Cruise Beautiful Lake Agloza (IC - SIGN UP FIRST)

by **Carthatska** » Tue May 25, 2021 4:49 pm

Abel had done some gambling and had lost approximately 500 Carthages, or 750 NSD. Unpleased with the outcome and left with a sour taste in his mouth, Abel shook hands with the winners and left the casino for a drink at the bar.
Walking through the ship, he noticed that the bagpipes had stopped. Oh, how sad. I never got to see the person playing... Abel decided to ask around and find out who had been playing. Maybe he could start another conversation that way. He tried asking a few people, but they either brushed him off, didn't know, or strung lots of expletives together to describe their hatred of bagpipes. He did have one success, though. A lady about his age said that the fellow was male, had brown hair, and was wearing jeans and a jacket of some sort. Abel thanked the lady and continued his walk to the bar.

by **Greater Orcadia** » Thu May 27, 2021 6:59 am

It was Marty who went and got the drinks though Ryan handed them out, glancing at Penny and giving a smile, Penny smiles back "whaaaat, you think I might want to adopt these glasses?" she jokes.

"YEP" reply Marty, Ryan and Evan in a manner of mischief!

Louise smiled at the offer, however when it comes to her job, she loves the ship she is assigned to "Thanks, I will consider it if I need to" she says, a polite way of saying no thanks.

however with the toast, "TO OUR HEALTH, & WEALTH" they call, bringing the glasses together.

Ryan looks at Jolene and the group, "If you will excuse me, I have to get ready for the lunch tonight" he says, giving Louise a kiss on her cheek before picking up his beloved bagpipes and making his way to his cabin, Martyne follows along as well as she too must change, jeans and a lycra sweatter may not be suitable attire to sit at the table of the captain. This natually leaves Louise, Penny and Evan with Jolene and her group, "so this the first time you been up this neck of the woods Jolene?" asks Louise

by **Terre des Gaules** » Fri May 28, 2021 4:36 am

Maurice had gone back to his cabin and changed into newer, dark jeans, a nice button down shirt, and blazer, for the dinner service. He just wasn't a tie kind of guy, but if they insisted before seating him, he had one rolled up in his pocket. He also had a jacket over one arm, prepared for the temperature drop that he'd heard about. He glanced about and saw that some were as ready as he, and others not so much, clinging onto that summery airy wear like they might still enjoy warm breezes tonight. They were in for a chilly let down and run for their cabins. He got himself a drink at the bar closest to the casino corner.

He watched his new friend Abel at the tables, but it didn't seem that Abel noticed him and he didn't try to distract him by getting his attention. It might not have mattered as Abel wasn't doing very well with his luck, from what he could tell at this distance. He was also noticing the glances of a young red head at the other end of the bar who had also dressed up for the evening dinner service. She wore a revealing black dress with a plunging neckline. She was possibly Nordic in ethnicity, but that didn't matter much to him. He raised his drink glass and she smiled. He smirked back. He could be quite charming when he wanted to be.

While he wasn't exactly off the market, things were not so well on the homefront back in Gaul. He had the distinct feeling that, Salomé, his girlfriend had begun seeing someone else and not bothered to tell him or bother breaking things off. It was just as well, they both had different interests and pursued them individually when not at work, and that left little time for each other. He was not a 'clubbing' kind of guy, and she and her friends lived for the Paritte night life. He was pretty sure that included loose physical connections with other men when he wasn't around. So be it. Hence, he felt quite free to roam, free of guilt.

He broke his reverie to notice that both the redheaded woman had gotten closer towards his end of the bar, no accident he was sure, and that Abel was strutting towards the bar for a well earned commiserations drink. This could make for interesting pre-dinner conversation, whichever way he turned.

by **Neu Engollon** » Sat May 29, 2021 10:32 am

“Jack, come on already! My god you take longer to groom yourself than me, and it does you no good.”

“Hey! That hurts. I need to properly present myself here. Represent rather…”

“Represent who?”

“Our city, Neu Engollon, Madurin...my company?”

“No one cares.”

“Do you care, Hel? Maybe I want to look good for you.”

“I care, baby. You look good. Let’s get going soon, though? I’m getting a little cabin fever here. This thing is tiny.”
They were in one of the more spacious cabins the ship had to offer. Helene knew it would be ‘quaint’, but not to this extent.

Soon enough, the two Neu Engollians were heading out, looking smart with Jack in a grey pinstripe suit, and Helene in an elegant dress of green and blue hues. She carried a small handbag that matched with swirling aquatic colors, but had opted for black heels, rather than go too overboard with the ‘Under the Sea’ theme and look like she was attending a prom or reunion or some such nonsense. Everything went with black.

“We’re still early for getting seated, let’s get drinks at the bar and judge everyone that walks by.”

“You’re evil, Hel.”
On Helene’s catty level, Jack could really care less about the lives and choices of their fellow passengers, but as a covert NESA agent, it was the perfect opportunity to observe all the foreigners, Teremaran and otherwise, to see if there was anyone of more than passing interest on board.
“Let’s do it.”

They worked their way through the building throngs of passengers to angle a passage to the crowded bar.

Maria Cobanalli looked at the invite to the Captain’s Table for tonight that had been slipped under her cabin door. Captain Stan had hinted that this might happen, during one of his crew meetings, but...still it was a mild shock to her.
While she felt she was more than competent at talking with patients, a good ‘bedside manner’ as they called it, she felt inadequate in purely social, non-professional situations.

However, was this really a purely social situation? By all accounts, it was part of what was expected from her as a crew officer for Sunrise. It was a relief that she didn’t have to pick out a frock from her somewhat boring, lack of fashion informed collection, and could instead wear her proper dress uniform. That part was a relief, anyway.

She looked at the book about middle age plagues next to her bedside nightstand and debated if she should kill some time by cracking it open, or just start getting ready now.
Yeah...I should just get ready.
If she got engrossed in her book, she would lose track of time and be late. It had happened often enough before, with awkward rebukes.

A quick shower might be in order, first.

by **AHSCA** » Sat May 29, 2021 11:00 am

A short time of enjoying each other's company and talking in the dining room the couple made their brief retreat to their cabin, mostly because in all the excitement, neither left with their pocket books and money. Tipping was often a thing on these cruises or so they researched from other luxury cruises so it was best to be prepared, even if they hadn't planned to really endulge this close to supper time. "Silly, right?" Asuka asked as they entered the cabin and riffled through their belongings "All this and we forgot our money."

"Guess we really got a lot to learn about this 'luxury cruising' world." Subaru responded. Asuka found her own little pocket purse where she kept her money and out dropped the little invite to join the Captain's Table for dinner. "oooh right! I forgot, Subaru!" She excitedly showed it to him "We're going to sit with the Captain!"

"We are? How did you manage to swing that?"

"Well I might have used my journalistic credentials to swing us a spot!"

"You said you wouldn't work, Asuka."

"And I won't! I only said I was a journalist, I didn't say I was actually doing a story. Okay I might have hinted at maybe doing something but I promise not until we're well on our way back home. Subaru, I promise, I'm all yours! And you and I, we're gonna show how us islanders are!"

She took his hand and well that was that out of the cabin just as quickly as they returned. Probably had some more time to kill so they'd keep walking about the ship until dinner. Good to work up a healthy apatite in the meantime.

by **Cortexis** » Sun May 30, 2021 12:49 pm

Galvan and Artifia were standing on the deck, looking at the scenery.
"You know, to think that that cursed... thing... has finally been dealt with. At last. I can feel that everything is going to turn out just fine. This vacation was certainly well deserved. Feeling better now?" Artifia nods.
Galvan turns around, hearing something, and sees the two walking their way.
"Oh, greetings! We haven't been introduced yet. Galvan Vektorin, this is my wife Artifia. We didn't get the chance to meet any other people on this cruise yet. You see, my wife got a bit sick from the waves and wasn't feeling like leaving our cabin, and I would feel so quilty to just leave her and have fun on my own."

by **AHSCA** » Sun May 30, 2021 12:56 pm

Cortexis wrote:"Oh, greetings! We haven't been introduced yet. Galvan Vektorin, this is my wife Artifia. We didn't get the chance to meet any other people on this cruise yet. You see, my wife got a bit sick from the waves and wasn't feeling like leaving our cabin, and I would feel so quilty to just leave her and have fun on my own."

With time still to go until dinner, it was as good time as any to keep walking about but it was hard to mingle with many just kind of wrapped in their own thing but it seemed a couple were kind to say hello. "Oh good day!" Asuka greeted. "A good day to you as well." Subaru also greeted back. "You're right, we haven't had a chance to see you. It's understandable, sea travel can be tough. Though I guess it's uh lake travel in this case."

"Well just getting on boats in general can be tough but I guess the two of us are more used to it. Good to meet you, I'm Asuka, this is my husband Subaru."

by **Carthatska** » Sun May 30, 2021 3:52 pm

Abel sighed as he slowly ambled towards the bar. He looked inside to see quite a few people. Some of these people were sitting in tables, with one lucky-looking man sitting with two women. Others were sitting on red-white barstools or talking, everyone looking spiffy as they puffed their chests out and attempted to look dignified even while intoxication set in. Abel smiled weakly at one man whose pants seemed to have fallen down. C’est humiliant, (that's humiliating) he thought. He walked by and sat at an empty barstool, then looked at the bartender. "One..." he looked at the menu. "One Moscow Mule, please." The bartender nodded and began making the drink. In the meantime, Abel pulled out his phone and texted his Secretary, hoping the Wi-Fi wouldn't cut out.

Abel sighed. Of course the wifi went spotty right when things were getting good. He put his phone down just in time to see the drink passed down to him. Abel grabbed it and inspected it. It looked like it had enough vodka. Probably tasted strong. Abel took a small sip.

Definitely strong. Abel smiled and continued taking small sips while waiting for the wifi to get back to normal so he could continue his conversation.

by **Cortexis** » Mon May 31, 2021 8:51 am

"We were just admiring the scenery. Have you come here for the same reason?" With a wide gesture, Galvan outstreched his arms sideways to encompass the views behind him, and turned around to face the waters.
"It's wonderful, is it not? Cortexis does not offer similar sights. No ocean, no large lakes... no natural wonders to speak of... "
"At least it means there's more room for people" added Artifia. The Vektorins laughed for a moment. Galvan was relieved that she was already feeling better. Artifia was always the quiet type, but when she said something, it was worth it.
"So, anyway, sorry if this is intrusive, still rather new to this "mingling" thing, especially with people from different cultures, but is this cruise a celebration of some special ocassion for you two?" asked Galvan and turned to face the couple again.

by **The Eaters of Yttrium** » Mon May 31, 2021 12:45 pm

Alexis had spent most of their time since boarding alone in their cabin. As of right now, they lay on their bed, letting the soft covers swallow them, as if it were an ocean in itself. Their (still packed) suitcase sits on the floor below them. The only material indication that they occupy the room at all is the little potted plant placed on the floor by the window.

Their brother getting sick had really thrown them off. Alexis had expected for him to... show them around or something. Alexis gets up; they figure staying holed up in the cabin is a wasted vacation. They put on their long, blue button-up coat and head out to the deck. The movements of the boat on the water make them uneasy as they walk.

Upon reaching the deck, they watch the lake and listen to the others' conversation, eventually mustering the courage to join it.
"The water really is pretty. Very calming to watch."

by **Greater Orcadia** » Mon May 31, 2021 4:15 pm

In their cabin, which though smart was not quite a state room, that was reserved for the captain himself and those passengers who had paid a little bit more than Ryan's party. Ryan unpacked his formal outfit, this was not so much a pair of trousers and dinner jacket but traditional orcadian kilt and dinner jacket which was also in the family tartan pattern. Martyne however put on a pair of tight leather pants, knee-high boots and a tight leather top, all of which were in white.

"Ryan, toss over my buzzer please?" she asks which was soon thrown over towards Martyne who caught it on the back hand before switching it on and going over all of her head, rendering her mild buzz to totally bald, a look that she preffers. Once that was done all they had to do is wait for Louise who it seems as she is on holiday, running to her own schedule.

by **AHSCA** » Mon May 31, 2021 5:01 pm

"Oh that's okay, don't worry about it really, just go wit the flow and you'll be fine." Asuka tried to reassure they were doing fine at just chatting, I mean they were all perfect strangers anyway there was only so much they could do.

"Anyway," Subaru continued "to answer your question, there's no real special reason or occasion that brought us out here. We just wanted to take some time away from our jobs and have a nice trip together. That's really it."

"Mhm, sometimes you really don't need anything special."

It wasn't too long before another joined in on the conversation, well why not, the more the merrier! Asuka responded to Alexis about the water, "It really is quite pretty and tranquil. Well maybe a bit choppy here but uuh we're actually quite used to more tumultuous conditions where we're from. Although, our trip here wasn't too bad actually." She mused putting her hand under her chin as if getting lost in thought. "I hope that's just good luck and not a sign of things to come when we head back home after this is all over."

"I'm sure we'll be fine." Subaru nodded pulling his wife in a little closer. "Oh might as well introduce ourselves again to you, Subaru, and my wife Asuka. Guessing everyone's wanting to take in the scenery while there's daylight"

by **The Eaters of Yttrium** » Wed Jun 02, 2021 10:52 am

Alexis turns toward Asuka and Subaru.
"Its nice to meet you. I'm Alexis."
They glance at the water again and shove their sweaty hands in their coat pockets.
"Say, where are you two from?"

by **Cortexis** » Thu Jun 03, 2021 11:06 am

"Ahh, taking a trip just... just because. Must be nice. Well, maybe it's just Cortexis in me speaking, but I felt that for a holiday this extravagant, I first had to have a good occasion to celebrate. On the other hand, if you have to work for a living, you probably want to make your holidays special all the time, due to them being rarer." commented Galvan as Arfifia began taking some photos of the scenery.
Then, another couple joined the four. People were already joining the conversation. "Good", thought Galvan. Mingling was apparently much easier than he expected. Still, he didn't regret thoroughly studying the problematics and practicing.
He waited for the other two couples to introduce.
"Nice to meet you as well. Galvan Vektorin, my wife Artifia". He shook hands with the newcomers.
"Anyway, we're from Cortexis. Maybe you heard of it, maybe you didn't."

by **Mubata** » Fri Jun 04, 2021 2:35 pm

The Galley and Dining Room

Omari Sibatasenga had gotten his team together two hours prior to dinner service. Normally, they probably wouldn’t need as much preparation time, but this was the first dinner service of the cruise, and they needed to get it spot on to the smallest detail.
If they nailed this one down, the others should be much easier, falling almost into a routine. He had run drills to practice in the couple weeks before they had launched, much to the annoyance of his crew of stewards and servers.

“Remember...This isn’t like the lunch and breakfast buffets, other than you still need to run and get special requests for the diners, if we can accommodate them…”
Omari wasn’t stern, but he was serious. He looked out over his team that both were an even split in traditional genders with some non-traditional, and also between native Glisandians and immigrants and foreign workers.
“I’m going to be around in the dining room, but I have to focus on the Captain’s Table, so I expect everyone to try to handle situations at their own tables to the best of their abilities. Work with the galley staff and for Lord’s sake, don’t you dare piss off Chef Bonnefoy!”

Most of them were servers, with the stewards holding higher rank and responsibility. In the event that they didn’t have enough servers to complete a service, due to illness or some other calamity, the remaining servers would become stewards, while they would gangpress housekeepers, activities, and maintenance staff into basic server positions, with the full blessings of the company and Captain Stan.
“Jorge and Vina, I want you on place settings.
Srinvar and Pavel, make sure of our table spacing.
Jenna, make sure we have enough menus and they are the correct ones.
Hrangur, condiments. The rest of you, pitch in where you can and hit anything I missed. Check with Jenna if you finish your initial tasks. I have to go talk with the Chef.”

He turned and left them to get on their tasks. He wouldn’t be gone long, but he worried they would dally and so this was a bit of a test to see how they paced themselves, in case he needed to light fires to get them moving faster and squash unnecessary conversations.

He already heard faint rumblings behind him as he cut through the dining room to the galley. He thought they respected him, but there were moments he wasn’t sure. While some of them were people of color, none were as dark in shade as him, not that it should matter. He had come across two of the Glisandians grumbling about the racial disparity when they thought he was out of earshot. So far, it hadn’t become a pressing issue and he wasn’t going to chase ghosts that weren’t there, as an expression in his home country of Mubata went. He would continue to keep an ear out however, if those two stirred up trouble and disrupted the smooth operation of the team.

He approached one of the sous chefs who was doing some prep work.
“I need to speak with Chef Bonnefoy. Is he nearby?”

Chef Bonnefoy was close enough that he heard his name from the Mubatan while he was checking on the appetizers. “Oui!” He shouts as he walked towards him,
“You wish to speak with me, Monsieur?”

“Uh...Chef, it’s me...Omari. Chief Steward Sibatasenga. I wanted to make sure that you didn’t need anything else from my team. We are preparing the dining room now. Are there any specials to be aware of? Any assistance needed in the galley for prepping? I also wanted to make sure you were aware that I will be taking personal command of the Captain’s Table and ensuring swift and quality service there.”

“I think we are good for the most part. I have arranged some alternatives for some of the courses if guests have any allergies, or preferences. I just need your staff to make sure that the guests know what their choices are and to serve the guests in any of their requests. I also want to ensure that you have also selected the best of your staff to help serve the Captain’s Table”.

“Chef, that is our top priority, always. We are here only to serve. As for the Captain’s Table, that is why I am personally in charge there. I have picked my team. They will not fail.”

“Excellent! The guests will be in any moment now. If you have any more questions, you know where to find moi”. The Chef headed back into the galley as he announced that last part over his shoulder.

“Superb! I will let you know, Chef. I am off to adjust the Captain’s Table.”

Omari did just as he said, making sure the tablecloth and settings were just right with the Captain’s Table, and that the table had the proper reserved name cards at each spot for the expected guests, passengers and crew.

There was a nearby station that serviced both the Captain’s Table and 3 other nearby tables in the dining room. It held silverware wrapped in cloth napkins, extra condiments, menus, and to be sure, Omari took the special Captain’s Table menus and put them on a lower shelf where he could find them, so they weren’t mixed in with the regular Dinner Service menus. The guests had all received the special menus with their invite, but in case they left them behind, Omari had more at the ready.

As it neared the launch of Dinner hour, the young Mubatan could see that guests were thronging near the entrance to the dining room. There were 3 maitre ‘dees’ on hand to seat them, but not just yet. Over in the galley, through the swinging doors, Chef Bonnefoy let ring out some last minute ‘instructions’ to his galley staff to make sure they were ready to rock on appetizers and salads as the minute hand neared.

Omari traded glances with the rest of his top stewards. Nods and thumbs up let him know they were all ready, along with the servers under their direct supervision. This was it!

Omari motioned to his front staff.
Begin the seating!

For some, the word hadn't gotten out, so he walked across the Dining Room to a short hallway next to the galley that was for staff only. There was a restroom at the end of it, and a hotphone on the wall. He picked up the hotphone there and pressed in the code to override the whole public address system.
"Attention Passengers! Dinner service is about to begin and we are now seating. Please make your way to the Dining Room. If you are still uncertain of your way about the ship, a friendly staff member can help guide you here. We shall see you soon!"

by **Port Ember** » Fri Jun 04, 2021 2:46 pm

Jolene Gudfrey
Aft Deck

After her delivered toast and downing of her tequila, Ryan and Martyne announced their departure, in order to prepare for dinner service. Jolene offered a wide smile and soft curtsy in response, wishing them farewell until they met again.

Jolene returned her attention to Louise,
"I am well aware of all the polite ways of turning down an offer, and it's all good dearie. Just know that if the day should arrive that you wish to earn what you deserve, and work at a place where you are truly appreciated, my door will always be open for you."

Jolene smiled softly before continuing,
"And indeed, this is my first time on the continent. I have always tended to travel to nations where I am interested in establishing business roots, and have not managed to focus on this piece of rock… Until now obviously." She fired off a sly smile.

"Anyway, if you all would kindly excuse me, I need to prepare for dinner service. Louise, it was an absolute pleasure to make your acquaintance. Penny and Ryan, it was a gift from the gods to meet you once again. We will meet up for drinks again I hope?"

Jolene greeted by enveloping all three in a hug with a kiss on their cheeks.

by **Greater Orcadia** » Mon Jun 07, 2021 4:02 am

"Well you'll love Orcadia and it's distillers museums and such, single malt, blended malts, and of course beer" replies Louise.

Penny turns to Jolene
"And it will be one of many trips I hope, and yes our Islands are just a great place to be. I spent time recovering on the Skerries, fresh air does wonders for the soul"

Louise checks her watch
"Do excuse me, sadly I have to head to get ready"
She says in a manner of voice that was so polite that would make most diplomats seem rude, as a captain of a ship, Louise even when off duty has an air of professionalism about her. (You can take the woman out of the job but you can not take the job out of the woman).

When Jolene offered the kiss, it was accepted.
This left Jolene with Penny and Evan with Jolene on the aft deck

by **Port Ember** » Fri Jun 11, 2021 1:52 pm

Chief Engineer - Chief Jason Hoyt
Engine Room

Jason Hoyt found himself within the engine room once more, after a short break within his cabin, which he used to freshen up and change into a clean uniform. Despite being an engineer, the civilian and tourist population who were aboard a luxury cruise had certain expectations from the crew - and not smelling and looking like an oil tanker was one of those expectations.

One of the perks of being a senior crew officer was having the privilege of bunking solo. As an ex-naval man, the sharing of cramped living spaces with other sailors was a familiar and bearable inconvenience, yet he would not complain about these arrangements. As the Chief Engineer, Jason had no assigned watches, or allocated time shifts, yet he was on permanent stand-by, and was required to perform and supervise both routine and unplanned inspections. These responsibilities led to Jason working long and often irregular hours, which would lead to very uncomfortable living conditions if he had to share his cabin with another person, as when Jason had the odd opportunity to rest - he could not afford to have those precious moments spoiled by the noise produced by another person.

When Jason entered the engine room, he noticed that the Engineer on Watch - Second Engineer Einar Wojcik, was in the final stages of completing a standard, full running inspection, with clipboard in-hand. Jason decided not to interfere and took up a seat on his barstool styled chair at the Chief Engineer booth, relighting his fine Port Emberian cigar.

Whilst seated, Jason heard a strange rhythm emanating from the massive engine, a sound which no one but an extremely experienced engineer would be able to pick up. He frowned deeply as his mind ran through all the possible causes of this seemingly meaningless occurrence, with his frown disappearing instantly as his mind provided him with the answer. He turned his swiveling chair towards the Chief Engineer Control Panel, and a glance at the speed gage confirmed his suspicions immediately. The digital speed indicator indicated that the vessel's speed was constantly jumping between 19, 20 and 21 knots. A nearly inaudible Port Emberian curse word escaped Jason's lips as he turned his seat around once more, laying eyes on the room.

A few short minutes later, the Watch Engineer approached Jason,
"Chief, just finished the system checks, all is green as grass."

Jason's deep frown returned in response,
"All green you say? You checked everything solidly, and everything turned out green?"

Einar's voice was suddenly filled with hesitation when he spoke again,
"Y..Yes Chief?"

Jason sighed as he turned his body away from the Engineering Panel, "Take a look at the Panel, and do so with an eagle eye."

Einar sighed deeply as he took a look at the panel, staring intently at the legion of separate small screens and lights. After what felt like ages, an eureka moment crashed into him,
"Apparently we are running at inconsistent speeds, Chief."

"Definitely so. Yes, I can hear it in the engines. Now, what can this cause?"

There was a moment of silence as Einar thought deeply about the question, responding finally,
"There are a lot of potential consequences, Chief… Mainly, the constant change in pressure through the oil systems could rupture an oil line."

Jason sighed,
"Yes, leading to a messy and dangerous engine room, loss in performance, work overload on the remaining lines, and a loss of total fuel efficiency. That does not sound like ‘grass green’ system checks, Engineer. You are a talented, hard working kid, but small mistakes like these tend to have gigantic consequences. You are good, but you need to be better."

Einar did not respond, instead he lowered his head in defeat. He had high hopes of quickly rising to the rank of Chief Engineer, but it was clear that he had a lot left to learn.

Jason broke the silence as he spoke again,
"So what causes this irregular speed output?"

Einar lifted his head as he responded,
"It could be rough seas, Chief, which I believe we can rule out this time. It can also be caused by an irregular flow of fuel to the engine, which I believe we can rule out, as we checked the flow and pressure a million times, including now as part of the Running Check. It can also be caused by a faulty electronic circuit on the Bridge's throttle, or even human error from the Pilot's side."

Jason nodded,
"Correct. Now, I will sort this one out. You need to re-run the complete Running Check, from top to bottom, as you have demonstrated that you missed something. Do better, Mister Wojcik."

Einar nodded as he turned around and restarted the Running Check. Jason picked up the hotphone and dialed the Bridge.

On the bridge, a young Taraniman woman, Ioana Vinescu, answered the hotphone.
“Bridge. This is Navigation Officer Vinescu.”

"Evening, Ma'am. Chief Hoyt, Engine Room. Do you have the Bridge, Ma'am?"

“No, that would be Executive Officer Astridsdottir, Chief.”
Ioana motioned to another bridge crew, who tugged on the sleeve of Lilja Astridsdottir. She looked back inquisitively at Vinescu.
“What is it, Ioana?”

“Engine Room, asking for you, Ma’am.”

Lilja’s brow wrinkled. There were no scheduled checks expected around this time from the engine room. She picked up the hotphone that was near her at the front of the Bridge.
“This is Executive Officer Astridsdottir.”

Jason replied once he heard the Executive Officer's voice,
"Top of the afternoon to you Ma'am. XO, we have picked up on a slight anomaly down here…" Jason made sure that he addressed her as 'XO', as the last time he called her by 'First Mate'... Well, at least she was professional enough to bite down her anger, that time at least.
"The Lady is constantly fluctuating in speed, rhythming between 19 and 21 knots in a pattern. Problem ain't coming from down here… Not pointing fingers, but I need to ask… Is the Pilot paying attention to where the throttle is locked in?"

“I see. Thank you for letting me know, Chief. That could cause some big issues down the line. Let me call you right back.”

Lilja walked over to where the master throttle was located, brushing aside the current pilot, a young male Glisandian bridge crewman. It did look slightly off, but it was at the right setting for the last requested speed. She gave some light wiggles of the control, careful not to bump it out of its position. There was definitely some slack in it. She picked up the hotphone once more.
“Chief, are you able to spare someone to come up and look at this. Something’s wrong with the throttle. It’s set right, but it’s got too much play. Maybe a wiring or spring issue?”

"Roger, XO" Came the reply from Jason, "Sounds like it could be a lax wire on the throttle. Quick fix, luckily! I'll tend to it personally. On my way, XO."

Jason grabbed his backpack which always rested next to his booth, which contained a myriad of general purpose tools and overused small spares. When he picked it up, he made sure that he carried it in his left hand instead of mounting it to his back, despite it being fairly heavy. Naval discipline does not disappear overnight.

Jason continued to walk through the vessel's decks, greeting passersby with a warm smile and a friendly attitude, until he finally reached the Bridge.

Upon entering the Bridge, Jason announced his presence,
"XO, Chief Hoyt here for repairs."

“Roger that.”
Lilja nodded to the throttle control.
“All yours, Chief.”

Jason walked briskly towards the front of the Bridge, where the Pilot Station was situated, and took up the Pilot's seat once the young man made way for him. Jason placed his trusted rucksack down to his side, and removed a screwdriver from the bag. He made quick work of all the screws which kept the Main Throttle Panel closed and secure, until it could be removed, revealing the numerous wires and cables down below. Jason tugged gently on a specific wire, mumbling to himself softly as he did so. He finally turned to Lilja whilst remaining seated,
"Ma'am, it's indeed only a lax cable. It was most probably a few millimeters too short when it was installed, and the stress got to it. Luckily I have a spare at hand, and it'll take 3 minutes max to replace. However, the bad news is that we will need to cut the power of the Pilot Console while I do so. So, Ma'am, requesting permission to switch engine control back to the Engine Room for these three minutes."

“I understand, Chief. Do what you need to do. We will document this accordingly, so there is a clear chain of responsibility and it's obvious who had control at every stage of the way.”

"Perfect Ma'am." Jason removed a spare cable from his backpack and prepared it for installation, and once he was ready, he requested the XO to call down to Bridge and have the Engineer on Watch switch over the engine's controls to the Engine Room. He specifically requested that the XO make this phone call, as Company Policy dictated that only the Officer on the Bridge could make this decision. Once the power transfer was complete, Jason tripped the electricity feed to the Pilot Console, and hastily went to work on yanking out the old cable, and replacing it with the fresh one. Jason was satisfied with the tightness on the throttle once installation was complete, and restored power to the console. He continued to request XO Astridsdottir to authorise the transfer of control back to the Bridge.

Lilja smiled.
“Always feels good to take back the reins, Chief.”
She called down and made the transfer happen.

Jason smiled when he looked down to his watch, when he realised that only two minutes had passed. He still had it.

Jason glued his gaze to the console, and saw that the vessel's speed was now running at a constant 20 knots, which forced Jason to smile even broader.

"Ma'am, we have a healthy, stable Lady once more."

“That is good news, Chief. Thank you for taking care of that. That could have had some bad repercussions down the line, as mentioned. While you’re up here, could you check on some of the other controls with my crew? I would feel quite silly if we had to repeat this further on into the night and make you haul back up here with all your tools.”

Jason nodded softly as he considered his options. In fact, he was actually on his way to prepare for attending dinner service, and the routine checks on minor bridge systems was not really part of his job description, it was in fact, delegated to the Bridge Crew, and to one of his junior engineers on occasion. But what the hell, Jason thought to himself, as he loved machines more than life itself. Dinner could wait.

"Can do, XO."

Jason started to run a superficial check on all the controls and systems located upon the Pilot System, whilst still seated there, when he spoke again, addressing the Navigation Officer behind him.

"Officer Vinescu, is your X-Band still behaving?" Just before casting off, the vessel's X-Band Radar were acting up, and Jason and his team were called in to conduct maintenance on the system, and thus he felt that now was a good opportunity to follow up on whether the problem has been solved permanently, for now at least.

“Um, well...I believe it hasn’t been behaving optimally, I guess you would say.”

Jason frowned deeply as he swiveled the chair around, now facing the Navigation Officer,
"What would be the problem, Ma'am?"

“It just...you know....It glitches out. The screen gets hazy. It...it glitches, Chief.”

"Strange… Any reason why this has not been reported to my station yet, Ma'am?" Jason looked over to the Navigation Officer and the Executive Officer as he asked his question, his frown clearly visible.

“I did. I talked to some guy…”

Lilja stopped the system checks that she had been doing and walked closer to where Ioana and Chief Hoyt were. She cut over the spacey sounding younger woman,
“I was under the impression that it had been reported, Chief. It’s been an issue since the last dry run voyage.”

Jason turned to face Lilja, and stood up from his seat, as a sign of respect, as Bergians believed that you never sat while speaking to a person above your own station.
"Yes Ma'am, I am well aware of the previous challenges, as my team performed a full maintenance service on it before we cast off, and it was cleared as green during the MPC (Master Pre-sail Checklist). Even the Captain announced its repaired status this morning."

Astridsdottir frowned deeply, then looked over to her Navigation Officer.
Vinescu looked like she had a bit of a glazed look, then the younger woman snapped out of it and chimed in again,
“Oh, yeah...So, like...I didn’t know all that. I wasn’t there, but...I like, ya know...could have told you it’s still buggy. Cuz it is.”

Lilja looked furious.
“You were at the crew breakfast...weren’t you? Anyway, you should have reported that to me. Or the Captain. Or...anyone!”

“It works most of the time...some of the time. I just thought maybe, like...it couldn’t be fixed all the way...”

Jason sighed uncomfortably as he turned his gaze out through the Bridge's window, observing that the sun was busy setting, casting brilliant orange hues on the horizon, the beams glittering off the waves, in a form which not even the greatest poets could ever capture in mere words. He returned his attention to the inside of the Bridge as he chimed in,
"XO, Procedure dictates that I can't switch off the X-Band at night if it's still in a semi working condition, so I will bring up the team during First Watch. Does that work for you, Ma'am?"

Lilja contemplated that, looking out on the horizon at approximately where the Yelloswian ships were. The Yellowsian ship of main concern was out there in the mix. As they would be fully in Yellowsian waters, actually internationally recognized waters, by morning, she didn’t know if this particular situation was going to wait.
“How long do you think the radar would be down during the fix, Chief?”

"I cannot give a definitive answer to that, XO. The mere fact that we fixed it, without fixing it… Means that we will have to rip it apart and search it's very soul for the actual problem, including the antennas on the mast. If I put myself and all available hands on deck, it'll probably not take longer than… 60 mikes."

XO Astridsdottir sighed.
“Let’s get on that then. Get your team up here. Sorry to leave you with dwindling to no natural light, but you’ll have to use work lights, Chief. This can’t wait until morning. We need to have operating radar going into YSR waters.”

Jason nodded as he responded,
"Aye Ma'am, let me go fetch the crew quickly." He shouldered his bag before turning back to face Lilja, "Ma'am at the risk of sounding like I'm trying to interfere with your business, but I'd advise that you get a competent Navigation crew up here to handle the observations whilst the radar is down in this fading light…" Jason looked over to the Navigation Officer, "As a Port Emberian, I know drugs, and I can tell you that Spacecakes over here does too, if you get my meaning. It will be a dereliction of duty to not inform you that the lass appears to be as high as a spacekite at this moment."

Lilja showed a little irritation on top of her worry about the Yellowsian situation. She kept her voice low so they wouldn’t be overheard.
“Chief, you just get your crew up here and let me handle mine. Just for information you don’t need...she actually does pretty well at her job, even if her communication skills are a bit off, and yes, she’s always like this. At all hours. So, no, I don’t think she’s dipping into drugs. Thanks for your concern, though.”

Jason nodded as a soft smile formed on his lips, which he actively attempted to hide, as he responded in an equally soft tone, although the previous comment he made could be clearly heard by all on the bridge,
"Yes Ma'am, as evidenced by the fact that she felt it was okay to run a faulty radar for an entire day, without bothering to follow the correct reporting procedures. But alas, I will get on it." Jason nodded to the XO as he left the Bridge in order to collect his team.

[RP Contributed by Glisandia]

Jolene Gudfrey

After taking leave from Penny & Evan and their merry band of 'Salty's', Jolene retired to her cabin, with her bodyguard Joshua following behind, yet far enough behind to not make it obvious that she had company.

It was far enough into the journey for Joshua to relax into their surroundings, after having scoped out the vessel and superficially, the passengers and the crew. This 'homework', combined with the effective security network of the vessel, gave him an eased mind, thus allowing him to allow his 'Principal' more space and privacy. Despite being an extremely famous billionaire, she was still a young social butterfly, who appreciated freedom, privacy and space.

When Jolene arrived within her cabin, she wasted no time to change out of her strikingly red dress, and into her more formal evening dress.

The dress was made from velvet silk, and a light oceanic blue in colour. The dress covered the shoulders completely, and stretched down the arms with long sleeves, with a few diamondesque sequences fitted from below the elbows on both arms.

The velveteen dress stretched down high, ending just above Jolene's ankles. The dress had a wide V-shaped cut from the shoulders down to the stomach, complimented by a long left slit from below the waist straight down to the bottom of the dress, allowing the entire left leg to be exposed to glimpses. The smooth velvet waves were tied together with a thin rope belt, in the same blue colour as the dress.

Despite the revealing nature of the dress, the inside of the dress was fitted with translucent sequined lace, stretching from the collarbone down to below the hip, which effectively covered the dignity of the wearer.

This beautiful and exclusive, hand sewn dress was then complemented by black heels, and a matching set of small diamond earrings and necklace.

Finally, her long bleach blonde hair was woven into a stylish patterned ponytail, and her face adorned with only a tint of makeup, most visibly her blood red lips.

Jolene made her way up to the Mess Hall, where she found herself at the bar, ordering a round of fine whiskey on the rocks, as she surveyed the room, and noticed how the room was starting to fill at a steady pace with diners.

by **Greater Orcadia** » Sun Jun 13, 2021 11:29 am

Penny and Evan stayed on the aft deck for a while, Penny leaning on the railings looking out to the sea behind the boat, one leg bend at its knee, the other stretched out slightly behind her as she leant on the railings. below her was the mooring deck where the crew muster to tie the aft end of the ship to the shore and beyond that the open water which at the moment is churning away as the boat cruises through the water, Evan with a glass in one hand leans backwards onto the same railing, his free hand placed on Penny's arm as they chatted away, mostly about their plans when they get to Iceland, the new trailer they plan to get and their house they plan to buy in the port city of Akureyri, perhaps even go and visit Mount RagNar which has a webcam overlooking it controlled by the local media.

Louise however had by now got to her cabin and let herself in, Ryan was dressed quite formally in a smart 3pc dinner suit, Martyne, who's head was now sporting a fresh buzzcut, she paused for a moment, her face one of concentration, something has caught her attention as a seasoned mariner, most passengers would probably be totally unaware however Louise is aware of something.

It is the minute changes in the harmonic rhythm of the ships diesel propulsion system that she has unknowingly "tuned" into, by that, the fact that through her hearing she has picked up the feint changes in the rumbling, sometimes rumbling faster, sometimes less so, almost as if the propellers are coming out of the water however the lake surface is smooth and the boat is steady and level.
"Ryan, do you feel that?" she asks

"feel what?" he replies

"the rumbling, almost as if the engines are running up and down"

"Lou, only time they do that i would have thought is if the props are leaving the water and the lake is like a millpond, are you sure you are feeling that?" he replies

"yeah, I live on a ship remember"

Martyne looks at louise, then to the window, "yeah i see what you mean"

"thought so" replies Louise as she picks up the phone to call reception, pressing [o]

"Excuse me, can I speak to the Steward please, I might be missplaced here but I spend my working life at sea and something doesnt feel quite right" she says

by **AHSCA** » Sun Jun 13, 2021 11:47 am

The Eaters of Yttrium wrote:Alexis turns toward Asuka and Subaru.
"Its nice to meet you. I'm Alexis."
They glance at the water again and shove their sweaty hands in their coat pockets.
"Say, where are you two from?"

"Well as we just mentioned," Asuka spoke, "Subaru and I are from AHSCA. It's an archipelago in Greater Dienstad."

Cortexis wrote:"Ahh, taking a trip just... just because. Must be nice. Well, maybe it's just Cortexis in me speaking, but I felt that for a holiday this extravagant, I first had to have a good occasion to celebrate. On the other hand, if you have to work for a living, you probably want to make your holidays special all the time, due to them being rarer." commented Galvan as Arfifia began taking some photos of the scenery.
Then, another couple joined the four. People were already joining the conversation. "Good", thought Galvan. Mingling was apparently much easier than he expected. Still, he didn't regret thoroughly studying the problematics and practicing.
He waited for the other two couples to introduce.
"Nice to meet you as well. Galvan Vektorin, my wife Artifia". He shook hands with the newcomers.
"Anyway, we're from Cortexis. Maybe you heard of it, maybe you didn't."

"Afraid I haven't." Subaru admitted "You, Asuka?"

"Mmm no doesn't a ring a bell in this case, sorry to say."

"My wife, she's a journalist, she usually writes a lot about other places."

"Well when the news dictates, anyway but can't say I know every place."

by **Cartoonia** » Sun Jun 13, 2021 4:43 pm

Later in the day

When Raphtalia and Riza returned to their cabin after making acquaintances with the somewhat mysterious passenger, they noticed something that was placed on one of the nightstands. It was a surprise and an honor to find out that they were invited to eat at the captain’s table tonight.

They continued to enjoy themselves out of their cabin until evening came. They went back and changed into formal wear. Raphtalia dons a blue evening dress with gold decor draping down from her waist. Riza wears a simple yet elegant red dress. Raphtalia also dons a flag pin, which denotes her status as a government official of Cartoonia.

Once they completed their changing, they went down to the dining room. They noted some of the passengers on the ship were from friendly nations that they were acquainted with. But diplomacy was not on their mind, it was about having a good time with other guests.

Back in the galley. The sous-chefs were busy making dinner for the guests at the restaurant. Chef Francis came into the hectic and busy kitchens. He pointed to four chefs in there and immediately assembled in a separate part of the kitchen.

“Alright. I have chosen all four of you to help me in the preparation of the dinner for the captain’s table. I expect all of you to work as diligently and quickly so that we don’t delay the meals at each course. I know I can expect you all to do your work this way and make the food look and taste magnifique. I count on all of your skills tonight. Here is the menu, now everyone to your stations”.

by **Cortexis** » Sun Jun 13, 2021 10:53 pm

"Well, that makes perfect sense. We mostly keep to ourselves and do not get involved in international incidents too often, unless there is a good reason, and international incidents tend to dominate non-domestic news. So for other nations, there might be more note-worthy countries."
Galvan checked his digital watch. "Well, this has been a great conversation. However, biological needs take priority over social ones. You can't die from not talking to other people enough, can you?"
"Basic Maslow. Or, Maslow's basics", adds Artifia as Galvan chuckles.
"Good one, darling. We shall see you later, perhaps. Anyway, enjoy the rest of the day."
Both leave for the dining room.

by **Greater Orcadia** » Wed Jun 16, 2021 3:40 pm

With the invitation to the captain's table, Louise, Ryan and Martyne made their way down to the restaurant area, Ryan walking long side Louise with his arm linked around hers in quite a romantic style as Martyne walked the other side. Being invited to the table was not something Marty was expected, especially since having a big tattoo in quite a promenant place on her body can sometimes cause issues. Louise however looks every bit officer material and with her white trousers, shirt and tie she could at first glance be mistaken for a member of the ships crew.

Ryan stops for a moment and glances across through the window "looks like its going to be a calm evening" he says,

"aye, dont forget you aint gonna get big seas on the lake, though this boat does bob about a bit more than I am used to, the Wayfarer is quite firm on the water and doesn't roll much" replies Louise before putting her other arm around Martyne. "come here sister!" she say, adusting her other arm so she now has her arm around both her husband and sister.

"Lou, do you ever think we'll see a nuclear cruise ship?" asks Martyne

"Its a possiblility, a slim one though as when you refuel it you're gonna have to do some serious refitting. There was the NS Savanna and the Otto Hann in the past but they were an economic disaster but who knows" replies Louise, "though for now, diesel will be the way to go though My ship is slightly different using turbine engines rather than big diesels, makes for a quiter ship with a smaller engine room. Next time its in port Marty, come aboard as you have a ports pass, Ryan's been on it last year"

by **Carthatska** » Wed Jun 16, 2021 4:26 pm

Abel finished his drink, cursing the wifi. He looked at the time on his phone. Dinner was approaching. He also knew that he likely wouldn't have a table all to himself, so he decided to hurry down to the restaurant area and wait for the only person he knew, Maurice. Abel didn't know how Maurice would react, but the two did have lots in common and he seemed amicable enough. Abel just had to make it down to the door before him to get Maurice to sit with him. He got up, looked around the bar, and to his surprise, there was Maurice, looking at a redhead on the other side of the bar.

Abel internally debated whether or not to invite Maurice to sit with him, not wanting to ruin the moment but also not wanting to sit with strangers and potentially ruin his first dinner here. After a few moments' existential crisis, Abel walked up to Maurice and poked his shoulder. "Well, look who it is. Heh." He smiled weakly. "Supper's ready and I need a table partner... maybe you and your new redhead friend could join me?"

by **Terre des Gaules** » Wed Jun 23, 2021 4:24 am

She glided ever closer to him, but playing it coyly, looking around at the others gathered as she continued to maneuver between them to get closer to Maurice. Then she would steal another glance at him, giving a half smile, then act as though she was distracted by a bump, trying to keep her drink steady.

"Well, look who it is. Heh." He heard a familiar voice from over his shoulder. "Supper's ready and I need a table partner... maybe you and your new redhead friend could join me?"

And just like that, she reversed course. She was like a small animal caught out in the open, her eyes widened. Then, to her credit, he could watch as she put a shield of nonchalance back over her face. She was slipping back, using the bar crowd as a curtain. Then she was gone.

Maurice turned a quarter turn so that his back was flat against the bar rail. "Abel, my friend. Look at you...Sure, I will join you." He glanced back to where she had faded out. "You saw her, eh? What a fine looking woman she is. Seems like she will decline the invitation...this time around, anyway."
He continued to speak in the generalized French dialect they shared.
"It is general seating at the dining tables, no? I guess we should get ourselves seated soon. I assume they won't run out of room, though." He boosted himself off the rail to follow Abel, grabbing his jacket off the nearby bar stool. He might still need it for after dinner.

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