The Festival of Holy Light II (IC Thread)

[Mervay]

Twin Palms Shop

Kumiko smiled wide at the sound of a double date she was ready to suggest this evening but given Tess had only just arrived maybe best to allow her and Satou an evening together. "Tess, that sounds so wonderful! How about tomorrow night? We'll be closing shop early anyway, my little one has a friend she can spend the night with so no concerns about her. I'd love to be able to have a double date with you and your lovely Satou. Reina would as well. It will be great, both of you should dress in yukata and we will as well and we'll have a nice night together. Tonight you should be with your beloved. Goodness speaking of it's getting into the evening and we've really been talking together...." She paused when thunder rumbled outside "And speaking of storms..Guess we're gonna get a soak tonight. Mmm I'm sure you packed one but do you have an umbrella or raincoat on you? If you don't I'll give you an extra free of charge. You'll want to be meeting Satou right? She'll be waiting to meet you and no better reunion than a rainy one. She'll actually be at the harbor right about now. She told me to send you there should you come shopping here. She's got a bit of a surprise for you herself but I'll let her explain that."

The Kitan

She chuckled a little herself, "Ah yes. Hurricanes do bring good crowds to stay here but I'll admit I don't ask for any money when that happens. Some will give me a single credit others none. Come then I'll let Stephy know." She lead the Queen along through the kitchen they found their maid "Oh Madam Manger, I am sorry we haven't gotten your food ready yet." She bowed

"That's quite all right, I can see it's quite busy right now. Please cook at your pace needed, there's a storm coming in I felt best take to the baths a bit earlier so we have enough rooms where when people need to come in. Just cook and put it to the side for us and we'll eat it."

"Yes ma'am."

Tsubasa continued leading the Queen along back through the halls they entered and to their room set aside. Starting in the change room, Tsubasa unraveled her Kimono and folded it nice and neat. Waiting patiently for the Queen to undress and join her in the hot water. The rooms all had the same design, a simple pool, small windows aligned the top row which on a night like this meant the lightning would shine through as well. Several lanterns aligned the walls bathing an orange and yellow glow with the hot water pouring out of spouts to keep it hot. "Hope it won't be too hot for you, Milady."

Tsubasa offered her hand out to help the Queen step in behind her.

Twin Palms Shop

The idea seemed to be loved by Kumiko, it seemed she would love it and so her girlfriend. Gladly the businesswoman thought for tomorrow on the night. And so she nodded.

"Sounds perfect then, tomorrow at night Satou and I we will be dressed in Yukata's and we will pass here to pick you girls so we can go to wherever we want to go. And yeah, it should be better if I spend tonight with Satou and with how it all seems. I should better get ready to leave. Guess we didn't saw the time." she explained and laughed a bit as all of sudden, a thunder rumbled outside. That always said that an storm was coming. The typical storms of AHSCA surely.

And well... Guess this time she was glad she brought all for the storms of AHSCA, albeit her dress will be soaking wet as soon as she steps out of the building.

"No thanks. I brought mine, last year made learn to be ready for eveything." she giggled and winked at that comment, she won't be caught off like last year. Then when Kumiko mentioned Satou she was surprised to hear her say that she was at the harbor now.

Clearly they will see again under the rain right now or so it seems, and the only thought of such romantic reunion made her blush entirely. How lovely. That combined with the surprise Satou might have made her smile and blush madly even more, what does she have for Tess?? Soon she will know.

"Thanks for telling me Kumiko, I guess I should be going now. Better not make my Fiancé wait too long for me." And so. Tess got herself ready to leave and needed what she bought.

"Before I leave, could you give me what I bought before I leave??"

The Kitan

"Yeah. I know that, I've readed the report they made when you opened the doors of The Kitan last year during the hurricane, you know, if I was in duty I would not only praise you and respect you but also condecorating you for that." Agus smiled warmly at Tsubasa as she followed her with their hands linked as they went through a busy kitchen until they found Stephy.

She was bowing because their food wasn't done yet, but it mattered now as they would be leaving to the baths now and enjoy before everyone gets during the storm. Tsubasa told her that as soon as they were ready, she leaved their food at the side and they would eat it.

Then they were back in the resort area and they entered into the changing room. Agustinas took her dress and clothes out and folded them too as she got inside the baths.

Once inside she noticed how beautiful the baths were, giving that cozy and comfortable feeling as she entered, not only that but also beautiful, the windows and lanterns would make everyone love this. And so it was with Agus, which accepted Tsubasa hand and got down the water, diving deep into it as she sighed in relief and enjoying this, this is what she needed after an stressful year.

"Now this feel so nice. This is what a leader would need after an stressful year." she smiled as she looked at Tsubasa, her friend. "I have to congratulate you Tsubasa, your resort is the best. If I return next year or another day for who knows a state visit?? You can be sure this is the place." then she grinned.

[AHSCA]

Twin Palms Shop

The idea seemed to be loved by Kumiko, it seemed she would love it and so her girlfriend. Gladly the businesswoman thought for tomorrow on the night. And so she nodded.

"Sounds perfect then, tomorrow at night Satou and I we will be dressed in Yukata's and we will pass here to pick you girls so we can go to wherever we want to go. And yeah, it should be better if I spend tonight with Satou and with how it all seems. I should better get ready to leave. Guess we didn't saw the time." she explained and laughed a bit as all of sudden, a thunder rumbled outside. That always said that an storm was coming. The typical storms of AHSCA surely.

And well... Guess this time she was glad she brought all for the storms of AHSCA, albeit her dress will be soaking wet as soon as she steps out of the building.

"No thanks. I brought mine, last year made learn to be ready for eveything." she giggled and winked at that comment, she won't be caught off like last year. Then when Kumiko mentioned Satou she was surprised to hear her say that she was at the harbor now.

Clearly they will see again under the rain right now or so it seems, and the only thought of such romantic reunion made her blush entirely. How lovely. That combined with the surprise Satou might have made her smile and blush madly even more, what does she have for Tess?? Soon she will know.

"Thanks for telling me Kumiko, I guess I should be going now. Better not make my Fiancé wait too long for me." And so. Tess got herself ready to leave and needed what she bought.

"Before I leave, could you give me what I bought before I leave??"

The Kitan

"Yeah. I know that, I've readed the report they made when you opened the doors of The Kitan last year during the hurricane, you know, if I was in duty I would not only praise you and respect you but also condecorating you for that." Agus smiled warmly at Tsubasa as she followed her with their hands linked as they went through a busy kitchen until they found Stephy.

She was bowing because their food wasn't done yet, but it mattered now as they would be leaving to the baths now and enjoy before everyone gets during the storm. Tsubasa told her that as soon as they were ready, she leaved their food at the side and they would eat it.

Then they were back in the resort area and they entered into the changing room. Agustinas took her dress and clothes out and folded them too as she got inside the baths.

Once inside she noticed how beautiful the baths were, giving that cozy and comfortable feeling as she entered, not only that but also beautiful, the windows and lanterns would make everyone love this. And so it was with Agus, which accepted Tsubasa hand and got down the water, diving deep into it as she sighed in relief and enjoying this, this is what she needed after an stressful year.

"Now this feel so nice. This is what a leader would need after an stressful year." she smiled as she looked at Tsubasa, her friend. "I have to congratulate you Tsubasa, your resort is the best. If I return next year or another day for who knows a state visit?? You can be sure this is the place." then she grinned.

"All right let me get you all set and on your way quickly." Kumiko finished packing up Tess's purchases making sure they'd at least stay dry until she could get them back to her room. "Here you are, Tess. Thank you for coming Tess, have a wonderful evening." she saw her too the door holding it open for her. "Oh if you go for Satou at the harbor she'll be wearing a long grey raincoat and hat and will have a big lantern in her hands. Look for the lantern bearers and one of them will be her.

For Tess now best to gear up for the heavy downpour that was ensuing. Satou meanwhile had taken up a second night job at the harbor helping boats and sailors. Why she had well it was a special surprise she had been eager to tell Tess about when she arrived. Surprised she didn't see her at the Kitan earlier today but maybe she was shopping, after all Tess was a girl with great taste and from her time in Mervay she was a shopper. She saw the appeal going around to stores and seeing what was good and what was fun and cute was so enjoyable and The islands had plenty to offer. Satou geared up in a sailors coat herself a lantern in hand as boats shored up. "Birthing fees are due at the port office please report there." She repeated to any new boat arriving in to shore up this stormy evening.

She was hoping Tess was prepared for the rain this evening, lucky hurricanes weren't in the forecast but thundershowers were always common regardless. Well it didn't scare Tess off once it wouldn't later, but no doubt she'd be here in style and a shame if any clothing got ruined.

"Seas are a churnin' up tonight, Satou-chan!" A fellow worker said as she tossed heavy ropes aside "Think yer girlfriend is gonna make it down here?"

"I hope so. Well if she doesn't, I bet she'd be at the Kitan. She probably has a room reserved there."

"Well if a first world girl braves the elements for a lowly islander girl, then truly you two should marry!"

"Haha" Satou did find that amusing "Well we weathered one big storm together! And I weathered snow, so we're making great progress."

"Well I'm gonna head to the South side, you wanna stay and wait for her a moment?"

"If you don't mind, I think I can give her a bit more time. But worse comes to worse i'll go find her, no big deal."

"Sure, see ya later." Satou waved her co-worker goodbye as she headed off down the docks a ways she turned back towards the road hoping her beacon would attract Tess.

The Kitan

"You read that huh? Well not the only time I did, any hurricane or great deluge my doors have opened to those who need it. Tsubasa let a beat pass and rumble of thunder echo and continued

"Can I say, Agus, I'm glad you take such an interest in my country. Even more than just political as a leader but as a person. You are a beautiful woman in spirit and in looks if I say so myself. Surely you must have someone vying for your heart by now!"

[Mervay]

"All right let me get you all set and on your way quickly." Kumiko finished packing up Tess's purchases making sure they'd at least stay dry until she could get them back to her room. "Here you are, Tess. Thank you for coming Tess, have a wonderful evening." she saw her too the door holding it open for her. "Oh if you go for Satou at the harbor she'll be wearing a long grey raincoat and hat and will have a big lantern in her hands. Look for the lantern bearers and one of them will be her.

For Tess now best to gear up for the heavy downpour that was ensuing. Satou meanwhile had taken up a second night job at the harbor helping boats and sailors. Why she had well it was a special surprise she had been eager to tell Tess about when she arrived. Surprised she didn't see her at the Kitan earlier today but maybe she was shopping, after all Tess was a girl with great taste and from her time in Mervay she was a shopper. She saw the appeal going around to stores and seeing what was good and what was fun and cute was so enjoyable and The islands had plenty to offer. Satou geared up in a sailors coat herself a lantern in hand as boats shored up. "Birthing fees are due at the port office please report there." She repeated to any new boat arriving in to shore up this stormy evening.

She was hoping Tess was prepared for the rain this evening, lucky hurricanes weren't in the forecast but thundershowers were always common regardless. Well it didn't scare Tess off once it wouldn't later, but no doubt she'd be here in style and a shame if any clothing got ruined.

"Seas are a churnin' up tonight, Satou-chan!" A fellow worker said as she tossed heavy ropes aside "Think yer girlfriend is gonna make it down here?"

"I hope so. Well if she doesn't, I bet she'd be at the Kitan. She probably has a room reserved there."

"Well if a first world girl braves the elements for a lowly islander girl, then truly you two should marry!"

"Haha" Satou did find that amusing "Well we weathered one big storm together! And I weathered snow, so we're making great progress."

"Well I'm gonna head to the South side, you wanna stay and wait for her a moment?"

"If you don't mind, I think I can give her a bit more time. But worse comes to worse i'll go find her, no big deal."

"Sure, see ya later." Satou waved her co-worker goodbye as she headed off down the docks a ways she turned back towards the road hoping her beacon would attract Tess.

The Kitan

"You read that huh? Well not the only time I did, any hurricane or great deluge my doors have opened to those who need it. Tsubasa let a beat pass and rumble of thunder echo and continued

"Can I say, Agus, I'm glad you take such an interest in my country. Even more than just political as a leader but as a person. You are a beautiful woman in spirit and in looks if I say so myself. Surely you must have someone vying for your heart by now!"

Kumiko handed her over the packages for Satou, they seemed to be ready to keep themselves dry for most of the ride until she gets surely to Satou's hut, well, their hut or at least soon to be.
Tess smiled warmly once again at Kumiko as she got geared up for the weather, sadly her clothes, the ones she was using now will be soaking wet, but it was worth it. Her raincoat was light yellow, clearly she could be noticed easily and without problem with this, now she was ready to walk through the streets of Aurora Village and go down to the harbor.

"Alright, thanks for the advice Kumiko, I can be sure I will notice it very easy. See ya tomorrow." and so she leaved with all she bought and her package down the streets as Kumiko have closed the door of her store now.

The streets surely were getting empty as the time passed and the storm was now above their heads, better hope she can stay with her lover because she hasn't reserved a room at The Kitan as Plan B.
Hopefully they will be able to get to the hut before the storm goes much heavier on them.

As she walked down the streets, she noticed an beacon, an lantern bearer, grey coat. And if it all matched, it would be who she was thinking; Tess got closer as she could lock eyes with the person and when she did... It was her... Her dear Satou.

Her face was with a wide warm grin as she looked at her beloved.

"Same as cute as always aren't you?? You don't know how much I waited to see you again. Sweetie." her grin was so wide and her excitement and joy so massive that if it wasn't by her baggage she would hug her tightly and kiss her until she has to catch her breath.

The Kitan

Agustinas blushed madly at Tsubasa comments about her, flustered about them as her cheeks went deep red from them, still she could say the same to Tsubasa. Gentle, caring, beautiful, humble and of good spirit.

"Thank you same to you. You are so kind, beautiful, gentle, caring, humble. Tsubasa you are such a beauty in body and soul." she said with a warm grin as she blushed from it. "And. No, I'm single, and I don't someone is in love with me, most of people wouldn't be in love with The Queen of the nation itself, I'm not that lucky like The Crown Princess of Ardens. And you, do you have someone special??" she asked blushing a bit.

[AHSCA]

Kumiko handed her over the packages for Satou, they seemed to be ready to keep themselves dry for most of the ride until she gets surely to Satou's hut, well, their hut or at least soon to be.
Tess smiled warmly once again at Kumiko as she got geared up for the weather, sadly her clothes, the ones she was using now will be soaking wet, but it was worth it. Her raincoat was light yellow, clearly she could be noticed easily and without problem with this, now she was ready to walk through the streets of Aurora Village and go down to the harbor.

"Alright, thanks for the advice Kumiko, I can be sure I will notice it very easy. See ya tomorrow." and so she leaved with all she bought and her package down the streets as Kumiko have closed the door of her store now.

The streets surely were getting empty as the time passed and the storm was now above their heads, better hope she can stay with her lover because she hasn't reserved a room at The Kitan as Plan B.
Hopefully they will be able to get to the hut before the storm goes much heavier on them.

As she walked down the streets, she noticed an beacon, an lantern bearer, grey coat. And if it all matched, it would be who she was thinking; Tess got closer as she could lock eyes with the person and when she did... It was her... Her dear Satou.

Her face was with a wide warm grin as she looked at her beloved.

"Same as cute as always aren't you?? You don't know how much I waited to see you again. Sweetie." her grin was so wide and her excitement and joy so massive that if it wasn't by her baggage she would hug her tightly and kiss her until she has to catch her breath.

The Kitan

Agustinas blushed madly at Tsubasa comments about her, flustered about them as her cheeks went deep red from them, still she could say the same to Tsubasa. Gentle, caring, beautiful, humble and of good spirit.

"Thank you same to you. You are so kind, beautiful, gentle, caring, humble. Tsubasa you are such a beauty in body and soul." she said with a warm grin as she blushed from it. "And. No, I'm single, and I don't someone is in love with me, most of people wouldn't be in love with The Queen of the nation itself, I'm not that lucky like The Crown Princess of Ardens. And you, do you have someone special??" she asked blushing a bit.

The voice, the sweet voice of her Tessy had arrived at last. Satou's heart leapt with joy as she the glow of her lantern light revealed her sweet smiling face. "Tessy!" Satou put the lantern down to throw her arms around her beloved Tess. "I'm so glad you made it again!" They kissed for a long moment then stopped enough to keep talking. "Such a night to be with each other again but now I think of it as good luck!" she laughed with the rain rolling off her hat and onto her face. Tess looked a lovely as other the between the gentle glow of the lantern and the lightning flashes "I don't know if you have a room at the Kitan or not but you're welcome to be with me. Because well guess what!...Well hold on a sec...." She pulled Tess along to get inside one of the empty Port offices that were closed for the night. "Ah can hear better don't have to shout as much. Well I wanted to surprise you a bit but I got us a little place of my own. See I took a second job here at the harbor and well you're looking at a woman who know owns her own hut!" She grinned. "Not much further from here either right here in the village. So actually closer than where granny and I were living. Oh I gotta tell ya about granny and how she's been doing and ---" Again she just had to hug and kiss her "It's so good to see you, again! Oh feels like forever since I left Mervay. So what do you say you wanna spend the night with me at my new little home?"

Tsubasa also blushed a little at how Agusta had talked how kind and friendly she was. It was something she tried to be always even though her demeanor was always so serious it made it hard sometimes. "Thank you, Agusta, again truly. Oooh that is hard I bet to be in such a position. But I have a feeling someday someone will be there for you and you alone not worried about fleeting things like the crown. Oooh for me huh? I've had my share of partners over the years but currently none. You see Agusta, I'm what is known as a Spiorad Ainmhithe a spirit from the Freelands originally. Many a century ago. So of course I live longer than most would. I have yet to really find a fellow spirit here, or at least one that I like very much. But that said I have had mortal partners men and women alike through the years. Some longer than others and it's always been lovely. I wouldn't mind another woman to be a great long term partner to love but it would surely have to be another spirit. But it's not as though I would never mind another mortal woman or man again. Just have to go with what my heart says."

[Mervay]

The voice, the sweet voice of her Tessy had arrived at last. Satou's heart leapt with joy as she the glow of her lantern light revealed her sweet smiling face. "Tessy!" Satou put the lantern down to throw her arms around her beloved Tess. "I'm so glad you made it again!" They kissed for a long moment then stopped enough to keep talking. "Such a night to be with each other again but now I think of it as good luck!" she laughed with the rain rolling off her hat and onto her face. Tess looked a lovely as other the between the gentle glow of the lantern and the lightning flashes "I don't know if you have a room at the Kitan or not but you're welcome to be with me. Because well guess what!...Well hold on a sec...." She pulled Tess along to get inside one of the empty Port offices that were closed for the night. "Ah can hear better don't have to shout as much. Well I wanted to surprise you a bit but I got us a little place of my own. See I took a second job here at the harbor and well you're looking at a woman who know owns her own hut!" She grinned. "Not much further from here either right here in the village. So actually closer than where granny and I were living. Oh I gotta tell ya about granny and how she's been doing and ---" Again she just had to hug and kiss her "It's so good to see you, again! Oh feels like forever since I left Mervay. So what do you say you wanna spend the night with me at my new little home?"

Tsubasa also blushed a little at how Agusta had talked how kind and friendly she was. It was something she tried to be always even though her demeanor was always so serious it made it hard sometimes. "Thank you, Agusta, again truly. Oooh that is hard I bet to be in such a position. But I have a feeling someday someone will be there for you and you alone not worried about fleeting things like the crown. Oooh for me huh? I've had my share of partners over the years but currently none. You see Agusta, I'm what is known as a Spiorad Ainmhithe a spirit from the Freelands originally. Many a century ago. So of course I live longer than most would. I have yet to really find a fellow spirit here, or at least one that I like very much. But that said I have had mortal partners men and women alike through the years. Some longer than others and it's always been lovely. I wouldn't mind another woman to be a great long term partner to love but it would surely have to be another spirit. But it's not as though I would never mind another mortal woman or man again. Just have to go with what my heart says."

That joyful smile was on Satou's face, happy too for this, the glow of the lantern showing that happy face, that happy beautiful face on her.
Then Tess was hugged by her beloved very happy and tightly; then that sweet beautiful kiss came and she loved it, it was so good, after so many time wanting to feel those beautiful lips and now she was able to, they parted ways to then keep talking after so long to haven't seen each other.

"Yeah, guess we are very lucky then. But still that's how we were able to strenght our bond and besides, the rain is always so romantic." she said laughing too, rain falling from her too, rolling off, her hair was soaking wet by now.

They looked so lovely and beautiful as between the gentle flow of the lantern and the lighting. When she told her about where she would stay, Tess told her the truth.

"No. I didn't reserved on The Kitan, I wanted to stay with you for my stay... Which guess what... Or well I better tell you later so we get to somewhere where we aren't at the middle of the rain." and so Tess was pulled by Satou to an port office, which was empty and closed for the night.

Now this was much better since they won't be ending getting wet or more of what they are now. And so both Tess and Satou could speak more free and without worry.

And so, Tess now was freely to talk and so Satou. The news were surprising and shocking, she now worked here as a second job and not only that, but she was happy and shocked for that, so happy for hear the news.
She wanted to continue let speaking and so she did, hearing that the hut she now has was close or in the village itself now. Then she told her that she wanted to talk about how Sadoko was to then being kissed once again by her lover, enjoying the kiss and hug and how Satou didn't held her urge to kiss her.

Then she left her baggage on the floor as she just kissed Satou once again and hugged her tightly.

"Yes, yes, yes!!! Satou you don't know how happy that makes me!! I want to be with you and stay with you forever. And I was gonna tell you that I was gonna stay here for the next six months and I will love to stay with you!!"

The Kitan

It seemed they both blushed as they talked, who knows why, attraction or something like that?? It was love at first sight?? Or it was just them blushing from how the other praised the other??

She sighed as she heard Tsubasa speak about her position, it was very difficult, to be honest everyone was more lucky on the love affair than her in what she knew, her brother, sisters, her friend here, The Crown Princess of Ardens, The Duchess of AHSCA, etc, etc. Guess sooner or later she will find that true love of her life.

"You don't want to be in my position. Still, I hope that I find that someone special soon." she said sighing as she looked up to the window. Then she got the news of something interesting.

It seemed Tsubasa has her fair share of relationships with both men and women over the course of... An century. She was an Spiorad Anmhithe, an kind of spirit mostly saw on The Free Lands and that their livespan was almost the same as the one of the history of Mervay at least, that was a lot. A lot.
Like Agustinas, her friend here waited for find or that the right man or women, mostly women, but it has to be an spirit mostly. But she didn't minded to be with another mortal it seemed, as long as she heard what her heart says then it won't be an problem.

"Guess we both are in that search then. Albeit yours is more difficult than mine, another spirit is very difficult if you ask me, here it won't be able to happen. Is most possible on The Free Lands... Or that you met another fellow spirit either as a tourist or someone which moved here, who knows maybe even an god. You just have to wait."

[Kyrenaia]

Twin Palms

"Candy yes, many imported kinds and some locally made mochi. Mochi will need to be eaten right away but the packaged kinds you can send back later as you need." she gestured to their stacks that were filled in baskets on the wall. "Take what you like."


Kitan

"Well I must admit..." Filipina said bashfully but still smiling "I don't much like storms either. But Amika by my side I'll be okay. But if they don't sound as wild as they are here, I'm sure we'll be fine regardless."

"Sure sure we can handle anything. Thanks for the heads up, we'll make sure we're prepared. Honestly sounds like our monsoons here most of the time so hey, we'll be right at home!"

"Hehe we sure will. Thank you, Ava, this will be fun!"

Animalpolis

"Well it's understandable if it's complicated but I'll be thankful for whatever you can do for us. I'll bring her by to your ship and we'll get that taken care of. In the meantime, consider all meals and drinks you have here, on the house for as long as you're here. Least I can do to thank you for the help today. And maybe when you come back again to the islands another time and my wife is no longer carrying we'll have drinks together."

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Port Aurora.
I smiled and nodded. "Mochi sounds awesome!", I said with a nod, "I'll have a peek later. For now..." I smiled. "...clothes shopping. And I wanted to take a peek at the rations Miss Azusa reserved for me."
At this point, it would be clear, that I would leave a larger sum here.

Ava Shabh.
Kitan.
"You're welcome.", I replied with a nod, adjusted my seating slightly, "I would recommend going there in Winter, by the End of December. The most people will be there and thus the most people to meet." I shrugged. "If that is not your thing, May, before the storms set in. Then the fewest people will be there, thus you'll have it all for yourselves - except for the natives, mind you."
I let a beat pass.
"May I ask a very personal question?", I asked cautiously.

Saida Adib.
Tsubaki, Animalpolis.
"That sounds like a plan!", Fara said with a happy cheer and nodded, bowed her head. "Well, then, Boss... best regards to your wife, please tell her to take it slowly, and we'll see each other later."
She smiled and leaned over, giving him a small peck on the cheek.
"It was our pleasure to help you.", she added and I nodded at the sentiment. "See ya!"
And with that, we departed - on to the next adventure!

[Lux Pulchrae]

10 minutes from Port Aurora

A small yacht was making it's way to Port Aurora all the way from Lux Pulchrae, again. Standing at the bow of the ship was Jose Aldo, with his hands on the rails he oversaw the islands which looked quite nice he'd admit. Although he had been here previously, this time his mind was at peace, clearer and stress free, or at least a little less stressed now. Thanks to someone.

Tall and strong, he wore a dark blue polo shirt with grey casual dress pants. Around six-feet, he was an olive skinned man with black hair Along with the view, he was lost in thought. He hadn't really made plans here. Get a room at the Kitan and then see what Lourdes wanted to do. That was about it. His thoughts were interrupted by the ship captain.

"Senor Altonuevo, cinco minutos!" the captain shouted.

"Gracias Capitan!" Jose returned with a nod, as if he couldn't tell by looking. He can practically jump off the ship and walk his way there. Leaving the deck he headed down the stairs and into the quarters to Lourdes and let her know. "Hey Lourdes-"

"I heard, five minutes." the girl said, she lied on her stomach reading a book.

"You wanna come up and take a look?"

"The more I look out the more seasick I get. I can't."

"We are practically on land, you can't get seasick on land." Jose grinned happily and cheekily.

"Estupdio." she said in laughter, then sighed "Fine. One second." she said putting on her sandals and walking up. Already feeling it she was assured by Jose holding her hand as they walked slowly to the bow.

"Want to do the thing they did on Titanic?"

"Oh please Jose, I can barely stand."

"Fine, I'll just hold you so you won't fall. That ok?" he wrapped his arms around her from behind.

"That's fine." she smiled, leaning her head on his arm. Almost the complete opposite, Lourdes was small, a short and petite woman with white porcelain skin, rosy cheeks and brunette hair going halfway down her back. And a near-neurotic mess. She wore a white, elbow-length blouse and a cream-colored skirt that just went past her knees "Say, is it a good idea to vacate here? Where you were arrested and almost died in a hurricane. You couldn't pick a place more...Christian? And not so watery? "

"Well, I could have but this is a nice place. You'll love it. Once we get to the inn, we'll unpack and take a walk."

"One room or two?" Lourdes questioned with her head still leaning.

"Does it matter?" he responded

"Of course it does. If it's one room you can sleep in the hallway."

"Separate beds?"

"I don't know. Just get two rooms." a moment passed as they were almost there, she smiled and looked up "Or get a ring, then we can share a room."

"We'll build that bridge when we get there. Now let's go, we landed."

Once they had finally reached land and docked. They registered in with the authorities and took their luggage with them to the Kitan Inn. Making their way to the reception desk Jose led teh conversation "Good evening to you, I know we didn't call or anything but I would like to know if whatever you'd consider your best rooms, are open. And if they are open, if there are two."

[Danceria]

[quote="Danceria";p="36230987"]

Sabin Castamir, Prince-Ducal of Figaro

Room 3, The Kitan, Aurora Port

---

Sabin was more than happy being the third (or in this case, fourth) wheel to the company present. Perhaps he had mastered the art of being so perfectly still he became invisible to the human eye...which now occurred to him on why his younger brother Edgar would try to rope him into his pranks and perverted antics. The conversation flowed between the trio of girls, and he had to suppress a blush due to not only the understanding of age, but the Spiorad Ainmhithe offering to massage the two women. It was strictly platonic, of course, but for a newcomer nowhere used to the utmost amount of trust and acceptance...well it was baffling.

He shifted slightly, so as to not intentionally eavesdrop on the "personal question", he had some decency.

Aceus Elurion, King of Danceria

Pub, Misakichi Village, Animalopolis

---

"I did enjoy the meal, thank you very much." the stranger smiled at the waitress. "Though I am interested, is there a temple nearby?"

[Nu Alaska]

"That's right!" Kiri replied. "We were just trying to decide where to go first when we ran into you like that..."

Kiri had also been hoping to try to meet a friend of hers, but for various reasons she hadn't made any efforts to do that yet...

Ren nodded. She didn't seem like she talked much.

Sakura smiled and helped her pick up the boxes. "Would you have any suggestions of where we should go? I'm sure the whole island is a beautiful place. And are you don't need help carrying some of these?"

"Oh well yes of course." Getting back to her feet and nodding in appreciation for being helped "Well I'm not sure what inns still have space, The Kitan is likely full up now but The Great Temple always has room for good folks like yourselves. No money needed or anything. I'm on my way back there now if you want to simply follow me or you can try some of the inns. If you got a map at port then you can find them pretty easily."

Sakura hadn't necessarily been thinking of where to stay for the night, but she was thankful regardless. "If that would be alright, we'd be delighted. I'm sure there's a lot we could learn there about the islands and their religious customs."

Ren seemed to perk up at this. She must have been the type to always want to be learning something. Kiri wondered privately if a spirit like herself would be welcome at such a holy place, but decided that if no one had been surprised by her yet it was probably fine.

[The Scarlet Eagle]

She smiled and adjusted her glasses "Yes, certainly, that'd be great for me to do. Please then come with me, we'll go somewhere quiet we can talk." she lead the group out of the main hall where all the people were gathered to a small room out of the way. It was a reflecting room a place with a small pool of water a few barren bookshelves and a lone lantern for light when lit. She pulled out a few cushions they could sit on so they could be spared a hard stone floor which she took in their place. Being a Priestess sometimes meant suffering for the Faith, even if it was more annoyance than suffering. Of the shelves of the mostly barren shelves she pulled out a rather large scroll and opened it. The paper was old for certain, but on it was illustrated figures with no details, shadowed out like puppets on a wall but they had the basic details, long hair, flowing outfit.



"this is our illustrated story. beginnings of mankind there were three sprites born, the Sun had a daughter, Madoka, the Moon had a son, Yue and the stars also a daughter, Homura. The three children. They were sent to Earth to live with other celestial beings known as sprites. Soon the daughter and son fell in love but this enraged the second daughter of the stars who grew jealous and filled up with darkness. And as her overwhelming jealousy shadowed the earth so to did the sun grow dark. Her anger and hatred of the moon lead her to slay him to only keep Madoka. With the moon gone so did the shape of the planet change as tides and waves ravaged the lands altering everything. In the darkness Madoka glowed a bright white and rose to the heavens shooting her arrow piercing away the mighty darkness. To maintain the life of the planet Madoka ascended to the heavens to become the permanent light but was unable to truly save the Moon as a sprite but his spirit was able to be placed into the sky to be a mediator of all things.

Homura was consumed with grief and jealousy banished herself to return to the dark night of the sky but her negative energy remained on earth causing a never ending storm. Yue remained on the earth for the time to see the birth of mankind still hoping for his love, Madoka, to return to the Earth with him but with the torrential storm caused by Homura was making life near impossible for mortal man. The sorrow and despair of man's life on the dark planet was growing to harsh for Madoka and her rays of light began to fade and for a thousand more years no light shone on the planet and slowly the first traces of humans were dying off. The new evil known as witches preyed on humans negative emotions and consumed their life force until they became dust and bones. With this the elements balanced out, the Witches retreated to the dark corners of the planet and and Madoka's rays shown brightly. Still Homura's negative energy remained a presence.

As for Yue there's still debate among us sects about just what happened to him. Some say he was destined to roam the new Earth forever as an immortal man. Some still revere him as a Demigod, others feel his purpose was served and his energy was simply dispelled into the environment. We don't know lacking any true revelation, and the last known Revelation came to Duchess Nanao in 1888 when she was decreed a Holy Woman, divinely inspired to lead Aurora to greatness. Whether that was true or not also a matter of great debate. "

Animalpolis

"That sounds quite lovely. How about this evening when I close up I'd be glad to join you for a drink. I thank you for your business and wish you well. Thank you again. I'll make sure the goods will be handed over personally." She opened the door for them to let them leave for the day happy for their business.

AURORA
As the Priestess recalls them the story of Madoka, Yue and Homura; Daniel, Patricia and their son Henry listen in religious silence. Once she is finished, they nod in thanks.
"Well, thank you for the explanation Miss, says the Ambassador with a warm smile. I didn't remember it was a story that rich. What do you think son? he asks to Henry.
-Well, aside from the proverb "Hell has no fury like a woman scorned", this is one of the biggest divine scourges I've heard in my life, what Miss Homura did. I think it's way over the Biblical Genesis flood.
-A bit like that, yes. Good saying Henry, says his mother as she ruffles his hair.
Anyway, thank you Miss, continues Patricia as she turns back to the Priestess, I would like to hear your thoughts about this: our Emperor, His Imperial Majesty Anaximander Blachkov, is also working as a special force soldier parttime. As an Emperor, he has done many things for the betterment his country, like every head of state does. However, even though he didn't admit as such, its known that he has done some very dark deeds in the shadows too, to protect his country. Dark deeds that even your mythical witches would find horrible. What I would like to know, is how would he be considered by your Godesses? Like an agent of good that needs to do bad things, or an outright demon? Or maybe something else entirely?"

ANIMALPOLIS
"Thank you very much Miss, see you tonight, says Catherine with a smile as the two women and their canine companion exit the store. As they walk back towards the pub to get their ATVs and be on their way to Amurabe, Patricia strokes her chin.
-I can't help but feel we've forgotten something, she says as they are about to reach the pub.
-Yeah, me too, replies her blonde friend.
-I know! We didn't ask her name! How stupid are we to have forgotten such a simple question? Oh the losers! exclaims the brown-haired woman as she facepalms.
-Hey, Paty, calm down, ok? It's not that severe if we do not have it right now. Now, we better get back to the inn, grab some money and gear, and be on our way to Amurabe.
-Yeah, let's." finishes Patricia, while Gopnik barks a "Warf" in approval, before the three of them enter the pub/inn once again, go to their room, and enter it.

A few minutes later, the three of them are back outside, and they get on the ATVs, Gopnik being strapped once again by Patricia, and as they put their sunglasses over their eyes, the two women and their dog start their engine, and start their trip to Amurabe, having put the location into their GPS.


Meanwhile, 50 miles south, at sea.
SAIS Iwo Jima, Wasp-class Landing Helicopter Dock
As requested, by the two women, a V-22 Osprey loaded with a Phantom Badger combat support vehicle takes off from the ship, to retrieve their purchases.

[AHSCA]

That joyful smile was on Satou's face, happy too for this, the glow of the lantern showing that happy face, that happy beautiful face on her.
Then Tess was hugged by her beloved very happy and tightly; then that sweet beautiful kiss came and she loved it, it was so good, after so many time wanting to feel those beautiful lips and now she was able to, they parted ways to then keep talking after so long to haven't seen each other.

"Yeah, guess we are very lucky then. But still that's how we were able to strenght our bond and besides, the rain is always so romantic." she said laughing too, rain falling from her too, rolling off, her hair was soaking wet by now.

They looked so lovely and beautiful as between the gentle flow of the lantern and the lighting. When she told her about where she would stay, Tess told her the truth.

"No. I didn't reserved on The Kitan, I wanted to stay with you for my stay... Which guess what... Or well I better tell you later so we get to somewhere where we aren't at the middle of the rain." and so Tess was pulled by Satou to an port office, which was empty and closed for the night.

Now this was much better since they won't be ending getting wet or more of what they are now. And so both Tess and Satou could speak more free and without worry.

And so, Tess now was freely to talk and so Satou. The news were surprising and shocking, she now worked here as a second job and not only that, but she was happy and shocked for that, so happy for hear the news.
She wanted to continue let speaking and so she did, hearing that the hut she now has was close or in the village itself now. Then she told her that she wanted to talk about how Sadoko was to then being kissed once again by her lover, enjoying the kiss and hug and how Satou didn't held her urge to kiss her.

Then she left her baggage on the floor as she just kissed Satou once again and hugged her tightly.

"Yes, yes, yes!!! Satou you don't know how happy that makes me!! I want to be with you and stay with you forever. And I was gonna tell you that I was gonna stay here for the next six months and I will love to stay with you!!"

The Kitan

It seemed they both blushed as they talked, who knows why, attraction or something like that?? It was love at first sight?? Or it was just them blushing from how the other praised the other??

She sighed as she heard Tsubasa speak about her position, it was very difficult, to be honest everyone was more lucky on the love affair than her in what she knew, her brother, sisters, her friend here, The Crown Princess of Ardens, The Duchess of AHSCA, etc, etc. Guess sooner or later she will find that true love of her life.

"You don't want to be in my position. Still, I hope that I find that someone special soon." she said sighing as she looked up to the window. Then she got the news of something interesting.

It seemed Tsubasa has her fair share of relationships with both men and women over the course of... An century. She was an Spiorad Anmhithe, an kind of spirit mostly saw on The Free Lands and that their livespan was almost the same as the one of the history of Mervay at least, that was a lot. A lot.
Like Agustinas, her friend here waited for find or that the right man or women, mostly women, but it has to be an spirit mostly. But she didn't minded to be with another mortal it seemed, as long as she heard what her heart says then it won't be an problem.

"Guess we both are in that search then. Albeit yours is more difficult than mine, another spirit is very difficult if you ask me, here it won't be able to happen. Is most possible on The Free Lands... Or that you met another fellow spirit either as a tourist or someone which moved here, who knows maybe even an god. You just have to wait."

It was a good thing Satou had set the lantern down because when Tess dropped that surprise on her, that's she'd be hear with her for the next six months she was so excited and her heart skipped ab beat. "Six months?! Six whole months with you!?" She screamed in delight hugging Tess again. "Tess I'm so glad to hear that, you have no idea! That's just so wonderful, I'm so glad because well --- I was gonna ask you the same if you wanted to stay longer and I'm glad you already plan on it! Well no sense in staying here all night long, come on, we'll go to my place now!" She picked up the lantern from the ground to use it for light back. "It's not too far, good thing you have quite a bit of stuff by the looks of it." She giggled "I guess I figured right, you were gonna go shopping. Can't wait to see what you bought!"

A small trek through the rain through the village down a row of other huts finally arriving at Satou's hut. A small nameplate that beard her name hung proudly though swaying a bit in the breezy conditions. Opening the door letting Tess get inside first then following. Setting the lantern up high to light up the room. Satou did what she could to decorate it, spring it up with her own style, including a few things she took back from Mervay, like all the clothing she bought with Tess, proudly hung up with care. A duvet the two of them shared during the hurricane where they nestled in together waiting for it to pass, was laid out on a small bed, (well small but big enough for the two of them. Windows but with the wood plank closed to not let rain fly in. It was Satou's hard work all paid for her little slice of her dream. "For sure a lot smaller than even your mighty bedroom we stayed in together in Mervay but it's mine." Satou said with a smile as she removed her wet coat and undid her wet hair. There was one little issue a small few leaks "Ah that....We had a pretty nasty squall a few days ago. Been hoping to fix it before the next rain but looks like I missed my chance there. No worries I'll get it patched. Hopefully before the monsoons set in." Satou excited about Tess staying with her for so long, 6-months! Her face was a glow with just the happiness of it all.

"Oooh still, Tess, you being here is just wonderful. And you don't have to worry about not seeing me, especially during the festival. Been working hard so I'd have enough money I could take a little more time off once the festival came around and after that too."

Kitan

She sighed a bit and smiled still. "Indeed we are, Agustinas, we're both on a search for our sole mate. Are you a religious woman? I am quite spiritual myself, both of my land of AHSCA and the beliefs I took from my native roots. If it so please you, I'll keep you in my prayers that you find your special someone. Though I now must also know, if you'll be willing to share, to which do you like? Are you like me who can enjoy both the company of men and women or are only one or the other to your fancy? Ah forgive me if I'm being a bit too personal. It seems in the islands communal bathing tends to bring out a lot of personal conversation. If you don't feel at east to tell me I shall understand, I think of you as a good friend now.

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Port Aurora.
I smiled and nodded. "Mochi sounds awesome!", I said with a nod, "I'll have a peek later. For now..." I smiled. "...clothes shopping. And I wanted to take a peek at the rations Miss Azusa reserved for me."
At this point, it would be clear, that I would leave a larger sum here.

Ava Shabh.
Kitan.
"You're welcome.", I replied with a nod, adjusted my seating slightly, "I would recommend going there in Winter, by the End of December. The most people will be there and thus the most people to meet." I shrugged. "If that is not your thing, May, before the storms set in. Then the fewest people will be there, thus you'll have it all for yourselves - except for the natives, mind you."
I let a beat pass.
"May I ask a very personal question?", I asked cautiously.

Saida Adib.
Tsubaki, Animalpolis.
"That sounds like a plan!", Fara said with a happy cheer and nodded, bowed her head. "Well, then, Boss... best regards to your wife, please tell her to take it slowly, and we'll see each other later."
She smiled and leaned over, giving him a small peck on the cheek.
"It was our pleasure to help you.", she added and I nodded at the sentiment. "See ya!"
And with that, we departed - on to the next adventure!

"Oh mochi is delicious, just ask Mamiko she can inhale a whole plate of it! All right, Azusa..."

"Here we go, I picked out a few common kits we put together for sailors." Azusa pulled out a kit of food, water, first aid supplies, extra stuff like a compass, regional maps and charts. Matches, a lighter. "You're welcome to take out anything you don't need. These are what we keep standard in kits like these. We're not a specialty shop like ones dedicated to sailors so we can only go on our experiences with customers."

"Well and Kumiko's own experiences at sea." Azusa added.

Mamiko poked her head in again "Hey mama, I think it might rain soon, want me to bring in the sign?"

"That'd be a good idea, baby, go on ahead." Kumiko called back.

"Ah not an island night without a little rain. Anyway, what do you think? Given you're pretty experienced I imagine you're already set on technical gear."

Kitan

"Oh go right ahead, I'm sure we'll both answer." Filipina agreed

"Yeah to be honest we're not shy."

Animalpolis

"I will let her know. Thanks again ladies, enjoy your time on the island."

Now their time at the Hikaru was finished for the day the ladies had anything they could want to do, go the Great Temple of Tsubaki, visit a smaller shrine, partake in a public bath, similar to the Kitan but a little more public. The choices were there's on this beautiful day.

10 minutes from Port Aurora

A small yacht was making it's way to Port Aurora all the way from Lux Pulchrae, again. Standing at the bow of the ship was Jose Aldo, with his hands on the rails he oversaw the islands which looked quite nice he'd admit. Although he had been here previously, this time his mind was at peace, clearer and stress free, or at least a little less stressed now. Thanks to someone.

Tall and strong, he wore a dark blue polo shirt with grey casual dress pants. Around six-feet, he was an olive skinned man with black hair Along with the view, he was lost in thought. He hadn't really made plans here. Get a room at the Kitan and then see what Lourdes wanted to do. That was about it. His thoughts were interrupted by the ship captain.

"Senor Altonuevo, cinco minutos!" the captain shouted.

"Gracias Capitan!" Jose returned with a nod, as if he couldn't tell by looking. He can practically jump off the ship and walk his way there. Leaving the deck he headed down the stairs and into the quarters to Lourdes and let her know. "Hey Lourdes-"

"I heard, five minutes." the girl said, she lied on her stomach reading a book.

"You wanna come up and take a look?"

"The more I look out the more seasick I get. I can't."

"We are practically on land, you can't get seasick on land." Jose grinned happily and cheekily.

"Estupdio." she said in laughter, then sighed "Fine. One second." she said putting on her sandals and walking up. Already feeling it she was assured by Jose holding her hand as they walked slowly to the bow.

"Want to do the thing they did on Titanic?"

"Oh please Jose, I can barely stand."

"Fine, I'll just hold you so you won't fall. That ok?" he wrapped his arms around her from behind.

"That's fine." she smiled, leaning her head on his arm. Almost the complete opposite, Lourdes was small, a short and petite woman with white porcelain skin, rosy cheeks and brunette hair going halfway down her back. And a near-neurotic mess. She wore a white, elbow-length blouse and a cream-colored skirt that just went past her knees "Say, is it a good idea to vacate here? Where you were arrested and almost died in a hurricane. You couldn't pick a place more...Christian? And not so watery? "

"Well, I could have but this is a nice place. You'll love it. Once we get to the inn, we'll unpack and take a walk."

"One room or two?" Lourdes questioned with her head still leaning.

"Does it matter?" he responded

"Of course it does. If it's one room you can sleep in the hallway."

"Separate beds?"

"I don't know. Just get two rooms." a moment passed as they were almost there, she smiled and looked up "Or get a ring, then we can share a room."

"We'll build that bridge when we get there. Now let's go, we landed."

Once they had finally reached land and docked. They registered in with the authorities and took their luggage with them to the Kitan Inn. Making their way to the reception desk Jose led teh conversation "Good evening to you, I know we didn't call or anything but I would like to know if whatever you'd consider your best rooms, are open. And if they are open, if there are two."

Good timing for the ship to arrive in Aurora when the weather began to take its turn on the first night of the festival. "Good evening." The young lady greeted back "If you give me a moment...." She opened the log book "I'm sorry, sir, we're all booked up. I can suggest a good Inn down the road that has space. I am sorry but it is quite busy and we filled up fast with guests."

Room 3, The Kitan, Aurora Port

Sabin was more than happy being the third (or in this case, fourth) wheel to the company present. Perhaps he had mastered the art of being so perfectly still he became invisible to the human eye...which now occurred to him on why his younger brother Edgar would try to rope him into his pranks and perverted antics. The conversation flowed between the trio of girls, and he had to suppress a blush due to not only the understanding of age, but the Spiorad Ainmhithe offering to massage the two women. It was strictly platonic, of course, but for a newcomer nowhere used to the utmost amount of trust and acceptance...well it was baffling.

He shifted slightly, so as to not intentionally eavesdrop on the "personal question", he had some decency.

Aceus Elurion, King of Danceria

Pub, Misakichi Village, Animalopolis

"I did enjoy the meal, thank you very much." the stranger smiled at the waitress. "Though I am interested, is there a temple nearby?"

"Ah hey," Amika said "Hope we aren't leaving you out of the fun, sir." She grinned "After all, in island culture, the bath is generally where you open up. Guess it's the exposed-ness of an open public bath so hey, don't be shy to talk to us either. Hopefully a couple island girls can be just as entertaining."

"Amika means best." Filipina agreed "But we won't leave anyone out."


Animalpolis

"Oh, well, there's the village Shrine. It's like a mini temple. The Great Temple is all the way in Tsubaki to the south of us. But yes, if you can, you should go visit the shrine and speak to the Priestesses running it, they're always happy to talk to guests and visitors."

Sakura hadn't necessarily been thinking of where to stay for the night, but she was thankful regardless. "If that would be alright, we'd be delighted. I'm sure there's a lot we could learn there about the islands and their religious customs."

Ren seemed to perk up at this. She must have been the type to always want to be learning something. Kiri wondered privately if a spirit like herself would be welcome at such a holy place, but decided that if no one had been surprised by her yet it was probably fine.

"Of course, of course, we welcome travelers, visitors and guests to be with us. We only ask for your respect and kindness in return. Please come with me, it's not too far from here."

She guided the group of new arrivals down the village square past shops, huts and everything else. The great Temple was finally there, the path cleared since being kindly cleaned by the attending maidens. "Go right on in, I need to take the to storage."

She parted their company and once they went inside they were greeted by Chise. "Welcome, to the Great Temple. Feel free to look around if you want, or if you have questions or need a place to stay feel free to ask me or any other maiden on duty today. We welcome you to our place of Worship."

AURORA
As the Priestess recalls them the story of Madoka, Yue and Homura; Daniel, Patricia and their son Henry listen in religious silence. Once she is finished, they nod in thanks.
"Well, thank you for the explanation Miss, says the Ambassador with a warm smile. I didn't remember it was a story that rich. What do you think son? he asks to Henry.
-Well, aside from the proverb "Hell has no fury like a woman scorned", this is one of the biggest divine scourges I've heard in my life, what Miss Homura did. I think it's way over the Biblical Genesis flood.
-A bit like that, yes. Good saying Henry, says his mother as she ruffles his hair.
Anyway, thank you Miss, continues Patricia as she turns back to the Priestess, I would like to hear your thoughts about this: our Emperor, His Imperial Majesty Anaximander Blachkov, is also working as a special force soldier parttime. As an Emperor, he has done many things for the betterment his country, like every head of state does. However, even though he didn't admit as such, its known that he has done some very dark deeds in the shadows too, to protect his country. Dark deeds that even your mythical witches would find horrible. What I would like to know, is how would he be considered by your Godesses? Like an agent of good that needs to do bad things, or an outright demon? Or maybe something else entirely?"

ANIMALPOLIS
"Thank you very much Miss, see you tonight, says Catherine with a smile as the two women and their canine companion exit the store. As they walk back towards the pub to get their ATVs and be on their way to Amurabe, Patricia strokes her chin.
-I can't help but feel we've forgotten something, she says as they are about to reach the pub.
-Yeah, me too, replies her blonde friend.
-I know! We didn't ask her name! How stupid are we to have forgotten such a simple question? Oh the losers! exclaims the brown-haired woman as she facepalms.
-Hey, Paty, calm down, ok? It's not that severe if we do not have it right now. Now, we better get back to the inn, grab some money and gear, and be on our way to Amurabe.
-Yeah, let's." finishes Patricia, while Gopnik barks a "Warf" in approval, before the three of them enter the pub/inn once again, go to their room, and enter it.

A few minutes later, the three of them are back outside, and they get on the ATVs, Gopnik being strapped once again by Patricia, and as they put their sunglasses over their eyes, the two women and their dog start their engine, and start their trip to Amurabe, having put the location into their GPS.


Meanwhile, 50 miles south, at sea.
SAIS Iwo Jima, Wasp-class Landing Helicopter Dock
As requested, by the two women, a V-22 Osprey loaded with a Phantom Badger combat support vehicle takes off from the ship, to retrieve their purchases.

She listened closely to the spiritual concerns, It was a good thing she was one of the more advanced Priestesses among them close to being the Matron (High Priestess's own personal assistant) "Mmm." She pondered a moment clearing her mind to let the guidance of their Holy Mother come to her. She also peered into the reflection pool as many of her fellow Priestesses had done to get a sense of calming or vision.


"Very complicated question indeed, good Madam. We believe the light and dark are always in disharmony with one another, light and dark always pulling against one another. There are times when the darkness pulls harder and casts a greater shadow, then the light returns and pushes the dark back. It's rare there's ever perfect balance. I suspect the deeds done may be cruel, cruel enough to violate a creed but The Goddesses are merciful. We don't really believe in damnation and achieving eternal Salvation on the domain of the sun, moon or stars is believed that sacrifice can bring about new kinship ties, purity, and eternal life. A requirement of faithfulness and a pure life and the exercise of free will is necessary to have faith in Madokakami or Homukami. Whatever he's done, he can only answer for in the next life. If the Witches are clawing to drag his soul down, The Goddess of Light can always blast them away. A stained soul may dwell with The Goddess of Night, not exactly Hell as portrayed in Christianity but a domain where one must do her bidding or be cast aside as quickly. Does that help or shall I explain further?"

Animalpolis

For the group returning to the Inn their belongings had been safely brought to their room for them, the room was as tidy as it was in the morning the drapes open to let the sunshine and air in. Whatever they needed they could get with minimal fuss. The village of Amurabe was a journey through jungle lands rough terrain before reaching the coastal village of Amurabe. A small fishing village as pristine and locked in time as almost anything else on the island. Small huts dotted it, tall palm trees cast shadow for children to play under. It was a pristine picture-esque day. Unlike the small commotion earlier this village was a bit more prepared for the visitors as Nagisa had radioed the village sheriff ahead of time. So people understood a group of unusual tourists were coming this way.

Officer Nagisa this time was radioed in about another approaching craft and again seemed as innocuous as before "A-ffirm on Clearance by UNIDO for foreign craft to enter." She finished radioing and continued along her patrols before making a stop to give another radio transmission. "Katsuragi to Yumura, Kiri-chi you read me?"

"Loud and Clear, how's it going over there Nagisa, heard you folks had a scare this morning?"

"Yeah, I'll tell ya later. Just wanted to give you a heads up, some visitors at our village are heading your way. A bit odd but I assure you they mean no harm."

"Thanks for the heads up! I best let the folks in the village know. Anything else?"

"I think that's really it. Just keep an eye out for some folks on ATVs in gear."

"Roger that, thanks again for the tip Nagisa. Say meet up for a soak later?"

"Sounds like a good plan to me. See ya tonight."

Sheriff Kiri Yumura a wolf-woman, friend of Nagisa had been the sheriff here for the last few years. Her mother, Shiina, was the local law 10 years ago when that particular raid happened. Shiina was still alive and well and happily enjoying retirement with grandchildren sat out playing with a small infant of Kiri's.

"Sounds like the radio is abuzz, Nagisa I take it?" her mother asked

"Yup. Just giving me a heads up of some tourists coming this way. Guess it was that little spook they had earlier today."

"Aye aye hate we all have to be so jumpy even after these years."

"Well can't be helped. Figure I'll make rounds and give a heads up so nothing crazy happens. Setting her officers cap on firm she went around the village in the hours before their arrival so when they did most had expected it. It still drew a few looks but people weren't scrambling for arms. Kiri continued her beat walk just talking to people when they wanted to greet her.

"I see our guest have arrived." Her deputy said

"Yeah I'd say so. Well best leave them be, don't need to make them feel like they're being scrutinized."

"Yes ma'am. Guess I'll go see to our drunk tank visitors." She laughed a bit setting off.

Of course if they needed help or wanted to talk, Kiri was ready and able to do so. Her tail gave a small wag her ears a wiggle. If the animal people of Animalpolis wasn't enough to scare off these visitors, they were all right!

[Cartoonia]

Tatsuya nodded "Yeah, sure! Least we can do to thank you for helping us we can show you the way!"

"Uh-hu." Sakura nodded in agreement

"oooh one second." Tatsuya paused them to make a small dash just over to a vendor selling umbrellas. "Miss, how much?"

"One credit for an Umbrella, young man." She said

"Three please."

"Here you go. Stay dry and enjoy the festival."

"You too, ma'am."

Tatsuya returned giving one to his sister and one to Sho. "Here you are, Mister. One more token of our thanks or we'd be getting soaked out there right now." He grinned handing it over. Good timing too as the small drizzle gave way to a real downpour now.

"It rains here lots and lots." Sakura said "Especially at night. Our teacher says all the heat and water during the day makes the clouds big and heavy that they have to let all the rain out. And after the festival the winds change and they blow in more and more storms all day and all night."

---

"Yeah good plan. Well hey, tell ya what. Tomorrow morning, meat me at the harbor, I'll take ya both to Corona no charge. Might as well finally use this time as an excuse to get back home myself. My pops can run things here while I'm gone."

“Why, thank you” Sho replied. True he had an umbrella with him already, but it was such a kind gesture. Besides, it was an added souvenir for himself. They make their way to the Great Temple, and just in time as the rain began to pour harder.

---

“Sure! Why not” Randy replies as Homer chugs down his final drink. At this point, they should start heading out to town. So Randy brought out credits to pay for the food bill and drink tab.

“We should be heading out now. We will see you tomorrow then?”.

[AHSCA]

“Why, thank you” Sho replied. True he had an umbrella with him already, but it was such a kind gesture. Besides, it was an added souvenir for himself. They make their way to the Great Temple, and just in time as the rain began to pour harder.



“Sure! Why not” Randy replies as Homer chugs down his final drink. At this point, they should start heading out to town. So Randy brought out credits to pay for the food bill and drink tab.

“We should be heading out now. We will see you tomorrow then?”.

"No problem at all, Mister." Tatsuya smiled then took his sister by the hand so they could walk onto the temple. By now it was really coming down a really rainy night on the island but not unusual for this time of year or maybe ever to be honest. The rain had naturally forced a lot of people inside and just as quickly they arrived they scouted for their parents. "Look," Sakura pointed "There's mama!"

A fairly young-ish looking woman in a kimono also with cat ears and a tail like her two children spotted them as well "There you two are! I was starting to worry." She came up to them.

"Sorry, mama."

"Yeah we're sorry. We got a little lost on the trail. But this man helped us get back."

"Ooh." She sighed a little just relieved her two kids were okay. "Thank you sir, thank you for helping my two children."

---

Nadie nodded "Yeah I'll see you then. Have a good day, fellas, thanks for coming."

[Lux Pulchrae]

Good timing for the ship to arrive in Aurora when the weather began to take its turn on the first night of the festival. "Good evening." The young lady greeted back "If you give me a moment...." She opened the log book "I'm sorry, sir, we're all booked up. I can suggest a good Inn down the road that has space. I am sorry but it is quite busy and we filled up fast with guests."

"What? Every room?" Jose questioned

"See what happens when you don't call ahead." Lourdes teased with a smile, standing a couple feet away and leaning against her luggage.

He turned to her and raised a finger "You...not now." Turning back around to the woman behind the desk "Well that is a shame, I really enjoyed last time, but what is, is. No use lamenting over spilled wine. Can I have the name for the inn so we're not wandering like....tourists?"

"But we are."

"Yes I know that, thank you Lourdes."

"Anytime." she again teased by blowing a kiss.

"This inn is within comfortable distance yes?" Jose asked "By comfortable I mean it won't be a trouble walking with the luggage." he half meant actual distance, the other half was the possibility of pickpockets.

[Kyrenaia]

"Oh mochi is delicious, just ask Mamiko she can inhale a whole plate of it! All right, Azusa..."

"Here we go, I picked out a few common kits we put together for sailors." Azusa pulled out a kit of food, water, first aid supplies, extra stuff like a compass, regional maps and charts. Matches, a lighter. "You're welcome to take out anything you don't need. These are what we keep standard in kits like these. We're not a specialty shop like ones dedicated to sailors so we can only go on our experiences with customers."

"Well and Kumiko's own experiences at sea." Azusa added.

Mamiko poked her head in again "Hey mama, I think it might rain soon, want me to bring in the sign?"

"That'd be a good idea, baby, go on ahead." Kumiko called back.

"Ah not an island night without a little rain. Anyway, what do you think? Given you're pretty experienced I imagine you're already set on technical gear."

Kitan

"Oh go right ahead, I'm sure we'll both answer." Filipina agreed

"Yeah to be honest we're not shy."

Animalpolis

"I will let her know. Thanks again ladies, enjoy your time on the island."

Now their time at the Hikaru was finished for the day the ladies had anything they could want to do, go the Great Temple of Tsubaki, visit a smaller shrine, partake in a public bath, similar to the Kitan but a little more public. The choices were there's on this beautiful day.

[...]

"Ah hey," Amika said "Hope we aren't leaving you out of the fun, sir." She grinned "After all, in island culture, the bath is generally where you open up. Guess it's the exposed-ness of an open public bath so hey, don't be shy to talk to us either. Hopefully a couple island girls can be just as entertaining."

"Amika means best." Filipina agreed "But we won't leave anyone out."

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Port Aurora.
I giggled at the thing about sweets - I knew some similar suspects, girls, who inhaled sweets. A group, which I belonged to...
Anyways, when Mamiko announced, that Rain was coming, I wore a short frown. Sure, it was typical for the UIS and tropical climates in general, but that did not mean, that I liked it. I needed to cut my shopping trip short.
As we returned to the topic of supplies, I nodded. "I have compasses and such on my boat, yes, and unless something has drastically changed in the last three weeks, I should be set on maps as well." I separated these items from the pile with ease, carefully, too. "This set is well thought-out."
I would keep the first aid kit - one could have never have enough of those.
"I think its about time I paid.", I said and took out my wallet, placing the remaining wares onto the counter.

Ava Shabh.
Kitan.
To be honest, I had forgotten the strange guy, but if he wanted to participate in the conversation, he was welcome to. I smiled at the two Islanders: "I'll ask later. It's very personal and not really suited for the ears of tripods."
I turned and nodded at the man.
"So... where are you from?", I asked him.

Saida Adib.
Tsubaki, Animalpolis.
Indeed, our time has come to an end and after we left, we had the world - or at least the island - open to us. What to do, what to do...?
Fara smiled. "Well, Saida... here we are. Let's go to the Nazim and give them the word and after that, a bath?", my Princess-turned-waitress-for-a-time asked.
I nodded. "Sounds like a plan.", I replied and around the quarter of an hour later, the two of us were in normal street clothing again and on our way to a bath house.
Easier said then done, to be honest, but we would manage!
And if we had to ask the locals... we stood out like a sore thumb and were easily identifiable as tourists anyway, so no need to hide that fact.

[AHSCA]

"What? Every room?" Jose questioned

"See what happens when you don't call ahead." Lourdes teased with a smile, standing a couple feet away and leaning against her luggage.

He turned to her and raised a finger "You...not now." Turning back around to the woman behind the desk "Well that is a shame, I really enjoyed last time, but what is, is. No use lamenting over spilled wine. Can I have the name for the inn so we're not wandering like....tourists?"

"But we are."

"Yes I know that, thank you Lourdes."

"Anytime." she again teased by blowing a kiss.

"This inn is within comfortable distance yes?" Jose asked "By comfortable I mean it won't be a trouble walking with the luggage." he half meant actual distance, the other half was the possibility of pickpockets.

"Yes sir and ma'am. The Inn is called the Hoshi Inn and it's only a small walk from here straight down the road a ways here. Not far at all and I know they have rooms, I was there only about 20 minutes ago and they still had space." She flipped over the book tearing off a coupon "Here, as our apology feel free to take this, a discount if you dine with us or want to partake in the public baths. So please enjoy yourselves while you stay here." She bowed

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Port Aurora.
I giggled at the thing about sweets - I knew some similar suspects, girls, who inhaled sweets. A group, which I belonged to...
Anyways, when Mamiko announced, that Rain was coming, I wore a short frown. Sure, it was typical for the UIS and tropical climates in general, but that did not mean, that I liked it. I needed to cut my shopping trip short.
As we returned to the topic of supplies, I nodded. "I have compasses and such on my boat, yes, and unless something has drastically changed in the last three weeks, I should be set on maps as well." I separated these items from the pile with ease, carefully, too. "This set is well thought-out."
I would keep the first aid kit - one could have never have enough of those.
"I think its about time I paid.", I said and took out my wallet, placing the remaining wares onto the counter.

Ava Shabh.
Kitan.
To be honest, I had forgotten the strange guy, but if he wanted to participate in the conversation, he was welcome to. I smiled at the two Islanders: "I'll ask later. It's very personal and not really suited for the ears of tripods."
I turned and nodded at the man.
"So... where are you from?", I asked him.

Saida Adib.
Tsubaki, Animalpolis.
Indeed, our time has come to an end and after we left, we had the world - or at least the island - open to us. What to do, what to do...?
Fara smiled. "Well, Saida... here we are. Let's go to the Nazim and give them the word and after that, a bath?", my Princess-turned-waitress-for-a-time asked.
I nodded. "Sounds like a plan.", I replied and around the quarter of an hour later, the two of us were in normal street clothing again and on our way to a bath house.
Easier said then done, to be honest, but we would manage!
And if we had to ask the locals... we stood out like a sore thumb and were easily identifiable as tourists anyway, so no need to hide that fact.

"All right very good as far as I know no other shipping lane changes so yes you'll be fine." Kumiko set whatever Aurelia passed on aside and tallied her total up. "For everything you have today it will be 5,100."

"Don't suppose we can throw in a free lantern for you, for your business?" Azusa offered

Kitan

"Oh I see." Filipina giggled a little though now she was curious just what Ava would ask her and Amika when she had the chance. She allowed to the man to speak if he desired and also wanted to ask a question. "Ava, this is a strange question but...Could you maybe tell me what you look like?" Filipinia requested. "Just your voice. It's very nice. It sounds a lot like my mama. It's nice." she smiled a bit bashfully but hopefully be answered.


Tsubaki

Midday come about the streets were crowded as they ever were with more and more people out. Another woman walking along in a rather loose fitting yukata of her own, couldn't help but notice they looked a bit lost so she offered her help. "Afternoon ladies." It was pretty apparent they were tourists, not sure if from Corona or abroad but tourists for sure. "If I may presume, you look a bit lost. Maybe I can help you find something?"

[Mervay]

It was a good thing Satou had set the lantern down because when Tess dropped that surprise on her, that's she'd be hear with her for the next six months she was so excited and her heart skipped ab beat. "Six months?! Six whole months with you!?" She screamed in delight hugging Tess again. "Tess I'm so glad to hear that, you have no idea! That's just so wonderful, I'm so glad because well --- I was gonna ask you the same if you wanted to stay longer and I'm glad you already plan on it! Well no sense in staying here all night long, come on, we'll go to my place now!" She picked up the lantern from the ground to use it for light back. "It's not too far, good thing you have quite a bit of stuff by the looks of it." She giggled "I guess I figured right, you were gonna go shopping. Can't wait to see what you bought!"

A small trek through the rain through the village down a row of other huts finally arriving at Satou's hut. A small nameplate that beard her name hung proudly though swaying a bit in the breezy conditions. Opening the door letting Tess get inside first then following. Setting the lantern up high to light up the room. Satou did what she could to decorate it, spring it up with her own style, including a few things she took back from Mervay, like all the clothing she bought with Tess, proudly hung up with care. A duvet the two of them shared during the hurricane where they nestled in together waiting for it to pass, was laid out on a small bed, (well small but big enough for the two of them. Windows but with the wood plank closed to not let rain fly in. It was Satou's hard work all paid for her little slice of her dream. "For sure a lot smaller than even your mighty bedroom we stayed in together in Mervay but it's mine." Satou said with a smile as she removed her wet coat and undid her wet hair. There was one little issue a small few leaks "Ah that....We had a pretty nasty squall a few days ago. Been hoping to fix it before the next rain but looks like I missed my chance there. No worries I'll get it patched. Hopefully before the monsoons set in." Satou excited about Tess staying with her for so long, 6-months! Her face was a glow with just the happiness of it all.

"Oooh still, Tess, you being here is just wonderful. And you don't have to worry about not seeing me, especially during the festival. Been working hard so I'd have enough money I could take a little more time off once the festival came around and after that too."

Kitan

She sighed a bit and smiled still. "Indeed we are, Agustinas, we're both on a search for our sole mate. Are you a religious woman? I am quite spiritual myself, both of my land of AHSCA and the beliefs I took from my native roots. If it so please you, I'll keep you in my prayers that you find your special someone. Though I now must also know, if you'll be willing to share, to which do you like? Are you like me who can enjoy both the company of men and women or are only one or the other to your fancy? Ah forgive me if I'm being a bit too personal. It seems in the islands communal bathing tends to bring out a lot of personal conversation. If you don't feel at east to tell me I shall understand, I think of you as a good friend now.

Tess wide and warm grin kept as she saw her lover being both happy and excited that she would be staying for the next six months, she was looking foward to this too. Six months with her beloved Satou, ohh this was going to be so good.
And so she hugged her beloved back tightly and happily too once again, it seemed she got advanced the idea as Satou was to say that too. Still they have half a year to spend and enjoy entirely now.

Then Tess grabbed her package once again as she looked at Satou picking up the lantern once again too. Now her beloved was leading her to her hut, their hut, speaking of which, she will have to pay half of what it costed, which she would do gladly that since it would be their home too. As soon as she show her the ring, surely she will be surprised. Soon her fiancé and then her wife.

"Well six months is what I have here at least so you can see why." she giggled back too as she let an smile and wink, making sure she knew what was on her baggage. "I can be sure you will like what I have here then, it might be an grateful surprise." she giggled as she kissed Satou's cheeks.

Then they walked out of that office and went through the storm and the streets of the village down a row of huts led to their destiny. A nice, small, cozy, comfy hut; beautiful to see, her beloved's name in that nameplate proudly hung there. Then she opened the door and let Tess enter first, which made her smile and kiss her in return as she set her bags of baggage close to the bed.
Inside it was same as beautiful with Satou's touch on it, her clothes which they bought back in Mervay, a duvet they used back during the hurricane at The Kitan laid out in their bed, some other stuff brought from home and Sadoko's hut too. It was all beautiful.

"I'm proud of you Sweetie. Finally your dream came true, at least part of it since there is the best to come." she smiled at her beloved once again as she noticed the windows closed and a few leaks above, the latter could be fixed tomorrow when the storm pass.

"We can fix them tomorrow, I'll help you without problem." she said grinning as she took out her coat, showing her dress once again, this time being dry, opposite to her hair which was soaking wet still.

When she heard Satou has been working hard to have free time during the festival and part of it's aftermath, Tess smile grew wide and warm. Happy to now finally spend all week with her. That made her go and hug her and kiss her beloved.

"You don't know how happy that makes me Sweetie!! We have all week to enjoy then!!!" then she got off as she went for her bag and took out what she bought at Kumiko's store.

"I have some gifts for you there. Hope you like them, one of them says what are my intentions too and I hope you accept it too..." that made her blush with her face flustered red.

The Kitan

Agus smiled warmly at her friend too, glad to see her considering as a friend too.

"So I'am Tsubasa, I'm glad that I can consider you a friend too. And don't worry about that aspect you said I will answer it without problem since I trust you." she smiled warmly at her friend too and nodded to then answer her questions.

"I'm an religious person or at least one which believes in god and so the existence of other god's and goddesses. Reason that I will pray for you to find that eternal soulmate that you have been searching and waiting." The Queen smiled once again at Tsubasa. Meanwhile the other question was same as easy, well both questions which it seemed to be. The other part was more of an secret only known to her family and close friends, so she was putting a lot onto Tsubasa for this secret.

"Well... First if I would be willing to share the one I love?? That would be impossible even if I wanted since polygamy isn't saw with good eyes in home and second... Well... Promise me that you will keep it as a secret, but... I'm... I'am... Bisexual... In other words, I love both man and women..."

To say such secret it was something she has to be placing many trust on that friend for it, hopefully Tsubasa can keep it since only her family and friends know it and gladly, they support her, But the rest of the population?? It would take a while to all to get used to be leaded by an bisexual Royalty Member...

[AHSCA]

Tess wide and warm grin kept as she saw her lover being both happy and excited that she would be staying for the next six months, she was looking foward to this too. Six months with her beloved Satou, ohh this was going to be so good.
And so she hugged her beloved back tightly and happily too once again, it seemed she got advanced the idea as Satou was to say that too. Still they have half a year to spend and enjoy entirely now.

Then Tess grabbed her package once again as she looked at Satou picking up the lantern once again too. Now her beloved was leading her to her hut, their hut, speaking of which, she will have to pay half of what it costed, which she would do gladly that since it would be their home too. As soon as she show her the ring, surely she will be surprised. Soon her fiancé and then her wife.

"Well six months is what I have here at least so you can see why." she giggled back too as she let an smile and wink, making sure she knew what was on her baggage. "I can be sure you will like what I have here then, it might be an grateful surprise." she giggled as she kissed Satou's cheeks.

Then they walked out of that office and went through the storm and the streets of the village down a row of huts led to their destiny. A nice, small, cozy, comfy hut; beautiful to see, her beloved's name in that nameplate proudly hung there. Then she opened the door and let Tess enter first, which made her smile and kiss her in return as she set her bags of baggage close to the bed.
Inside it was same as beautiful with Satou's touch on it, her clothes which they bought back in Mervay, a duvet they used back during the hurricane at The Kitan laid out in their bed, some other stuff brought from home and Sadoko's hut too. It was all beautiful.

"I'm proud of you Sweetie. Finally your dream came true, at least part of it since there is the best to come." she smiled at her beloved once again as she noticed the windows closed and a few leaks above, the latter could be fixed tomorrow when the storm pass.

"We can fix them tomorrow, I'll help you without problem." she said grinning as she took out her coat, showing her dress once again, this time being dry, opposite to her hair which was soaking wet still.

When she heard Satou has been working hard to have free time during the festival and part of it's aftermath, Tess smile grew wide and warm. Happy to now finally spend all week with her. That made her go and hug her and kiss her beloved.

"You don't know how happy that makes me Sweetie!! We have all week to enjoy then!!!" then she got off as she went for her bag and took out what she bought at Kumiko's store.

"I have some gifts for you there. Hope you like them, one of them says what are my intentions too and I hope you accept it too..." that made her blush with her face flustered red.

The Kitan

Agus smiled warmly at her friend too, glad to see her considering as a friend too.

"So I'am Tsubasa, I'm glad that I can consider you a friend too. And don't worry about that aspect you said I will answer it without problem since I trust you." she smiled warmly at her friend too and nodded to then answer her questions.

"I'm an religious person or at least one which believes in god and so the existence of other god's and goddesses. Reason that I will pray for you to find that eternal soulmate that you have been searching and waiting." The Queen smiled once again at Tsubasa. Meanwhile the other question was same as easy, well both questions which it seemed to be. The other part was more of an secret only known to her family and close friends, so she was putting a lot onto Tsubasa for this secret.

"Well... First if I would be willing to share the one I love?? That would be impossible even if I wanted since polygamy isn't saw with good eyes in home and second... Well... Promise me that you will keep it as a secret, but... I'm... I'am... Bisexual... In other words, I love both man and women..."

To say such secret it was something she has to be placing many trust on that friend for it, hopefully Tsubasa can keep it since only her family and friends know it and gladly, they support her, But the rest of the population?? It would take a while to all to get used to be leaded by an bisexual Royalty Member...

"That's the spirit you! I knew you'd take to island life like a fish to water!" She kissed her cheek again as she shed her own wet things. I have all the materials I need to make the repairs and after living with granny for so long, well I think you saw it last time I'm a natural at building, fixing and repairing." She sighed with delight "Tessy," She smiled wider "Just don't know how happy I am that you're here to share with me my little hut. No what am I saying, it's now OUR little hut. As of now, you are an islander!" She kissed her once more and hugged her. She loved her so much, this wealthy eleite girl who could have anyone she want of equal social status chose Satou, an ordinary girl. Blessed she was. "Oh and can't forget this, a little statue of the Goddess. No matter what it always comes with us. Well I mean you know should we have to move up to high ground or something." She blushed it wasn't easy to talk about but Tess seemed willing to accept some of the hardships of island life. The next six months could be a real wet one depending on what The Dark Goddess had in mind for the islands.

"Aww your pretty dress is all soaked. Here get it off so it can dry properly!" She quickly helped her out and hung them to dry then Tess went onto mention she had some gifts for her. "Gifts?" She looked intrigued "Ohh tessy you do spoil me but you really don't have to buy me so many things. I love you for being you! Still I will accept whatever you give me."

She opened up her little gift pulling it out it was so ravishing and equsit, Satou was at a loss for words. "T-T-essy!" She said in a harsh whisper "Could this be what I think it is?" She slid the ring onto her finger. "You're presenting me, with your Dowry? Your intent to marry me now?" She stood up again to face Tess square in the eyes. "if it is, than I accept with all my heart!"

Kitan

---

That warmed Tsubasa's heart a bit to hear she too was a spiritual woman and like her also seemed to accept the existence of multiple higher powers. Even if she was monotheist, she'd still respect that. "Not to worry any secret you have is safe with me." She listened to how her heart gave her a fodness for both men and women alike, so like Tsubasa. Of course one must expect her to remain monogamous she couldn't tell if she would want to share if she could.

"I see. Those are tough matters of public appearance and what you desire. Well you never know my dear there could be someone here for you. You know a worker of mine, bright and sweet little lady and hard worker, fell head over heels for a girl of your homeland. I have a good feeling those two will go far together as a young couple."

[Kyrenaia]

"All right very good as far as I know no other shipping lane changes so yes you'll be fine." Kumiko set whatever Aurelia passed on aside and tallied her total up. "For everything you have today it will be 5,100."

"Don't suppose we can throw in a free lantern for you, for your business?" Azusa offered

Kitan

"Oh I see." Filipina giggled a little though now she was curious just what Ava would ask her and Amika when she had the chance. She allowed to the man to speak if he desired and also wanted to ask a question. "Ava, this is a strange question but...Could you maybe tell me what you look like?" Filipinia requested. "Just your voice. It's very nice. It sounds a lot like my mama. It's nice." she smiled a bit bashfully but hopefully be answered.


Tsubaki

Midday come about the streets were crowded as they ever were with more and more people out. Another woman walking along in a rather loose fitting yukata of her own, couldn't help but notice they looked a bit lost so she offered her help. "Afternoon ladies." It was pretty apparent they were tourists, not sure if from Corona or abroad but tourists for sure. "If I may presume, you look a bit lost. Maybe I can help you find something?"

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Port Aurora.
I nodded - indeed, I would be fine, even in an emergency. Outside of the EEZ, there was a Fleet Submarine waiting to pick me out of the water in case of emergencies and only then.
I would be fine.
Still... 5,100 Island Credits were quite the sum.
"I'll take the lantern, thank you! One never knows, when one might need one.", I told Azusa as I was picking out the bills. 5,500 Island Credits in crisp bills. "If you could give me the change in smaller bills, I would appreciate it... same problem as last year!"
I smiled a bit sheepish.

Ava Shabh.
Kitan.
I blushed - people had called many things pleasureable when they were talking about me, but my voice was not often cited. Especially not with the connotation of Motherhood...
Over the many, many centuries, I had given birth multiple times, but never, a Spiorad had been among my children...
I still smiled.
"I could, but I was never good with words...", I admitted with a bit of sheepishness, "But..." I moved closer to her, motioning to Amika, that I had no ill intent. "...if you want, you can feel my face." I smiled. "And only my face, please."
I knew, that some blind people could get a picture of people in their head and of objects by touch. Maybe Filipina could do the same? Or at least wanted to give it a shot?
I would allow her to touch my shoulders, too, but not much deeper - no need to give the gentleman in the bath an unnecessary (and unpaid) show.

Saida Adib.
Tsubaki, Animalpolis.
The woman in the rather loose Yukata speaking to us did not surprise us in the slightest - we must have been one heck of a sore thumb.
"Yes, Miss, we would be very grateful for that.", Fara said with a smile and bowed her head lightly and politely. "We are looking for a Bath House or something similar?"
I waited to see, what would happen.

[AHSCA]

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Port Aurora.
I nodded - indeed, I would be fine, even in an emergency. Outside of the EEZ, there was a Fleet Submarine waiting to pick me out of the water in case of emergencies and only then.
I would be fine.
Still... 5,100 Island Credits were quite the sum.
"I'll take the lantern, thank you! One never knows, when one might need one.", I told Azusa as I was picking out the bills. 5,500 Island Credits in crisp bills. "If you could give me the change in smaller bills, I would appreciate it... same problem as last year!"
I smiled a bit sheepish.

Ava Shabh.
Kitan.
I blushed - people had called many things pleasureable when they were talking about me, but my voice was not often cited. Especially not with the connotation of Motherhood...
Over the many, many centuries, I had given birth multiple times, but never, a Spiorad had been among my children...
I still smiled.
"I could, but I was never good with words...", I admitted with a bit of sheepishness, "But..." I moved closer to her, motioning to Amika, that I had no ill intent. "...if you want, you can feel my face." I smiled. "And only my face, please."
I knew, that some blind people could get a picture of people in their head and of objects by touch. Maybe Filipina could do the same? Or at least wanted to give it a shot?
I would allow her to touch my shoulders, too, but not much deeper - no need to give the gentleman in the bath an unnecessary (and unpaid) show.

Saida Adib.
Tsubaki, Animalpolis.
The woman in the rather loose Yukata speaking to us did not surprise us in the slightest - we must have been one heck of a sore thumb.
"Yes, Miss, we would be very grateful for that.", Fara said with a smile and bowed her head lightly and politely. "We are looking for a Bath House or something similar?"
I waited to see, what would happen.

"Indeed so, can't tell you how many times a good solid lantern is handy on the seas." Kumiko agreed speaking from plenty of experience. "Then that's one free lantern in appreciation for your business with us! All right small bills it will be." she changed out Aurelia's money giving her smaller denominations of Credit values. "Here you are."

"Good luck and great days to you." Azusa thanked with a bow and Kumiko agreed and echoed the sentiment. "Bye bye" Mamiko also wished Aurelia off opening up the shop door for her.

Kitan

"Really? You don't mind? Then okay." She smiled and nodded reaching out her hands gently feeling around her face, her hair and down to her shoulders. "Well, I can tell you are very pretty. Your voice is probably how I imagined it would be. Odd as it sounds for a girl who can't see but it's hard to explain what I can and can't really 'see.' And well that, your voice again is so much like my mama's voice it just really makes it easy to talk to you."

Amika wrapped herself around Filipina resting her head on her shoulder "Aww, Fili is really just a mama's girl at the end of the day." It seemed like a bit of a jab but even she couldn't deny that so she just chuckled. "Hehe she's not wrong, I am. I wonder if she'll come to Aurora? She did pick out a rather cute yukata to wear. And when you can get her into clothes you know something's a big deal!"

Amika just held back a lot of laughter from that. It must sound odd out of context to poor Ava but maybe she'd understand if she knew enough about aspects of island life and culture. Amika spoke up to offer "Well hey, ya know seeing as you got a personal question or two for us, after our bath here maybe you'd like to grab a shaved ice with us? Something to cool down after sitting in the hot water and while the sun is out and strong."

"Sure, you're welcome to join us! Not every day either of us get to talk to a foreigner! "

"We are from a pretty small village so yeah we don't usually get a chance so what do you say, up to it?"

"Not sure if you have any evening plans later but if ya do and still got a few hours to kill we'll keep ya company."


Tsubaki

She smirked a little "Aah, looking for the public baths huh? A perfect choice if I do say so myself! I just came from there myself. Good news is you aren't far from it at all. See this road, head straight on it, about 10 paces I'd say. Turn on the alley and another pace and you'll be there. It's called the Port Tsubaki Public Onsen, it's indoors a bit crowded but worth it and very inexpensive! Two beauties such as yourselves, a soak in the hot water will do ya good. Especially if you traveled here by your own power. I get the intuition that you did. Admirable to say the least! Well that's that, good luck ladies you'll find it in good time I'm sure many will be going there so just watch the crowds and you'll figure it out easy."

[The Scarlet Eagle]

She listened closely to the spiritual concerns, It was a good thing she was one of the more advanced Priestesses among them close to being the Matron (High Priestess's own personal assistant) "Mmm." She pondered a moment clearing her mind to let the guidance of their Holy Mother come to her. She also peered into the reflection pool as many of her fellow Priestesses had done to get a sense of calming or vision.


"Very complicated question indeed, good Madam. We believe the light and dark are always in disharmony with one another, light and dark always pulling against one another. There are times when the darkness pulls harder and casts a greater shadow, then the light returns and pushes the dark back. It's rare there's ever perfect balance. I suspect the deeds done may be cruel, cruel enough to violate a creed but The Goddesses are merciful. We don't really believe in damnation and achieving eternal Salvation on the domain of the sun, moon or stars is believed that sacrifice can bring about new kinship ties, purity, and eternal life. A requirement of faithfulness and a pure life and the exercise of free will is necessary to have faith in Madokakami or Homukami. Whatever he's done, he can only answer for in the next life. If the Witches are clawing to drag his soul down, The Goddess of Light can always blast them away. A stained soul may dwell with The Goddess of Night, not exactly Hell as portrayed in Christianity but a domain where one must do her bidding or be cast aside as quickly. Does that help or shall I explain further?"

Animalpolis

For the group returning to the Inn their belongings had been safely brought to their room for them, the room was as tidy as it was in the morning the drapes open to let the sunshine and air in. Whatever they needed they could get with minimal fuss. The village of Amurabe was a journey through jungle lands rough terrain before reaching the coastal village of Amurabe. A small fishing village as pristine and locked in time as almost anything else on the island. Small huts dotted it, tall palm trees cast shadow for children to play under. It was a pristine picture-esque day. Unlike the small commotion earlier this village was a bit more prepared for the visitors as Nagisa had radioed the village sheriff ahead of time. So people understood a group of unusual tourists were coming this way.

Officer Nagisa this time was radioed in about another approaching craft and again seemed as innocuous as before "A-ffirm on Clearance by UNIDO for foreign craft to enter." She finished radioing and continued along her patrols before making a stop to give another radio transmission. "Katsuragi to Yumura, Kiri-chi you read me?"

"Loud and Clear, how's it going over there Nagisa, heard you folks had a scare this morning?"

"Yeah, I'll tell ya later. Just wanted to give you a heads up, some visitors at our village are heading your way. A bit odd but I assure you they mean no harm."

"Thanks for the heads up! I best let the folks in the village know. Anything else?"

"I think that's really it. Just keep an eye out for some folks on ATVs in gear."

"Roger that, thanks again for the tip Nagisa. Say meet up for a soak later?"

"Sounds like a good plan to me. See ya tonight."

Sheriff Kiri Yumura a wolf-woman, friend of Nagisa had been the sheriff here for the last few years. Her mother, Shiina, was the local law 10 years ago when that particular raid happened. Shiina was still alive and well and happily enjoying retirement with grandchildren sat out playing with a small infant of Kiri's.

"Sounds like the radio is abuzz, Nagisa I take it?" her mother asked

"Yup. Just giving me a heads up of some tourists coming this way. Guess it was that little spook they had earlier today."

"Aye aye hate we all have to be so jumpy even after these years."

"Well can't be helped. Figure I'll make rounds and give a heads up so nothing crazy happens. Setting her officers cap on firm she went around the village in the hours before their arrival so when they did most had expected it. It still drew a few looks but people weren't scrambling for arms. Kiri continued her beat walk just talking to people when they wanted to greet her.

"I see our guest have arrived." Her deputy said

"Yeah I'd say so. Well best leave them be, don't need to make them feel like they're being scrutinized."

"Yes ma'am. Guess I'll go see to our drunk tank visitors." She laughed a bit setting off.

Of course if they needed help or wanted to talk, Kiri was ready and able to do so. Her tail gave a small wag her ears a wiggle. If the animal people of Animalpolis wasn't enough to scare off these visitors, they were all right!

AURORA
As the Priestess answers her question about the Emperor, Patricia, as well as Daniel and Henry, listen in silence.
"Thank you for this insight, replies the Ambassador once she is finished. I see what you mean. To be honest, from what I know of him, I would say he is a bit of both you mentioned. The Witches clawing at his soul can be seen in the criminals and other malevolent beings on this planet that he takes down frequently, and the blasting Madoka light is the love of his friends, family, and especially his wife, who always pull him back up in the end. So, finally, I think that no matter what, he will always find a way back to the light, even if he steps in the darkness from time to time.
If you don't mind, I would like to tell him to visit you if he ever comes here. And also, please continue your explanation, because I'm very curious about what you still have to say."

ANIMALPOLIS

After a few hours of driving, Catherine, Patricia and Gopnik had arrived to the outskirts of Amurabe.
"Well, here we are, says the blonde woman as she parks her ATV at the village's entrance, before getting of, and taking off her plate carrier to put it back in the trunk.
-Yup, replies her brown-haired companion who has done the same things, as well as unstrapping her canine companion from the ATV seat. All right, let's go! she adds as she adjusts the black cap with a scarlet eagle she has on her head, the same one Catherine has too. The both of them also have their sunglasses on.
And so, father having checked for the last time that their pistols were concealed and secured in the back of their pants, the two women and their canine companion step into the village, noticing a wolf-woman making their way towards them.
However, as they are about to greet her, Gopnik, who until now had been rather calm, suddenly starts to growl, as well as showing his teeth and adopting an attack position, his lips pulled back.
"Gopnik! Stay! Calm down now! shouts Patricia as she snaps her finger in the direction of her dog.
-Woof! GRRRRR...., barks the dog who does not change his attitude towards the Sheriff.
-Gopnik, for the last time, calm down NOW! repeats his mistress. She's not a threat, she's perfectly normal.
-Woof? answers the Appalachian Wolfdog as he cocks his head towards Patricia, his eyes sending a questioning look to his caretaker.
-Yes, she may look different than us, but she's just like us, says the brown-haired Lieutenant Colonel. Now apologize.
-Arf! barks the canine who turns back to the Sheriff and extends his right front paw, as he wails a bit as if he said he was sorry.
-Phew, that could have been bad, says Catherine as she wipes her forehead. Sorry about that Sheriff. Lieutenant Colonel Catherine Smetov, adds the brown woman as she extends her hand towards the wolf-woman.
-Lieutenant Colonel Patricia Petrenko, continues her companion as she extends her hand too. And my dog Gopnik. I'm really sorry about what happened, my apologies," she adds with a sheepish smile.

Meanwhile...
After about half an hour of flight, the V-22 had finally arrived on the shores of Animalpolis, and had unloaded the Phantom Badger vehicle on the same beach Catherine and Patricia has landed. And so, the small military vehicle, manned by Imperial Marines in Multicam MARPAT Utility Uniforms, had found their way to Misakichi, and had stopped in front of the store.
"Good morning, says one of them to the shopkeeper, a young man with brown hair and eyes, whose rank indicates he's a Corporal. We have been sent to retrieve the purchases of Lieutenant Colonel Smetov and Petrenko."

[AHSCA]

AURORA
As the Priestess answers her question about the Emperor, Patricia, as well as Daniel and Henry, listen in silence.
"Thank you for this insight, replies the Ambassador once she is finished. I see what you mean. To be honest, from what I know of him, I would say he is a bit of both you mentioned. The Witches clawing at his soul can be seen in the criminals and other malevolent beings on this planet that he takes down frequently, and the blasting Madoka light is the love of his friends, family, and especially his wife, who always pull him back up in the end. So, finally, I think that no matter what, he will always find a way back to the light, even if he steps in the darkness from time to time.
If you don't mind, I would like to tell him to visit you if he ever comes here. And also, please continue your explanation, because I'm very curious about what you still have to say."

ANIMALPOLIS

After a few hours of driving, Catherine, Patricia and Gopnik had arrived to the outskirts of Amurabe.
"Well, here we are, says the blonde woman as she parks her ATV at the village's entrance, before getting of, and taking off her plate carrier to put it back in the trunk.
-Yup, replies her brown-haired companion who has done the same things, as well as unstrapping her canine companion from the ATV seat. All right, let's go! she adds as she adjusts the black cap with a scarlet eagle she has on her head, the same one Catherine has too. The both of them also have their sunglasses on.
And so, father having checked for the last time that their pistols were concealed and secured in the back of their pants, the two women and their canine companion step into the village, noticing a wolf-woman making their way towards them.
However, as they are about to greet her, Gopnik, who until now had been rather calm, suddenly starts to growl, as well as showing his teeth and adopting an attack position, his lips pulled back.
"Gopnik! Stay! Calm down now! shouts Patricia as she snaps her finger in the direction of her dog.
-Woof! GRRRRR...., barks the dog who does not change his attitude towards the Sheriff.
-Gopnik, for the last time, calm down NOW! repeats his mistress. She's not a threat, she's perfectly normal.
-Woof? answers the Appalachian Wolfdog as he cocks his head towards Patricia, his eyes sending a questioning look to his caretaker.
-Yes, she may look different than us, but she's just like us, says the brown-haired Lieutenant Colonel. Now apologize.
-Arf! barks the canine who turns back to the Sheriff and extends his right front paw, as he wails a bit as if he said he was sorry.
-Phew, that could have been bad, says Catherine as she wipes her forehead. Sorry about that Sheriff. Lieutenant Colonel Catherine Smetov, adds the brown woman as she extends her hand towards the wolf-woman.
-Lieutenant Colonel Patricia Petrenko, continues her companion as she extends her hand too. And my dog Gopnik. I'm really sorry about what happened, my apologies," she adds with a sheepish smile.

Meanwhile...
After about half an hour of flight, the V-22 had finally arrived on the shores of Animalpolis, and had unloaded the Phantom Badger vehicle on the same beach Catherine and Patricia has landed. And so, the small military vehicle, manned by Imperial Marines in Multicam MARPAT Utility Uniforms, had found their way to Misakichi, and had stopped in front of the store.
"Good morning, says one of them to the shopkeeper, a young man with brown hair and eyes, whose rank indicates he's a Corporal. We have been sent to retrieve the purchases of Lieutenant Colonel Smetov and Petrenko."

Auora

"We will welcome him with open arms if he wishes to talk to us. Whether he wants to simply seek our spiritual advice or even deem himself apart of the faith by converting. That's the exact perfect way to look at it. The light and shadow will always be around the best is to remain just as close as one can in the middle of all things. The Dark Goddess isn't always malevolent but her emotions are wild and thus represents our wild impulses of emotion. Lust for example. The Goddess of light is pure and good but at the same time one can't always suppress some of their dark emotions. One must cry, and feel sorrow and shame and be afraid and angry. They should be able to feel happy, joyful and comforted. When you get the sense of both, Both Goddesses will look fondly and protect from curses brought upon by the Witches. Stray too far, you will face their curses greater than you wish. We feel all people contain some ratio of dark-and-light in them.

Alas we feel that is what brought us to our knees those years ago, Duchess Tamura Nanao and Duchess Akira Nanao did many a things that laid some framework for how we are today as a country in the world of global politics. But her wicked whimsy may have pushed away the light a great deal. We always feel blessed by the light but also have to bear the hardships of the dark. The mighty storms we face, the sickness that sometimes plagues us. A reminder of our place in this universe and how we must be mindful of our past sins. Duchess Shino is maybe a little too basked in light which put her through her hardships and made the Dark Goddess more aggressive than normal. Duchess Marcella as we feel has an equal sense of the dark and light in her but she could easily tilt one way or the other. The Goddess respect, love and fight each other for balance in all things. Balance itself never impossible but unsustainable. We prepare to move to our season of endless rain. A block of many days and nights where Homura shall determine to send the deluge or shall Madoka provide her radiant light. Even this evening, storm clouds will gather above us that will bring the rain, and just as quickly the day will come and the clouds will part and the cycle will continue."


Animalpolis

Kiri suddenly found herself at the mercy of a dog bearing it's teeth and seemed ready and poised to go after her. What did she do to bring this kind of treatment on from such a fine looking canine? Maybe it was her wolf-like-features on her, sometimes non-native animals didn't know how to react to local populus. She hoped the neko and foxes would be okay now. "Aaah hi....easy does it pooch...I'm friendly...Promise..." the owners managed to calm it down which calmed her down. No harm done no sense getting angry at it. "Ah, well that's okay. Animals will be animals I guess. Welcome visitors to Amurabe. I'm Kiri Yumura, I'm the Sheriff here. My friend gave me a call that some folks might be heading in, I guess that'd be you folks."


The Shop
The shop keeper had finished wrapping up their goods when someone came to retrieve them. "A good morning to you too, sir. Uuuh...Yes I have them all wrapped and set for pickup. Though I must say this is a bit unusual to have such an envoy for some simple shopping pick ups. I mean I'm probably not in a position to question any foreign nation but I could have worked out some shipping arrangements for them..." she did know people were coming to pick things up but she didn't really expect this.

[Kyrenaia]

"Indeed so, can't tell you how many times a good solid lantern is handy on the seas." Kumiko agreed speaking from plenty of experience. "Then that's one free lantern in appreciation for your business with us! All right small bills it will be." she changed out Aurelia's money giving her smaller denominations of Credit values. "Here you are."

"Good luck and great days to you." Azusa thanked with a bow and Kumiko agreed and echoed the sentiment. "Bye bye" Mamiko also wished Aurelia off opening up the shop door for her.

Kitan

"Really? You don't mind? Then okay." She smiled and nodded reaching out her hands gently feeling around her face, her hair and down to her shoulders. "Well, I can tell you are very pretty. Your voice is probably how I imagined it would be. Odd as it sounds for a girl who can't see but it's hard to explain what I can and can't really 'see.' And well that, your voice again is so much like my mama's voice it just really makes it easy to talk to you."

Amika wrapped herself around Filipina resting her head on her shoulder "Aww, Fili is really just a mama's girl at the end of the day." It seemed like a bit of a jab but even she couldn't deny that so she just chuckled. "Hehe she's not wrong, I am. I wonder if she'll come to Aurora? She did pick out a rather cute yukata to wear. And when you can get her into clothes you know something's a big deal!"

Amika just held back a lot of laughter from that. It must sound odd out of context to poor Ava but maybe she'd understand if she knew enough about aspects of island life and culture. Amika spoke up to offer "Well hey, ya know seeing as you got a personal question or two for us, after our bath here maybe you'd like to grab a shaved ice with us? Something to cool down after sitting in the hot water and while the sun is out and strong."

"Sure, you're welcome to join us! Not every day either of us get to talk to a foreigner! "

"We are from a pretty small village so yeah we don't usually get a chance so what do you say, up to it?"

"Not sure if you have any evening plans later but if ya do and still got a few hours to kill we'll keep ya company."


Tsubaki

She smirked a little "Aah, looking for the public baths huh? A perfect choice if I do say so myself! I just came from there myself. Good news is you aren't far from it at all. See this road, head straight on it, about 10 paces I'd say. Turn on the alley and another pace and you'll be there. It's called the Port Tsubaki Public Onsen, it's indoors a bit crowded but worth it and very inexpensive! Two beauties such as yourselves, a soak in the hot water will do ya good. Especially if you traveled here by your own power. I get the intuition that you did. Admirable to say the least! Well that's that, good luck ladies you'll find it in good time I'm sure many will be going there so just watch the crowds and you'll figure it out easy."

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Port Aurora.
I returned the bows and good wishes and ruffled Mamiko's hair as I left, my shopping in a number of woolen bags I had brought along. This stuff was quite heavy!
But at the end of the day, I had the souvenirs for a huge number of people I wanted to bring souvenirs for. I still needed to tick off the rest of the list... Soraya, for example, and I had thought, that I might bring Fadia something from here. Poor girl needed a pick-me-up after her injury...
Aldhiyb awaited me outside, I snapped my fingers and he was by my side.
He had his tongue out, wanted water, but he looked happy! "In a few minutes, lad. We'll return to the Harira and have a good drink!", I told him, sharing his sentiment.

Ava Shabh.
Kitan.
I smiled allowed her to explore every nook and cranny she wanted on my head and shoulders, but my smile got a bit dimmer. Motherhood... well, that's a story for another day.
At the mention of shaved ice, I smiled.
"I would love to. I have a date at six, which I would not miss, so I can't hang with you for the rest of the day, but it sure sounds like fun!", I told them with a smile.

Saida Adib.
Tsubaki, Animalpolis.
"Thank you, Ma'am!", Fara said with a small bow and I echoed the sentiment. "Have a good day!"
And with that, we left the polite woman behind and followed her instructions to the Port Tsubaki Public Onsen: Straight down the road for ten paces and then into the alley for another pace. She said, that it was inexpensive and most likely still crowded indoors, but that was not a problem unless they were piling the people up!
Onsen... if it was something like our Hammams?

Meanwhile...
...a number of radio messages went over the airwaves from the Kyrenaian Naval Base Mokastana Northeast. One of them was a report to the local Ministry of Defense, that their radar picked up not only a vessel of the Imperial Navy of the Empire of the Scarlet Eagle, SEIS Iwo Jima, by the looks of it, which actually had a rather valid reason to be there as the Empire took possession of a small island not too far away, but also of a number of aircraft entering the UIS' airspace and leaving shortly afterwards, most likely off-loading something or the other.
A similar report went to Naval High Command in Utica, to the aircraft carrier RKN Nazir, Crown Prince Ilia's Flagship, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Palace of the Azure Hall, as well as Naval Base Surya, where Carrier Group 5's homeport was. Of course, the messages going back to Kyrenaia went by a communications satellite and were encoded.
And then, there was a different radio message, this time in clear text: "SEIS Iwo Jima, this is Naval Base Mokastana Northeast of the Royal Kyrenaian Navy. We spotted you sending several aircraft to Animalopolis. Are you in need of assistance, which we would be willing to render? Or are your intentions hostile?"

[The Scarlet Eagle]

Meanwhile...
...a number of radio messages went over the airwaves from the Kyrenaian Naval Base Mokastana Northeast. One of them was a report to the local Ministry of Defense, that their radar picked up not only a vessel of the Imperial Navy of the Empire of the Scarlet Eagle, SEIS Iwo Jima, by the looks of it, which actually had a rather valid reason to be there as the Empire took possession of a small island not too far away, but also of a number of aircraft entering the UIS' airspace and leaving shortly afterwards, most likely off-loading something or the other.
A similar report went to Naval High Command in Utica, to the aircraft carrier RKN Nazir, Crown Prince Ilia's Flagship, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Palace of the Azure Hall, as well as Naval Base Surya, where Carrier Group 5's homeport was. Of course, the messages going back to Kyrenaia went by a communications satellite and were encoded.
And then, there was a different radio message, this time in clear text: "SEIS Iwo Jima, this is Naval Base Mokastana Northeast of the Royal Kyrenaian Navy. We spotted you sending several aircraft to Animalopolis. Are you in need of assistance, which we would be willing to render? Or are your intentions hostile?"

Iwo Jima Bridge
As the crew on the bridge do their routine like every day since they have been sent here to keep an eye on the Islands claimed by the Empire, a young ensign assigned to the Communications stations suddenly picks up a contact from the Kyrenaian Naval Station.
-Lieutenant! he calls to his superior officer and handler.
-What is it Jenkins? asks the latter.
-I've picked up a message from the Kyrenaians based there. They want to know if we're in need of assistance, or if our intentions are hostile.
-Ha! Our intentions hostile? That's the best joke I've heard this year! replies the Lieutenant with a laugh, soon followed by others coming from the other sailors present. You heard that Captain? he shouts to Captain Samuel Sterling, at the other side of the bridge.
-Yeah, I've heard replies the tall man with grey hair, blue eyes and a mustache. Ensign, put me in, I'm going to answer it personally.
-Yes Sir! replies the sailor, before typing some orders on his computer, as Sterling picks up the phone next to his chair.

"Naval Base Mokastana Northeast, this is Captain Samuel Sterling, commanding the SAIS Iwo Jima of the Imperial Navy of the Scarlet Eagle. We are in no need of assistance, everything and everyone is fine on my ship. Nor do we have hostile intentions. Our primary mission is to ensure the safety of the waters of the Ttwelve Islands Archipelago our country owns, and as an additional mission, we've been tasked to ensure the security of two important persons of the Empire who are visiting the Islands for a local Festival, as well as inserting them and extracting them without an itch. Does that answer your question?"

[AHSCA]

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Port Aurora.
I returned the bows and good wishes and ruffled Mamiko's hair as I left, my shopping in a number of woolen bags I had brought along. This stuff was quite heavy!
But at the end of the day, I had the souvenirs for a huge number of people I wanted to bring souvenirs for. I still needed to tick off the rest of the list... Soraya, for example, and I had thought, that I might bring Fadia something from here. Poor girl needed a pick-me-up after her injury...
Aldhiyb awaited me outside, I snapped my fingers and he was by my side.
He had his tongue out, wanted water, but he looked happy! "In a few minutes, lad. We'll return to the Harira and have a good drink!", I told him, sharing his sentiment.

Ava Shabh.
Kitan.
I smiled allowed her to explore every nook and cranny she wanted on my head and shoulders, but my smile got a bit dimmer. Motherhood... well, that's a story for another day.
At the mention of shaved ice, I smiled.
"I would love to. I have a date at six, which I would not miss, so I can't hang with you for the rest of the day, but it sure sounds like fun!", I told them with a smile.

Saida Adib.
Tsubaki, Animalpolis.
"Thank you, Ma'am!", Fara said with a small bow and I echoed the sentiment. "Have a good day!"
And with that, we left the polite woman behind and followed her instructions to the Port Tsubaki Public Onsen: Straight down the road for ten paces and then into the alley for another pace. She said, that it was inexpensive and most likely still crowded indoors, but that was not a problem unless they were piling the people up!
Onsen... if it was something like our Hammams?

Meanwhile...
...a number of radio messages went over the airwaves from the Kyrenaian Naval Base Mokastana Northeast. One of them was a report to the local Ministry of Defense, that their radar picked up not only a vessel of the Imperial Navy of the Empire of the Scarlet Eagle, SEIS Iwo Jima, by the looks of it, which actually had a rather valid reason to be there as the Empire took possession of a small island not too far away, but also of a number of aircraft entering the UIS' airspace and leaving shortly afterwards, most likely off-loading something or the other.
A similar report went to Naval High Command in Utica, to the aircraft carrier RKN Nazir, Crown Prince Ilia's Flagship, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Palace of the Azure Hall, as well as Naval Base Surya, where Carrier Group 5's homeport was. Of course, the messages going back to Kyrenaia went by a communications satellite and were encoded.
And then, there was a different radio message, this time in clear text: "SEIS Iwo Jima, this is Naval Base Mokastana Northeast of the Royal Kyrenaian Navy. We spotted you sending several aircraft to Animalopolis. Are you in need of assistance, which we would be willing to render? Or are your intentions hostile?"

Marcella had finished her stack of papers sighing relieved but a bit melancholy at the increasingly clouding sky. Looked like Aurora was due for some rain this first night of the festival. As was the way of the Goddesses indeed. Last year the first evening was soaked by rain and also some bad news when Aurelia was ordered to break it off with Marcella. This year she expected it to be better even if still wet. She was ready to close up her office and head out to the village while she could but alas more issues. "Sorry Milady I know it's the festival." A Defense Office Aid entered with some concerned reports Marcella looked at everything "Ooh my, this was not exactly what I expected when I gave the Okay. Do you know where Noir is?"

"Afraid I haven't been able to locate her, Milady, she could be back on Animalpolis. And our Defense Officer has gone home to Corona."

"Which leaves it to me. All right I best get everything straightened." She did earlier in the month authorize some close brushes by military craft from the Scarlet Eagle, but it seemed something got lost in communication between AHSCA and it's two allies stationed here on the island as Mokan and Kyre bases traffic was lit like a Christmas tree. she gave a sigh "Sorry Aurelia, guess i'll be later than I thought. Hang in there a while longer." She just had to make a b-line to the harbor to find Aurelia's ship in harbor once she could free herself up. "Let's see if I can get everyone on the horn without having to go all the way to the Embassy Isle."

"Yes Milady, I have our needed radio coms here ready for you. As a Radio Coms Officer I'll be able to reach everyone for you."

It took some fanessing but first she contacted Mokastana. "ooh let's see if I can remember enough Spanish..." Her father had taught her plenty to communicate as needed with Mokans on the island at abroad. Hola. Duquesa Villa sobre tráfico inusual en nuestra costa. Reading off coordinates as firmly and quickly as she could. "El tráfico aéreo y de barcos ha sido autorizado y no presenta ninguna amenaza para el UIS. No repito ninguna amenaza para el UIS, por favor no participe. No hay motivo de alarma. Duquesa Villa, fuera. " She finished while her radio girl looked over everything "Yes Ma'am for the most part, very good! I think a few odd grammatical choices here and there but they should get the basic idea. "Now let me see if I can raise our friends at RKN."

"Ah at least with them I can speak Common....Good afternoon This is Duchess Villa from the UIS. Our Defense Ministry is regretting some miscommunications here but the ship off our costs" Again coordinates were read. "Ship and air traffic has been authorized and presents no threat to the UIS. I repeat no threat to the UIS please do not engage. no cause for alarm. Duchess Villa, out."

"Very good Milady. Let's see if they respond in affirm. I'm pretty sure I got them on the correct frequency but with our tech here..."

"I know ideally this would be at the Embassy Isle."

"Believe me, I want you to get out to enjoy The Festival."

"What's the weather like off Animalpolis right now?"

"Skies reported clear and seas calm, milady."

"Okay so ideally transmissions will be clearer to the Iwo Jima but might be a big mixed here with a storm approaching."

"Well milady I can still relay broadcast on your behalf but at least we can confirm transmission received for Mokastana Naval Station."

"Well if they're not laughing at my crude Spanish then I'd say mission almost accomplished." Marcella kept her humor up. "All right good news is confirmed recipt of message. It was over encryption lines so it may take them a bit to decode it all but they know it's from us so it shouldn't fall by the wayside. But I got the rest of this Milady, I think you best get a move on."

"I think that's a wise idea too before something else comes up! Thank you Corporal, good work."

Marcella finally was free. This little incident wasn't super serious and should wrap up on its own soon enough. Now running as fast as she could to find The Harira as far as Marcella was concerned, her extra home-away-from-home besides any of her own craft she might take to the seas. Cloudy as it was it really hadn't started raining yet, wouldn't until nightfall but it was a change in the weather hopefully this time, winds for positive change. Maybe the little ship would bob a bit in a choppy harbor sea, honestly the creaks of a ship churning on the seas was music to Marcella's ears. As Kumiko had explained to Tess, Islanders really lived by the weather and it was so often a factor in bringing people together. Marcella giggled as she ran like a school girl down the streets. People took notice their Duchess running so carefree through the streets, not a guard at her side and not formal. She looked like any girl of the island right now.

Kitan

Both Filipina and Amika cooed at that. "Ooh a date! Look at you, touring the islands and already a date for dinner~!" they giggled like the school girls they were. "Sounds good. We'll make sure you're on your way before then to get dressed to impress!"

"For sure, Ava, you'll woo any date you have! Actualy, Amika I'm getting a bit overheated here myself, think we can go now?"

"Sure sure. We'll dress and meet you up whenever you like, Ava, we'll be lingering around. The shaved ice stand is just around the corner of the building with a nice view of the beach so we'll be in no hurry for when you want to join us." Amika guided Filipina on back to change and head outside.

Tsubaki

Weather on Aurora was turning ugly but Animalpolis remained beautiful. "You as well, enjoy the Festival!" she wished them off and continued about her own day. It The Public Onsen was a bit crowded but honestly not too bad, plenty of room to enjoy the hot water and not be packed in like little fishies. a bit different compared to the Kitan where the Kitan was a building with a row of small rooms divided by change rooms this was more like a large open pool with a simple area for disrobing and storage with not much more privacy. Maybe the more bashful might pick a small screen to undress behind. The building was built around a naturally occurring geothermal pool one of the many that were dotted on the island. It was enclosed to be more sheltered from the elements but some of it did extend into the outdoors for those who liked the more open air baths. And they were open always in all weather conditions, rain or shine and night and day. This whole facility was always open. The desk reception greeted them "Oh hi, welcome to the Onsen ladies. 1 Credit for an hour, 4 for two hours. You may leave your clothing and any belongings at any open cupboard, if none available then simply tuck them where there is space and we will care for any values up here. The pools are yours to enjoy and we welcome you to them."