like to help me out, I will gladly accept tips”. He continues to play, this time an arrangement of a Hungarian Dance.

[Atlantian Dominions]

Frederick Hennigen's father had been the captain of an International Trader ship. He'd sailed the oceans with a hull loaded with cargoes of valuable goods. Many people thought the I.T. was a place for glamorous adventures, but the reality was often much duller than the fantasy. Frederick's father had stuck to established routes to well-known ports. The potential for a windfall profit was lower but so were the risks. That described the man's whole personality, really: solid and dependable, but totally without ambition or imagination. Frederick suffered from an acute case of yearning, or maybe it was simply envy.

Despite being the son of a ship captain, he'd rarely sailed in his life. He was meandering about the deck of the Caloris, taking in the sights and the sound of a guitar being played somewhere, when he heard someone coming his way. His first instinct was to start looking for an exit, or a crowd to get lost in. Was it one of Taggart's hounds? How had they found him so quickly? But no, it was a woman, a pretty thing who had curiosity in her eyes. His mood lightened immensely.

Gathering the hem of her dress she strolled on over, casually to bid him "Good morning. I believe I caught sight of you boarding earlier so I take it your a new passenger?"

"Oh, yes, just got on," he said. "Looking forward to the voyage. The name is Frederick...Frederick Sloan. May I know your name?"

He'd decided on the false last name on his walk over to the docks. It would help throw off the trail, if someone did come looking for him, and also in case anyone aboard had picked up the gossip about the swath he'd cut through Grand Harbor high society these recent months.

[Kuronami]

"Oh, yes, just got on," he said. "Looking forward to the voyage. The name is Frederick...Frederick Sloan. May I know your name?"

He'd decided on the false last name on his walk over to the docks. It would help throw off the trail, if someone did come looking for him, and also in case anyone aboard had picked up the gossip about the swath he'd cut through Grand Harbor high society these recent months.

"Good to meet you, Mr. Sloan." She extended her hand to greet him "I'm Briony Mead. From Kuronami, heading home after my second voyage. I sailed aboard this same ship last year and well here I am again. Second class? What about you? First class? I mean you certainly are well dressed for it." The ship's whistle blew as the final call aboard for all those on dock and for those in the water nearby to be warned this ship was about to set off on it's voyage. "Well it also seems like we're about to get underway!

There was someone in steerage that caught Gray’s attention. A woman who he thought was beautiful. Natsu noticed her too.

“Ah! It seems you have the hots for someone” Natsu quietly says to Gray.

“W-well I-I… uh…”. Gray stutters.

“I hate to tell ya, but I don’t think any woman would wanna talk or hang out with anyone like us. I mean take a good look at yourself. Dirty, ragged, not to mention the smell from wallowing in the trash pits. She’ll think of you as nothing but a filthy pervert”.

“Would she? I mean, I don’t think anyone would care how poor we are. We’re in steerage after all”.

“But you got no decency”. Natsu examined the tanned woman with a child, also noting the difference in skin color between her and the child.

“Say, that child in her hands… do you think she…”

“You can’t just say that. You don’t know. She could have adopted the child, or perhaps they are both in the same situation like us… orphans in poverty”. The female in question looks over at the two men, resulting in Gray waving hello to her.

“Nice child you got there” Natsu says to her from his seat.



“Right away sir” he responds as he leaves to the wireless room. It would be wise to revive any ice reports from other liners ahead of them. He has often heard of other liners succumbing to the ice with several casualties. Most passengers would believe that modern ocean liners like this one are different. They believe that this ship is unsinkable. But of course, modern engineering does not mean safe travels. The latest reminder of which was back in 1870, when the White Star Liner SS Atlantic collided with rocks and sank near Nova Scotia, killing 535 people. A majority of which were women and children. Of course it wasn’t just engineering that didn’t help prevent disaster, it could easily have been through crew incompetence as well. He wanted nothing to do with a maritime disaster.

He carries on with his duty. He knows that one of the operators, a Diarcesian, should be coming in any minute now. Whether she was in the room or just around the ship. Still, it wouldn’t hurt to knock on the door. As he gets up to the wireless room, he knocks on the door.

“Hello, anyone there?”



Luckily for Miss Hinako Sawai, there is a well known patron of the arts on board the ship. Let it be known that Tamaki Suoh is not only one of the richest tycoons in the Cartune Isles, but is a patron of performing arts. Any play or opera performed wherever he was, you can rest assured that Tamaki would pay great interest and wealth to go watch. He has donated a good portion of his wealth to erect opera houses, concert halls, libraries, and theatres across the islands. He has also paid for construction of new conservatories and colleges to carry on the artistic traditions of the world (which still stands in the present). Not only was he a patron, but he was a man of artistic enterprise. He too had interests in writing, but more on the side of literary novels. He can play piano as well. It’s not just around the Cartune Isles and the United States. He has made patronage and investments in other orchestras and opera companies around the world, Kuronami included.

Mr. Burns and Tamaki enter the First Class dining saloon, taking in the grand interior of this great Victorian era. They noticed that the pianist was Meg Griffin, and it was always nice to see another familiar face on board. They look around the saloon to find a seat and someone catches Tamaki’s eyes.

“I say let’s sit over there” Tamaki says, pointing to where Miss Sawai was.

“With a stranger?”

“That is the point of this holiday. Meeting new people and making connections. Besides, that person looks awfully familiar”.

“Really?”

“Yeah. When I visited Kuronami with my daughter a few years ago, I went to a production of Giuseppe Verdi’s La Traviata and she played the role of Violetta Valéry. She had a lovely voice too… Ah! Hinako Sawai! That’s her name”.

“So she is most talented I see”.

“Of course! Let’s go sit down”. Both of them go and introduce themselves to the young actress.

“Excuse me, you’re Hinako Sawai aren’t you?”.



Meg plays the final chords of the Polonaise. Afterwards, she would play a piano march, which was common practice that a serious piece is followed by a march (a very popular form of music at the time), particularly Johann Strauss’ Radetsky March. After playing the march, she goes through her sheet music on which to play next when she notices a young woman listening to the music she was performing.

“Wonderful music isn’t it? I always try to pick the best pieces of great composers”.



A crowd started to form in front of Steven as he played on his guitar. Some listened with great intent while others danced. This is what Steven lived for. Performing for people, making them happy. He rarely did it for the money. Even so, a little pocket change wouldn’t hurt as he will need something to help him get by. He places his guitar case out for people to throw tips.

“Thank you all! I’m pleased to play for all of you. If anyone would like to help me out, I will gladly accept tips”. He continues to play, this time an arrangement of a Hungarian Dance.

"Oooh, hello." She greeted them as they came to say hello. "Yeah he's really special isn't he? I really do need to give him a proper name but it's so hard to think of one. Well I could think of amny but I don't know...." She brushed the few strands of hair from his eyes as she rocked him. "You can probably guess he's not exactly, uh mine. Ah not that I stole him from someone or anything no, not like that! Uh let me start from beginning jes? My name is Fajra and I've been on the seas quite long now! Well my last voyage which is what took me to Cartoonia, this little boy was crying and nobody come for him. So I took him. I did what I could to find his panjo and paĉjo but no luck! And then our ship was caught up in a most terrible storm! We were all forced to abandon ship when we smashed upon rocks! Well the two of us made it off and now here I am on this ship! Truly I'm a blessed woman! Sorry to tell such a long story when we only just met, but well I am a talker you know! As my own panjo and paĉjo would tell me! Well only fair I listen to you, yes?"

---

Time was ticking on and now it was ready to depart, calling all his officers and sailors to be in their ship ready positions, his first three on the bridge with him to properly navigate away from shore and get sailing. The large sails on this ship were unfurled in full and the steam emitted from the stacks as the boilers kicked in. "No answer on the radio room? Well not matter, very likely the radio operators are not at station yet. Let's get ready to get underway." The radio operators were privately contracted so beyond basic maritime enforcement, nothing more to be done with them.

---

Hinako looked up from her tea when she was approached and asked. "Why yes, yes I am! Good to meet you, sit down won't you?" She really didn't mind the company, it was kind of dull just sitting by herself and her loyal maid. "And this is Mirai Akiyama, she's my maid servant."

"Pleasure sirs."

"Frankly I hardly in need of such but the old duffs of the Imperial theater say a star of my caliber must be tended to. We were just talking about the weather a bit, chatting up the small talk you know. About if the trip home will be smooth, rough, or both. Akiyama-san here is praying for a smooth trip, well I'm kind of in the middle, wouldn't mind a few rough patches. After all what's a trip without a little peril don't you think?"

---

Sara agreed, "Wonderful is right. You are quite the pianist, Miss. I hope I haven't disturbed you. I know musicians require concentration but I was just too entranced by your playing to not come over and get a listen."

---

Steven's merry dance tune continued to draw a small crowd at the stern. So much another musician joined in. Another girl from Kuronami's Orient with her own flute joined in. She didn't really know the tune but she was able to follow is lead. The first class passengers were happy to toss a few coins their way for the great performance.

[Diarcesia]

It was rather fortuitous for Green Sea to have found a pretty regular Telegraphist. Kei from the last voyage got another assignment by her employer, the Vander-Brown Wireless Company of Kuronami and adding to that matter, Green Sea was in a bit of a dispute with Vander-Brown company over rates and fees so until that would be resolved or another service could be contracted which meant finding a replacement fast.Thankfully someone who was already familiar with the layout and system in place was Miss Luna so that saved plenty of time on training and hiring.

Ms. Luna found herself one of the stewards whom complied, "Certainly ma'am! Anything in particular you want or simple spot of tea or coffee to do you for this brisk morning?" He asked

"I'd like a cup of tea, if possible. The perfect companion after a light breakfast and two scones," said AK. "Very much obliged, wish you the best," she added once she received the drink.

She turned away to make for the station. The reports that are required for the ship to leave ain't moving by themselves. The crew needs to be notified that everything's clear. Timely knowledge is power. And with so much information moving around, the captain needed someone with as much experience as she had.

[Cartoonia]

=SNIP=

“That’s fine. Sounds like quite a story you got there. There really isn’t much to our story. We’re both orphans, living on the streets as you can tell from our clothes. Living off of scraps thrown by the rich, and for my companion here, nothing but rats”.

“Best things I’ve ever eaten,” Natsu says happily, patting his stomach.

“Anyway, We did anything to survive without any parents. We weren’t as fortunate. We decided to follow our other friend and travel to Kuronami for a better life. Oh, the name’s Gray by the way. My companion here is Natsu. Nice to make your acquaintance Fajra”.

---

“Yes sir” Naofumi responds normally, but in his mind, he was rather irritated. ‘Damned Marconi employees. They should at least have better standards of discipline’. Upon his return to the bridge, he grabbed his binoculars. This will do for now when it comes to spotting ice. He heads over to the port wing of the bridge, looking down at the port and to the stern of the ship, and back to Captain Andrews.

“I assume that our binoculars will have to do for now, in regards to hazards. I’ll make sure that various lookouts are stationed, both here on the bridge and on the crows’ nest. It’ll at least buy us time for the operator to return to their duties. By the way sir…”. Naofumi pulls out of his pockets a map of what he sees as a perfect route for the ship to navigate through.

“I have calculated the perfect route for the ship to navigate to the home port. I assume that we will get there in between three to four days, spare a few storms and ice that will prevent us from going to top speeds”.

---

“Pleasure to meet you too miss” Tamaki says to the maid before returning his attention to Hinako. Well, I wouldn’t say it would be a pleasant journey, but an eventful one non the less. Would make for a great novel. Oh, by the way, my name is Tamaki Suoh, owner of the Suoh Diamond Company”.

“Yes indeed he is, I am Charles Montgomery Burns, the Governor-General of the American Colony of the Cartune Isles. And the proprietor of the world-famous St. Gloriana South Tea Company. As for me, I do prefer smooth sailing. Uneventful, and clean from that wretched...”. Mr. Burns shivered in disgust. “Steerage class”.

“Now don’t be like that. Those people are working hard to just get by, especially since some work for you. You should be more appreciative”.

“Even so, they need not barge up here in all this sophistication”.

“Anyway, we’re traveling on holiday, we hope to reenergize before another long week of work”.

“But, business waits for no one at all. The flow of capitalism keeps ongoing”.

---

“Oh it’s no problem. I usually take a few minutes to prepare myself anyways, and I like to talk to anyone who does come my way”. She pulls out two other pieces of music to perform for the next couple of minutes.

“I was on tour in France when I met this composer by the name of Claude Debussy. He shared with me his latest piano work. I have a feeling he is going to change the musical world with his style. Come and listen in”. Meg began to play the piece given to her from Debussy entitled “Rêverie”.

---

Steven kept attracting an audience to his performance, he even had a flutist join him who played along really well. And the tips he earned while performing was a nice boost to his pockets as well.

“Hello, I’m liking your style. It’s nice to have someone to perform with. Tell me, what’s your name?”.

[Cartoonia]

"I'd like a cup of tea, if possible. The perfect companion after a light breakfast and two scones," said AK. "Very much obliged, wish you the best," she added once she received the drink.

She turned away to make for the station. The reports that are required for the ship to leave ain't moving by themselves. The crew needs to be notified that everything's clear. Timely knowledge is power. And with so much information moving around, the captain needed someone with as much experience as she had.

Before Naofumi returned to the bridge after speaking with the captain, he spotted the wireless operator coming in through the hall.

"Ah, about time you showed up. The captain requests sea reports from liners ahead. Once you receive them, report to either me, the first officer, or the captain. Is that clear?".

[Kuronami]

"I'd like a cup of tea, if possible. The perfect companion after a light breakfast and two scones," said AK. "Very much obliged, wish you the best," she added once she received the drink.

She turned away to make for the station. The reports that are required for the ship to leave ain't moving by themselves. The crew needs to be notified that everything's clear. Timely knowledge is power. And with so much information moving around, the captain needed someone with as much experience as she had.

"Of course madam, I'll have that for you right away." The maid curtsied and excused herself to fetch the cup of tea. The telegraph was abuzz with reports from ships already out to see. Ice reports were saying fields of ice were breaking up at a specific way point ahead. Other ships reported weather conditions, stormy conditions were reported at about 15 miles out which could be an issue for the ship ahead depending on time or where the conditions would last.

“That’s fine. Sounds like quite a story you got there. There really isn’t much to our story. We’re both orphans, living on the streets as you can tell from our clothes. Living off of scraps thrown by the rich, and for my companion here, nothing but rats”.

“Best things I’ve ever eaten,” Natsu says happily, patting his stomach.

“Anyway, We did anything to survive without any parents. We weren’t as fortunate. We decided to follow our other friend and travel to Kuronami for a better life. Oh, the name’s Gray by the way. My companion here is Natsu. Nice to make your acquaintance Fajra”.



“Yes sir” Naofumi responds normally, but in his mind, he was rather irritated. ‘Damned Marconi employees. They should at least have better standards of discipline’. Upon his return to the bridge, he grabbed his binoculars. This will do for now when it comes to spotting ice. He heads over to the port wing of the bridge, looking down at the port and to the stern of the ship, and back to Captain Andrews.

“I assume that our binoculars will have to do for now, in regards to hazards. I’ll make sure that various lookouts are stationed, both here on the bridge and on the crows’ nest. It’ll at least buy us time for the operator to return to their duties. By the way sir…”. Naofumi pulls out of his pockets a map of what he sees as a perfect route for the ship to navigate through.

“I have calculated the perfect route for the ship to navigate to the home port. I assume that we will get there in between three to four days, spare a few storms and ice that will prevent us from going to top speeds”.



“Pleasure to meet you too miss” Tamaki says to the maid before returning his attention to Hinako. Well, I wouldn’t say it would be a pleasant journey, but an eventful one non the less. Would make for a great novel. Oh, by the way, my name is Tamaki Suoh, owner of the Suoh Diamond Company”.

“Yes indeed he is, I am Charles Montgomery Burns, the Governor-General of the American Colony of the Cartune Isles. And the proprietor of the world-famous St. Gloriana South Tea Company. As for me, I do prefer smooth sailing. Uneventful, and clean from that wretched...”. Mr. Burns shivered in disgust. “Steerage class”.

“Now don’t be like that. Those people are working hard to just get by, especially since some work for you. You should be more appreciative”.

“Even so, they need not barge up here in all this sophistication”.

“Anyway, we’re traveling on holiday, we hope to reenergize before another long week of work”.

“But, business waits for no one at all. The flow of capitalism keeps ongoing”.



“Oh it’s no problem. I usually take a few minutes to prepare myself anyways, and I like to talk to anyone who does come my way”. She pulls out two other pieces of music to perform for the next couple of minutes.

“I was on tour in France when I met this composer by the name of Claude Debussy. He shared with me his latest piano work. I have a feeling he is going to change the musical world with his style. Come and listen in”. Meg began to play the piece given to her from Debussy entitled “Rêverie”.



Steven kept attracting an audience to his performance, he even had a flutist join him who played along really well. And the tips he earned while performing was a nice boost to his pockets as well.

“Hello, I’m liking your style. It’s nice to have someone to perform with. Tell me, what’s your name?”.

"Gray, Natsu." She repeated "Sounds like we're almost in the same boat. Well maybe I suppose. You must have boarded when we stopped in Cartoonia then? Or did you make all your way to here then board here? Ah am I asking too many questions? I was told I was so foolish for that but I don't know, I just like to know things."

---

"Good man, we can rely on spotting for now and having our lookouts with their binoculars will help." He looked at the report, everything seemed well and good, hard to say what conditions they'd face on the open sea this far north. Ice and storms were probably their biggest issue right now but they'd have to face that in good time. "I'd say your charts are well in order I imagine we'll make it on schedule." He looked at his pocket watch again. "Well let's keep to it and let's get ready for departure." He set the ships telegraph system to inform the engine room it was time to get set for departure. The furnace stokers would get the coal ready those on deck would get the ropes removed. The ship's final whistle blew as Captain and his Officers manned the bridge "All right starboard easy."

---

"Well you can't find a better place than Kuronami. You know it's nearly getting onto autumn there! The colors will be changing, the cold sea breeze will be sweeping into Caloris. The gentle glow of the gas lamps in the street. How beautiful it will be! Ah I truly love the winter though, I love snow and cold. And who knows maybe you'll get some business deals while there. We have plenty of industry too."

---

Sara bobbed her head along gently to the music. "Oh I'm Sara by the way. Don't think I properly introduced myself." As she did a young girl tugged at her dress "Oh And this is my daughter, Amelia."

"oh hello, good to meet you, ma'am." She curtsied. "Mia, I thought you were going to watch out on deck."

"I'm getting too cold outside, I wanted to come back in and warm up."

"All right, all right."

"Are you playing Rêverie, madam?" Amelia asked her. "I know that tune, I've played it too! It's my favorite"

---

"Steeven." She repeated a little sing songy but it was her way to remember "I'm Hatsuho! Good to meet you!" She played a few notes again on her flute. "I heard you playing I thought it'd be fun to join in. Lots a folks down below like my music too. Bet we could play together when things get rough. Keeps spirits up!"

[Seleucid Pergamon]

The still fair skies were prime for people who wanted to walk about the decks on this cold morning in A.D. The seas were starting to churn just a bit but otherwise it was a beautiful day and things were gonna be great for departure. Plenty of people were on deck and many starting to gather at the stern with Steven's playing there. Others just watching out over the horizion eagerly awaiting departure. Children running about and playing like they were in all other parts of the deck.

The couple then continues to walk along the deck, letting the wind provide the music until the notes struck on the piano divert their attention away from it. They strolled to the stern, and observed someone playing a beautiful melody. Indeed, they went closer, wanting to take a closer hearing like curious kids. After the playing was done, the couple applauded.

"What splendid playing, there," complimented Xanthippi, "What other kinds of songs can you play?"

[Atlantian Dominions]

"Good to meet you, Mr. Sloan." She extended her hand to greet him. "I'm Briony Mead. From Kuronami, heading home after my second voyage. I sailed aboard this same ship last year and well here I am again. Second class? What about you? First class? I mean you certainly are well dressed for it."

"Pleased to make your acquaintance, Miss Mead," Frederick said. He took the offered hand for a short, light shake and bowed his head slightly in greeting. A piece of him thought about going for the kiss on the hand, but such a gesture was rarely done in the Dominions except among potential suitors, and he had no desire to start off this voyage by offending the sensibilities of some foreigner. "I'm afraid I'm traveling second class, not first. I just couldn't quite justify the expense to myself."

The ship's whistle blew as the final call aboard for all those on dock and for those in the water nearby to be warned this ship was about to set off on it's voyage. "Well it also seems like we're about to get underway!"

"So we are," he commented. "Tell me, what brought you across the ocean and back again?"

[Diarcesia]

"I'd like a cup of tea, if possible. The perfect companion after a light breakfast and two scones," said AK. "Very much obliged, wish you the best," she added once she received the drink.

She turned away to make for the station. The reports that are required for the ship to leave ain't moving by themselves. The crew needs to be notified that everything's clear. Timely knowledge is power. And with so much information moving around, the captain needed someone with as much experience as she had.

Before Naofumi returned to the bridge after speaking with the captain, he spotted the wireless operator coming in through the hall.

"Ah, about time you showed up. The captain requests sea reports from liners ahead. Once you receive them, report to either me, the first officer, or the captain. Is that clear?".

With the pace of work and flurry of activity accelerating, AK had no idea what to say as far as witticisms are concerned. Right before her is definitely a new face in the ship.

"Yes, sir. I'll have it soon."

"I'd like a cup of tea, if possible. The perfect companion after a light breakfast and two scones," said AK. "Very much obliged, wish you the best," she added once she received the drink.

She turned away to make for the station. The reports that are required for the ship to leave ain't moving by themselves. The crew needs to be notified that everything's clear. Timely knowledge is power. And with so much information moving around, the captain needed someone with as much experience as she had.

"Of course madam, I'll have that for you right away." The maid curtsied and excused herself to fetch the cup of tea. The telegraph was abuzz with reports from ships already out to see. Ice reports were saying fields of ice were breaking up at a specific way point ahead. Other ships reported weather conditions, stormy conditions were reported at about 15 miles out which could be an issue for the ship ahead depending on time or where the conditions would last.

Navigating a storm with today's technology is not as arduous as before, though it continues to be no easy task. The ship was surely laden with supplies, however the passengers will appreciate it if they ain't caught in the middle of a tempest.

Her excitement about the new technology did not wane despite working on these for a few years. The circuitry on board is one of the most complex devices I've ever seen, she thought. It was easy to get immersed in it and its possibilities.

She compiled the reports, grabbed a map with the Caloris's route plotted, and left without waiting for her tea to arrive. She forgot to mention where she could be found; the maid must have been at a loss on where to look for her.

AK made for the bridge and entered without ceremony, which grabbed the attention of several already inside. Once she caught sight of Captain Andrews, she said, "Sir, there seems to be stormy weather 15 miles out. At this location..." she laid down the map she brought and pointed at an encircled portion. "... nearby ships reported sightings of ice break-up. That's all I have for now. The rest are for the passengers."

[Cartoonia]

=SNIP=

“Ah, it’s no problem,” Natsu says to her in a carefree attitude. “It adds character, we really don’t mind”.

“It’s alright, we got all day anyway,” Gray adds, “Yeah, we boarded in back in the Cartune Isles. It was just luck that got us on this ship the same day we were able to secure passage. You probably won’t believe what we went through to do so, let’s just say it was not pretty”.

---

“All right starboard easy!" Naofumi repeats, and the phrase is repeated again by various officers. The ship slowly moves away from the port as it has been removed from the moorings. Naofumi looks beyond the horizon. Nothing too bad so far, a few waves here and there. He would write down the current weather and hazards in his log, before reporting back to the captain.

“A few calm waves here and there at the moment sir, I believe we might be in for some rough weather ahead, but I think we will be okay”.

---

“Ah! Excellent!” Mr. Burns exclaims, “The great nations of the world must always have industry booming, otherwise they will be at the hands of much stronger neighbors”.

“But we can’t forget about culture. It’s important for one’s nation to be culturally strong”.

“Typical of you foppy, artistic dandies”.

“One nation should not just be a military and industrial powerhouse, but a cultural one as well. I usually pay patronage to many opera companies, orchestras, and theatre troupes. Not only at home, but abroad. In fact, that is how I recognized you Miss Sawai. I was in Kuronami a couple of years ago with my daughter. We went to a production of Guiseppe Verdi’s La Traviata and you played the role of Violetta Valéry really well I do say”.

---

“Pleased to meet you, Sara. I’m sure you know my name with it being advertised” Meg says to her while playing the piece. “You can call me Meg”. She continues to play as Sara’s daughter came up to her.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Amelia, my name is Meg” She responds to her, continuing to play the piece. She plays the last measure of the piece and is most intrigued by the young girl’s knowledge of Debussy’s piece.

“Goodness! What a knowledgeable young girl, and can play a piece like this herself. I do say, that is remarkable. And yes little one. It is a wonderful piece I have a good feeling that Debussy is going to rock the music scene”. She then heard applauds from a couple that just came in.

"What splendid playing, there," complimented Xanthippi, "What other kinds of songs can you play?"

“Ah, hello!” Meg replies. “I usually play a lot of Bach, Chopin, and Liszt. But I also play a lot of march music as well”. She looks out of the saloon windows seeing the ship move, as she brings out another piece.

“There is one piece I usually like to perform once we start moving. It’s from another liner, but I think it suits every voyage fine”. She prepares herself and starts playing a polka march called “The White Star Polka March”, composed by John Twiname Gardner.

---

“Nice to meet you Hatsuho” Steven replies, strumming and tuning on his guitar a bit. “Say, how about one more session before I head downstairs to grab a bite to eat. I have some sheet music for guitar and flute duets”.

[Kuronami]

The couple then continues to walk along the deck, letting the wind provide the music until the notes struck on the piano divert their attention away from it. They strolled to the stern, and observed someone playing a beautiful melody. Indeed, they went closer, wanting to take a closer hearing like curious kids. After the playing was done, the couple applauded.

"What splendid playing, there," complimented Xanthippi, "What other kinds of songs can you play?"

"Oh I have many tunes I know how to play. Western, Eastern, tunes from my homeland and others." She played a few notes of a little jig "Perfect for dance." A slower tune "Perfect for relaxing." And then a somber tune "For mourning those who leave us for good to the worlds beyond." She again stood with the wind blowing her kimono and hair she played the first tune she had played with Steven.

"Pleased to make your acquaintance, Miss Mead," Frederick said. He took the offered hand for a short, light shake and bowed his head slightly in greeting. A piece of him thought about going for the kiss on the hand, but such a gesture was rarely done in the Dominions except among potential suitors, and he had no desire to start off this voyage by offending the sensibilities of some foreigner. "I'm afraid I'm traveling second class, not first. I just couldn't quite justify the expense to myself."

"So we are," he commented. "Tell me, what brought you across the ocean and back again?"

"Oh I can understand that! I'm in Second myself, a quaint little cabin on port side E-deck. it may not be a suite or very luxurious but it's fine enough for me. What brings me back to sea is my novel. I'm writing a detective novel you see, set on the open oceans, on a liner much like this one. So it's been studying how ships like these work. My parents tell me I'm foolish; I could make up the details and most wouldn't be the wiser but I want my story to be true and authentic. I've been writing it since last year aboard this very ship too. How about yourself, Mister...Uh I'm sorry did you tell me your name? I'll admit to being spacey and I apologize if I did and you must repeat yourself."

With the pace of work and flurry of activity accelerating, AK had no idea what to say as far as witticisms are concerned. Right before her is definitely a new face in the ship.

"Yes, sir. I'll have it soon."



Navigating a storm with today's technology is not as arduous as before, though it continues to be no easy task. The ship was surely laden with supplies, however the passengers will appreciate it if they ain't caught in the middle of a tempest.

Her excitement about the new technology did not wane despite working on these for a few years. The circuitry on board is one of the most complex devices I've ever seen, she thought. It was easy to get immersed in it and its possibilities.

She compiled the reports, grabbed a map with the Caloris's route plotted, and left without waiting for her tea to arrive. She forgot to mention where she could be found; the maid must have been at a loss on where to look for her.

AK made for the bridge and entered without ceremony, which grabbed the attention of several already inside. Once she caught sight of Captain Andrews, she said, "Sir, there seems to be stormy weather 15 miles out. At this location..." she laid down the map she brought and pointed at an encircled portion. "... nearby ships reported sightings of ice break-up. That's all I have for now. The rest are for the passengers."

One last look over the map for Captain Andrews as the ship was now getting underway. At the helm were Third Officer Jonah Vandern and Fourth Officer Sorors Insulo. With the captain was First and Second Officers with to look over the map as they awaited the cables of the wire, hopefully soon enough and soon it was when Miss AK reported ice conditions seemed to be easing but an issue of "Stormy conditions 15 miles out." indeed it was along their route. Well for this time of year, it was to be expected they would probably encounter rough seas along their East-West to their South-West route to be so soon, somewhat surprising this close but that probably meant a weather front was on its way here.

"Thank you for the update. Keep on the wire for now, see if any changes come in."

"Captain, Officer Iwatani" Officer Dufer spoke first as senior ranking officer, "Ships reporting stormy conditions usually means harsh conditions. High seas, rain and wind are likely."

"I agree. Chances for a diversion route?"

"Based on reports, Captain t could be a sprawling front, diversion would cost us fuel, time and resources. There's always a chance it could break up by the time we arrive but we should be prepared."

"Well I must agree. Miss Sawai." He summoned up his Fifth officer

"Yes, Captain?"

"Well wire says we could be in for some rough weather. I trust Mister Iwatani has handled giving lookout binoculars so grab a few sailors, patrol decks, if things start taking a turn make sure passengers get in."

"Aye, Captain." She said. From the coat rack she grabbed a long grey raincoat with a hat. things might be fine now but it would turn soon enough but for now passengers could still enjoy the weather on deck.

“Ah, it’s no problem,” Natsu says to her in a carefree attitude. “It adds character, we really don’t mind”.

“It’s alright, we got all day anyway,” Gray adds, “Yeah, we boarded in back in the Cartune Isles. It was just luck that got us on this ship the same day we were able to secure passage. You probably won’t believe what we went through to do so, let’s just say it was not pretty”.



“All right starboard easy!" Naofumi repeats, and the phrase is repeated again by various officers. The ship slowly moves away from the port as it has been removed from the moorings. Naofumi looks beyond the horizon. Nothing too bad so far, a few waves here and there. He would write down the current weather and hazards in his log, before reporting back to the captain.

“A few calm waves here and there at the moment sir, I believe we might be in for some rough weather ahead, but I think we will be okay”.



“Ah! Excellent!” Mr. Burns exclaims, “The great nations of the world must always have industry booming, otherwise they will be at the hands of much stronger neighbors”.

“But we can’t forget about culture. It’s important for one’s nation to be culturally strong”.

“Typical of you foppy, artistic dandies”.

“One nation should not just be a military and industrial powerhouse, but a cultural one as well. I usually pay patronage to many opera companies, orchestras, and theatre troupes. Not only at home, but abroad. In fact, that is how I recognized you Miss Sawai. I was in Kuronami a couple of years ago with my daughter. We went to a production of Guiseppe Verdi’s La Traviata and you played the role of Violetta Valéry really well I do say”.



“Pleased to meet you, Sara. I’m sure you know my name with it being advertised” Meg says to her while playing the piece. “You can call me Meg”. She continues to play as Sara’s daughter came up to her.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Amelia, my name is Meg” She responds to her, continuing to play the piece. She plays the last measure of the piece and is most intrigued by the young girl’s knowledge of Debussy’s piece.

“Goodness! What a knowledgeable young girl, and can play a piece like this herself. I do say, that is remarkable. And yes little one. It is a wonderful piece I have a good feeling that Debussy is going to rock the music scene”. She then heard applauds from a couple that just came in.

"I can imagine, we do what we do to survive yeah? I've done things, since leaving my island. Over these long and vast seas! That's how I found him."

Below deck she stood as she felt the ship was starting to move and the rattling of pipes, equipment and everything meant they were surely underway. "Did I ever give you my name? It's Tajdo! It means tide where I'm from. Many of us have names like that. My paĉjo, is Tondro, meaning thunder. My panjo, Frondoriĉa. Leafy. My sister Uragano, a mighty storm. Brother, Kabano, hut!" She beamed a bright smile. Not often she got to educate others about her homeland but it seemed like a nice way to not have to bring up the unpleasant subjects." She sighed "But now I miss them all so much. But I'm the runt. Not strong for fields, not skilled to navigate. So maybe something else is out there for me. Mmm what do you think, Kaprica. his name Kaprica! Yeah wayward. he's a wayward soul." He cooed merrily at her and reached out to pinch her cheek with is soft little hand "Heeey that hurts a little ya know." She nuzzled his forehead

---

"Meg, good to meet you as well!"

"Pleasure, ma'am" Mia said again "You can call me, Mia if you like. Everyone does. I like the music and I've studied hard on piano to be a good player."

"And a fine player my little Mia is turning into. I think she could even become a concert pianist with more time. She's young but her talent is special." Applause from the diners was quite a warm welcome indeed. "Mia, why don't you play something too? Anything you like." Her mother encouraged her.

Mia thought and began playing some relaxing music. She hummed a little to get the tune just right in her head but she kept on playing.

---

"I must agree! Maybe just from my experiences in the theater but culture is what most associate with a nation. Industry is what gives people their daily bread but culture is what gives people pleasure and makes them truly glad to be living where they live! Books, music, theater, paintings all that. What would a good House of the Lord be without equally beautiful art to adorn it. The stain glassed windows or paintings of Christ the Lord? Foreign plays are quite popular in Kuronami right now, it's a real boom! But I would like to make something home grown for a change. I need a good idea and some money to make it happen."

---

Hatsuho agreed, "Good to meet you too! Yes let's play some more while the play time is good. A happy upbeat tune!"