Celebrating Spring in Style (IC, Open)

[AHSCA]

Macha Taise, of Cork Descent.
People always assumed, that there was a sort-of sixth sense, which made Spiorad able to differ between their kind and 'normal' animal-eared folk. They were not wrong, there was something.
A Spiorad, a real, honest to the Gods, Old Spiorad had a certain way of movement about them, a certain detachment, a certain grace of ageless wisdom, which even the younger ones, like Elin, Branwen or even my own ward Nia, sometimes showed... for all her ara-ara-oneechan-ness and deranged madness on the tournament field, Elin was actually a good example.
She could be a flirty seductress one moment, a mad, rabid dog in the next, and after that have a detachment in her step, in her eyes, especially when she was alone, nursing a drink. One saw it in her eyes, the knowledge, that it all would be gone one day, turned to dust... the knowledge, but not the experience.
I had the experience and although, much like Branwen, I was known as an approachable Spriorad, as evidenced by my attending this party with Kean Iavala of the Tribe of Monaghan, the founder and boss of Forbróir Computing Limited, I still knew, that I sometimes had this air around me.
It had been Kean, who had noticed her.
He was right, something was off about her.
She was not animal-eared folk. Sure, she dressed like an AHSCAn, there were subtle differences to the style of dress of Okunarutsuru, but she...
...was she...?
I looked at Kean.
He let go of my hand, nodded. “I'll be alright.”, he said.
I gave him a quick peck onto the cheek, then was off, approaching the woman, who's name I did not yet know.
I said, without a preamble, speaking the Spiorad's old tongue Tafod: “You are like me, are you not?”

For the time being, Tsubaki took a bit of time to observe the coming crowd. In time she'd probably start to venture out and socialize, it seemed a few had already began to eye her too, well not a big surprise there. But it wasn't long another woman approached her, a fellow kemonomimi perhaps, was her first thought but that was quickly answered, she was no ordinary woman, the tongue said it all, literally in this case as she asked in Tafod “You are like me, are you not?” Boy it had been a very long time since she heard it but somehow, the language didn't escape her, it was like riding a bike, she just never forgot. "Indeed I am. It's been a long time for me since i've set foot in the land that was once my home. Tsubaki Kinoshita" She introduced herself "Or at least that's the name I've adopted. My original name is Ceridwen. Call me what you wish, it doesn't matter to me. It's good to meet you?" She was certain she hadn't crossed paths with this woman before, but it had been centuries. "mmmm forgive me if we've met some time ago, sadly I don't remember. Assuming you haven't found way already to my Inn in the AHSCA islands." She didn't miss a beat, smiling through her red lipstick.

[Danceria]

Raidri Uinér of the Tribe of Laois.
I smiled, when Theomer told me, that Ponárri was alright, happy and counting his beans – literally, by now, it seems, not only metaphorically. Granted, it was a logical progression, but it did not speak for the mental health of the man...
In any case, thanks to Aonas, I knew, that Theomer was not someone, who stood on ceremony above else, he wasn't Kyrenaian, after all, so it did surprise me slightly to hear him refer to the elder Blaidds this formally. Of course, I knew, who he was talking about and considering, what Aonas had told me about Theomer and Branwen Blaidd, it would be quite a meeting.
I still nodded.
“Meave is in one of the bay window, Llwyd should not be far away.”, I told him, then turned towards the far side of the room, pointing at the last booth. “Over there.”
Indeed, if one would look into the booth, one would easily be able to spot the middle-aged woman, who looked out onto the Tournament Field. She wore Gwisgwanaeth, Tralee's Geansai in the image of a Guarding Fox, one of the vulpines endemic to these lands. Her leather armour emphasized her build, the fur highlights on the hips, the fur ruffs on the boots and the beret of beige fur was contrasted by the two red, square fox ears in her hair (obviously fake ones) and the beige, fluffy tail. She looked strangely cute and exotic, but also a bit playful and decidedly not like a woman in her mid-forties.
Llwyd was nowhere in sight.
“Good luck, young man.”, I told him, putting a hand on his shoulder, “And don't be afraid, if Llwyd is a bit... gruff. It's normal for him.”

There were several things that the Prior did not know about Dancerian culture-not that Theomer would fault him for it. The witticism of someone being excessively critical and finicky in the nascency of a project-or to "shear one's sprouts"-was lost on him. Secondly, Aonas would never have seen Theo's more formal side-the side most often is associated with the man back at home. Uni keg parties were seldom suit and tie affairs, not that he'd attend, and Elinn thoroughly kicked any notion of deference outside of ability. She wasn't born two thousand years ago after all.

Secondly, the average Dancerian was rather...uncouth and gruff. They would slurp the punch bowl like it was a warm bowl of soup, quarrel with the industrialists over the affects of their businesses with a creative, if barely comprehensible, mastery of pithy prosetics. Whatever brusque or belligerant rebuffs Mr. Blaidd had in store would be tame-if his Uncle Eoford was anything to go by.

Raidri's words, while well received, did little to dissipate the growing sense of anxiety as he approached the wife of an immortal, and a mother to immortal children. Something he will never have-he should never even think about with Branwen, for he knew his duties.

With a clearing of his throat and a polite rap at the doorsill, Theomer made his presence known. "Mrs. Blaidd?" he began "Theomer Arling, at your service."

[Katase]

Alaina Raméis of the Tribe of Cavan.
It might surprise the two young ladies of the surprisingly young binary alloy, as well as their managers, but they did have fans in the Free Lands, even within the Lounge already. Granted, their fandom was rather young and it had less to do with their music and more with who they were: School-Musicians.
As such, it came as little surprise, that the three girls of Gabhála, Eithne, Ida and Tea, who usually played Selkie-Rock, either fused with Selkie-Jazz or of the Soft-Rock Variant, were quite interested in meeting their fellow school-musicians. I was here as supervisor of their band by the school, as all three were still attending the Iris Boarding School Complex and while they had signed their first record deal last year, the Iris still held a lot of sway over them.
Not to mention their parents...
...but that aside, when the two and their manager entered, Eithne spotted them first. As their singer and keyboardist, the brunette had a sort-of leadership role, and as such, she turned to her two compatriots, Ida the Guitarist and Tea the Bassist. I stood to the side and watched.
“Play it cool, girls.”, she said, instructed, her bandmembers. “They are not Disréad, but they are cool. But we are, too. So...”
“...play it cool.”, Tea said with a nod and a smile.
Eithne nodded and took a steadying breath, then turned and led them towards Infant Alloy.
I must admit, although not understanding a word, their music was quite catchy. Of course, I would always be biased towards the bands I took care of, but they were not bad. I was sure, that whoever taught them was proud of themselves.
“Hi.”, Eithne greeted the three, “I'm Eithne, those are Ida and Tea. We're Gabhála.”
I smiled and gave a wink to Miss Kagamihara – let them get it out of their systems.

"Yaw!" Kirara belted out with great enthsuasim, Yaw being sort of weird accented way of Yo!. "Eithne, Ida, Tea you say." She repeated their names to of course learn them. "Based on the name, I'm guessing yous a band yeah? Gabhála.... Gabhála..." She hung her head down "Aww sorry, afraid yer name doesn't ring much bells. Well gotta change that then! Cause hey, we gal bands we gotta stick together huh?! Oh anyway where are my manners? Kuno Kirara-san -- er rather just Kirara is fine. No need for the extra rigamarole. Frankly, most Katase don't even do the inverse naming scheme like some others in our family of cultures do. Oh here is my partner, side-kick, right hand, better half even, tadaaaa it's Sajuna Inoue."

"mmmm Hi!" Sajuna blurted out throwing up two fingers for V. She was still a bit nervous but she was internally psyching herself up. Come on, Sajuna, just think of them like your little sisters Imagining them just like her younger sisters back home gave her a giggle maybe not the best way about it actually but she was starting to relax. "Hehehe."

"Anyway we're Infant Alloy. Me and Sa-chan formed our duo in our second year of middle school, and well now we're first year high schoolers and already have two number ones! Okay, maybe two aint all that impressive."

"Ehehe" Again Sajuna just kind of giggled nervously still gripping onto Kirara's hand, getting a word in edgewise over talkative Kirara could be a little tricky. "Well whether it's two, one or none, I'm just so glad we can go on stage and perform and have CD signings and the like. Oh we're not boasting too much are we? But maybe you're already leagues ahead of us can brag plenty too. Ehehehe"

"Uh girls, I believe you forgetting someone." Sakura reminded them

"Oh sorry." Sajuna replied, "And here is our manager, Sakura Kagamihara."

"And Sakura is fine too, I don't mind. Good to meet you girls too."

[Aaaaaa]

After noticing the bickering near the entrance Anastasja would recognise those two anywhere, she walked up to her friends she had not seen in ages and waived to the pair.

“Zdravo, Meausa, Noeanyyn. I’m glad to see you two here, I was worried I might have been out of place. I hope all has been well with you two? Let’s us go find a spot, drinks are on me.”

"A-Anastasija!?" Meausa's eyes widened as she noticed the brunette approaching them. "Wuh.. what are you doing here?"
At the same time, Noeanyyn froze in place. This was the first time she had seen Anastasija in person since her incident in 2020.

Meausa continued. "It's been so long... I'm sorry we haven't been on PruCh very much lately. Noeanyyn got a new job, and I lost mine due to the pandemic, so.. I've been mainly travelling with her recently, she's a truck driver now. You remember that.. erm, septic truck she used to drive around in Klosithdaed? Well, her uncle called her in January, and..." She trailed off, noticing Noeanyyn's silence. She nudged her with her shoulder. "Hey, you should be explaining this, not me."

That shook Noean out of her state. "O-oh, um, yeah... I... got a job. My uncle got a new truck, and he told me that I can have the old one to run errands, so... I have been hauling stuff, around the country." As Noeanyyn spoke, she instinctively kept her right side of her face towards Anastasija, showing less of her eyepatch, which Meausa noticed. "It's... um... good to see you."

Meausa spoke up again. "Yeah... uh, I don't think I ever properly thanked you for donating us that money last year. It's been a lot of help. We still haven't spent much of it, people back home, you know, they... they'll tend to notice if we do." She looked back at Noeanyyn, but she didn't interject. She sighed and cleared her throat. "So... you mentioned drinks?"

[Bolrieg]

"A-Anastasija!?" Meausa's eyes widened as she noticed the brunette approaching them. "Wuh.. what are you doing here?"
At the same time, Noeanyyn froze in place. This was the first time she had seen Anastasija in person since her... incident in 2020.

Meausa continued. "It's been so long... I'm sorry we haven't been on PruCh very much lately. Noeanyyn got a new job, and I lost mine due to the pandemic, so.. I've been mainly travelling with her recently, she's a truck driver now. You remember that.. erm, septic truck she used to drive around in Klosithdaed? Well, her uncle called her in January, and..." She trailed off, noticing Noeanyyn's silence. She nudged her with her shoulder. "Hey, you should be explaining this, not me."

That shook Noean out of her state. "O-oh, um, yeah... I... got a job. My uncle got a new truck, and he told me that I can have the old one to run errands, so... I have been hauling stuff, around the country." As Noeanyyn spoke, she instinctively kept her right side of her face towards Anastasija, showing less of her eyepatch, which Meausa noticed. "It's... um... good to see you."

Meausa spoke up again. "Yeah... uh, I don't think I ever properly thanked you for donating us that money last year. It's been a lot of help. We still haven't spent much of it, people back home, you know, they... they'll tend to notice if we do." She looked back at Noeanyyn, but she didn't interject. She sighed and cleared her throat. "So... you mentioned drinks?"

"I wasn't sure whether to book this myself... but there was someone who did a lot of harm to me a good few years ago has been released and well he has been sending me abusive messages in the post and... *a quick tear formed in her eye, which was wiped quickly in the hopes they wouldn't see.* I'm sorry, let us just say he knows how to hurt me. Anyways, I thought I'd come here and clear my head for a bit and I am now glad to see that both of you are here too."

"Don't worry, I imagine internet on the road might be hard to come by. Congratulations on getting the new job by the way Noeanyyn, I'm sorry that the shop had closed. I imagine all that is going on deliveries are needed more than ever. *seeing her turn he face* you don't need to hide yourself. I know things might have been difficult as of late but I am still your friend and won't be bothered by how you look. Besides *giving a small smile, half jokingly* I cannot really comment on appearance that much. As for me as you probably heard I do have that acting role I mentioned while back, hopefully the first series should be finished soon."

Turning back to Meausa, "It is absolutely no problems at all. Like I said if you need me to do anything to help I am more than happy to do so. I understand that, suppose the money is there for as and when you need it. I suppose in saying that if the trucking job goes well you could put some of that money to setting up a trucking business. Ah yes drinks, *slaps her forehead* you know I have just realised that drinks and food here are free. I suppose we just need to order what we want then find a seat."

[Hanoverian Great Britain]

"Rieka, hm.., that sounds quite, German, doesn't it?", asked Victoria with a rather intuitive face. However, deep inside, this quickly became a rather embarrassing gaffe for herself, for there is the chance that whoever this woman is might not even be from or aware of the term "German" herself. On the other hand, there is the obvious chance that she could otherwise be all right along, perhaps saving her from a rather unfortunate gaffe at such an early moment in a normal conversation. Nonetheless, she was able to retain her overall posture, whilst tentatively listening to Reika's words, which seems to be summing up the typical characteristics of such an event like this one. "Ah yes, meeting people, the buffet, and all that, very typical, yes", responded her in a largely indifferent tone. "So tell me, Reika, perhaps, you came all the way here from a country that I myself would most likely be unaware of, care to tell me about that? Or perhaps, a little backstory, yes?", questioned Victoria, whom perhaps, in an apparent shift of tone, began displaying her unique journalistic nature and instincts which she has honed for several years now for the public to see, all the while maintaining a largely simple and basic conversation with another person.

[New Visayan Islands]

Hiram Yabut
Seomrasuí House

There weren't that many people Hiram could completely relate to. Not many people were completely sold on the need for renewables, nor did he expect renewables to completely replace fossil fuels within his lifetime. But he could try to make the latter as close to reality as possible, which was why when he sailed his yacht, the Eternal Will, he came to Victoria Shipyards - Selkie Branch with a proposal to modify the yacht to source solar power for its electrical needs, relegating the yacht's diesel-fired generators to backup in the event of foul weather for an overall reduction of diesel consumption, effectively increasing the yacht's range. He would not know it yet, but when the proposal was received and uploaded, the yacht's designer, Antonio Hasegawa, took it as a challenge to design a yacht of similar size with hybrid propulsion and solar panels.
Seeing someone approach him had Hiram wondering...it seems someone's interested. This is going to be either a good thing or a great thing, he thought.

Engr. Peter A. Turrija
Seomrasuí House, Cuan, The Free Lands
March 20th, AD 2022
0811 Local Time

The branch manager of Victoria Shipyards - Selkie Branch was no stranger to events in the Free Lands; his first event was the Harvest Festival in 2020, where he ended up purchasing 2 G22 utility vehicles that proved their worth during the late 2020 wave that hit the Free Lands and would see Visayan physicians render aid to that country before moving to Aaaaaa in the middle of 2021. He arrived just in time to see the Bossman himself chatting with the folks from Leuda; though the meeting had already been done last Friday, the thought that Samuel was planning on having a less formal meet just did not leave his head...
...until he hit the buffet. Not many things can compete with good food, even continuous rumination.

[Magnecia]

Seomrasuí House, Cuan City, The Freelands

Andy was lost in thoughts as he checked into the VIP Lounge of the Seomrasui House in Cuan City. He was supposed to have a good time here, but sadly he couldn't concentrate on his surroundings. The first thing he saw when he came out of his flight was a Whatsapp message from his long time agent and the man whom he thought was his only friend, Scooter Brown. The message was a short but an impactful one, Brown was quiting his job and will no longer be his agent. Andy thought that such a decision was probably the result of the argument that he had with Brown just three days earlier when he refused to sign the multi-million film contract which Andy felt blatantly went against his conscience. He was half expecting such a response, yet he could not realise that it would have such a heavy impact on him.

Andy never liked the film business. He hated the superficiality of the film industry and the lack of emotion or morals among it's members. He had been witnessing the ugly face of the film biz, that most people do not notice, from his childhood itself, which further fueled his hatred. But there was little he could do about his hatred. He had a legacy to fulfill afterall. Andrew Fitzgerald Paul came from one of the biggest film families in Magnecia, his father, Teddy Paul is an Academy Award winning director, while his grandfather David Paul was one of the stars of the Golden Era of Magnecian film industry. His mother Kate Fitzgerald was herself a popular actor and singer, and being the only male offspring he was forced to enter the film business and carry on the legacy. He himself was one of the more popular younger actors of his generation. But he hated everthing of his professional life. His first love, the actress Lora Eastwood, was his fiance for over 5 years, only to dump him suddenly when she saw a better oppurtunity and married producer John Pelosi. He was so devastated by her marriage that he even attempted to commit suicide once, but was saved by his younger sister Elena, probably the only person who loved him unconditionally, and recommended that he should take a brake and go on a vacation. He followed her advice.

But sadly, it wasn't the best start to his vacation, but he still tried to remain optimistic. Wearing a flawless white shirt, blue ripped jeans and a pair of sunglasses, he entered the VIP Lounge. He tried very hard to forget whatever transpired over the day, and focus on the present. "I'm going to enjoy myself today, and I'm not going to let anyone prevent me from doing so." he muttered to himself. He looked at the large number of guests that have gathered there and took a deep breath. He turned off his phone and put it inside his pockets. No, he was determined that he will enjoy himself today. He waited paitently to find someone suitable and socialise with them.

[The Selkie]

For the time being, Tsubaki took a bit of time to observe the coming crowd. In time she'd probably start to venture out and socialize, it seemed a few had already began to eye her too, well not a big surprise there. But it wasn't long another woman approached her, a fellow kemonomimi perhaps, was her first thought but that was quickly answered, she was no ordinary woman, the tongue said it all, literally in this case as she asked in Tafod “You are like me, are you not?” Boy it had been a very long time since she heard it but somehow, the language didn't escape her, it was like riding a bike, she just never forgot. "Indeed I am. It's been a long time for me since i've set foot in the land that was once my home. Tsubaki Kinoshita" She introduced herself "Or at least that's the name I've adopted. My original name is Ceridwen. Call me what you wish, it doesn't matter to me. It's good to meet you?" She was certain she hadn't crossed paths with this woman before, but it had been centuries. "mmmm forgive me if we've met some time ago, sadly I don't remember. Assuming you haven't found way already to my Inn in the AHSCA islands." She didn't miss a beat, smiling through her red lipstick.

Macha Taise, of Cork Descent.
She confirmed, that she was a Spiorad like me... Ceridwen, once upon a time, now Tsubaki Kinoshita and, apparently, an inn owner.
And a proud one at that.
“I know, that I haven't been in the UIS, neither in the last century nor before, and I know a lot of Ceridwens...” I shrugged. “I'm afraid, that I can't tell you either. I usually pride myself in never forgetting, when I meet kinsfolk, so... it gnawed at the back of my head. “But yes, it is good to meet you...” I thought for a moment. The fact, that she had migrated a long time ago and that she called these Lands once her home, told me, that she might not have come with joy. So, there was only one choice as to what to call her. “...Tsubaki.”
I let a beat pass.
“Now, care to have a drink with me?”, I asked, “It's always interesting to hear the stories of kinsfolk... and I hear, that the Islands have a rather interesting story to tell.”

There were several things that the Prior did not know about Dancerian culture-not that Theomer would fault him for it. The witticism of someone being excessively critical and finicky in the nascency of a project-or to "shear one's sprouts"-was lost on him. Secondly, Aonas would never have seen Theo's more formal side-the side most often is associated with the man back at home. Uni keg parties were seldom suit and tie affairs, not that he'd attend, and Elinn thoroughly kicked any notion of deference outside of ability. She wasn't born two thousand years ago after all.

Secondly, the average Dancerian was rather...uncouth and gruff. They would slurp the punch bowl like it was a warm bowl of soup, quarrel with the industrialists over the affects of their businesses with a creative, if barely comprehensible, mastery of pithy prosetics. Whatever brusque or belligerant rebuffs Mr. Blaidd had in store would be tame-if his Uncle Eoford was anything to go by.

Raidri's words, while well received, did little to dissipate the growing sense of anxiety as he approached the wife of an immortal, and a mother to immortal children. Something he will never have-he should never even think about with Branwen, for he knew his duties.

With a clearing of his throat and a polite rap at the doorsill, Theomer made his presence known. "Mrs. Blaidd?" he began "Theomer Arling, at your service."

Meave Blaidd, of Tralee Descent.
I was a Tralee, so I had dropped the Green and Red-Orange of Cavan and wore the traditional costume nowadays usually associated with the Spiorad, the Gwisgwanaeth. The choice of which animal was deeply linked to who the person was, either by choice or by recommendation. Elin had chosen the Woodstalker, Branwen the Scalefang, both conscious choices: The Scalefang was fiercely territorial, but despite that, a calm and confident fighter. The Woodstalker, on the other hand, was fiercely territorial as well, but he was more feral, especially when his young were in danger.
I, on the other hand, had been recommended the Guarding Fox: Small and agile, learning fast and being cute, but also guardians of the young, both the own and other's. I saw it as a compliment.
“Mrs. Blaidd?”, a young man's voice tore me out of my thoughts, “Theomer Arling, at your service.”
I looked him over.
Yep, that was him, the description fit.
“I know, who you are.”, I said politely and with a friendly smile, “Branwen is... quite fond of you.” I rose and made a small bow before indicating to the spot opposite to me in the bay window. “Please, sit with me.”

"Yaw!" Kirara belted out with great enthsuasim, Yaw being sort of weird accented way of Yo!. "Eithne, Ida, Tea you say." She repeated their names to of course learn them. "Based on the name, I'm guessing yous a band yeah? Gabhála.... Gabhála..." She hung her head down "Aww sorry, afraid yer name doesn't ring much bells. Well gotta change that then! Cause hey, we gal bands we gotta stick together huh?! Oh anyway where are my manners? Kuno Kirara-san -- er rather just Kirara is fine. No need for the extra rigamarole. Frankly, most Katase don't even do the inverse naming scheme like some others in our family of cultures do. Oh here is my partner, side-kick, right hand, better half even, tadaaaa it's Sajuna Inoue."

"mmmm Hi!" Sajuna blurted out throwing up two fingers for V. She was still a bit nervous but she was internally psyching herself up. Come on, Sajuna, just think of them like your little sisters Imagining them just like her younger sisters back home gave her a giggle maybe not the best way about it actually but she was starting to relax. "Hehehe."

"Anyway we're Infant Alloy. Me and Sa-chan formed our duo in our second year of middle school, and well now we're first year high schoolers and already have two number ones! Okay, maybe two aint all that impressive."

"Ehehe" Again Sajuna just kind of giggled nervously still gripping onto Kirara's hand, getting a word in edgewise over talkative Kirara could be a little tricky. "Well whether it's two, one or none, I'm just so glad we can go on stage and perform and have CD signings and the like. Oh we're not boasting too much are we? But maybe you're already leagues ahead of us can brag plenty too. Ehehehe"

"Uh girls, I believe you forgetting someone." Sakura reminded them

"Oh sorry." Sajuna replied, "And here is our manager, Sakura Kagamihara."

"And Sakura is fine too, I don't mind. Good to meet you girls too."

Alaina Raméis of the Tribe of Cavan.
The two musicians were quite happy to see my three girls, greeting them with friendliness and, of course, their names, Kirara and Sajuna. The two spoke like waterfalls, obviously impressing my girls a bit.
Two number ones? My lassies stood firmly at zero and one Top 8.
Granted, they were in fierce competition with other bands and they were still searching for their style, but things like signings CDs were far away for them. They were glad to perform, though, performers with heart and soul.
I smiled as I watched my girls.
And I bowed politely to their manager at the introduction.
“Yeah, that reminds me...”, Eithne added, motioned to me, “Our... well, you're not a manager, are you?”
“I am Alaina Raméis of the Tribe of Cavan.”, I explained, “I am a teacher at their school and I am the person to approach with any questions regarding the bands at the Iris Boarding School Complex.” I let a beat pass. “And sometimes something akin to a babysitter.”
“Hey!”, Eithne complained, “I mean, we don't need a babysitter... the boys do.”
I smiled. “Of course they do.”, I said in a tone, that suggested, that they weren't the only ones, who needed babysitters. Turning back to Infant Alloy and their manager, I added: “She's talking about Ardithe, though they aren't in Cuan today.“
“But we are!”, Eithne said with a grin, “And we're gonna play later today – two o'clock, in front of the Spresanna Inn!” She grinned widely. “After that, we can see if the three of us can jam together? If the steward allows, that is...”
I smiled.

"Rieka, hm.., that sounds quite, German, doesn't it?", asked Victoria with a rather intuitive face. However, deep inside, this quickly became a rather embarrassing gaffe for herself, for there is the chance that whoever this woman is might not even be from or aware of the term "German" herself. On the other hand, there is the obvious chance that she could otherwise be all right along, perhaps saving her from a rather unfortunate gaffe at such an early moment in a normal conversation. Nonetheless, she was able to retain her overall posture, whilst tentatively listening to Reika's words, which seems to be summing up the typical characteristics of such an event like this one. "Ah yes, meeting people, the buffet, and all that, very typical, yes", responded her in a largely indifferent tone. "So tell me, Reika, perhaps, you came all the way here from a country that I myself would most likely be unaware of, care to tell me about that? Or perhaps, a little backstory, yes?", questioned Victoria, whom perhaps, in an apparent shift of tone, began displaying her unique journalistic nature and instincts which she has honed for several years now for the public to see, all the while maintaining a largely simple and basic conversation with another person.

Rieka, Waldburgfrau von Lattenzaun.
Funnily enough, I knew, in broad strokes, what 'German' meant. This was not the first time, that people told me that and I had looked it up – these 'Germans' were... weird people, especially the ones from all corners of the Multiverse.
In any case, after her indifferent reply, she asked for me to tell her about Teressien... in a tone, which made her sound like a journalist. A more honest one then the ones from the colourful pages, but a journalist nonetheless.
It couldn't hurt, I thought.
“As said, I am from Teressien, officially the Principality of Teressien.”, I told her, “It is a nation on the Arranan Continent, south of Auwalt and Dousatel, east of Lutetii, north of Brucalla and west of Mandanda and Menyz. We also border the city states of Isarcanna, Iuva and Ennia.” I let a beat pass. “As you mentioned the Germans, I can not help but to think, that we are very much different from each other. Sure, we have a similar affinity for modern technology and cars...” I shrugged with a smile. “...but we also have a calmer way of life.”
I let a beat pass.
“Now, Miss Cattrall, if I may ask, where are you from?”, I added.

Hiram Yabut
Seomrasuí House

There weren't that many people Hiram could completely relate to. Not many people were completely sold on the need for renewables, nor did he expect renewables to completely replace fossil fuels within his lifetime. But he could try to make the latter as close to reality as possible, which was why when he sailed his yacht, the Eternal Will, he came to Victoria Shipyards - Selkie Branch with a proposal to modify the yacht to source solar power for its electrical needs, relegating the yacht's diesel-fired generators to backup in the event of foul weather for an overall reduction of diesel consumption, effectively increasing the yacht's range. He would not know it yet, but when the proposal was received and uploaded, the yacht's designer, Antonio Hasegawa, took it as a challenge to design a yacht of similar size with hybrid propulsion and solar panels.
Seeing someone approach him had Hiram wondering...it seems someone's interested. This is going to be either a good thing or a great thing, he thought.

Engr. Peter A. Turrija
Seomrasuí House, Cuan, The Free Lands
March 20th, AD 2022
0811 Local Time

The branch manager of Victoria Shipyards - Selkie Branch was no stranger to events in the Free Lands; his first event was the Harvest Festival in 2020, where he ended up purchasing 2 G22 utility vehicles that proved their worth during the late 2020 wave that hit the Free Lands and would see Visayan physicians render aid to that country before moving to Aaaaaa in the middle of 2021. He arrived just in time to see the Bossman himself chatting with the folks from Leuda; though the meeting had already been done last Friday, the thought that Samuel was planning on having a less formal meet just did not leave his head...
...until he hit the buffet. Not many things can compete with good food, even continuous rumination.

Prince Yngvi of Svartaland.
Approaching Yabut was done with slightly mixed feelings – after all, we were in similar businesses, yes, but at the end of the day, we were also competitors in a way. I did not know him well, so I did not know, if he was an idealist, a realist or a capitalist... I knew, where I fell in that, the answer being yes.
I did also not know about the Eternal Will's unique properties.
What I did know, however, was how to approach people.
“Mister Yabut, I presume?”, I said and extended my hand, “Prince Yngvi of Svartaland. I hear, that we are in similar businesses... providing renewable, infinite power to our countries.”

Mona Méara of the Tribe of Louth.
Turrija was an engineer at heart – that was the impression I got anyway.
But he was also Victoria Shipyard's local branch's manager. They had their seat in Traverse, which was fair enough, but with the Mayor, my husband, being out in the City, I had the duty to represent my City a bit. And if I could plant the idea of maybe creating a sub-branch in Cuan, it might be of advantage.
After all, SDY built ships (well, boats) here, maybe VSY saw a similar function for my home city.
We certainly got the space.
So, dressed in Louth's Green and Blue, I smiled as I approached Turrija, two glasses, both with water in my hand. I knew, that he knew us, he had been here for a while and he had earned some respect among us as he had remained in Traverse during the First COVID-Wave. That, and a colleague of his was in a relationship with a Selkie-lass, Amy Ramallae.
The two were caught up in each other and Cui was occupied with the MGoL, which left Turrija for me...
I smiled at him, as I reached him, holding out a glass of water.
“Good morning, Mister Turrija.”, I said, then introduced myself: “ Mona Méara of the Tribe of Louth, Cuan's First Lady. How is Traverse these days?”

Seomrasuí House, Cuan City, The Freelands

Andy was lost in thoughts as he checked into the VIP Lounge of the Seomrasui House in Cuan City. He was supposed to have a good time here, but sadly he couldn't concentrate on his surroundings. The first thing he saw when he came out of his flight was a Whatsapp message from his long time agent and the man whom he thought was his only friend, Scooter Brown. The message was a short but an impactful one, Brown was quiting his job and will no longer be his agent. Andy thought that such a decision was probably the result of the argument that he had with Brown just three days earlier when he refused to sign the multi-million film contract which Andy felt blatantly went against his conscience. He was half expecting such a response, yet he could not realise that it would have such a heavy impact on him.

Andy never liked the film business. He hated the superficiality of the film industry and the lack of emotion or morals among it's members. He had been witnessing the ugly face of the film biz, that most people do not notice, from his childhood itself, which further fueled his hatred. But there was little he could. He had a legacy to fulfil afterall. Andrew Fitzgerald Paul came from one of the biggest film families in Magnecia, his father, Teddy Paul is an Academy Award winning director, while his grandfather David Paul was one of the stars of the Golden Era of Magnecian film industry. His mother Kate Fitzgerald was herself a popular actor and singer, and being the only male offspring he was forced to enter the film business and carry on the legacy. He himself was one of the more popular younger actors of his generation. But he hated everthing of his professional life. His first love, the actress Lora Eastwood, was his fiance for over 5 years, only to dump him suddenly when she saw a better oppurtunity and married producer John Pelosi. He was so devastated by her marriage that he even attempted to commit suicide once, but was saved by his younger sister Elena, probably the only person who loved him unconditionally, and recommended that he should take a brake and go on a vacation. He followed her advice.

But sadly, it wasn't the best start to his vacation, but he still tried to remain optimistic. Wearing a flawless white shirt, blue ripped jeans and a pair of sunglasses, he entered the VIP Lounge. He tried very hard to forget whatever transpired over the day, and focus on the present. "I'm going to enjoy myself today, and I'm not going to let anyone prevent me from doing so." he muttered to himself. He looked at the large number of guests that have gathered there and took a deep breath. He turned off his phone and put it inside his pockets. No, he was determined that he will enjoy himself today. He waited paitently to find someone suitable and socialise with them.

Celina Uasal of the Tribe of Fermanagh.
There were quite a few media people present, from sportspeople to actors.
In a way, I was one, too, although my endeavours in that area were limited. I was more famous as a director and producer in services of Sicín Studios, a small animation studio here in the Free Lands. We made Marla, Gníomhaire Inneall and countless other shows, though especially the Inspector was close to my heart: I was its overall director.
Around these parts, it was a huge success, the former radio adventures of the hard-boiled Ionchoisne-Agent and femme fatales and gadgets from the fifties had been updated, had become a show of the 21st century and they had become animated. We had dubs in Kyrenaian, Lutetiian (including talks about a special crossover movie with their own Bolpina, their own show about a hard-boiled and gold-hearted Mafiosa) and a few other languages, some of which were even works by fans.
The English Dub was one example.
That had been so good, that we took the people responsible for it under contract.
In any case, I was here today not only to scout out new talents, but also to network a bit, but mostly, and that was the most important part, to have fun. Let my boss worry about business!
And so, when the guy in the ripped jeans entered, I left him barely enough time to mumble something to himself before I approached him. I wore Geansai in Fermanagh's Red and Gold-Yellow, my long, blonde hair kept in check by a hairband, a few strands framing my face.
He seemed to be waiting for an opening to enter a conversation while I was seeing him as an opening. He also seemed remotely familiar.
Grabbing two glasses of water from a Handmaiden, I went for it with the tried and true method of initiating a conversation:
“Hey, there.”, I said, biting back a joke about his pants having holes (fashion was weird sometimes, but okay). I held out a glass for him. “Quite the intimidating crowd, eh? And far too many uniforms for my liking...”

[Danceria]

Meave Blaidd, of Tralee Descent.
I was a Tralee, so I had dropped the Green and Red-Orange of Cavan and wore the traditional costume nowadays usually associated with the Spiorad, the Gwisgwanaeth. The choice of which animal was deeply linked to who the person was, either by choice or by recommendation. Elin had chosen the Woodstalker, Branwen the Scalefang, both conscious choices: The Scalefang was fiercely territorial, but despite that, a calm and confident fighter. The Woodstalker, on the other hand, was fiercely territorial as well, but he was more feral, especially when his young were in danger.
I, on the other hand, had been recommended the Guarding Fox: Small and agile, learning fast and being cute, but also guardians of the young, both the own and other's. I saw it as a compliment.
“Mrs. Blaidd?”, a young man's voice tore me out of my thoughts, “Theomer Arling, at your service.”
I looked him over.
Yep, that was him, the description fit.
“I know, who you are.”, I said politely and with a friendly smile, “Branwen is... quite fond of you.” I rose and made a small bow before indicating to the spot opposite to me in the bay window. “Please, sit with me.”

"Thank you." He responded.

When Mrs. Blaidd said that Branwen was "rather fond", but hesitated, a million thoughts ran through his head. She might have noticed a brief flash of nervousness before it was plunged back into the stoic visage most associated with him.

Theomer held no garb nor costume befitting such affairs-even if he had wanted to fully buck his guardian's admonishment of "dallying in pagan affairs". As if he didn't come from a country where said pagans outnumbered them two to one.

His suit was a dull, earthy overcoat and vest, with a stark white undershirt, tied together by a sea-green tie, the only indication of his homeland and "Descent" to the Selkie. Though nothing would have pleased him more than to wear the Rohirric scale-mail armour-matching his current associate and the Gwisgwanaeth worn by the Blaidd sisters-he couldn't partake in the tournament. Not this year, at least, as far as he told Elinn, he vowed to partake the first chance he took. Contrary to his rather introverted character, Theo had a zest for athleticism, and a skill in horsemanship that matched any professional on campus. Any students of the psychological-or the more romanticist disposition-may gossip that the brooding and Byronic nature belied a passion and protective spirit, bursting forth energy when needed.

For now he was calm, quiet, and listening-almost painfully so. He knew, of course, of the Gwisgwanaeth and their significance. He had inquired as such, and now would see the sisters in a rather thematic contest. Elinn was dark, imposing and a silhouette on the battlefield, while the electric blues and yellows of Branwen's garb were a subdued sort of energy befitting of her personality. He dared not make one bet over the other, as he seemed to be considering too many things for such a festive occasion. Or perhaps that was just "Theo being Theo", not that he'd submit the mother of his newfound friend to his dry wit-especially with the as of now unseen Mr. Blaidd on the prowl!

After an almost painfully long pause, Theo began conversation once more. "Nice weather we've been having, Mrs. Blaidd." The Rohirric student never was the best at small talk.

[Hanoverian Great Britain]

"Oh, I see..", muttered her instinctively as she tentatively listened to the brief summary of Reika's birthplace. Without a doubt, the absolutely foreign nature of the names mentioned by the latter, ranging from Teressien itself to Lutetii did seem to puzzle her somewhat, despite the fact that on her part at least, she had in fact been outside of her country on a number of occasions, such as to war-torn Iraq, and the huge nation of India, with both countries having their own set of names for cities, etc. Nonetheless, just as Reika began giving a brief summary of her birthplace, Victoria herself, perhaps due to her natural journalistic instincts, was otherwise quick to note the aforementioned puzzling names on a little notebook she carries around with her. At the same time, when it was implied that this green-haired woman certainly knew of the existence of the "Germans" despite her being from an entirely different place, far far away, Victoria's face couldn't help but show the face of someone who was definitely caught by surprise by something that he/she had just experienced or otherwise listened to. "So, she definitely knows a thing or two about the Germans, okay..", said a voice inside her very own head.

After taking a few further seconds to briefly understand what she had just written with such speed, Victoria promptly turned her attention back to Reika. "Oh, I'm sorry, where I'm from?", asked Victoria in a slightly "messy" manner, a product of her being a little occupied with her own little, precious notes earlier. "So, you see, I'm from this country called the United Kingdom of Great Britain, Hanover, and Northern Ireland. Now yes, that name might sound very long indeed, so people basically call it the United Kingdom anyway, for convenience, oh, and mind you, it is actually an island, yes, an island country", she began, but not before letting a beat pass for a few seconds later. "Now, do you want to hear how I came to be? Or basically, my family history, I could assure you, it's quite a story!", continued her in a rather energetic tone.

[Phibeta]

After the Handmaiden had taken the flyers, promising to hand them out to a friends she knew might be interested (granted, more into watching then into participating in the production, but Karinsky didn't need to know that), the two were free to enter.
While it was a few hours too early for luncheon, it was morning, after all, there was an impressive spread on the buffet table and for those, who had skipped breakfast for one reason or the other, there was the offer to have a late breakfast in one of the bay windows, to be freshly arranged and brought by a Handmaiden.
For the rest, there was always the buffet – and the platters of sandwiches, which were most likely the most unusual pieces of this buffet.
They might also spot a few grand names of the Free Lands, when it came to actors: Donnchadh Púicín was, together with his wife Enya, conversing with Otis Sassa, Lugh Truill was nursing a glass of water standing next to Okan Fahnnan, who was almost besieged by Princess Lien of Byrkland, his greatest fan. One could also see the blonde mane of Amy Laoch, who was talking with Professor Bukker and Prince Vin of Dorch.
Alex, meanwhile, might recognize some grandes of the Merchant Guild of Leuda, even if they were being approached by the Cui, but he might also recognize the two ladies in charge of Capall Sciathán Trading, Kiana Rúisc of the Tribe of Waterford and Caja Rois of the Tribe of Fermanagh, who were known as exporteurs of luxury wares, in particular whiskey – but who said, that they couldn't expand? However, not only Selkie-Businesspeople were present... one might be able to strike up a conversation there, too?

The smell of business and political elite folks, quite the smell to enter in the morning. It wasn’t just that though. A buffet was being served here in this lounge, great for Alexander, who was feeling a bit peckish at the moment. William however found himself looking over the other side of the room. One of the biggest names in the Free Lands when it comes to trade and business.

“Say, Alex. Do you see those two ladies over there?” William says to Alex, gesturing to the two ladies.

“Ah, yes. I see them”

“They are the leading figures of the Capall Sciathán Trading Company. Big names in luxury ware. If I can introduce our cosmetics to them, I can further the outreach of our products to the Free Lands”.

“Ah, sounds like a good plan” Alex replies, his eyes on the buffet table. “You can go talk to them if you want. But if it’s alright with you, I’m going to head to the buffet table. I’m craving some food right now”.

“That’s fine”. Alex leaves for the buffet table flyers still in hand, perhaps an actor, dancer, singer, what have you would talk to him about upcoming productions. While William, being the entrepreneurial man, approached these two businesswomen.

“Excuse me, you are Kiana Rúisc and Caja Rois of the Capall Sciathán Trading Company correct? I have heard many great things about you and your company. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance. Allow me to introduce myself. I am William Sutherland, the CEO of Soie Leisse”.

[New Visayan Islands]

Hiram Yabut
Seomrasuí House

"Hiram Yabut, Your Highness. It's an honor," Hiram replied, returning the handshake; he had some alcohol in his pocket for later, so it wasn't much issue for him. "I see you're another patron of the renewables. Geothermal?" Hiram had heard of Svartaland's relentless pursuit of geothermal energy as its primary power source, and it was a logically reasonable guess that Prince Yngvi was in the business of geothermal energy. A shame they weren't in the same field...but Hiram knew someone who was.
"I'm in the business of solar photovoltaic as a power source myself. Not exactly the same methods, but there are many ways to skin the metaphorical cat, after all. Power requirements need to be met, preferably with a lower likelihood of backsides getting bitten down the line." Which was true, all things considered; even Carnival Electric was on its 50-year plan to decommission their extant coal-fired power plants in favor of nuclear and renewable sources.

Peter Turrija
Seomrasuí House

"Wonderful in so many ways, I must admit," Peter said. "How is your husband, by the way, Lady Méara? I don't see him around here; I assume Traverse calls?" he added, a tone of curiosity in his voice. VSSB was VAI's flagship overseas branch, and with plans to expand within the next five years the topic of the previous week's meeting, there was the semi-official nature of the branch's senior status whenever VAI's global operations were concerned. The fact that VSSB was also home to the office of the Director for VAI's Global Operations also helped...as he noticed said director in the background with his Selkie girlfriend enjoying each other's company.

Gabriel Cui
Seomrasuí House

As Gabriel enjoyed the first cup of Selkie tea--a black tea, something he was no stranger to--he was greeted by someone calling herself Cel.
"And I'm Gabe," he replied, turning to Cel as he did. "This tea is quite amazing, in my opinion," he added. There was something about tea that made for the start of great conversations in Gabriel's experience, and he had been developing a taste for the same since his university days, with English Breakfast and Earl Grey keeping him awake during tough study nights and a sencha or masala chai making for a relaxing afternoon. Indeed, when he passed the board examination for CPAs, his uncle Simeon had given him a brick of pu'er tea as a gift; that brick was still at home.

[Abetton]

Alaina Uiroll of the Tribe of Kildare.
The buffet was filled with treats, mostly of Selkie-origin, but also from many other places. The Handmaidens from at least three different countries had outdone themselves, truly, and especially the chocolate candies from Teressien were delightful.
I had to hold myself back, otherwise not even an M-103, a strategic airlifter designed to haul tanks around, would be able to lift me by midday... Luckily, there were enough distractions, which freely approached a well-equipped woman in Geansai, especially if that Geansai was composed of pieces in the natural colours of the fur and white stockings, marking me as a Servant to Gavida. The God of Arts and Crafts was a fitting deity for the CEO of an aircraft manufacturer.
Monarcha wasn't a major player in the field, but there certainly were smaller companies in the field – Cumscóir, for example, but they had another thing going for them, or Hane Airworks, which was headed by these two Okunarutsuran vixens...
They were around here somewhere.
In any case, after the newest potential toy was sent back with the nice recommendation, that my eyes were a bit higher up (Eoin Slabara did have the reputation of someone sticking it into anyone with two instead of three legs with the exceptions of his wife and his daughter, the former was how he came by the latter, a lovely young woman), I smiled... and saw someone new approaching. A rather young looking lass, to be honest, and she did not seem to belong to someone I knew.
And like a tourist.
Hm...
And heterochromia, too.
I smiled and, as she was close enough, told her: “If you like chocolate, you should try the Schokobomben.”
In addition, I threw her a wink and indicated to the confection, balls of chocolate with the core of marzipan, pistachio and nougat and a true firework of flavour.
As said, the Handmaidens had outdone themselves.


Beyeha Okka Melko.
Dad had high hopes for me: One day, this hope went, I would not be a Beyeha, not even the Beyeha of Jalid, but the Khana of Jalid, raised to that position by the Sultana Herself.
But that was only a future a long time away.
For now, I was Beyeha, a daughter of my Father, and here at a party in Cuan. It was not my first time here, Aurelia had dragged me along once for a diplomatic trip like this one, but that was a story for another day.
Nineteen years of age, a pale, beautiful woman with long, blonde hair and while Dad was talking to some dignitary or the other, I excused myself. Dad let me go with an understanding smile, the dignitary, some Teressian Diplomat, wished me fun.
But where?
So many people, some in my age group, many not...
I bumped into someone.
I turned to him, Arthur Cressidas (although I did not know his name yet), and took a moment to recover. Well, it wasn't a bad bump, at least not from my end, but it made me wince slightly. “My apologies, Sir. I should look, where I am going.”, I said with a small bow.

Amarilla Cressida


Quite a few good delectables to chose from, now the real challenge was to not make a pig of herself. Indeed she was eyeing the various sweets and chocolates that adorned the buffet line. Quite the sweet tooth on her. It certainly seemed someone else noticed when she was approached and given a few tips of what to pick. "hehehe" Ama giggled a bit, "Shows huh? Indeed I love chocolate. Everyone says I got that trait from my grandpa." Maybe she didn't really need to know or care, why did she say that anyway? Guess good to try to make conversation.

Arthur and Catiana Cressida

The couple talked amongst each other a bit but Arthur felt the sudden bump of someone running into him. Oof, well no harm done. "Oh begging your pardon" He also apologized seemingly as she apologized for walking into him. "Oh it's quite all right, I'm fine, I hope you as well. I'm just glad I don't have a drink in hand...Depending where the liquid landed well I could look way more embarrassed."

"Oh Arthur" his wife just chuckled in that manner that conveys, that was a bad joke but I love you anyway.

"Arthur Cressida. My wife, Catiana."

"Pleasure."

"and my younger sister---" He turned to introduce her but remembered just then, Amarilla had just left their side a moment ago, "right she went off to get something to eat but she's around somewhere."

[Polish Prussian Commonwealth]

Anwen Nathalaur
Seomrasuí House, Cuan, Free Lands of the Selkie.

---

She arrived fashionably late, her tail and ears twitching in atypical nervousness. She smelled-at least to the Spiroiad who could smell-quite different than their peers and vice versa. She in fact was of the Miqo'te, one of the dozen sapient species dwelling in the vast continent that Danceria reigned over-and more importantly, the bunkmate for Princess Erika Elunos-Byrnes. Instead of her contacts, the farsighted femme's eyes were kept with glasses-but other than that she wore the uniform indistinguishable from Erika-and quite distinguished from a famed socialite.

Anwen was her name, and she lingered awkardly near the now seated cadet. "U-um, Rikky." she cleared her throat. "I know it's been a while, and I'm sorry I was late..." She apologized profusely, both to her friend, and more to the woman who had wealth and status-status beyond what the Nathalaur clan currently possesed-but may one day reclaim. "Cadet Ah'nawen Nathalaur, at your service, Miz Vyterska."

Dana Vyterska did not go out of her way to torment Anwen -- she knew something of her circumstances, and knew too that she was very dear to Erika. So instead of tutting about her lateness, she smiled instead. "Oh, don't think much of it. Better late than never, Anwen." She smiled. "And if you think you're late, by the way, you should have seen Erika."

Erika gave a derisive snort, but did not respond directly to Dana. Instead she turned her attention to Anwen, and with a small, almost shy smile, stood. A few moments passed, with Erika gazing into Anwen's eyes, before she threw her arms around her and slapped her on the back. "Glad you're here." she said, with the faintest hint of a voice-crack, before breaking the hug. She took a visible moment to regain her composure, before her smile twisted into a smirk. "You haven't missed much yet, Anwen. It's all...y'know. Nonces."

"Hey, what about me?" Dana said, smirking a little, before straightening up...

Viola Dreach of the Tribe of Dundalk.
If someone was to ask of me to characterize Dana, I would say, that she was a businesswoman, a no-nonsense woman and, while a pretty woman, not one, who depended on it as her sole strategy of selling stuff. Quite on the contrary, she was smart, efficient and she knew, what she was doing, unlike quite a few people, who I had met over time.
I had met her in a weird place, at some wedding, I think, a typical high society function.
She was an arms dealer, I was in the hotel business.
An unlikely friendship, which had led to me inviting her to a cousin for dinner, vibing a bit, and proposing a business deal, which saw her selling us (demilitarised) tanks for those patrons, who wanted a bit of an extravagant holiday experience, as well as broker us contact to people, who knew how to drive and maintain the vehicles.
Dad had been quite impressed.
Now, she was here and I was in Cuan as well, with a third person. I almost had to drag the young woman with me, Liliane Guara of the Tribe of Fermanagh. She was the cousin, who had allowed me to invite Dana for a fish dinner and vibing to her home in Tráteach House on Argadnella Island.
She was a bluenette like I was, but she also looked like the sort of person, who would feel more at home at a beach then at such a party, in a warm country. Her story was not a pretty one, her parents died thirteen years ago. She was five years younger then me, a little sister to me like my half-sister Fiona was (who held the line in Creetown).
Regardless, I led her through the crowd, for I had spotted a familiar, pale-haired woman, who I loved to meet: “Dana!”, I said and spread my arms, smiling. One should add, that I was not wearing Geansai, Dundalk's wool and leather did not really suit me, but my favourite cocktail dress, the silver one with the interesting insights. “Welcome to Cuan, my friend!”
And with that, I hugged her.
Cousin Lilly, dressed in a fish leather ensemble one would usually associate with the Tribe of Wexford, but which had little in common with the ensemble used by the Lost Tribe, stood to the side a bit awkwardly, nodding to Erika and Anwen (who's names neither of us knew).

"Viola!" Dana cheered. She recipocrated Viola's hug, grinning from ear to ear. "Glad to be here!" She squeezed her friend tight, then broke her hug. "Here for pleasure, not business, I presume? How are the tanks you bought doing? Any issues?" She gave a nod to Lilly as well -- she would turn her full attention to her in a second.

Erika, for her part, glanced away from Anwen for only a second, to return Lilly's nod with a shorter, more curt one. "Hello." she said, in a dull, monotone voice.

[New Visayan Islands]

Gerald Vicente
Seomrasuí House

"I did," Gerald said, "a light one. A single cheese sandwich I had on the way here." Which was true; knowing the festivities, he needed only one sandwich to keep him just satisfied enough to make the trip without any inconvenience.
"How about you?" he then asked. "Did you have breakfast?" Already he was thinking of what options he'd prepare for both of them.

Jonathan Joseph Alquizola
Seomrasuí House

"No, Nolwenn; the pleasure was all mine," Alquizola replied with a bow. Turning to Raidri, he addressed what seemed to be the man's curiosity. "Hong Long Investments can indeed be seen as a minor player in the Visayan banking scene, especially when compared to what we call the Banking Trinity, but that's why we aim for expanding beyond the Confederation. Nobody sees us coming, in other words, until we've already established a foothold outside the NVI." Alquizola chuckled, knowing all too well that the only real Visayan competition in this regard came from Suico, Jimenez, and Du, and even then, it was going to be close...

[AHSCA]

Macha Taise, of Cork Descent.
She confirmed, that she was a Spiorad like me... Ceridwen, once upon a time, now Tsubaki Kinoshita and, apparently, an inn owner.
And a proud one at that.
“I know, that I haven't been in the UIS, neither in the last century nor before, and I know a lot of Ceridwens...” I shrugged. “I'm afraid, that I can't tell you either. I usually pride myself in never forgetting, when I meet kinsfolk, so... it gnawed at the back of my head. “But yes, it is good to meet you...” I thought for a moment. The fact, that she had migrated a long time ago and that she called these Lands once her home, told me, that she might not have come with joy. So, there was only one choice as to what to call her. “...Tsubaki.”
I let a beat pass.
“Now, care to have a drink with me?”, I asked, “It's always interesting to hear the stories of kinsfolk... and I hear, that the Islands have a rather interesting story to tell.”

In the end this fine lady opted to call her Tsubaki, no complaints, as she did say to call her as she pleased and well she had gone by that name so long.

"Aha I should have known you'd know a lot of Ceridwens, I'm certain my name was common enough. Even the name I ended up taking itself is a common name. Not that i'm complaining. A drink would with you would be delightful, it'll be nice to connect with a fellow Spiorad and maybe I have a story or two or twenty to tell. Ahaha...Oh such a bad joke, forgive me" she chuckled and cleared her throat, "I'm not sure you gave me your name?"

[Katase]

Alaina Raméis of the Tribe of Cavan.
The two musicians were quite happy to see my three girls, greeting them with friendliness and, of course, their names, Kirara and Sajuna. The two spoke like waterfalls, obviously impressing my girls a bit.
Two number ones? My lassies stood firmly at zero and one Top 8.
Granted, they were in fierce competition with other bands and they were still searching for their style, but things like signings CDs were far away for them. They were glad to perform, though, performers with heart and soul.
I smiled as I watched my girls.
And I bowed politely to their manager at the introduction.
“Yeah, that reminds me...”, Eithne added, motioned to me, “Our... well, you're not a manager, are you?”
“I am Alaina Raméis of the Tribe of Cavan.”, I explained, “I am a teacher at their school and I am the person to approach with any questions regarding the bands at the Iris Boarding School Complex.” I let a beat pass. “And sometimes something akin to a babysitter.”
“Hey!”, Eithne complained, “I mean, we don't need a babysitter... the boys do.”
I smiled. “Of course they do.”, I said in a tone, that suggested, that they weren't the only ones, who needed babysitters. Turning back to Infant Alloy and their manager, I added: “She's talking about Ardithe, though they aren't in Cuan today.“
“But we are!”, Eithne said with a grin, “And we're gonna play later today – two o'clock, in front of the Spresanna Inn!” She grinned widely. “After that, we can see if the three of us can jam together? If the steward allows, that is...”
I smiled.

"Don't I know that feeling" Sakura chuckled at their teacher referring back to herself as a babysitter at times. When chasing a couple of teenagers, it can be like that at time."

"Oh sweet!" Exclaimed Kirara "A jam session is just what we need!"

"I did promise you girls would get a chance to perform today didn't I? And I always come through."

"Manager, you really are the best!"

"She does." Sajuna nodded, "So what do you all play? I'm on bass and Kirara here is guitar."

"Not only that, Sa-chan here is a lefty, a southpaw! So her bass is a special left-handed one."

"Ohoh not so sure about special you can find them in most music shops or have them ordered, not super hard." She giggled a bit nervously but kept talking, "But it's true, I'm left-handed so my bass. Something about its low end dulcet tones." She sighed a bit dreamy "And what's your pref, do you like picks or finger-style, or maybe a bit of both? I can do both if I had a choice though I think I'd say I'm more a lover of picks but finger-style is good too." As she rattled off her questions, Sakura gave a quiet chuckle whispering to Kirara,

"Seems Sajuna is starting to relax"

"Get her to talk about music she becomes a social butterfly."

[Danceria]

Dana Vyterska did not go out of her way to torment Anwen -- she knew something of her circumstances, and knew too that she was very dear to Erika. So instead of tutting about her lateness, she smiled instead. "Oh, don't think much of it. Better late than never, Anwen." She smiled. "And if you think you're late, by the way, you should have seen Erika."

Erika gave a derisive snort, but did not respond directly to Dana. Instead she turned her attention to Anwen, and with a small, almost shy smile, stood. A few moments passed, with Erika gazing into Anwen's eyes, before she threw her arms around her and slapped her on the back. "Glad you're here." she said, with the faintest hint of a voice-crack, before breaking the hug. She took a visible moment to regain her composure, before her smile twisted into a smirk. "You haven't missed much yet, Anwen. It's all...y'know. Nonces."

"Hey, what about me?" Dana said, smirking a little, before straightening up...

[spoiler=...as someone else arrived.]

Viola Dreach of the Tribe of Dundalk.
If someone was to ask of me to characterize Dana, I would say, that she was a businesswoman, a no-nonsense woman and, while a pretty woman, not one, who depended on it as her sole strategy of selling stuff. Quite on the contrary, she was smart, efficient and she knew, what she was doing, unlike quite a few people, who I had met over time.
I had met her in a weird place, at some wedding, I think, a typical high society function.
She was an arms dealer, I was in the hotel business.
An unlikely friendship, which had led to me inviting her to a cousin for dinner, vibing a bit, and proposing a business deal, which saw her selling us (demilitarised) tanks for those patrons, who wanted a bit of an extravagant holiday experience, as well as broker us contact to people, who knew how to drive and maintain the vehicles.
Dad had been quite impressed.
Now, she was here and I was in Cuan as well, with a third person. I almost had to drag the young woman with me, Liliane Guara of the Tribe of Fermanagh. She was the cousin, who had allowed me to invite Dana for a fish dinner and vibing to her home in Tráteach House on Argadnella Island.
She was a bluenette like I was, but she also looked like the sort of person, who would feel more at home at a beach then at such a party, in a warm country. Her story was not a pretty one, her parents died thirteen years ago. She was five years younger then me, a little sister to me like my half-sister Fiona was (who held the line in Creetown).
Regardless, I led her through the crowd, for I had spotted a familiar, pale-haired woman, who I loved to meet: “Dana!”, I said and spread my arms, smiling. One should add, that I was not wearing Geansai, Dundalk's wool and leather did not really suit me, but my favourite cocktail dress, the silver one with the interesting insights. “Welcome to Cuan, my friend!”
And with that, I hugged her.
Cousin Lilly, dressed in a fish leather ensemble one would usually associate with the Tribe of Wexford, but which had little in common with the ensemble used by the Lost Tribe, stood to the side a bit awkwardly, nodding to Erika and Anwen (who's names neither of us knew).

"Viola!" Dana cheered. She recipocrated Viola's hug, grinning from ear to ear. "Glad to be here!" She squeezed her friend tight, then broke her hug. "Here for pleasure, not business, I presume? How are the tanks you bought doing? Any issues?" She gave a nod to Lilly as well -- she would turn her full attention to her in a second.

Erika, for her part, glanced away from Anwen for only a second, to return Lilly's nod with a shorter, more curt one. "Hello." she said, in a dull, monotone voice.

Anwen would no doubt read her friend's mind-Erika would not be in any sort of formal gathering-save for among the petit-nobility for their candid and "frill-less" customs. Plus, a party with a baron or anyone below the rank of Duchy usually meant a LAN party. Or copious amounts of guns. Or both!

Though if Clan Nathalaur was anything to go by, some weren't content to be merely "old" families.

A beat passed, though while many may have feared the tempestuous scion of the Heir Apparent of Danceria-she was relaxed for a bit. It was probably the first time Erika had seen Anwen wear glasses with her uniform. A wordless "hee" was answered with the voice crack, relaxing for once now that Erika was here, to protect her from any and all "nonces".

Speaking, enter the Selkielanders-two, both girls. The introductions normally handled by those who's province was business. Anwen had heard of BASED Inc-a few of her old friends worked at one or two factories co-owned by them, though for some reason the BASED in Danceria were obsessed with planes. Granted, Danceria hadn't had a formal external war in the modern age (yet), so it was no doubt better to have and not need than to need and not have.

She also knew of the Selkielanders, or at least someone studying in the Selkie-lands. Theomer Arling, thrice-bedamned traitor prince and usurping upstart, and boogeyman to the conservative-minded Valarists (and Christians) who remember the days of the Partisan Wars and when Danceria teetered on the edge of collapse. From what Erika told her though, Theo was far too Rohirric for such bloodthirsty nonsense. Stavros Galanis on the other hand...

More importantly, and why the daughter of BASED Inc's CEO would be speaking with them-outside of being potential pen pals-something that was becoming a bit of a fad from the old Partisan Era weaponry. Panzerreitsport, gais-telien, Sensha-dō. Tankery. Girls and/or boys sometimes included.

She nervously waved at Ms. "Viola's" associate, waiting politely for others to speak first.

[Seleucid Pergamon]

The Pergamonians were quickly swallowed whole by the crowd, if they let the crowd do so – Dimi especially would find enough part-time and full-time horsemen and horsewomen of high renown in the crowd. Atif Qalb, the tall Kyrenaian overlooking the proceedings like a lighthouse overlooked a bay, for example, or the red head of Princess Rena, who could not compete due to an acute case of broken leg. Despite rumours of her and Princess Nela enjoying each other's company more then it might be proper, though, the two were just close friends.
Her brother, meanwhile, would find enough opportunities to hone his flirting skills, if he so chose.
Efrosyni might spot Naya Heeser, heiress of the Heeser Brewery of Ridderli – while not a local either, she, too, while here with friends, was free and more importantly, she was planning on a big sampling tour, too. Granted, she would start with the non-alcoholic beverages once she got to it, but that was the same difference to her.
Stamatios, while on a vacation, would be hard pressed to not spot several of his colleagues – while the Faorach-Family was at the center of attention for the majority, there was still the Kyrenaian Minister of Foreign Affairs and his wife. If that meant, that he would make a big avoidance or approach him head on was for him to decide, but if he chose the former, he had enough options around the room to suit his interests, whatever they might be.
Neofytos, meanwhile, might be able to spot Finnegan Scríbhneoir of the Tribe of Cork – while much of a giant like Mister Qalb was, Scríbhneoir was also one of the two huge, internationally known names of contemporary Selkie Literature (the other, Branwen Blaidd, was currently preparing for the River's Crossing Trophy).
In short, there were many opportunities for everyone to strike up a conversation.

Efrosyni Stalini-Giakoumakis

She would have been considered a mother already, despite having no children and being in her late twenties. From her office-lady-style clothing and nonchalant visage, Efrosyni would no doubt be considered a professional of utmost significance, with the exception of her favorite black spiked gloves. Despite maintaining a collected posture overall, her eyes somewhat struggled to cooperate; even if they projected an emotion of calm, there is one little detail that would intrude on this consistency. And one possibility is certain, it was not the fatigue of work that disseminated this apparent concealment. She brightened up, however, as she witnessed the party crowd, but it would be pale in comparison to her sighting of a certain Teressian beermaker, alone like a solitary rock on a beach as she observed the lounge. From what Efrosyni read from a reputable international winery magazine, she is the heiress of the Heeser Brewery, and still in university. A new mind to mold, perhaps.

Always one for entrances, Efrosyni sifted through the crowd, hiding amongst people to prevent her hair being noticed. Soon, she was behind her right shoulder, mischief guiding her introduction.

"Question, what do you think is a convenient order for consumption? Wine before beer, or beer before wine?"

With her smile, she seems to have achieved surprise. Obtaining an answer, she let out a calm and soothing hum, and then offered a hand.

"Efrosyni Stalini-Giakoumakis, chief executive officer of Estate Magenta Stalini-Giakoumakis. A pleasure to meet you. It must be quite nerve-racking to be an heiress of a notable brewery, isn't it?"

Stamatios Demetriopoulos

For one who has been in the field for seven years, a vacation surely is a must. Internal affairs was not a job to take lightly. Before even getting on the flight, Stamatios felt rested. Recently, he had to step in on one local government with a dysfunctional history carved by arrogant politicians, and raising his voice at times made him feel like he is aging with accelerated speed.

Stamatios scanned the crowd, seeking any persons of interest worth stoking a conversation. Sighting a certain Kyrenaian couple that he recognized, he sauntered over. Mutual backgrounds help to stir a start, after all.

"You must be the Kyrenaian Minister of Foreign Affairs, yes," he introduced himself, "I am Stamatios Demetriopoulos, Pergamonian Minister of Internal Affairs. Hopefully, we won't have to talk politics at this time. My recent task has taken its toll on me, and thank God that Mr. Vascopolou over there offered an invitation for me to travel here for a while."

Neofytos Nassakis

You can mistake the old man to be a magician or an eccentric college professor. With no doubt, Neofytos has style, wearing a white suit with dotted blue tie protruding from the black shirt, as if it were another colleague gaining most attention first. Adjusting his glasses, he held his head high and searched through the lounge.

Finnegan Scríbhneoir was a name that stimulated his writing mind. He was after all one of the world-renowned authors of Selkie Literature, a fact that pulled him into a chance of conversation like a magnet. He ambled with a luxurious and dignified stance. Though it would look more flamboyant if he had his cigarette with him, Neofytos left it in his pocket to give his lungs a change to rest.

"Mr. Scríbhneoir," he remarked, "your works managed to achieve a degree of popularity in my country. I managed to read one of them. Fine, evocative work," he offered his hand, "Neofytos Nassakis, Publisher of Fotepsycha Literature Company."

[New Visayan Islands]

Therese A. Silva-Marquez
Seomrasuí House, Cuan, The Free Lands
March 20th, AD 2022
0817 Local Time

The branch manager of Victoria Shipyards - Port Arthur Branch had represented VAI's Port Arthur branches in VAI's first Global Ops Meeting two days ago. With two more days before she would fly back to Port Arthur--and her husband Adrian, a training manager with CebTel's Port Arthur site--she took the offer to attend the party in Cuan as an opportunity to relax. Clad in a beige pantsuit with a white shirt, she noticed her opposite number from VSSB engaged in rapport with a Selkie woman--the wife of Traverse's mayor, if she recalled correctly--while Director Vicente and his Selkie girlfriend were enjoying some time with each other.
Shame I couldn't take Adrian with me, she thought as she made her way to the buffet; she skipped breakfast to get to Seomrasuí House, a decision her stomach made her regret.

Samuel dlT. Cui
Seomrasuí House, Cuan, The Free Lands
March 20th, AD 2022
0820 Local Time

"...but yes, the experience in Niederthal last month was something," Samuel said, in the middle of his conversation with the representatives from the Merchant Guild of Leuda. "I must admit, however, that the idea of further expansion is not something to be taken lightly, even if, say, expanding into Ridderli becomes particularly appealing," he added with a chuckle before drinking from a glass of juice. "Of course, with the SEA talks and all, I highly suspect business to boom even further among the members of the Strategic and Economic Alliance."

[The Selkie]

"Thank you." He responded.

When Mrs. Blaidd said that Branwen was "rather fond", but hesitated, a million thoughts ran through his head. She might have noticed a brief flash of nervousness before it was plunged back into the stoic visage most associated with him.

Theomer held no garb nor costume befitting such affairs-even if he had wanted to fully buck his guardian's admonishment of "dallying in pagan affairs". As if he didn't come from a country where said pagans outnumbered them two to one.

His suit was a dull, earthy overcoat and vest, with a stark white undershirt, tied together by a sea-green tie, the only indication of his homeland and "Descent" to the Selkie. Though nothing would have pleased him more than to wear the Rohirric scale-mail armour-matching his current associate and the Gwisgwanaeth worn by the Blaidd sisters-he couldn't partake in the tournament. Not this year, at least, as far as he told Elinn, he vowed to partake the first chance he took. Contrary to his rather introverted character, Theo had a zest for athleticism, and a skill in horsemanship that matched any professional on campus. Any students of the psychological-or the more romanticist disposition-may gossip that the brooding and Byronic nature belied a passion and protective spirit, bursting forth energy when needed.

For now he was calm, quiet, and listening-almost painfully so. He knew, of course, of the Gwisgwanaeth and their significance. He had inquired as such, and now would see the sisters in a rather thematic contest. Elinn was dark, imposing and a silhouette on the battlefield, while the electric blues and yellows of Branwen's garb were a subdued sort of energy befitting of her personality. He dared not make one bet over the other, as he seemed to be considering too many things for such a festive occasion. Or perhaps that was just "Theo being Theo", not that he'd submit the mother of his newfound friend to his dry wit-especially with the as of now unseen Mr. Blaidd on the prowl!

After an almost painfully long pause, Theo began conversation once more. "Nice weather we've been having, Mrs. Blaidd." The Rohirric student never was the best at small talk.

Dana Vyterska did not go out of her way to torment Anwen -- she knew something of her circumstances, and knew too that she was very dear to Erika. So instead of tutting about her lateness, she smiled instead. "Oh, don't think much of it. Better late than never, Anwen." She smiled. "And if you think you're late, by the way, you should have seen Erika."

Erika gave a derisive snort, but did not respond directly to Dana. Instead she turned her attention to Anwen, and with a small, almost shy smile, stood. A few moments passed, with Erika gazing into Anwen's eyes, before she threw her arms around her and slapped her on the back. "Glad you're here." she said, with the faintest hint of a voice-crack, before breaking the hug. She took a visible moment to regain her composure, before her smile twisted into a smirk. "You haven't missed much yet, Anwen. It's all...y'know. Nonces."

"Hey, what about me?" Dana said, smirking a little, before straightening up...

...as someone else arrived.

"Viola!" Dana cheered. She recipocrated Viola's hug, grinning from ear to ear. "Glad to be here!" She squeezed her friend tight, then broke her hug. "Here for pleasure, not business, I presume? How are the tanks you bought doing? Any issues?" She gave a nod to Lilly as well -- she would turn her full attention to her in a second.

Erika, for her part, glanced away from Anwen for only a second, to return Lilly's nod with a shorter, more curt one. "Hello." she said, in a dull, monotone voice.

Note: Quote modified by removal of spoiler-tags.

"Viola!" Dana cheered. She recipocrated Viola's hug, grinning from ear to ear. "Glad to be here!" She squeezed her friend tight, then broke her hug. "Here for pleasure, not business, I presume? How are the tanks you bought doing? Any issues?" She gave a nod to Lilly as well -- she would turn her full attention to her in a second.

Erika, for her part, glanced away from Anwen for only a second, to return Lilly's nod with a shorter, more curt one. "Hello." she said, in a dull, monotone voice.

Anwen would no doubt read her friend's mind-Erika would not be in any sort of formal gathering-save for among the petit-nobility for their candid and "frill-less" customs. Plus, a party with a baron or anyone below the rank of Duchy usually meant a LAN party. Or copious amounts of guns. Or both!

Though if Clan Nathalaur was anything to go by, some weren't content to be merely "old" families.

A beat passed, though while many may have feared the tempestuous scion of the Heir Apparent of Danceria-she was relaxed for a bit. It was probably the first time Erika had seen Anwen wear glasses with her uniform. A wordless "hee" was answered with the voice crack, relaxing for once now that Erika was here, to protect her from any and all "nonces".

Speaking, enter the Selkielanders-two, both girls. The introductions normally handled by those who's province was business. Anwen had heard of BASED Inc-a few of her old friends worked at one or two factories co-owned by them, though for some reason the BASED in Danceria were obsessed with planes. Granted, Danceria hadn't had a formal external war in the modern age (yet), so it was no doubt better to have and not need than to need and not have.

She also knew of the Selkielanders, or at least someone studying in the Selkie-lands. Theomer Arling, thrice-bedamned traitor prince and usurping upstart, and boogeyman to the conservative-minded Valarists (and Christians) who remember the days of the Partisan Wars and when Danceria teetered on the edge of collapse. From what Erika told her though, Theo was far too Rohirric for such bloodthirsty nonsense. Stavros Galanis on the other hand...

More importantly, and why the daughter of BASED Inc's CEO would be speaking with them-outside of being potential pen pals-something that was becoming a bit of a fad from the old Partisan Era weaponry. Panzerreitsport, gais-telien, Sensha-dō. Tankery. Girls and/or boys sometimes included.

She nervously waved at Ms. "Viola's" associate, waiting politely for others to speak first.

Meave Blaidd, of Tralee Descent.
Nice weather, huh...
If Llwyd would have started talking about the weather of all things, my Father would have thrown a wrench at his head, especially at their first meeting. By now, the two men were united in comfortable grumpiness against each other, but still... with me, Theomer had a better chance with that topic, that was for certain.
“Absolutely.”, I replied with a small smile, “It is said, that today will be warmer then usual around this time of the year, not a cloud in the sky, too. A high pressure area over Traverse Island apparently mixes things up – or so they said in the forecast.”
I let a beat pass.
“However, you did not come here, and then sought me out, just to talk about the weather.”, I told him, then raised a hand: “Don't try to deny it. I am married to an ancient person, who's basic moods can be described as adjective plus grumpiness and I am a daughter of a man, who is similar.” Chew on those implications. “Something is on your mind and if I were to wager a guess, it has something to do with my daughter.”

Viola Dreach of the Tribe of Dundalk.
While Cousin Lilly replied to the greetings with politeness, I smiled at Dana.
“Oh, they are doing wonderfully! And the mechanics as well.”, I said about the tanks, “It is exactly what we hoped for in some areas and, from what I heard, some of them were already used to aid in local communities as well – not what we had in mind, but positive publicity and local goodwill is worth way more then the gas and the work hours.” It was true. “But no, I am not here for business, at least not primarily. Rather, I am introducing someone to Oilean na mBeo.”
I motioned for Lilly to step forward, which she did.
“Dana, if I may introduce?”, I said, “Liliane Guara of the Tribe of Fermanagh.” I turned. “Lilly, this is Dana Vyterska.”
“Hi.”, she said and gave a shy wave, “Please, Lilly is fine.” She really looked like someone, who would be more comfortable in the sun and on a beach. “It is a pleasure to meet you.”
I was sure, that the feeling was mutual.

"Oh, I see..", muttered her instinctively as she tentatively listened to the brief summary of Reika's birthplace. Without a doubt, the absolutely foreign nature of the names mentioned by the latter, ranging from Teressien itself to Lutetii did seem to puzzle her somewhat, despite the fact that on her part at least, she had in fact been outside of her country on a number of occasions, such as to war-torn Iraq, and the huge nation of India, with both countries having their own set of names for cities, etc. Nonetheless, just as Reika began giving a brief summary of her birthplace, Victoria herself, perhaps due to her natural journalistic instincts, was otherwise quick to note the aforementioned puzzling names on a little notebook she carries around with her. At the same time, when it was implied that this green-haired woman certainly knew of the existence of the "Germans" despite her being from an entirely different place, far far away, Victoria's face couldn't help but show the face of someone who was definitely caught by surprise by something that he/she had just experienced or otherwise listened to. "So, she definitely knows a thing or two about the Germans, okay..", said a voice inside her very own head.

After taking a few further seconds to briefly understand what she had just written with such speed, Victoria promptly turned her attention back to Reika. "Oh, I'm sorry, where I'm from?", asked Victoria in a slightly "messy" manner, a product of her being a little occupied with her own little, precious notes earlier. "So, you see, I'm from this country called the United Kingdom of Great Britain, Hanover, and Northern Ireland. Now yes, that name might sound very long indeed, so people basically call it the United Kingdom anyway, for convenience, oh, and mind you, it is actually an island, yes, an island country", she began, but not before letting a beat pass for a few seconds later. "Now, do you want to hear how I came to be? Or basically, my family history, I could assure you, it's quite a story!", continued her in a rather energetic tone.

Rieka, Waldburgfrau von Lattenzaun.
I was about to raise an eyebrow – stories of how people came to be usually were not my cuppa tea, but when she said, it was her family history, I thought for a moment.
“Maybe we can swap stories later, over drinks.”, I suggested. “But be that as it may be, are you familiar with the rites of this day, which the Selkie celebrate? Quite fascinating, especially for me as a faithful of the Cult of the Tree of Life. There are certain similarities, but also differences.” I let a beat pass. “I must admit, however, I am neither a theologian nor an anthropologist. And if we loose our way, I am sure, that we can always find a friendly Selkie, who could enlighten us.”

The smell of business and political elite folks, quite the smell to enter in the morning. It wasn’t just that though. A buffet was being served here in this lounge, great for Alexander, who was feeling a bit peckish at the moment. William however found himself looking over the other side of the room. One of the biggest names in the Free Lands when it comes to trade and business.

“Say, Alex. Do you see those two ladies over there?” William says to Alex, gesturing to the two ladies.

“Ah, yes. I see them”

“They are the leading figures of the Capall Sciathán Trading Company. Big names in luxury ware. If I can introduce our cosmetics to them, I can further the outreach of our products to the Free Lands”.

“Ah, sounds like a good plan” Alex replies, his eyes on the buffet table. “You can go talk to them if you want. But if it’s alright with you, I’m going to head to the buffet table. I’m craving some food right now”.

“That’s fine”. Alex leaves for the buffet table flyers still in hand, perhaps an actor, dancer, singer, what have you would talk to him about upcoming productions. While William, being the entrepreneurial man, approached these two businesswomen.

“Excuse me, you are Kiana Rúisc and Caja Rois of the Capall Sciathán Trading Company correct? I have heard many great things about you and your company. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance. Allow me to introduce myself. I am William Sutherland, the CEO of Soie Leisse”.

Kiana Rúisc of the Tribe of Waterford.
“Excuse me, you are Kiana Rúisc and Caja Rois of the Capall Sciathán Trading Company correct? I have heard many great things about you and your company. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance. Allow me to introduce myself. I am William Sutherland, the CEO of Soie Leisse.”, the man, who had approached us out of the blue, introduced himself.
Soie Leisse... that rang a bell somewhere.
In any case, I smiled and spoke for Caja and myself.
“The pleasure is ours, Mister Sutherland.”, I said and bowed my head slightly, then extended my hand. I was the green-eyed blonde of the two of us, Caja the redhead. Both of us were approaching thirty at a steady pace, but looked more like twenty thanks to... right. “Soie Leisse is in the makeup business, right?”
That being said, CST was our company, but far from our only source of income.

Hiram Yabut
Seomrasuí House

"Hiram Yabut, Your Highness. It's an honor," Hiram replied, returning the handshake; he had some alcohol in his pocket for later, so it wasn't much issue for him. "I see you're another patron of the renewables. Geothermal?" Hiram had heard of Svartaland's relentless pursuit of geothermal energy as its primary power source, and it was a logically reasonable guess that Prince Yngvi was in the business of geothermal energy. A shame they weren't in the same field...but Hiram knew someone who was.
"I'm in the business of solar photovoltaic as a power source myself. Not exactly the same methods, but there are many ways to skin the metaphorical cat, after all. Power requirements need to be met, preferably with a lower likelihood of backsides getting bitten down the line." Which was true, all things considered; even Carnival Electric was on its 50-year plan to decommission their extant coal-fired power plants in favor of nuclear and renewable sources.

Peter Turrija
Seomrasuí House

"Wonderful in so many ways, I must admit," Peter said. "How is your husband, by the way, Lady Méara? I don't see him around here; I assume Traverse calls?" he added, a tone of curiosity in his voice. VSSB was VAI's flagship overseas branch, and with plans to expand within the next five years the topic of the previous week's meeting, there was the semi-official nature of the branch's senior status whenever VAI's global operations were concerned. The fact that VSSB was also home to the office of the Director for VAI's Global Operations also helped...as he noticed said director in the background with his Selkie girlfriend enjoying each other's company.

Gabriel Cui
Seomrasuí House

As Gabriel enjoyed the first cup of Selkie tea--a black tea, something he was no stranger to--he was greeted by someone calling herself Cel.
"And I'm Gabe," he replied, turning to Cel as he did. "This tea is quite amazing, in my opinion," he added. There was something about tea that made for the start of great conversations in Gabriel's experience, and he had been developing a taste for the same since his university days, with English Breakfast and Earl Grey keeping him awake during tough study nights and a sencha or masala chai making for a relaxing afternoon. Indeed, when he passed the board examination for CPAs, his uncle Simeon had given him a brick of pu'er tea as a gift; that brick was still at home.

Gerald Vicente
Seomrasuí House

"I did," Gerald said, "a light one. A single cheese sandwich I had on the way here." Which was true; knowing the festivities, he needed only one sandwich to keep him just satisfied enough to make the trip without any inconvenience.
"How about you?" he then asked. "Did you have breakfast?" Already he was thinking of what options he'd prepare for both of them.

Jonathan Joseph Alquizola
Seomrasuí House

"No, Nolwenn; the pleasure was all mine," Alquizola replied with a bow. Turning to Raidri, he addressed what seemed to be the man's curiosity. "Hong Long Investments can indeed be seen as a minor player in the Visayan banking scene, especially when compared to what we call the Banking Trinity, but that's why we aim for expanding beyond the Confederation. Nobody sees us coming, in other words, until we've already established a foothold outside the NVI." Alquizola chuckled, knowing all too well that the only real Visayan competition in this regard came from Suico, Jimenez, and Du, and even then, it was going to be close...

Prince Yngvi of Svartaland.
“Indeed.”, I said and gave Yabut a slightly forlorn smile back, “Granted, photovoltaic aren't really possible for us, but geothermal is... and we use it to great effect.” I let a beat pass, my smile becoming wider, less forlorn, “A modern stable economy needs vast amounts of power and sometimes on a moment's notice, which is something we are currently working on supplying. We still have a few gas power plants all over the country in order to meet peak demands, for example during commercial breaks of large football games... is that something you have found a solution for?”

Mona Méara of the Tribe of Louth.
“Mistress Méara is fine, Mister Turrija.”, I asked of him with a smile. “And no, he's out and about in the City with his nieces and nephews. He promised them to take them to the lounge of the Sraith's opener, Cuan SC vs. FC Wembury.”
I smiled at him as I shared this tidbit.
“My daughter Aífe should be around here somewhere, though.”, I added with a proud smile. I loved my daughter. “If I may ask, do you have children?”

Celina Sloroimh of the Tribe of Cork.
Gabe, huh?
And an enjoyer of tea.
“Yeah.”, I said, “It is a wakeup blend from a herbalist a bit outside of town. A personal favourite of the High Priestess of Lodan Lir, or so I heard.” I shrugged. “Can't blame her, Old Liam really knows his craft, even if he needs help these days.”
I let a beat pass.
“He has a shop in town, run by his... nephew, I think, not too far from where I worked when I still lived here.”, I added, a warm note entering my voice as I thought of these days. “A bit out of the way for most tourists.”

Amy Ramallae of the Tribe of Monaghan.
I shook my head.
“No, nothing at all.”, I told him with a smile, “I was thinking of taking you to one of the bay windows and letting the Handmaidens bring us a traditional breakfast... unless that is too greasy for you?”
The last was accompanied by a teasing wink.
“We can watch the warm up rounds from there, too, if you are interested?”, I added.

Nolwenn Drochnós of the Tribe of Cavan.
I blushed lightly, which quickly subsided as Dad and I listened to what the young banker had to say.
Dad nodded.
“That sounds like a solid plan.”, he said and nodded once more. “I'll admit, that banking isn't my main area of expertise, I am a woodsman at heart and with my soul.” He let that sink in for a moment. “Now, with that in mind, apologies, if I am a bit too direct, but... are you interested in expanding into the Free Lands?”

In the end this fine lady opted to call her Tsubaki, no complaints, as she did say to call her as she pleased and well she had gone by that name so long.

"Aha I should have known you'd know a lot of Ceridwens, I'm certain my name was common enough. Even the name I ended up taking itself is a common name. Not that i'm complaining. A drink would with you would be delightful, it'll be nice to connect with a fellow Spiorad and maybe I have a story or two or twenty to tell. Ahaha...Oh such a bad joke, forgive me" she chuckled and cleared her throat, "I'm not sure you gave me your name?"

Macha Taise, of Cork Descent.
I blushed lightly.
“I did forget that, yes...”, I admitted sheepishly as I turned to the bar with Tsubaki in tow. “I am Macha Taise, of Cork Descent, but please, Macha is fine.” I let a beat pass. “We all have many stories to tell, some old as the mountains and some young as the breeze... and kinsfolk has many to share of either, both the ones, who live in the Free Lands and those, who live abroad or even are from abroad.” I let a beat pass. “Tell me, have you ever heard of Blodwen Canatol, of Cefnffordd Descent?”

"Don't I know that feeling" Sakura chuckled at their teacher referring back to herself as a babysitter at times. When chasing a couple of teenagers, it can be like that at time."

"Oh sweet!" Exclaimed Kirara "A jam session is just what we need!"

"I did promise you girls would get a chance to perform today didn't I? And I always come through."

"Manager, you really are the best!"

"She does." Sajuna nodded, "So what do you all play? I'm on bass and Kirara here is guitar."

"Not only that, Sa-chan here is a lefty, a southpaw! So her bass is a special left-handed one."

"Ohoh not so sure about special you can find them in most music shops or have them ordered, not super hard." She giggled a bit nervously but kept talking, "But it's true, I'm left-handed so my bass. Something about its low end dulcet tones." She sighed a bit dreamy "And what's your pref, do you like picks or finger-style, or maybe a bit of both? I can do both if I had a choice though I think I'd say I'm more a lover of picks but finger-style is good too." As she rattled off her questions, Sakura gave a quiet chuckle whispering to Kirara,

"Seems Sajuna is starting to relax"

"Get her to talk about music she becomes a social butterfly."

Alaina Raméis of the Tribe of Cavan.
Oh, this sounded familiar, especially when I thought of my own daughter... Felicia was a sweet girl, but just so shy...
In any case, my lassies seemed unpertubed by the suddenly very talkative Sajuna. If anything, it was a cue for them to be more conversational as well.
Tea grinned, balled a hand for a fist and held it out to Sajuna for a fist-bump. “Bassist-Pride!”, she called for, “Though I am right handed and while I can do both, too, I am more into picks, too!”
Eithne then added: “I am on the keyboard, though piano works fine, too.”
“I am on the guitar, electric, acoustic, doesn't matter, I can do them all... and, if we need a second bass, I can do that, too.”, Ida explained, “And both Eithne and I sing.”
“Right, that you do.”, Tea said with a smile, “Not much of a singer myself, unless we try our hand at Industrial...”
“Oh, please don't, my throat still hurts at the mere thought...”, Eithne said with a wince, “All that distorted screaming... no offence to those, who can pull it off, but I can't. And if I were to be honest, I don't want to, either.”
“You can do quite a good mezzo-soprano, though.”, I complimented the young woman.
Eithne blushed lightly.
“Be that, as it may.”, Ida got the focus away from her friend, then pointed at both Sajuna and Kirara. “Which one of you sings? Or are you like Halu, neither sings?”

Efrosyni Stalini-Giakoumakis

She would have been considered a mother already, despite having no children and being in her late twenties. From her office-lady-style clothing and nonchalant visage, Efrosyni would no doubt be considered a professional of utmost significance, with the exception of her favorite black spiked gloves. Despite maintaining a collected posture overall, her eyes somewhat struggled to cooperate; even if they projected an emotion of calm, there is one little detail that would intrude on this consistency. And one possibility is certain, it was not the fatigue of work that disseminated this apparent concealment. She brightened up, however, as she witnessed the party crowd, but it would be pale in comparison to her sighting of a certain Teressian beermaker, alone like a solitary rock on a beach as she observed the lounge. From what Efrosyni read from a reputable international winery magazine, she is the heiress of the Heeser Brewery, and still in university. A new mind to mold, perhaps.

Always one for entrances, Efrosyni sifted through the crowd, hiding amongst people to prevent her hair being noticed. Soon, she was behind her right shoulder, mischief guiding her introduction.

"Question, what do you think is a convenient order for consumption? Wine before beer, or beer before wine?"

With her smile, she seems to have achieved surprise. Obtaining an answer, she let out a calm and soothing hum, and then offered a hand.

"Efrosyni Stalini-Giakoumakis, chief executive officer of Estate Magenta Stalini-Giakoumakis. A pleasure to meet you. It must be quite nerve-racking to be an heiress of a notable brewery, isn't it?"

Stamatios Demetriopoulos

For one who has been in the field for seven years, a vacation surely is a must. Internal affairs was not a job to take lightly. Before even getting on the flight, Stamatios felt rested. Recently, he had to step in on one local government with a dysfunctional history carved by arrogant politicians, and raising his voice at times made him feel like he is aging with accelerated speed.

Stamatios scanned the crowd, seeking any persons of interest worth stoking a conversation. Sighting a certain Kyrenaian couple that he recognized, he sauntered over. Mutual backgrounds help to stir a start, after all.

"You must be the Kyrenaian Minister of Foreign Affairs, yes," he introduced himself, "I am Stamatios Demetriopoulos, Pergamonian Minister of Internal Affairs. Hopefully, we won't have to talk politics at this time. My recent task has taken its toll on me, and thank God that Mr. Vascopolou over there offered an invitation for me to travel here for a while."

Neofytos Nassakis

You can mistake the old man to be a magician or an eccentric college professor. With no doubt, Neofytos has style, wearing a white suit with dotted blue tie protruding from the black shirt, as if it were another colleague gaining most attention first. Adjusting his glasses, he held his head high and searched through the lounge.

Finnegan Scríbhneoir was a name that stimulated his writing mind. He was after all one of the world-renowned authors of Selkie Literature, a fact that pulled him into a chance of conversation like a magnet. He ambled with a luxurious and dignified stance. Though it would look more flamboyant if he had his cigarette with him, Neofytos left it in his pocket to give his lungs a change to rest.

"Mr. Scríbhneoir," he remarked, "your works managed to achieve a degree of popularity in my country. I managed to read one of them. Fine, evocative work," he offered his hand, "Neofytos Nassakis, Publisher of Fotepsycha Literature Company."

Naya Heeser.
I did not startle.
You did.
“Beer, then wine.”, I replied to the initial question, then shook her hand, “Naya Heeser, as you probably already know. And yes, I am the heiress of Heeser Bierbrauereien.” From Ridderli, not Teressien, though we had a lot of business there. Maize beer was a nice change of pace for many from the usual ones. “It is not nerve-racking, though, more annoying sometimes. Imagine how often I am asked to bring the beer to parties...”

Tamina Safir.
The man, who approached my husband and myself introduced himself as Stamatios Demetriopoulos, the Pergamonian Minister of the Interior.
Azad held out his hand.
“It's my pleasure – Azad Safir. My wife, Tamina.”, he told him in his soft, calm voice. One could not believe what storms he could thunder down upon his opponents. I bowed my head at being introduced. “And even if you do not want to talk politics, I would appreciate you joining us. We are having a nice drink coming for us and were just talking about the Horsearchery Competition today. Princess Aurelia might be participating, but I am reasonably certain, that she won't win.”
And I knew, that Aurelia would not hold it against him.

Finnegan Scríbhneoir of the Tribe of Cork.
I did not know, whether or not the man was a smoker or not, but it was good, that he did not light one up. I hated smoking.
And smokings, but that is a different story.
He offered his hand, I grabbed it in a vice-like grip, might give him the surprise of getting his hand back in one piece. International acclaim... nothing new, though I had not heard of Nassakis or could place his last name.
That aside.
“The pleasure is mine.”, I said and then added: “Which one did you read?”
Of course, the most important question for any novellist.

Therese A. Silva-Marquez
Seomrasuí House, Cuan, The Free Lands
March 20th, AD 2022
0817 Local Time

The branch manager of Victoria Shipyards - Port Arthur Branch had represented VAI's Port Arthur branches in VAI's first Global Ops Meeting two days ago. With two more days before she would fly back to Port Arthur--and her husband Adrian, a training manager with CebTel's Port Arthur site--she took the offer to attend the party in Cuan as an opportunity to relax. Clad in a beige pantsuit with a white shirt, she noticed her opposite number from VSSB engaged in rapport with a Selkie woman--the wife of Traverse's mayor, if she recalled correctly--while Director Vicente and his Selkie girlfriend were enjoying some time with each other.
Shame I couldn't take Adrian with me, she thought as she made her way to the buffet; she skipped breakfast to get to Seomrasuí House, a decision her stomach made her regret.

Samuel dlT. Cui
Seomrasuí House, Cuan, The Free Lands
March 20th, AD 2022
0820 Local Time

"...but yes, the experience in Niederthal last month was something," Samuel said, in the middle of his conversation with the representatives from the Merchant Guild of Leuda. "I must admit, however, that the idea of further expansion is not something to be taken lightly, even if, say, expanding into Ridderli becomes particularly appealing," he added with a chuckle before drinking from a glass of juice. "Of course, with the SEA talks and all, I highly suspect business to boom even further among the members of the Strategic and Economic Alliance."

At the buffet, both Alex and Therese could see an awesome spread before them, from sweets to more conventional foods for a breakfast to even whole prepared sandwiches using the finest ingredients the City had to offer, including a particularly spicy fish sauce - there were even warning signs in four languages, one of them being English.
And if that wasn't enough, the drink selection was only dwarfed by what was available at the bar.
And if that still wasn't enough, the Handmaidens, both Selkie and Kyrenaian, but also the few Teressian ones floating around, did take requests.
None of the house's guests would be left starving, not under the watchful, if soft, eyes of Alaina Uinér of the Tribe of Laois, the host's and steward's wife.

Celina Cumann of the Tribe of Waterford.
I, meanwhile conversed with Cui.
A smart man, without a doubt, and one, who had been happy to share his experiences in Niederthal. I had not been at the arms fair, but several of the companies under our supervision had been, SDY, Gabha Blacksmiths and Eabhar in particular.
His perspective was interesting.
"Indeed.", I said, "Free trade breeds a lot of trade, especially since we all have very many different kinds of goods to offer." I lifted my glass. "My personal favourite example are matrasses. We can't make them to safe our lives, or backs, for that matter, so we import them, which is a lot easier since the SEA-Treaties." I let a beat pass. "Though a nice, long vacation in Ridderli does sound appealing, too, but business would call, I am afraid. They export ilmenite and chromite in good quantities."

[Danceria]

Meave Blaidd, of Tralee Descent.
Nice weather, huh...
If Llwyd would have started talking about the weather of all things, my Father would have thrown a wrench at his head, especially at their first meeting. By now, the two men were united in comfortable grumpiness against each other, but still... with me, Theomer had a better chance with that topic, that was for certain.
“Absolutely.”, I replied with a small smile, “It is said, that today will be warmer then usual around this time of the year, not a cloud in the sky, too. A high pressure area over Traverse Island apparently mixes things up – or so they said in the forecast.”
I let a beat pass.
“However, you did not come here, and then sought me out, just to talk about the weather.”, I told him, then raised a hand: “Don't try to deny it. I am married to an ancient person, who's basic moods can be described as adjective plus grumpiness and I am a daughter of a man, who is similar.” Chew on those implications. “Something is on your mind and if I were to wager a guess, it has something to do with my daughter.”

He'd be lying if he hadn't had a plan to guide the conversation away from the subject of a certain dark-haired Spirioad girl, and Mrs. Blaidd was adept in catching Theo before he even had a chance to voice his words, closing his mouth like a wounded guppyfish. It seems that the sunny skies of Cuan revealed a darker cloud over Theomer's mind.

It would be better to rip off this band-aid all at once rather than wait it out.

With that, the sadness ended, and Theomer once more donned the mask of someone who was stoic. Someone who would be-who needed to be-King. Millions of people, the fate of a nation, to squander it on some...girl? Stavros wouldn't do it. His family wouldn't have done it. None of the people he had looked up to, the people who he studied and vaunted as examples of how to conduct himself not merely as a King but as a man, would not have done something so trite. The Mind and Heart were one, and he would rid himself of this temporary passion. Else everything his life lead up to would be for naught. "How do I end a crush?" He began, as if he were opining on how to properly conduct a business venture, or how best to string a bow. "On your daughter, Branwen. I do not believe such a relationship to be...wise."

No doubt Mrs. Blaidd had to deal with many boys-or girls, considering this island's liberal nature-trying their hand at the young lass. Many no doubt, came to her for advice on how to begin or maintain their relationship. If nothing else, Theomer would dryly note, he would be unique in being the first to be talked out of a crush by his interest's mother.

[New Visayan Islands]

Gerald Vicente
Seomrasuí House

"A far better idea than what I had in mind," Gerald said, chuckling at the realization. "That said, it would be interesting to watch the warm-ups from the bay windows. I must admit I am not quite familiar with the competitions, but there's always a first time for everything."
Gerald winked, a smile on his face and genuine interest in his eyes.

Gabriel Cui
Seomrasuí House

"Is that so, Cel?" he asked, a hint of curiosity in his voice. "I ought to visit it one of these days," he added, "but it's a real shame that I have only today here; I'm flying back to the Confederation on the first flight tomorrow morning, you see." The return ticket was business class on a VisayanAir flight scheduled to depart at 7 the following morning, and because it departed from Silverport, Gabriel would have to fly from the regional airport at Cuan if he wanted to make good time; his father's memoirs did not say anything about the train schedules, nor did he expect the schedules to stay the same accounting for everything that happened in the last five years.

Samuel Cui
Seomrasuí House

"Sounds like all the more reason for, say, VAI's arms subsidiary to gain an interest in Ridderli," Samuel said. "I will not lie: the economic ramifications of COVID have made opportunities plentiful," he added. "Not that many rare earths in the Confederation, but gold is a wonderful thing on so many levels, even after the Salonga Amendment made the Peseta a fixed-rate currency." It was no secret that the Federal Bank of the New Visayan Islands still maintained a gold reserve appreciable enough that the Confederation effectively had just over half a trillion Universal Standard in total foreign exchange reserves, with projections indicating the Confederation approaching the one trillion mark in as early as four years.

Hiram Yabut
Seomrasuí House

"Not I, but there is a power company on its 50-year plan to retire its coal-fired plants in favor of nuclear and renewable sources," Hiram replied. "The Malampaya gas field off Palawan provide gas for both power and utilities, while Semirara Coal and Power in Panay still mining coal for the plants that still run on the stuff," he added with a hint of displeasure. Natural gas was something he could at least appreciate, but coal and oil were Hiram Yabut's personal bugbears...which led him to make a mental note to check on how VSSB was dealing with his idea of retrofitting the Indomitable Spirit-class motor yacht with solar panels. "It's telling that the closest Carnival Electric had in mind was to trade coal for nuclear, to be frank."

[The Selkie]

Amarilla Cressida


Quite a few good delectables to chose from, now the real challenge was to not make a pig of herself. Indeed she was eyeing the various sweets and chocolates that adorned the buffet line. Quite the sweet tooth on her. It certainly seemed someone else noticed when she was approached and given a few tips of what to pick. "hehehe" Ama giggled a bit, "Shows huh? Indeed I love chocolate. Everyone says I got that trait from my grandpa." Maybe she didn't really need to know or care, why did she say that anyway? Guess good to try to make conversation.

Arthur and Catiana Cressida

The couple talked amongst each other a bit but Arthur felt the sudden bump of someone running into him. Oof, well no harm done. "Oh begging your pardon" He also apologized seemingly as she apologized for walking into him. "Oh it's quite all right, I'm fine, I hope you as well. I'm just glad I don't have a drink in hand...Depending where the liquid landed well I could look way more embarrassed."

"Oh Arthur" his wife just chuckled in that manner that conveys, that was a bad joke but I love you anyway.

"Arthur Cressida. My wife, Catiana."

"Pleasure."

"and my younger sister---" He turned to introduce her but remembered just then, Amarilla had just left their side a moment ago, "right she went off to get something to eat but she's around somewhere."

Alaina Uiroll of the Tribe of Kildare.
“There are certainly worse vices.”, I agreed and picked out a chocolate chip cookie with huge chocolates chips dotting the surface. It came from a plate with many more of those. “But you need to be careful, otherwise you'll become fat and round and that is not good for the health.”
I took a small bite.
Heavenly was a good, if inadequate, word to describe it.
“So, sports is a must. I, for example, am a sport pilot.”, I added, a small prompt for the young lady to tell me, if she had any sport she did.

Beyeha Okka Melko.
I chuckled.
“I know the feeling, though usually it was me, who got lost in the crowd with my Father looking for me.”, I said and then bowed my head lightly, “Okka Melko, Beyeha of Jalid.”
I let a beat pass.
“But please, Okka is fine.”, I added, “We are not at Court here... though the tales of the Courts of the High Kings of the Selkie are certainly intriguing.” I raised a hand. “My apologies, a very good friend of mine is quite fascinated by art and recently discovered Selkie Art for himself.”
There was this painting, which he liked to show me, of Áed the Hunter, a High King of the 4th century. He had been known to hunt skirts, being quite a rake, and sure enough, in the painting, he received a Kyrenaian Delegation (well, Almadaldiman, but same difference), with Macha Taise at his side... and a total of six scantly clad women positioned around him. Granted, the Almadaldiman weren't much better, but still... woke were none of them.
“That aside, Cressida... my apologies, but the name rings a bell somewhere...?”, I asked, hoping for them to neither be offended, but being able to provide a good answer.

He'd be lying if he hadn't had a plan to guide the conversation away from the subject of a certain dark-haired Spirioad girl, and Mrs. Blaidd was adept in catching Theo before he even had a chance to voice his words, closing his mouth like a wounded guppyfish. It seems that the sunny skies of Cuan revealed a darker cloud over Theomer's mind.

It would be better to rip off this band-aid all at once rather than wait it out.

With that, the sadness ended, and Theomer once more donned the mask of someone who was stoic. Someone who would be-who needed to be-King. Millions of people, the fate of a nation, to squander it on some...girl? Stavros wouldn't do it. His family wouldn't have done it. None of the people he had looked up to, the people who he studied and vaunted as examples of how to conduct himself not merely as a King but as a man, would not have done something so trite. The Mind and Heart were one, and he would rid himself of this temporary passion. Else everything his life lead up to would be for naught. "How do I end a crush?" He began, as if he were opining on how to properly conduct a business venture, or how best to string a bow. "On your daughter, Branwen. I do not believe such a relationship to be...wise."

No doubt Mrs. Blaidd had to deal with many boys-or girls, considering this island's liberal nature-trying their hand at the young lass. Many no doubt, came to her for advice on how to begin or maintain their relationship. If nothing else, Theomer would dryly note, he would be unique in being the first to be talked out of a crush by his interest's mother.

Meave Blaidd, of Tralee Descent.
I was, for a moment, stumped.
This is a first., I admitted to myself in my thoughts.
Let's be real here, Theo wasn't the first person, who was very endeared to one of my daughters (in one memorable instance, a guy wanted both), and quite a few of them had probed for advice or things like her favourite colours or something... but none of them had ever asked for advice on how to break up with my daughters, let along on how to stop crushing on them.
But then, the lad added, that such a relationship would not be wise.
I couldn't help it, but I had to chuckle.
“Seriously, Theomer?”, I asked with more bemusement then anything, “That is your reason? Because it would not be wise?” I shook my head. “I'll let you in on a little secret of a schooligirl, who fell madly in love with a man far out of her league: Love is not wise. Love is the antithesis of being wise. Wisdom is not an argument against love... or for it, for that matter.” I let a beat pass. “If your heart yearns for my daughter, but you believe, that you can't be with her, then don't even try to find a way out of your crush. It will find you soon enough.” I leaned back. “A nice Rohhirric lass to match your competitive spirit, maybe a Dancerian Princess, who shares your passion for literature... who knows?”
The last was accompanied by a shrug.
I deliberately did not mention his crush leaving him when he saw Branwen with another guy – it was not certain, that this would help. Not at all.
“One thing's for certain: The memory of your first crush will never leave you.”, I added, “And you'll always treasure it.”

Gerald Vicente
Seomrasuí House

"A far better idea than what I had in mind," Gerald said, chuckling at the realization. "That said, it would be interesting to watch the warm-ups from the bay windows. I must admit I am not quite familiar with the competitions, but there's always a first time for everything."
Gerald winked, a smile on his face and genuine interest in his eyes.

Gabriel Cui
Seomrasuí House

"Is that so, Cel?" he asked, a hint of curiosity in his voice. "I ought to visit it one of these days," he added, "but it's a real shame that I have only today here; I'm flying back to the Confederation on the first flight tomorrow morning, you see." The return ticket was business class on a VisayanAir flight scheduled to depart at 7 the following morning, and because it departed from Silverport, Gabriel would have to fly from the regional airport at Cuan if he wanted to make good time; his father's memoirs did not say anything about the train schedules, nor did he expect the schedules to stay the same accounting for everything that happened in the last five years.

Samuel Cui
Seomrasuí House

"Sounds like all the more reason for, say, VAI's arms subsidiary to gain an interest in Ridderli," Samuel said. "I will not lie: the economic ramifications of COVID have made opportunities plentiful," he added. "Not that many rare earths in the Confederation, but gold is a wonderful thing on so many levels, even after the Salonga Amendment made the Peseta a fixed-rate currency." It was no secret that the Federal Bank of the New Visayan Islands still maintained a gold reserve appreciable enough that the Confederation effectively had just over half a trillion Universal Standard in total foreign exchange reserves, with projections indicating the Confederation approaching the one trillion mark in as early as four years.

Hiram Yabut
Seomrasuí House

"Not I, but there is a power company on its 50-year plan to retire its coal-fired plants in favor of nuclear and renewable sources," Hiram replied. "The Malampaya gas field off Palawan provide gas for both power and utilities, while Semirara Coal and Power in Panay still mining coal for the plants that still run on the stuff," he added with a hint of displeasure. Natural gas was something he could at least appreciate, but coal and oil were Hiram Yabut's personal bugbears...which led him to make a mental note to check on how VSSB was dealing with his idea of retrofitting the Indomitable Spirit-class motor yacht with solar panels. "It's telling that the closest Carnival Electric had in mind was to trade coal for nuclear, to be frank."

Amy Ramallae of the Tribe of Monaghan.
I smiled.
“I have my moments.”, I told Gerald and offered him my arm to link, “And I am certain, that you'll find yourself appreciating the horsemanship and archery skills on display. I am more of a swimming girl, myself, but when a member of my University's Team appears, then you know, who to cheer for...”
And with that, we went towards the Bay Windows.

Celina Sloroimh of the Tribe of Cork.
I made a face for but a moment.
Then I decided: Reaching into my utility belt, I was wearing Geansai, after all, I took out a pen and a notebook. I wrote my name and my e-mail-address on it, then added For when you every visit the Free Lands again ; )
Ripping the paper off, I handed it to Gabe.
“If you are ever again in our general area, give me a shout. With some luck and careful planning, we might be able to meet up... chances are, you'll have to travel further inland for that, though. I nowadays live at the edge of the Great Woods.”, I added with a smile.

Celina Cumann of the Tribe of Waterford.
I knew, that the Confederation was amassing reserves in gold and I knew, that many people were looking towards the Confederation for a possible business. I was one of them, after all, and I was not ashamed to admit it.
I chuckled.
“Then that subsidiary of VAI will not only have to compete with local enterpreneurs or international competition, I'm afraid.”, I told him with a smile, “And believe me, it will be stiff competition... many people have their eyes on the ilmenite and chromite. Titanium is quite hard to come by and quite useful for many applications many people have a lot of interest in...”

Prince Yngvi of Svartaland.
Yabut posted an interesting question: Why switch to nuclear?
“Nuclear power certainly has its advantages: It is a lot of it on a small space and it is reliable... safety is another question. And while one could certainly make an argument about the wastes, nuclear power has the advantage of minimal carbon emissions.” I shrugged. “I understand, why it sounds appealing to some. I do not appreciate it either, though. The final resting place for the waste is a difficult question and shooting it into space or something is not the solution, if you ask me.”