Sinope Harbour Festival (IC, MT)

[Kuronami]

Lady Fara nodded, then straightened and schooled her face.
"Alright, I hope, that you have your ID-card ready.", she said as they neared the vessel.
A security cordon had been established, not because of the Kyrenaians aboard, but because of some of the foreign guests, which were either aboard or expected to visit. In coordination with the local police, the Tabardariyya held the cordon, more specifically the Tabardariyya House of Utica, not of Megido. And one of the faceless men in heavy lamellar armour with a huge intimidating axe, stepped forwards.
Lady Fara bowed her head in greeting, showing her ID, then nodded to Yuzu.

The saleswoman thought for a moment, then she decided on a piece, a simple pocketwatch, easily fitting into Haru's hand, her exterior silvered, her interior classical.
"What do you think?", she asked with a smile, as she gave it to Haru for inspection. "I think, it would suit him just fine. Classy, elegant, small enough to be stowed away and not to be used as a murder weapon. You can also have it etched, for an extra personal touch or, which would be more awesome, the inside clap can be used to hold a photograph."

Mahmut smiled, for a moment at Yuki, asking her for a moment with a small bow.
Then he went and hugged Shirin, who smiled and petted the back of his head. It held only for a few, wordless moments before the Prince stepped back.
Silence, for a moment, then he cleared his throat, turning to Yuki.
"Thank you, too, Yuki.", he said, not moving to hug her, "I'm sure, that we did not give you two too much of a challenge?"
"Certainly not as much as that time in Tarbia...", Shirin said with a smile.

"Oh right." She pulled her ID out. Yuzu bowed in respect and followed Fara's lead to check through security.

"Oh it's wonderful! He'll love, Ma'am! His old one broke and he's not one for wrist watches. Yes perfect, if you could be so kind as to wrap it up and I'll take it. Now to pick something for my sisters and mother. Hmmm" she examined everything but it was hard to pick. "Oh you know, my oldest sister, Minako has her birthday coming up in March. So maybe something with her birthstone in it. Hiiragi though she's a tough one to shop for...."

"Well it was fun to tail you like a secret agent!" Yuki smiled.

[Shamsiyya]

"Truer words were rarely spoken.", Atif agreed, "Which is why I don't have a social media account in the first place, but that's another story."
He exhaled.
"Now, I believe, that we came more or less full circle...", he said with a small grin.

Both teens were silent.
"That sounds corny.", the second teen said, not meaning it as an insult, but as an honest statement, "I get, what you mean, but... it still sounds corny. And actually not that different from leaving your friends behind to go to a prestigious Academy in some far-away city, away from everything you hold dear."
He shrugged.
"But regardless..." He raised his glass. "...to cornyness."

Layla nodded.
"Indeed, I think this is not an issue to spend too much time on debating on" - she agreed, "for all points were made."
She took another sip.
"So ... is there even anything important left we haven't talked about yet?"

Maryam had to grin.
"I used to react the same way, when I was told this" - she said, "and I have been told this more often than I felt in a need to hear that. And of course, I'm fully aware, that you guys have already made that experience."
She let a beat pass.
"And yes, it does sound corny, I know. Therefore, indeed ..." - she raised her own glass, "... to cornyness. And of course, uh, how do you guys say in here again? Ealaa alshat! Or something along those lines." She grinned sheepishly. Foreign languages were rather Layla's and Iska's thing, not so much hers.

[Shwe Tu Colony]

"You sound an awful lot like you all family, yet at the same time... not..."

"We aren't all family, but some of us do consider each other family. Others think they're just friends, like Seafood & me, & there's a married couple, too. Herbs & Spicines. They're really cute together, honestly, I'll admit I'm a little bit jealous of them," Spiciness continued as he ate his fish, a slight blush appearing over him, "But, weird? Eh, that's what everyone says. Heck, there was this one Go— er, guy, that described it my home as 'like if you crossbred Junji Ito, teenage angst, Cirque du Soleil, & Cartoon Network into one universe,' whatever that means." Though he did know what those four things meant, he didn't feel like explaining it & continued to eat his fish. "I'm used to it though. Life where I am really toughens you up, or makes you really fragile," his tone grew solemn, & he looked away, "There was this other boy that visited my restaurant... actually, nevermind, I won't talk about it. I really shouldn't, anyway."

At Ava's entrance, Spiciness was quick to glance over, but his eyes' dead gaze in her indicated a lack of interest for now — a surprise considering his personality. However, at the mention of her meeting an "Aspect," he did perk up just a little bit. "I guess you could call me an 'Aspect,' yeah," he began, wiping his mouth on his shirt & leaving a yellow stain, "Same with my friend, but he's probably still in the hospital... I should probably go visit him soon, actually. Check up on how he's doing." With that, he got up from his seat, still seeming as exhausted as before. "If you wanna follow, feel free. I do kind of want to hear about that story, anyway," he continued as he began to walk out, "Er, where's the hospital he's probably at, anyway? I'd call him myself, but I broke my phone earlier, so nothing I can do."

[The Chuck]

Alexander nodded before reaching into his pocket and pulling out a dozen gold sovereigns and inserting them into the box.

"Unfortunately I do not have any cash but those should be worth something. That is about 4 ounces of gold donated. Thank you very much!"

With that, Alexander departed the building and continued his journey down the wharf back towards the Geezer's Rest.

[Danceria]

Fara giggled.
"Don't worry, you were plenty good.", she said, "And to be honest, while many Kyrenaians know a few basic tricks, not many are as knowledgeable as I am... many boys believe, that the best way to a girl's heart is to be good at massaging and while there is certainly some truth to it, it's not the whole story... not by a long shot."
She smiled, not mentioning, that Sabin and Edgar had abandoned the course by having a cuppa now.
"Don't worry, though...", she said, having noticed his blush before he buried his face in his arms and having counted one and one. "There are techniques to get excited boys under control." Her hands reached his lower back, beginning their work there. "So don't worry... we're both adults."

"Well, I suppose another difference in culture." Aceus began. "Dancerian men of nobility were trained to...curtail their emotions. As well as be able to succinctly avoid situations that may result in scandal." he admitted. "While this raises a few red flags, it's mostly out of habit. Again, I would be...interested in knowing these techniques. Not so much as to get to your heart, but to..." he paused. "Keep it close by? No, that sounds too possessive. Love is decided with actions, and not just simply by making a good meal or massaging someone, but by being with them, right now." he shrugged, as Fara's hands began to be more intimate. "Sorry...for rambling and for learning to loosen up around you."

[Mervay]

Ellaha smiled.
"He sure is. A brave young man, fighting like a lion... but even a lion needs a hug sometimes and... the sad part is, that I can not hug him without hurting him.", she recounted, pausing, taking a steadying breath, Ellaha's hand finding hers. "The government, both of the Khanate and the Ilkhanate and the Sultanate, is doing what they can, financing the healthcare for not only him but everyone, pouring billions and billions of Barqas into research on diseases in general, raising awareness, too, Princess Aurelia and the Sultana Herself were even in his hospital and met Butterfly Children... you saw it in their eyes how much it hurt either of them to see children suffering like that. I know, that there are several groups of researchers trying to make it at least bearable, but they all say, that they will not be able to cure him. Maybe in future generations, but not this century."
She let a beat pass, then snorted.
"The interesting part is, that the government pays for the medication and operations and everything, but, as usual for a government, they forgot the most crucial part.", she said, "Every child needs a stuffed toy, right? Shirts and pants and so on... There are fabrics and materials, which do not hurt as much, but they are expensive. My family can afford them, but... others are not so lucky. And that's what we are collecting for. That a sister can go to her little brother with a lion and say: 'Hey, I can't hug you, but he can. And every time I want to hug you, I'll tell you and you will hug him with all your might, okay?'"

They smiled as they heard that he was fighting like an lion, it was always great for them to hear people that even with their problems and diseases they fought against them with all their strenght. But of course that didn't lasted long.

It resulted that not even an hug he can recive because of his condition and with such weak skin of an butterfly children, it would hurt him. Ellaha then told them that the goverment was doing what it could and poured millons in research for the cure although they won't be able to find it until the next century.
But what surprised the couple was what Ellaha then told them, the goverment obviously pays for all medicaments and treatments but they forgot the other thing which involved improve the quality of life of those childs so they could live an normal life mostly.

It was because of some fabrics and materials which didn't hurt less for the Butterfly Childrens and that can be used for their clothes and stuffed toys, however they were expensive for some families and weren't able to buy them because of it so that's why she and her friend with the other group collected the money; for buy those materials so the childs can be able to have those toys for hug and those clothes which were more comfy and safe for them than the normal ones which everyone use.

"So the goverment is investing in all the operations, research and medicaments, but no in the most normal thing that we all use everyday for those childs??" Edward was in disbelief about it, sure we all love that the state helps in wharever it can with medicine when disease comes or you can't pay the medicine and/or healthcare in some nations which relies un the private healthcare system, but this surely was half cheap than the research, that is an good thing, but it might not be that hard or expensive the materials.

"Alright I understand that they want to cure this and thinks in an long run solution, but I'm sure those clothes with those materials aren't that expensive for make an blind eye, right??"

[Kyrenaia]

Sitting down on the bare foredeck, the Sultana nodded.
"I indeed read them... they convinced me to allow Aurelia courting you. And, when the time comes, to change the law.", she said with a small smile, "I have similar ones myself, in a box at a place I do not want to disclose, from my own husband, her Grandfather. Soon, the last ones will turn 34."
She smiled.
"Let's just say, that Dschafar was not as good as a poet as you are, Marcella.", she added.

"Aha well...." She still was red from the combination of a bit embarrassment and flattery "I suppose that's understandable, a person's poetry is often the soul writing it out in rhythm and rhyme. Although...I wouldn't mind reading some of the ones addressed to you....But of course you don't have to share. "

Atif grinned.
"I know just the place!", he said and motioned her to follow him, "I even know the owner!"
Two minutes later, they were in a little side street in front of a door, a large, wooden board. The side-street was clean, but one could see, that not many people even knew, it existed. He knocked, a slit in the door opening.
A phrase was spoken and the door opened.
A moment later, the door opened into a small stairway, Atif giving Asuna a warning as they ascended, and at the top, they looked into a small restaurant with half a dozen tables, a bar to the side, windows with a nice view of Sinope and a small stage.
A barkeeper stood behind his bar, grunted a greeting, which one could interpret as friendly.
Atif grinned as he turned to Asuna, the look on his face basically begging her to tell him, what she thought.

"Wonderful" She took his hand so he could lead her on. the place he picked it was quaint and seemed like a good spot the two could enjoy a meal together. "This is very nice. The view is great! Perfect choice!"

"When we have the chance, I'll show you some.", the Sultana agreed and Aurelia raised an eyebrow. "What? I just want my future daughter-in-law to know, how not to write love poetry!"
Aurelia giggled, then it dawned upon her.
"'Future daughter-in-law'.", she repeated and looked to Marcella, smiling a small, happy smile. "I like the sound of that."

Atif grinned - and it only grew, as he heard a voice call out his name.
He turned, grinning at a woman, who once had been a beautiful woman, dark-skinned like him, golden eyes, brown hair - which was almost white nowadays. Her beauty of a youthful woman had long since gone, but she still looked good, in her own way, having chosen to emphasize her still radiant eyes, a few wrinkles telling of a life filled with laughter.
Atif grinned and hugged the woman, she taking his face with both hands, a short conversation in rapid-fire Kyrenaian erupting, before the woman noticed Asuna, speaking a few words as she let go of the young man and stood in front of Asuna.
She looked her up and down and then to Atif, urging him to something.
"Oh, right, of course.", he said, switching back to English, "Asuna, this is my Aunt Dschamilla. Auntie Dschamilla, Asuna, my girlfriend."
Dschamilla looked Asuna up and down once again, then decided to bugger it all and hugged the younger woman. "Finally!", she said with a grin, "A woman, who can turn the poor lad's head! How did the two get to know each other?"

Lady Fara nodded, then straightened and schooled her face.
"Alright, I hope, that you have your ID-card ready.", she said as they neared the vessel.
A security cordon had been established, not because of the Kyrenaians aboard, but because of some of the foreign guests, which were either aboard or expected to visit. In coordination with the local police, the Tabardariyya held the cordon, more specifically the Tabardariyya House of Utica, not of Megido. And one of the faceless men in heavy lamellar armour with a huge intimidating axe, stepped forwards.
Lady Fara bowed her head in greeting, showing her ID, then nodded to Yuzu.

The saleswoman thought for a moment, then she decided on a piece, a simple pocketwatch, easily fitting into Haru's hand, her exterior silvered, her interior classical.
"What do you think?", she asked with a smile, as she gave it to Haru for inspection. "I think, it would suit him just fine. Classy, elegant, small enough to be stowed away and not to be used as a murder weapon. You can also have it etched, for an extra personal touch or, which would be more awesome, the inside clap can be used to hold a photograph."

Mahmut smiled, for a moment at Yuki, asking her for a moment with a small bow.
Then he went and hugged Shirin, who smiled and petted the back of his head. It held only for a few, wordless moments before the Prince stepped back.
Silence, for a moment, then he cleared his throat, turning to Yuki.
"Thank you, too, Yuki.", he said, not moving to hug her, "I'm sure, that we did not give you two too much of a challenge?"
"Certainly not as much as that time in Tarbia...", Shirin said with a smile.

"Oh right." She pulled her ID out. Yuzu bowed in respect and followed Fara's lead to check through security.

"Oh it's wonderful! He'll love, Ma'am! His old one broke and he's not one for wrist watches. Yes perfect, if you could be so kind as to wrap it up and I'll take it. Now to pick something for my sisters and mother. Hmmm" she examined everything but it was hard to pick. "Oh you know, my oldest sister, Minako has her birthday coming up in March. So maybe something with her birthstone in it. Hiiragi though she's a tough one to shop for...."

"Well it was fun to tail you like a secret agent!" Yuki smiled.

The Tabardariyya were not impolite, just silent and imposing, which added much to their mythos. The girl's ID was quickly checked, a short call handed out via radio, confirmation given.
Then the Sergeant nodded and made way for either of them.
And then, they stood under the bowsprit of the name-ship of the Aurelia-class Sailing Yachts, the Aurelia herself.
She looked wonderful, due to being polished and meticulously cared for, both her owner and the one she was named after having helped in preparing her for today by scrubbing her decks. She was almost too large for the pier as well, but her steel hull with the aluminium superstructure fit almost everywhere.
At the foot of the gangplank, a man waited, dressed in a white shirt and dark pants, looking almost like an adult Prince Mahmut, but he was not.
He bowed to both women as they approached. "Ah, Miss Yuzuki Shijou, a pleasure to meet you - Prince Damir ibn-Razia. Ilia was quite impressed by you and to be honest, I can see why!"
Lady Fara almost rolled her eyes.

The saleswoman carefully placed the pocketwatch into a small basket, which belonged to the shop and took said basket.
"That would of course depend on what your sister has as her birthstone - or if you want to give her her Kyrenaian Birthstone.", she smiled slightly, "March, you said? That would be Hajar Aldam, or Bloodstone."

"I can imagine.", Mahmut said, and looked at both women with smiles, "So... your cover-story is...?"
"I am the Handmaiden of Prince Mahmut, who was lent to Lady Yuki here to show her Sinope.", Shirin explained.
The young Prince grinned, offering his arm for Yuki to link. "Well, if we already met, it would be rather impolite to send you off on your own again, wouldn't it, my fair Lady?"
Shirin rolled her eyes - her Prince was sometimes too charming for his own good.

Layla nodded.
"Indeed, I think this is not an issue to spend too much time on debating on" - she agreed, "for all points were made."
She took another sip.
"So ... is there even anything important left we haven't talked about yet?"

Maryam had to grin.
"I used to react the same way, when I was told this" - she said, "and I have been told this more often than I felt in a need to hear that. And of course, I'm fully aware, that you guys have already made that experience."
She let a beat pass.
"And yes, it does sound corny, I know. Therefore, indeed ..." - she raised her own glass, "... to cornyness. And of course, uh, how do you guys say in here again? Ealaa alshat! Or something along those lines." She grinned sheepishly. Foreign languages were rather Layla's and Iska's thing, not so much hers.

Atif let a beat pass.
"Not that I would be aware of it... at least not going into the typical questions for the first date.", he said and shrugged, "Hey, we need something to talk about tonight as well, in dance breaks!"

Both young men raised their own glasses.
"Narju 'an tahmi Allibunat al-Sultanata!", the chorused - May the Lioness protect the Sultanate. More usual in patriotic settings, but one could say it every time one had a drink, usually no one objected, especially not with a follow-up. "And may She also protect Shamsiyya and its dart-throwers!"

"You sound an awful lot like you all family, yet at the same time... not..."

"We aren't all family, but some of us do consider each other family. Others think they're just friends, like Seafood & me, & there's a married couple, too. Herbs & Spicines. They're really cute together, honestly, I'll admit I'm a little bit jealous of them," Spiciness continued as he ate his fish, a slight blush appearing over him, "But, weird? Eh, that's what everyone says. Heck, there was this one Go— er, guy, that described it my home as 'like if you crossbred Junji Ito, teenage angst, Cirque du Soleil, & Cartoon Network into one universe,' whatever that means." Though he did know what those four things meant, he didn't feel like explaining it & continued to eat his fish. "I'm used to it though. Life where I am really toughens you up, or makes you really fragile," his tone grew solemn, & he looked away, "There was this other boy that visited my restaurant... actually, nevermind, I won't talk about it. I really shouldn't, anyway."

At Ava's entrance, Spiciness was quick to glance over, but his eyes' dead gaze in her indicated a lack of interest for now — a surprise considering his personality. However, at the mention of her meeting an "Aspect," he did perk up just a little bit. "I guess you could call me an 'Aspect,' yeah," he began, wiping his mouth on his shirt & leaving a yellow stain, "Same with my friend, but he's probably still in the hospital... I should probably go visit him soon, actually. Check up on how he's doing." With that, he got up from his seat, still seeming as exhausted as before. "If you wanna follow, feel free. I do kind of want to hear about that story, anyway," he continued as he began to walk out, "Er, where's the hospital he's probably at, anyway? I'd call him myself, but I broke my phone earlier, so nothing I can do."

Ava smiled.
"I can do one better: I can bring you there.", she said and reached into the hallway, producing a motorcycle helmet, "Provided, of course, you can wear a helmet with your hairstyle!"
She grinned.
The old Priest stuck his head in: "Harbour Hospital.", he provided, "After you two..."
He added something in Kyrenaia.
Ava nodded at that, for a moment, her eyes were grim, but that was quickly gone.
"Outside, my mode of transportation stands and waits... a Gabha Motorworks G 20 Sport Bike.", she grinned at Spiciness, "Granted, not as fast as a Saqr, but it is a bloody wonderful machine!"

Alexander nodded before reaching into his pocket and pulling out a dozen gold sovereigns and inserting them into the box.

"Unfortunately I do not have any cash but those should be worth something. That is about 4 ounces of gold donated. Thank you very much!"

With that, Alexander departed the building and continued his journey down the wharf back towards the Geezer's Rest.

The mousy woman almost turned white.
"Well, that certainly beats the record.", she said and looked to Alexander, bowing. "Thank you very much, Captain. Fair seas and steady winds to you and your ship."
It would not matter, whether or not he had a sailing vessel or a 400,000 tons freighter under his command, the well-wishes would stay the same. It was a tradition.
At the Rest, Alexander would be able to notice, that his ship had a small group of visitors, one of them sporting a large TV camera.
Their apparent leader, a young chap, who could easily be his grandson, stood there and seemed to be debating with himself about whether or not to visit this ship or not.
For now, however, the group stood around, at the beginning of the Rest's wharf, and awaited the decision by their leader.

Ellaha smiled.
"He sure is. A brave young man, fighting like a lion... but even a lion needs a hug sometimes and... the sad part is, that I can not hug him without hurting him.", she recounted, pausing, taking a steadying breath, Ellaha's hand finding hers. "The government, both of the Khanate and the Ilkhanate and the Sultanate, is doing what they can, financing the healthcare for not only him but everyone, pouring billions and billions of Barqas into research on diseases in general, raising awareness, too, Princess Aurelia and the Sultana Herself were even in his hospital and met Butterfly Children... you saw it in their eyes how much it hurt either of them to see children suffering like that. I know, that there are several groups of researchers trying to make it at least bearable, but they all say, that they will not be able to cure him. Maybe in future generations, but not this century."
She let a beat pass, then snorted.
"The interesting part is, that the government pays for the medication and operations and everything, but, as usual for a government, they forgot the most crucial part.", she said, "Every child needs a stuffed toy, right? Shirts and pants and so on... There are fabrics and materials, which do not hurt as much, but they are expensive. My family can afford them, but... others are not so lucky. And that's what we are collecting for. That a sister can go to her little brother with a lion and say: 'Hey, I can't hug you, but he can. And every time I want to hug you, I'll tell you and you will hug him with all your might, okay?'"

They smiled as they heard that he was fighting like an lion, it was always great for them to hear people that even with their problems and diseases they fought against them with all their strenght. But of course that didn't lasted long.

It resulted that not even an hug he can recive because of his condition and with such weak skin of an butterfly children, it would hurt him. Ellaha then told them that the goverment was doing what it could and poured millons in research for the cure although they won't be able to find it until the next century.
But what surprised the couple was what Ellaha then told them, the goverment obviously pays for all medicaments and treatments but they forgot the other thing which involved improve the quality of life of those childs so they could live an normal life mostly.

It was because of some fabrics and materials which didn't hurt less for the Butterfly Childrens and that can be used for their clothes and stuffed toys, however they were expensive for some families and weren't able to buy them because of it so that's why she and her friend with the other group collected the money; for buy those materials so the childs can be able to have those toys for hug and those clothes which were more comfy and safe for them than the normal ones which everyone use.

"So the goverment is investing in all the operations, research and medicaments, but no in the most normal thing that we all use everyday for those childs??" Edward was in disbelief about it, sure we all love that the state helps in wharever it can with medicine when disease comes or you can't pay the medicine and/or healthcare in some nations which relies un the private healthcare system, but this surely was half cheap than the research, that is an good thing, but it might not be that hard or expensive the materials.

"Alright I understand that they want to cure this and thinks in an long run solution, but I'm sure those clothes with those materials aren't that expensive for make an blind eye, right??"

"I wouldn't call it turning a blind eye, but overlooking or missing it.", Ellaha clarified, neither miffed nor angered, "They're a government, not perfect."
"Besides...", Samira said from the side, "...we already successfully appealed in front of the Court of the Ruby Hall, as did another group in front of the Court of the Azure Hall - the support for such materials will come to poorer families."
"It was surprisingly simple, to be honest...", Ellaha added, "Granted, that might be because of Prince Okan being incurably ill himself, but it worked and that's the important part, I guess."
Samira nodded.

Fara giggled.
"Don't worry, you were plenty good.", she said, "And to be honest, while many Kyrenaians know a few basic tricks, not many are as knowledgeable as I am... many boys believe, that the best way to a girl's heart is to be good at massaging and while there is certainly some truth to it, it's not the whole story... not by a long shot."
She smiled, not mentioning, that Sabin and Edgar had abandoned the course by having a cuppa now.
"Don't worry, though...", she said, having noticed his blush before he buried his face in his arms and having counted one and one. "There are techniques to get excited boys under control." Her hands reached his lower back, beginning their work there. "So don't worry... we're both adults."

"Well, I suppose another difference in culture." Aceus began. "Dancerian men of nobility were trained to...curtail their emotions. As well as be able to succinctly avoid situations that may result in scandal." he admitted. "While this raises a few red flags, it's mostly out of habit. Again, I would be...interested in knowing these techniques. Not so much as to get to your heart, but to..." he paused. "Keep it close by? No, that sounds too possessive. Love is decided with actions, and not just simply by making a good meal or massaging someone, but by being with them, right now." he shrugged, as Fara's hands began to be more intimate. "Sorry...for rambling and for learning to loosen up around you."

"Oh, I like it, when people loosen up around me.", Fara said with a smile, continuing the kneading of the lower back, soon turning towards his rear, which she still straddled.
She let a beat pass.
"Love, to us, is decided by actions, public and intimate ones, for example dancing together and such massages, but also by the hearts having a connection... good Blue Tooth, so to speak!", she joked, before she continued to whisper, "And I would certainly like to keep this good connection up between our hearts..."

At the Luna Mysteria.
The team was composed of three people, a cameraman, a mobile technician and a reporter, the latter being a very photogenic young man.
He smiled, as he saw the small boat, approaching it. Other teams had already been volunteered for larger vessels, but he, he would go here with his team - a small boat was always nice.
"Excuse me!", he called as he had come up alongside, "Anybody home?"

[Lillorainen]

"About three grand for the body spray shower" replies Zoe, "the bath base is enamel coated fibreglass so its meant to get wet, then another two grand for the dyson air blower, the thing is its a juice hog and can really drain the batteries if we are not careful"
Zoe then turned to Micky "can you go out side and see if there is any sign of the parade please?"

Micky nods and nips up onto the aft deck from the cabin as Zoe continued to show the Lillo's and the Polish - Prussian citizen the Luna. "back here are the two additional berths, these are where we store our non perishable provisions on long trips, things like tinned dehydrated milk, tea bags, coffee and such. This one here is also a place where Jax likes to sleep sometimes" comments Zoe, pointing to the port side cabin, "then out on deck is where most of the expense was spent as the entire boat was re-rigged as corrosion had meant that the old mast couldn't be used, it now has new running gear for the sails with new winches and a small wind turbine" Zoe then takes a cover off the main sail, "These are totally new, lighter sails that are actually racing heritage material, manly because they're lighter and stronger than the original ones. and if you look forwards you will see the solar kit, we put that on last year"

At the Luna Mysteria.
The team was composed of three people, a cameraman, a mobile technician and a reporter, the latter being a very photogenic young man.
He smiled, as he saw the small boat, approaching it. Other teams had already been volunteered for larger vessels, but he, he would go here with his team - a small boat was always nice.
"Excuse me!", he called as he had come up alongside, "Anybody home?"

Ratko nodded, as Zoe explained to him, that the shower and its base had, indeed, not been a cheap investion, the cost making up a 'modest' amount of around 'three grand' - 3000 Dinars, as he assumed to understand. Another practical thing were the additional berths to store provisions that were non-perishable (while it was indeed recommended to store them air-tight, for otherwise, the aroma could vanish quickly - so it made sense). Zoe mentioned that a new mast had swallowed the most money, as well as the new running gear with new winches and the aforementioned solar kit. The sails were actually racing heritage material.
"Thank the Gods I didn't have to replace all that when buying Milenka" - Ingmar said. "How much was all that ...?"
In this moment, they heard a male voice from outside, asking if anybody were at home.
All three Lillos considered replying for a moment, but since Micky already was on the way on deck, they just waited.
"If more people join us in, it's getting a tiny bit narrow in here!" - Merle said, grinning.

[Aurora Confederacy]

"ingmar, it was probably cheaper to buy a new boat" jokes Zoe, "but thats not the point Luna, she was unloved and needed someone to look after her and, well as you can see the result".

Luna rolled slightly as weight moved around caused by the camera crew pulling on the Luna's railings as Micky was going up topside.

"Merle, will they fit?" says Zoe, as Micky stepped out onto the aft deck, straight onto the camera crew

"oh, hello" says Micky, somewhat startled as she wasn't expecting a camera crew, "how may we help ya?" although moments later Gina Fittipaldi and Robbie Greenwood came onto the deck, Gina takes a seat on the bench on the port side looking over to the camera crew.

Gina has a claim to fame about being the narrator of a biopic film "Alone" which was about a miraculous survival and being the only survivor of the 30 crew cargo ship - "Celestia", yet she takes that in her stride and tries not to let it bother her, Gina then turns to Zoe through the hatch, "hey Zoe, you're about to become a movie star" she calls before gesturing to the film crew to come aboard.

Zoe however looks at Merle and Ingmar, "looks like we have visitors" before shouting to Gina, "hang on Fitt, I'm comming"

[Danceria]

"Oh, I like it, when people loosen up around me.", Fara said with a smile, continuing the kneading of the lower back, soon turning towards his rear, which she still straddled.
She let a beat pass.
"Love, to us, is decided by actions, public and intimate ones, for example dancing together and such massages, but also by the hearts having a connection... good Blue Tooth, so to speak!", she joked, before she continued to whisper, "And I would certainly like to keep this good connection up between our hearts..."

"And keeping it, I'll be sure to buzz you some texts, letters, whatever it takes...I'll keep you by my side." Aceus gave a toothy, coy grin. "If only so that way I have someone to dance with, and occasionally one-up in massaging and swimming." While competitiveness was ingrained into Dancerian culture, the spirit of one-up-man-ship (or one-up-woman-ship) was that of friendly training, of iron sharpening iron. "Which brings us to your...Spring Break. How exactly should I enter, and what should I do?" he paused. "We, that is to say Dancerian men, are taught that to get to a girl, you go through their family and friends, see if they have the same interests as you. So if you have any vacations planned for your parents or siblings, or anyone in general, don't let me stop you. You are a woman of many incredible talents and interests, or perhaps are a little exhausted from measuring swimmers. Again, I want this connection to be something we both enjoy..." he hummed as Fara continued her work. "Much like I say we both enjoyed the Hammam...we haven't even left the first room!"

[Mervay]

"I wouldn't call it turning a blind eye, but overlooking or missing it.", Ellaha clarified, neither miffed nor angered, "They're a government, not perfect."
"Besides...", Samira said from the side, "...we already successfully appealed in front of the Court of the Ruby Hall, as did another group in front of the Court of the Azure Hall - the support for such materials will come to poorer families."
"It was surprisingly simple, to be honest...", Ellaha added, "Granted, that might be because of Prince Okan being incurably ill himself, but it worked and that's the important part, I guess."
Samira nodded.

He might have passed himself with an blind eye. Ups. He knew that goverments weren't perfect and his home was one of the examples of it too being honest, so yeah guess he overeacted about that.
Either way, now Samira then told them about that they appealed to the Court of the Ruby Hall as another group did in the Azure one and all the support for the materials will go to the poorer familes.
Those were good news to be honest since this was an advance and at least everything worked good for it.

"Well those are always good news to hear, who wouldn't be happy with them??" he told the girls as he slightly bowed. "I believe that we might have done all what we came to do around here, right dear??" Edward looked at his wife as she nodded.

"Yup your right, I believe that we should get moving, there are lot of places to still know around the city" she continued as she looked at Ellaha and Samira. "It was an pleasure to know you two and hear about the work you two make with the foundation for raise funds to the research and help the childs with the Butterfly Skin, I'm sure you two are proud of it" she smiled at them.

[Shwe Tu Colony]

Ava smiled....

"Oh man, you can? Sweet!" Spiciness said, his face momentarily darkening, only for him to dash to a motorcycle helmet & try to put it on, "Er, well... Y-yeah, of course this helmet's going to thing'll fit! I know it looks kind of poofy, but it's not really that thick." With a swift motion, he was able to tame his wild mane of purple hair & fit it all beneath a well-secured helmet, ignoring the grim look in her eyes & hoping that it wasn't related to his whole affair with Seafood.
"A sports bike, huh? I know a guy back in my home city that makes a lot of vehicles, being the 'mechanical master' he is," he began as he walked with Ava towards her bike, "I can really only think of one right now, & that's the Edelweiss Patrol Bike, which has usually been used during wars & not really that much for, like, normal people ... I think some Valkyries in the northern regions used them a while back during an operation of theirs." He paused for a moment. "But anyway! That's not something I know a ton about, & my phone's smashed & I don't think he'll be willing to talk with an unknown caller. Oh, & you said that you meant an 'aspect' once?"
He seemed insistent on changing the topic.

[The Chuck]

Alexander sauntered on up to the group who were standing on the pier and looking at the Geezer's Rest. Speaking in a booming but friendly voice he said,

"Aye! I hope you aren't thinking of going aboard that there ship without the captain's permission!"

With a wide smile he walked past them and up the gangplank of the ship before turning around and looking down at the small group in front of him.

"I am Captain Alexander Theodore of the Geezer's Rest. If I may inquire, what is your business with myself and my ship today?"

[Shamsiyya]

Atif let a beat pass.
"Not that I would be aware of it... at least not going into the typical questions for the first date.", he said and shrugged, "Hey, we need something to talk about tonight as well, in dance breaks!"

Both young men raised their own glasses.
"Narju 'an tahmi Allibunat al-Sultanata!", the chorused - May the Lioness protect the Sultanate. More usual in patriotic settings, but one could say it every time one had a drink, usually no one objected, especially not with a follow-up. "And may She also protect Shamsiyya and its dart-throwers!"

Layla raised her eyebrows, pretending to be surprised.
"Oh? I thought we were going to use the dance breaks to analyze how heavily my dance skills have been declining ever since my last one, due to dating back such a long time!" - she said, grinning.
A beat passed.
"And that one was even ... well, no one could complain about having nothing to laugh about in that night, at least!"

Maryam grinned, believing, that she had understood the chorus, a well-known, particularly patriotic way to toast.
"Not to mention the Kyrenaians who are such good disciples, that they are going to outperform us someday!"
And with that said, their glasses clinked.

[Kuronami]

The Tabardariyya were not impolite, just silent and imposing, which added much to their mythos. The girl's ID was quickly checked, a short call handed out via radio, confirmation given.
Then the Sergeant nodded and made way for either of them.
And then, they stood under the bowsprit of the name-ship of the Aurelia-class Sailing Yachts, the Aurelia herself.
She looked wonderful, due to being polished and meticulously cared for, both her owner and the one she was named after having helped in preparing her for today by scrubbing her decks. She was almost too large for the pier as well, but her steel hull with the aluminium superstructure fit almost everywhere.
At the foot of the gangplank, a man waited, dressed in a white shirt and dark pants, looking almost like an adult Prince Mahmut, but he was not.
He bowed to both women as they approached. "Ah, Miss Yuzuki Shijou, a pleasure to meet you - Prince Damir ibn-Razia. Ilia was quite impressed by you and to be honest, I can see why!"
Lady Fara almost rolled her eyes.


The saleswoman carefully placed the pocketwatch into a small basket, which belonged to the shop and took said basket.
"That would of course depend on what your sister has as her birthstone - or if you want to give her her Kyrenaian Birthstone.", she smiled slightly, "March, you said? That would be Hajar Aldam, or Bloodstone."


"I can imagine.", Mahmut said, and looked at both women with smiles, "So... your cover-story is...?"
"I am the Handmaiden of Prince Mahmut, who was lent to Lady Yuki here to show her Sinope.", Shirin explained.
The young Prince grinned, offering his arm for Yuki to link. "Well, if we already met, it would be rather impolite to send you off on your own again, wouldn't it, my fair Lady?"
Shirin rolled her eyes - her Prince was sometimes too charming for his own good.

Yuzu bowed in return "Oh pleasure is mine, Your Majesty. Aha I'm glad I'm so highly thought of! Pretty much since my friends and I set foot off our ship and arrived we've been very spoiled and I really do appreciate the hospitality."

"Oooh blood stone." Her eyes widened as ominous as it sounded it actually would be perfect. "Minako really likes red so if it's as red as it sounds it would be perfect for her. Now Hiiragi on the other hand just had her birthday a month ago so maybe something pretty she can wear or at least remind her of her little sister's love." she took a glance at the display again "Oh that one is pretty," she pointed to a blue stone "May I see it?"

Yuki giggled again. "I would say so, Good Sir." Yuki linked her arm around his, boy he really was a charmer, no wonder Haru was crushing on him!

[AHSCA]

"When we have the chance, I'll show you some.", the Sultana agreed and Aurelia raised an eyebrow. "What? I just want my future daughter-in-law to know, how not to write love poetry!"
Aurelia giggled, then it dawned upon her.
"'Future daughter-in-law'.", she repeated and looked to Marcella, smiling a small, happy smile. "I like the sound of that."

Marcella giggled and blushed a little more "Mother-in-law is something I rather like the sound of too."

Atif grinned - and it only grew, as he heard a voice call out his name.
He turned, grinning at a woman, who once had been a beautiful woman, dark-skinned like him, golden eyes, brown hair - which was almost white nowadays. Her beauty of a youthful woman had long since gone, but she still looked good, in her own way, having chosen to emphasize her still radiant eyes, a few wrinkles telling of a life filled with laughter.
Atif grinned and hugged the woman, she taking his face with both hands, a short conversation in rapid-fire Kyrenaian erupting, before the woman noticed Asuna, speaking a few words as she let go of the young man and stood in front of Asuna.
She looked her up and down and then to Atif, urging him to something.
"Oh, right, of course.", he said, switching back to English, "Asuna, this is my Aunt Dschamilla. Auntie Dschamilla, Asuna, my girlfriend."
Dschamilla looked Asuna up and down once again, then decided to bugger it all and hugged the younger woman. "Finally!", she said with a grin, "A woman, who can turn the poor lad's head! How did the two get to know each other?"

"Oh pleasure to meet you" Asuna replied nonchalant until the words girlfriend caught her attention and her face flushed red and she felt like steam was coming off her. Of course she really liked Atif but she didn't realize he was already calling her a girlfriend. How about that, I've got a boyfriend! "Ahem." She cleared her throat to put off any lingering silence. "Oh funny that, we met in the bath, or Hammam I think they're called here? Ah still getting used to the language. I'm visiting from the AHSCA Isles you know. But yeah that's where we met and we got to talking and next thing you know well here we are!"

[Kyrenaia]

"ingmar, it was probably cheaper to buy a new boat" jokes Zoe, "but thats not the point Luna, she was unloved and needed someone to look after her and, well as you can see the result".

Luna rolled slightly as weight moved around caused by the camera crew pulling on the Luna's railings as Micky was going up topside.

"Merle, will they fit?" says Zoe, as Micky stepped out onto the aft deck, straight onto the camera crew

"oh, hello" says Micky, somewhat startled as she wasn't expecting a camera crew, "how may we help ya?" although moments later Gina Fittipaldi and Robbie Greenwood came onto the deck, Gina takes a seat on the bench on the port side looking over to the camera crew.

Gina has a claim to fame about being the narrator of a biopic film "Alone" which was about a miraculous survival and being the only survivor of the 30 crew cargo ship - "Celestia", yet she takes that in her stride and tries not to let it bother her, Gina then turns to Zoe through the hatch, "hey Zoe, you're about to become a movie star" she calls before gesturing to the film crew to come aboard.

Zoe however looks at Merle and Ingmar, "looks like we have visitors" before shouting to Gina, "hang on Fitt, I'm comming"

The camera crew did not recognize Gina and, if they were honest, they did not care.
They grinned in any case, their leader spoke: "Hi, I am Ahmad, TV Megido, we are currently collecting impressions of the festival and would like to have a few statements from small boat owners, such as you. Maybe from your friends as well."
He nodded to the others.
"Of course, we would have the copyright contract of the material, which would rest with TV Megido.", he said and took a small clipboard from the technician, where the form was clipped. "Fill it out and sign it." He even offered a TV Megido ballpen, a freebie. "You can keep the pen, too."

Alexander sauntered on up to the group who were standing on the pier and looking at the Geezer's Rest. Speaking in a booming but friendly voice he said,

"Aye! I hope you aren't thinking of going aboard that there ship without the captain's permission!"

With a wide smile he walked past them and up the gangplank of the ship before turning around and looking down at the small group in front of him.

"I am Captain Alexander Theodore of the Geezer's Rest. If I may inquire, what is your business with myself and my ship today?"

The small crew was startled for a moment, then turned.
Their leader, the youngest of the three, grinned a huge grin as he bowed his head slightly.
"Good morning, then, Captain.", he said and rose, "You see, we are from TV Megido and we would like to ask, if you would like to give us your impression of the Festival in an interview and maybe even allow us to be aboard your ship for the parade."
He let a beat pass.
"We even have the corresponding papers!", he added.

Layla raised her eyebrows, pretending to be surprised.
"Oh? I thought we were going to use the dance breaks to analyze how heavily my dance skills have been declining ever since my last one, due to dating back such a long time!" - she said, grinning.
A beat passed.
"And that one was even ... well, no one could complain about having nothing to laugh about in that night, at least!"

Maryam grinned, believing, that she had understood the chorus, a well-known, particularly patriotic way to toast.
"Not to mention the Kyrenaians who are such good disciples, that they are going to outperform us someday!"
And with that said, their glasses clinked.

Atif grinned.
"Oh, I'm sure, that you aren't going to make me want to chop my legs off.", he said and shrugged, "And if, then I have the most beautiful chopwoman of them all." He let a beat pass, glancing at his watch. "I'm afraid, that I have to depart, soon. Wanted to meet some people with my friends... schoolmates."

The clinking was followed by gulps, grins being exchanged.
"So, Maryam...", the second teen said, "I'm afraid, that we have to be off. Meeting friends, telling them stories of Shamsiyyan Dartwomen, hanging out." He grinned. "And maybe the old man came down the mast already."

"Oh, I like it, when people loosen up around me.", Fara said with a smile, continuing the kneading of the lower back, soon turning towards his rear, which she still straddled.
She let a beat pass.
"Love, to us, is decided by actions, public and intimate ones, for example dancing together and such massages, but also by the hearts having a connection... good Blue Tooth, so to speak!", she joked, before she continued to whisper, "And I would certainly like to keep this good connection up between our hearts..."

"And keeping it, I'll be sure to buzz you some texts, letters, whatever it takes...I'll keep you by my side." Aceus gave a toothy, coy grin. "If only so that way I have someone to dance with, and occasionally one-up in massaging and swimming." While competitiveness was ingrained into Dancerian culture, the spirit of one-up-man-ship (or one-up-woman-ship) was that of friendly training, of iron sharpening iron. "Which brings us to your...Spring Break. How exactly should I enter, and what should I do?" he paused. "We, that is to say Dancerian men, are taught that to get to a girl, you go through their family and friends, see if they have the same interests as you. So if you have any vacations planned for your parents or siblings, or anyone in general, don't let me stop you. You are a woman of many incredible talents and interests, or perhaps are a little exhausted from measuring swimmers. Again, I want this connection to be something we both enjoy..." he hummed as Fara continued her work. "Much like I say we both enjoyed the Hammam...we haven't even left the first room!"

"There's an old saying in Kyrenaia.", Fara explained as she was putting the final touches on his lower back, "You do not marry the woman, you marry the family."
A beat passed.
"I'm planning to make a sailing trip with everyone roundabout the end of the break. Two weeks open seas, aboard the Bahith Alhikma, that's Okan's boat.", she said, "That includes Dilara. We plan to cruise to a small island coral group near Shajarat Alnakhil." She let a beat pass. "That is, of course, after the diplomatic trip to the Empire of the Scarlet Eagle, with Aurelia, Damir and Uncle Abbas. Gods, I don't look forward to that one..."
She sighed.
"But everyone must do his or her duty, after all.", she said, glancing to the little scar on her stomach, then back onto Aceus. She adjusted her sitting, basically sitting on his back facing backwards. "I'll now either begin with your stern or your legs, if you don't want that. So... want me to massage your stern?"

"I wouldn't call it turning a blind eye, but overlooking or missing it.", Ellaha clarified, neither miffed nor angered, "They're a government, not perfect."
"Besides...", Samira said from the side, "...we already successfully appealed in front of the Court of the Ruby Hall, as did another group in front of the Court of the Azure Hall - the support for such materials will come to poorer families."
"It was surprisingly simple, to be honest...", Ellaha added, "Granted, that might be because of Prince Okan being incurably ill himself, but it worked and that's the important part, I guess."
Samira nodded.

He might have passed himself with an blind eye. Ups. He knew that goverments weren't perfect and his home was one of the examples of it too being honest, so yeah guess he overeacted about that.
Either way, now Samira then told them about that they appealed to the Court of the Ruby Hall as another group did in the Azure one and all the support for the materials will go to the poorer familes.
Those were good news to be honest since this was an advance and at least everything worked good for it.

"Well those are always good news to hear, who wouldn't be happy with them??" he told the girls as he slightly bowed. "I believe that we might have done all what we came to do around here, right dear??" Edward looked at his wife as she nodded.

"Yup your right, I believe that we should get moving, there are lot of places to still know around the city" she continued as she looked at Ellaha and Samira. "It was an pleasure to know you two and hear about the work you two make with the foundation for raise funds to the research and help the childs with the Butterfly Skin, I'm sure you two are proud of it" she smiled at them.

"Indeed, we are.", Samira said and bowed her head slightly, "And once again, thank you for your donation. May the Lioness protect you."
Ellaha remained silent for a moment, then looked at Jessica.
"Ma'am, please forgive me, if what I am about to do is a transgression.", she said and then struck: She wrapped her arms around Edward, kissed him on both cheeks and smiled at him. In her eyes, there were tears. "Thank you, Sir. May Manat bless you with many long years with your wife."
Speaking of which, next, the dancer hugged Jessica, kissed her on both cheeks, tears running down her cheeks.
"Thank you, Ma'am. May the Lioness bless you with many healthy and strong children, and may Manat give you a long and happy life.", she said and let go of her. "And allow me to assure you both, that your kindness will be remembered."

Ava smiled....

"Oh man, you can? Sweet!" Spiciness said, his face momentarily darkening, only for him to dash to a motorcycle helmet & try to put it on, "Er, well... Y-yeah, of course this helmet's going to thing'll fit! I know it looks kind of poofy, but it's not really that thick." With a swift motion, he was able to tame his wild mane of purple hair & fit it all beneath a well-secured helmet, ignoring the grim look in her eyes & hoping that it wasn't related to his whole affair with Seafood.
"A sports bike, huh? I know a guy back in my home city that makes a lot of vehicles, being the 'mechanical master' he is," he began as he walked with Ava towards her bike, "I can really only think of one right now, & that's the Edelweiss Patrol Bike, which has usually been used during wars & not really that much for, like, normal people ... I think some Valkyries in the northern regions used them a while back during an operation of theirs." He paused for a moment. "But anyway! That's not something I know a ton about, & my phone's smashed & I don't think he'll be willing to talk with an unknown caller. Oh, & you said that you meant an 'aspect' once?"
He seemed insistent on changing the topic.

Ava smiled, thinking, that he would love the G 20, then, a bike absolutely not made for war.
Outside, she stood, a speed-junkie's dream in deep red, steel frame, carbon fibre body, nearly one and a half metres of wheelbase, seat height of 825 millimetres, a bit over twohundred kilograms. Thanks to the supercharged 1000 cc inline 4 dual overhead camshaft engine, she could attain speeds of up to four-hundred kilometres per hour, which felt like flying thanks to the suspension, a fully adjustable telescopic fork with steering damper at the front, single-sised swingarm in the back.
Ava closed her jacket and put on her own helmet.
Sure, brown and deep red did not mix well, but she didn't want to meet her old friends in the full-body leather motorcycle suit.
"Yes, a long, long time ago. He was a bit lost, wondered around a battlefield not too far away from here.", she said and put on her own helmet, "Neither we nor he knew, how he got there and what he described as his master was unknown to everyone as well. He died not too long afterwards, though."

The Tabardariyya were not impolite, just silent and imposing, which added much to their mythos. The girl's ID was quickly checked, a short call handed out via radio, confirmation given.
Then the Sergeant nodded and made way for either of them.
And then, they stood under the bowsprit of the name-ship of the Aurelia-class Sailing Yachts, the Aurelia herself.
She looked wonderful, due to being polished and meticulously cared for, both her owner and the one she was named after having helped in preparing her for today by scrubbing her decks. She was almost too large for the pier as well, but her steel hull with the aluminium superstructure fit almost everywhere.
At the foot of the gangplank, a man waited, dressed in a white shirt and dark pants, looking almost like an adult Prince Mahmut, but he was not.
He bowed to both women as they approached. "Ah, Miss Yuzuki Shijou, a pleasure to meet you - Prince Damir ibn-Razia. Ilia was quite impressed by you and to be honest, I can see why!"
Lady Fara almost rolled her eyes.


The saleswoman carefully placed the pocketwatch into a small basket, which belonged to the shop and took said basket.
"That would of course depend on what your sister has as her birthstone - or if you want to give her her Kyrenaian Birthstone.", she smiled slightly, "March, you said? That would be Hajar Aldam, or Bloodstone."


"I can imagine.", Mahmut said, and looked at both women with smiles, "So... your cover-story is...?"
"I am the Handmaiden of Prince Mahmut, who was lent to Lady Yuki here to show her Sinope.", Shirin explained.
The young Prince grinned, offering his arm for Yuki to link. "Well, if we already met, it would be rather impolite to send you off on your own again, wouldn't it, my fair Lady?"
Shirin rolled her eyes - her Prince was sometimes too charming for his own good.

Yuzu bowed in return "Oh pleasure is mine, Your Majesty. Aha I'm glad I'm so highly thought of! Pretty much since my friends and I set foot off our ship and arrived we've been very spoiled and I really do appreciate the hospitality."

"Oooh blood stone." Her eyes widened as ominous as it sounded it actually would be perfect. "Minako really likes red so if it's as red as it sounds it would be perfect for her. Now Hiiragi on the other hand just had her birthday a month ago so maybe something pretty she can wear or at least remind her of her little sister's love." she took a glance at the display again "Oh that one is pretty," she pointed to a blue stone "May I see it?"

Yuki giggled again. "I would say so, Good Sir." Yuki linked her arm around his, boy he really was a charmer, no wonder Haru was crushing on him!

"Oh, please, just Damir.", the Prince said with a grin, offering his arm for her to link, "And I am glad, that I can offer the hospitality. Especially of her..."
He looked up at the ship.
"She is my whole Pride and Joy, you know?", he told Yuzu with a grin, "But even she needs to stay in the yard every now and then, first quarter of 2019. I named her after my daughter, she's... a year or two older then you."

The saleswoman packed the deep, blood red stone on a necklace into the basket and nodded.
"Go ahead.", she said with a nod, smiling slightly as she saw Haru inspect the blue stone, which shimmered lightly, "We call that one Sea Tear, it is a small stone, which you can find on some shorelines, especially at cliffs. Legend has it, that this one is the condensed and stone form of the tears of sailors, who sank at these cliffs and that these tears would protect sailors from harm."

Prince Mahmut grinned and began to lead her.
"It is, of course, my pleasure, my fair lady, although I must confess, that I do not know Sinope as good as my home in Ugarit or my place in Utica.", he said and gave a light shrug, "Although that should not hinder us."
Shirin realized, that he led them towards the shop.

"When we have the chance, I'll show you some.", the Sultana agreed and Aurelia raised an eyebrow. "What? I just want my future daughter-in-law to know, how not to write love poetry!"
Aurelia giggled, then it dawned upon her.
"'Future daughter-in-law'.", she repeated and looked to Marcella, smiling a small, happy smile. "I like the sound of that."

Marcella giggled and blushed a little more "Mother-in-law is something I rather like the sound of too."

Atif grinned - and it only grew, as he heard a voice call out his name.
He turned, grinning at a woman, who once had been a beautiful woman, dark-skinned like him, golden eyes, brown hair - which was almost white nowadays. Her beauty of a youthful woman had long since gone, but she still looked good, in her own way, having chosen to emphasize her still radiant eyes, a few wrinkles telling of a life filled with laughter.
Atif grinned and hugged the woman, she taking his face with both hands, a short conversation in rapid-fire Kyrenaian erupting, before the woman noticed Asuna, speaking a few words as she let go of the young man and stood in front of Asuna.
She looked her up and down and then to Atif, urging him to something.
"Oh, right, of course.", he said, switching back to English, "Asuna, this is my Aunt Dschamilla. Auntie Dschamilla, Asuna, my girlfriend."
Dschamilla looked Asuna up and down once again, then decided to bugger it all and hugged the younger woman. "Finally!", she said with a grin, "A woman, who can turn the poor lad's head! How did the two get to know each other?"

"Oh pleasure to meet you" Asuna replied nonchalant until the words girlfriend caught her attention and her face flushed red and she felt like steam was coming off her. Of course she really liked Atif but she didn't realize he was already calling her a girlfriend. How about that, I've got a boyfriend! "Ahem." She cleared her throat to put off any lingering silence. "Oh funny that, we met in the bath, or Hammam I think they're called here? Ah still getting used to the language. I'm visiting from the AHSCA Isles you know. But yeah that's where we met and we got to talking and next thing you know well here we are!"

Aurelia leaned over to kiss Marcella onto the cheek, visibly holding back from simply jumping her right here and there - showing remarkable self-restraint.
The Sultana let them.
As Aurelia was seated again, she retold: "You know, Dschafar, for all the charme and dance skills he had, had one big weakness: He was not a kisser. He hated to kiss, in fact, especially in public." She let a beat pass. "Seems to me, that I do not need to worry about that!"

Auntie Dschamilla smiled.
"Yes, that sounds like my charming nephew...", she said and reached over to pet his cheek. The young man wrapped his hand around Asuna's hip. "His hands are also very skilled, aren't they?"
She smiled as Atif blushed.
"Now, I won't keep you two any further.", she said, and motioned to one of the tables, "One of the girls will be with you in a moment. And I can already tell you, that they are all delighted!"
"I think, that I heard a squeal.", Atif confirmed, before he explained to Asuna: "You see, the waiters and waitresses here are some sort of extended family to me... and I am to them. Me 'bringing home' a girlfriend..." He shrugged with a grin, then leaned over to kiss Asuna's cheek. "...and one as beautiful as you..."

[Kuronami]

"Oh, please, just Damir.", the Prince said with a grin, offering his arm for her to link, "And I am glad, that I can offer the hospitality. Especially of her..."
He looked up at the ship.
"She is my whole Pride and Joy, you know?", he told Yuzu with a grin, "But even she needs to stay in the yard every now and then, first quarter of 2019. I named her after my daughter, she's... a year or two older then you."

The saleswoman packed the deep, blood red stone on a necklace into the basket and nodded.
"Go ahead.", she said with a nod, smiling slightly as she saw Haru inspect the blue stone, which shimmered lightly, "We call that one Sea Tear, it is a small stone, which you can find on some shorelines, especially at cliffs. Legend has it, that this one is the condensed and stone form of the tears of sailors, who sank at these cliffs and that these tears would protect sailors from harm."

Prince Mahmut grinned and began to lead her.
"It is, of course, my pleasure, my fair lady, although I must confess, that I do not know Sinope as good as my home in Ugarit or my place in Utica.", he said and gave a light shrug, "Although that should not hinder us."
Shirin realized, that he led them towards the shop.

"Ah Damir it is then. I must say the ship, she's a real beauty. I'm something of a nautical enthusiast myself so I'm glad I get to admire her up close! So named after someone special huh? Well nothing better than a daughter, my father did the same with his second little vessel. Of course without knowing it's named after me everyone asks him why it's named after a citrus fruit! Well the answer to that is the same answer to me, my dear mother couldn't get enough yuzus while pregnant with me."

"Ooh it's so lovely. Hiiragi isn't a sailor but she loves blue and she does love the beach so this should be perfect for her. I'll take it thank you! All right now that leaves something for mother. Mmm any hair clips or combs?"

"Well part of the fun of an adventure is exploring and sometimes it's not a journey if you don't get lost. Our trip over here, Haru, Yuzu and I all got separated for about an hour exploring the ship but we eventually found each other!"

[Danceria]

"There's an old saying in Kyrenaia.", Fara explained as she was putting the final touches on his lower back, "You do not marry the woman, you marry the family."
A beat passed.
"I'm planning to make a sailing trip with everyone roundabout the end of the break. Two weeks open seas, aboard the Bahith Alhikma, that's Okan's boat.", she said, "That includes Dilara. We plan to cruise to a small island coral group near Shajarat Alnakhil." She let a beat pass. "That is, of course, after the diplomatic trip to the Empire of the Scarlet Eagle, with Aurelia, Damir and Uncle Abbas. Gods, I don't look forward to that one..."
She sighed.
"But everyone must do his or her duty, after all.", she said, glancing to the little scar on her stomach, then back onto Aceus. She adjusted her sitting, basically sitting on his back facing backwards. "I'll now either begin with your stern or your legs, if you don't want that. So... want me to massage your stern?"

"Yes, yes please." Aceus began. "So you're free most of the beginning of break...or when's the diplomatic envoy." he smiled. "I mean, I could always slink into your univeristy campus to say hi buuut..."

[AHSCA]

Aurelia leaned over to kiss Marcella onto the cheek, visibly holding back from simply jumping her right here and there - showing remarkable self-restraint.
The Sultana let them.
As Aurelia was seated again, she retold: "You know, Dschafar, for all the charme and dance skills he had, had one big weakness: He was not a kisser. He hated to kiss, in fact, especially in public." She let a beat pass. "Seems to me, that I do not need to worry about that!"

Marcella blushed when Aurelia planted a spontaneous kiss on her but also had to hold back a giggle about how Dschafar wasn't much of a kisser. It was true some folks were just not as expressive. "Well, islanders are known for being very emotional and expressive. Well at least the women are."

Auntie Dschamilla smiled.
"Yes, that sounds like my charming nephew...", she said and reached over to pet his cheek. The young man wrapped his hand around Asuna's hip. "His hands are also very skilled, aren't they?"
She smiled as Atif blushed.
"Now, I won't keep you two any further.", she said, and motioned to one of the tables, "One of the girls will be with you in a moment. And I can already tell you, that they are all delighted!"
"I think, that I heard a squeal.", Atif confirmed, before he explained to Asuna: "You see, the waiters and waitresses here are some sort of extended family to me... and I am to them. Me 'bringing home' a girlfriend..." He shrugged with a grin, then leaned over to kiss Asuna's cheek. "...and one as beautiful as you..."

"Skilled is right. He did actually give me quite a massage all for free too! Uhm shall we?" She gestured Atif to the table with her and the two could sit down. "Ah I see, well I'm sure the same would happen if I brought you home to mama. Thanks I'm glad you always regard me as beautiful. I really do."

[Aurora Confederacy]

The camera crew did not recognize Gina and, if they were honest, they did not care.
They grinned in any case, their leader spoke: "Hi, I am Ahmad, TV Megido, we are currently collecting impressions of the festival and would like to have a few statements from small boat owners, such as you. Maybe from your friends as well."
He nodded to the others.
"Of course, we would have the copyright contract of the material, which would rest with TV Megido.", he said and took a small clipboard from the technician, where the form was clipped. "Fill it out and sign it." He even offered a TV Megido ballpen, a freebie. "You can keep the pen, too."

Zoe looked at the contract and studied it VERY CAREFULLY, "That will be fine, We're planning a barby after the parade before we set off back home, Its been a nice trip for us to get here, sixty days of sightseeing and avoiding storms to let this old girl swim and she sails well, and its been great to meet other mariners too"

Once Zoe had gone over the terms and conditions carefully and was happy with what she has just read she signs the form granting permission for the film crew to film aboard the Luna Mysteria.

[Shamsiyya]

Atif grinned.
"Oh, I'm sure, that you aren't going to make me want to chop my legs off.", he said and shrugged, "And if, then I have the most beautiful chopwoman of them all." He let a beat pass, glancing at his watch. "I'm afraid, that I have to depart, soon. Wanted to meet some people with my friends... schoolmates."

The clinking was followed by gulps, grins being exchanged.
"So, Maryam...", the second teen said, "I'm afraid, that we have to be off. Meeting friends, telling them stories of Shamsiyyan Dartwomen, hanging out." He grinned. "And maybe the old man came down the mast already."

Layla smiled about Atif's compliment on her being the most beautiful chopwoman available tonight - in case this would become on option, which, however, was very unlikely, not to say, completely unlikely. Hopefully, at least.
As he checked his watch, she took her final sip of juice, noticing, indeed, that it was about time.
She nodded. "Of course! Then, I'd say, I'll see you again tonight! I'm already looking forward to it!" She smiled, again. "And until then, have a lot of fun with your mates and enjoy the festival!"

Maryam nodded.
Indeed, it was about time ... perhaps, said old man had noticed that, too.
Just like Layla, she took her final sip.
"Oh, yes ...! We also shouldn't make the other visitors wait too long. Then, I'd say, enjoy the festivities, hanging out, and telling stories!" - she said. "And again, thank you guys a lot for a nice match - and two drinks."

[The Scarlet Eagle]

"It is.", Ilia confirmed, "She's the only museum ship of the SDF-Navy nowadays, on display in Fortham." He grinned. "Away from any body of water, true, but that did not stop the Navy or the Army. She even arrived in Fortham under her own power, so to speak, the crew, all of which survived the entire ordeal, rowing their boat up first the Imeall and then up the Mór into Lake Mór. Of course, they did that three years later and not in a day, but still - she was still entirely seaworthy."

"Oh, that's too bad she's the only museum ship, says Thomas as he takes a sip of his tea. The complete opposite of us, where nearly every littoral city with a port big enough has at least a ship. So, Prince, your Aide de Camp told us you have some good stories to tell us. What would they be? asks Pavel's grandfather, orientating the conversation on the matter on why the four of them were here in the first place.

[Kyrenaia]

"Oh, please, just Damir.", the Prince said with a grin, offering his arm for her to link, "And I am glad, that I can offer the hospitality. Especially of her..."
He looked up at the ship.
"She is my whole Pride and Joy, you know?", he told Yuzu with a grin, "But even she needs to stay in the yard every now and then, first quarter of 2019. I named her after my daughter, she's... a year or two older then you."

The saleswoman packed the deep, blood red stone on a necklace into the basket and nodded.
"Go ahead.", she said with a nod, smiling slightly as she saw Haru inspect the blue stone, which shimmered lightly, "We call that one Sea Tear, it is a small stone, which you can find on some shorelines, especially at cliffs. Legend has it, that this one is the condensed and stone form of the tears of sailors, who sank at these cliffs and that these tears would protect sailors from harm."

Prince Mahmut grinned and began to lead her.
"It is, of course, my pleasure, my fair lady, although I must confess, that I do not know Sinope as good as my home in Ugarit or my place in Utica.", he said and gave a light shrug, "Although that should not hinder us."
Shirin realized, that he led them towards the shop.

"Ah Damir it is then. I must say the ship, she's a real beauty. I'm something of a nautical enthusiast myself so I'm glad I get to admire her up close! So named after someone special huh? Well nothing better than a daughter, my father did the same with his second little vessel. Of course without knowing it's named after me everyone asks him why it's named after a citrus fruit! Well the answer to that is the same answer to me, my dear mother couldn't get enough yuzus while pregnant with me."

"Ooh it's so lovely. Hiiragi isn't a sailor but she loves blue and she does love the beach so this should be perfect for her. I'll take it thank you! All right now that leaves something for mother. Mmm any hair clips or combs?"

"Well part of the fun of an adventure is exploring and sometimes it's not a journey if you don't get lost. Our trip over here, Haru, Yuzu and I all got separated for about an hour exploring the ship but we eventually found each other!"

Damir laughed at the anecdote as he led Yuzu aboard.
"I must admit, that the reason for giving Aurelia her name is far less elaborate or delicious.", he admitted with a smile, "In the fifteenth century, there was an Ilkhana of Utica, Aurelia the Wise, an ancestor of hers and mine. She is known for being the first Ilkhana to introduce compulsory school attendance for all children, no matter their station. A social revolution."
He smiled slightly, worry in his eyes.
"And it seems, that Aurelia honours her name. Not even twenty and already being the symbol for a huge social reform.", he said.

"We have both.", the saleswoman said with a smile, then motioned Haru to follow her through half of the store to a shelf two metres long and adorned with combs and hair clips and other helpers for styling the hair, including hair bands and even small circlets. Some were of simple metal, plastic or wood, but some were also silvered, some strutted with artificial jewels, richly decorated and, if the saleswoman was honest, quite tacky. "It all depends on what your mother likes."

"That is a very good motto, Milady.", he said and smiled at her, "Although I must confess, that this would be the first of such tours with someone other then Soraya."
They arrived by the door, the Prince opening the door as he explained.
"A very good and close friend of mine.", he gave as an explanation. Shirin would say, that this was a bit of an understatement.

Aurelia leaned over to kiss Marcella onto the cheek, visibly holding back from simply jumping her right here and there - showing remarkable self-restraint.
The Sultana let them.
As Aurelia was seated again, she retold: "You know, Dschafar, for all the charme and dance skills he had, had one big weakness: He was not a kisser. He hated to kiss, in fact, especially in public." She let a beat pass. "Seems to me, that I do not need to worry about that!"

Marcella blushed when Aurelia planted a spontaneous kiss on her but also had to hold back a giggle about how Dschafar wasn't much of a kisser. It was true some folks were just not as expressive. "Well, islanders are known for being very emotional and expressive. Well at least the women are."

Auntie Dschamilla smiled.
"Yes, that sounds like my charming nephew...", she said and reached over to pet his cheek. The young man wrapped his hand around Asuna's hip. "His hands are also very skilled, aren't they?"
She smiled as Atif blushed.
"Now, I won't keep you two any further.", she said, and motioned to one of the tables, "One of the girls will be with you in a moment. And I can already tell you, that they are all delighted!"
"I think, that I heard a squeal.", Atif confirmed, before he explained to Asuna: "You see, the waiters and waitresses here are some sort of extended family to me... and I am to them. Me 'bringing home' a girlfriend..." He shrugged with a grin, then leaned over to kiss Asuna's cheek. "...and one as beautiful as you..."

"Skilled is right. He did actually give me quite a massage all for free too! Uhm shall we?" She gestured Atif to the table with her and the two could sit down. "Ah I see, well I'm sure the same would happen if I brought you home to mama. Thanks I'm glad you always regard me as beautiful. I really do."

The Sultana nodded.
Aurelia spoke: "And that is another thing I love about you. You wear your heart on your sleeve and speak, what it tells you...", she said and leaned over so that their shoulders touched. "Around here, people are mostly so... withdrawn and secretive. You are like a breath of fresh air compared to that!"
"Girls, I hate to interrupt your love-talking, but we are in a public, well-visited harbour.", the Sultana reminded them gently, "So..."
Aurelia held her shoulder close to Marcella's and raised an eyebrow.
"...don't give them too much of a show.", the Sultana finished with a smile.

Atif smiled, leaning over.
"What a weird place the UIS must be, if you must thank someone for speaking the truth.", he said, slightly joking, "For it is the truth, Asuna. You are a beautiful rose from far-away shores... I must thank you for spending time with me."

Zoe looked at the contract and studied it VERY CAREFULLY, "That will be fine, We're planning a barby after the parade before we set off back home, Its been a nice trip for us to get here, sixty days of sightseeing and avoiding storms to let this old girl swim and she sails well, and its been great to meet other mariners too"

Once Zoe had gone over the terms and conditions carefully and was happy with what she has just read she signs the form granting permission for the film crew to film aboard the Luna Mysteria.

"Thank you very much.", the young TV-man said and smiled, refusing to take the ballpen back. She would have found a standard contract for such things, at least standard for Kyrenaian TV. "So... for a start, could we please do a short interview with you, Miss..." He looked at the form. "Miss Maraner? Of the Lunar Mystique?"
He let a beat pass.
"My apologies, but I can't read your handwriting.", he said sheepishly, "In any case, may we do that on the foredeck?"

Layla smiled about Atif's compliment on her being the most beautiful chopwoman available tonight - in case this would become on option, which, however, was very unlikely, not to say, completely unlikely. Hopefully, at least.
As he checked his watch, she took her final sip of juice, noticing, indeed, that it was about time.
She nodded. "Of course! Then, I'd say, I'll see you again tonight! I'm already looking forward to it!" She smiled, again. "And until then, have a lot of fun with your mates and enjoy the festival!"

Maryam nodded.
Indeed, it was about time ... perhaps, said old man had noticed that, too.
Just like Layla, she took her final sip.
"Oh, yes ...! We also shouldn't make the other visitors wait too long. Then, I'd say, enjoy the festivities, hanging out, and telling stories!" - she said. "And again, thank you guys a lot for a nice match - and two drinks."

Atif nodded and rose.
"Thank you, Layla, you too.", he said and smiled, then decided to bugger it all and leaned over, giving her a soft, nervous kiss on the cheek. Returning with his face scarlet, he bowed his head and turned on the spot.

The other two teens rose.
"The pleasure was ours.", the second teen said and offered his hand for her to take, he would then kiss the back of it. "Especially learning from such a skilled master with the dart. Have a nice festival and many nice visitors!"
"And fun at the parade.", the other teen said with a small bow. "It was fun."

"Oh, that's too bad she's the only museum ship, says Thomas as he takes a sip of his tea. The complete opposite of us, where nearly every littoral city with a port big enough has at least a ship. So, Prince, your Aide de Camp told us you have some good stories to tell us. What would they be? asks Pavel's grandfather, orientating the conversation on the matter on why the four of them were here in the first place.

"Oh, instead of many museum ships, so many, that the term becomes overused, the Selkie have scuttled a lot of their old ships as artificial reefs. Beautiful to dive in!", Ilia almost gushed with a grin, "For example, there is SDFS Aeval, she was scuttled in 1979 as a diving wreck by the Duo close to Tearmann Island - Damir, Aurelia and I were there two summers ago. It's beautiful!"
He let a beat pass.
"Now, Miss Qadir is right, I do have a few aviation stories to share.", he said and grinned, "Which I tell you, though, that depends on what sort of story you would like to hear?"

"Yes, yes please." Aceus began. "So you're free most of the beginning of break...or when's the diplomatic envoy." he smiled. "I mean, I could always slink into your univeristy campus to say hi buuut..."

Fara began to massage the stern, putting her hands onto it, heels of the hands on the cheeks, fingers facing down. She then pressed her heels down, slowly pushing them towards the fingers as well, pressing the stern slightly together.
"You could do that.", she told Aceus, "But I am not sure, if you would find me... unless you followed the signs to the Swimming Hall 1 on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday afternoons, watching the Training of the Swimmer Team, but why should you want to do that?"
She grinned and she was quite sure, that Aceus could hear her grin.

[AHSCA]

The Sultana nodded.
Aurelia spoke: "And that is another thing I love about you. You wear your heart on your sleeve and speak, what it tells you...", she said and leaned over so that their shoulders touched. "Around here, people are mostly so... withdrawn and secretive. You are like a breath of fresh air compared to that!"
"Girls, I hate to interrupt your love-talking, but we are in a public, well-visited harbour.", the Sultana reminded them gently, "So..."
Aurelia held her shoulder close to Marcella's and raised an eyebrow.
"...don't give them too much of a show.", the Sultana finished with a smile.

"Aha right, guess we'll have to keep some of it for later."

Atif smiled, leaning over.
"What a weird place the UIS must be, if you must thank someone for speaking the truth.", he said, slightly joking, "For it is the truth, Asuna. You are a beautiful rose from far-away shores... I must thank you for spending time with me."

"Well, you're not totaly wrong about it being an odd place. But I really just always want to show I appreciate it. i've never had a boy call me so beautiful before is all" She smiled. "Well you are plenty handsome yourself, Atif."