A Harvest Festival in the City of Iron (IC, OPEN)

[AHSCA]

Imogen Teithiwr, of Cefnffordd Descent.
I smiled a bit sheepish when the two corrected me - of course, there were animal-eared folk (as we are called in some places) in many places. The chance for two foreigners to be Spiorad...
I bowed my head lightly at the introductions, but when they mentioned, that they knew someone, who might be kinsfolk, I was surprised. A resort on Aurora, huh? I have never been to the UIS, so...
"Indeed I am.", I replied to Ichigo, "I also travel a lot, we call people like me yisbryd teithio in Tafod, that is our language." I let a beat pass. "May I invite you to a cuppa tea? I am very curious about your kinsfolk, if you don't mind telling me a bit."

"A cup of hot tea sounds perfect for a couple'a chilled weary travelers as ourselves! You think so, Ichigo?"

"Yeah, tea sounds wonderful! And I'm sure there's plenty we could tell each other. Hikage especially loves to regale people with what it's like to sail the seas."

"Ahahaa, guilty as charged. And we had a long trip here too. We're newly weds ya know, on an adventure to see what is beyond our humble little island! So far we're loving what we're seeing."

[Greater Orcadia]

It was still a bit of time until everything would officially start, but the first tendencies were already quite obvious for those with eyes: For one thing, armoured vehicles were quite interesting. Then, a howitzer wasn't something one saw every day either. Third, the SDF was setting up a field kitchen, too, if only for the fun of it.
Lastly, the majority of the people were not wearing face masks - they were at the open air, after all, so why should they?
Other people were waiting for things to happen, too, among them, not too far away, Major Paisúile and her daughter, together with Madame Céilt, her daughter currently not present with her.
The mood, in general, was well.

It was the hardware that interested Melanie, she pointed out a few of the military trucks to Hannah, before turning her eyes on the field kitchen, however the military officer was not known to Melaine or Hannah, however Hannah's face was plastered across local Orcadian papers as she was one of a few people who survived someone's self destructive terrorist act, and its something she would like to forget.

Melanie was keeping her eyes on the howitzer, "I wander, some military displays, folk can get to step into the cabins, cockpits and turrets of military vehicles, If i can get to step in, Hannah if its allowed get your camera out" she says

"aye, sounds like an idea, maybe even try the field kitchen as well" replies Hannah.

[Port Ember]

City Hall Square; Old Town; Iron Castle.
Jolene Gudfrey

Upon linking her arms into those of Áed, she felt him pull her closer against him, done almost as an afterthought. Jolene could not help but imagine the true strength of her friend. Due to their physical closeness, Jolene knew that some of her scent would attach itself to him, and he would clearly smell like her for a good portion of the day, which would no doubt drive some other lassies in this world mad with jealousy. Jolene smiled in silence at the thought.

As they walked forth, the residual body heat radiating from Áed warmed her slowly, dissipating the worst of her shivers, with her feeling her body and mind slowly transforming into her natural self.

Áed continued to show her the electronic conversation between him and Malra, her basically instructing him to fetch her and bring them together. There was tea, cookies, warmth and friendship waiting as reward - so how could she possibly decline!? Even more enticing was the promise of a showing of her favourite sport, and this prospect really got her blood pumping.

After reading the message, she let out a soft giggle before responding,
"Oh silly, you know I cannot refuse such an offer! And I see that my incapability to handle the cold climate of the Free Lands has now become legendary. You know dear, my previous offer which I extended to you and Marla the last time I was here, still stands. I would be absolutely thrilled to host you within the Republic. There is no party like a tropical island party!"

Jolene looked up to Áed once again, looking deep within his eyes, speaking again, in a much softer tone,
"So, how are you hun? Truly?"

[Astares Amauricanum]

Amy Socheo of the Tribe of Navan.
The lad was good at his job, very well-read. He enjoyed our discussion, that much was clear, and he had the knowledge to back it up.
Truth being told, though, I was spending time here before I could join my son at the Gealanacoinlín Cup's field at Clais Castle's Inner Courtyard. He would compete and while he was way out of his league, I knew, that he would give it his all. What more could a sponsor expect from her Champion?
Leonard and Cel would fetch me in a bit, they had something to organize, they had said.
The Private knew that. He had said, that he was honoured to talk with me regardless of how long it would be.
Our discussion was interrupted, though, by two people, who I would, occupation-wise, put into the direction of either military or police. As a Military Historian, I knew, how they looked and behaved...
Anyway, they were polite, asked for some books, and I looked to the Private, motioning to him - this was his stall, not mine.
He thought for a moment, then reached out: "Not much in English, I'm afraid. There would be Small War Crusade, which details the guerilla-like campaigns of Selkie-Raiders during the Crusade." He pointed at one book on his display, then at another. "Prince Nuada's Small War is an account of such a guerilla war during the Age of High Kings by Sírlám the Scribe." He then pointed at another one. "And, by Professor Socheo..." He nodded to me, I smiled slightly. "...Selkie-Mercenaries. Light Cavalry Raids, Skirmishes and Battles during the Uprising of the Teressian Barons and the Foundation of a Reputation."
"Do you have Arrow-Riders by Glynn Dúcha of the Tribe of Westmeath?", I asked.
The young soldier nodded and pointed to one book. "Indeed I do, though that's a novel."

After listening to the Private's description of books, Orem and Mareva exchange a few glances, before the female Colonel turns her head back towards the Private and Professor Socheo.
"They all have our interest, so we will take all of that please please." she asks with a smile. "And also, I would like to know if it would be possible through you to order those books in a larger quantity. We have some friends back home that might really like them too."

[Mervay]

Leonard Rualacha of the Tribe of Wicklow.
I nodded.
"Blimey, that sounds like some pretty huge thing!", I said with a grin, "Congratulations!" I glanced forward as we moved through the crowd, lest we bumped into someone, then back at Athena. "But that's fully understandable. I mean, big trips of the Elders are quite hush-hush, too, so..."
I shrugged.
"I've been to Kyrenaia once, a few years ago - my school's swimmer team was invited to compete against the teams of a few other schools.", I told her, smiled slightly, "I got second place in the individual competition. Very hot country... and, my recommendation, Aragh and Hammams do not mix well!"
I grinned at that.

Athena Freezis
Athena grinned at Leo congratulating her for such thing; that travel was very crucial for everyone involved and would certainly be a big push foward if successful.

"Thank you; I appreciate it." She said smiling beneath her mask while staying close to Leo as they moved through the crowd, making sure to not bump into someone. She then heard him talk about the travels of the elders and a advice that is pretty much worth for her visit, one which made her chuckle from it.

"Well that's great to hear, I can be certain that without your arm injured and if invited once again, you would take 1st place. And; Will take that into consideration then." Freezis said with a smile before letting a beat pass before continue with the rest. "How's your sister by the way?? I hope she's alright."

[Polish Prussian Commonwealth]

Viola Arán of the Tribe of Fermanagh.
I smiled at my kids, my daughter excitedly telling me about something or the other, well aware of the young woman closeby.
My son, Áed, was well aware of her as well and he was a well-raised young man (of thirteen Springs, but same difference). He was blonde as I was, blue eyes and a friendly, cute face - in a few years, girls would line up for a chance for a cuppa with him, I was sure of it!
Still, he was polite and well-raised, turning to the young woman.
"Excuse me, Miss, but can we help you with something?", he asked in English - far from pitch-perfect, with quite a bit of an accent, but very understandable.
Alaina, meanwhile, spoke like a waterfall.

Marie

A young boy, presumably the officer's son, spoke up, and I knelt down to be face-to-face with him. "'Ello." I responded, smiling a little. "I presume that you are with your.. mother, correct?" I glanced at the officer. "Do you mind terribly if I were to speak with her for a short while?"

---

Liutgard "Lilly" Fischer
What, you thought I would just go home after the trimester was over? No dice. A hilarious series of events lead to my flight not occuring for another 2 months.
Oh well. I had been keeping up with my work anyway, with my professors mailing me my coursework and assignments, and I had kept in touch with many of the students I had met. As luck would have it, one of my fellow students, my new friend, and the reason I wasn't in a mental ward, was in the same predicament-Charlotte Northam, although I call her Charlie.

We were sitting on a bench in the streets- to be precise, the City Town Hall. Well, correction. I was sitting. Charlotte was slumped on my shoulder, feigning exhaustion and possibly getting her drool all over my button-down shirt.

"Oi." I said, at last, poking her in the ribs. "Get up."

"Not right nooooooow..." she whined. "I'm tiiiired..."

I huffed in frustration. Friend or not, Charlotte was still filthy rich, and had the laziness that seemed to be inherent in the people of her class. Although, thankfully, less of the arrogance. "Come on, Charlie. Let's go."

"Fiiiine..." she groaned, as I dragged her up. She blinked a few times and then linked her arm with mine, shooting me a sloppy grin. "Well, then...where to?"

"Dunno. The AFV exhibition looks nice."

Charlie snorted in mock derision. "You silly Prussian-Poles and your silly obsession with tanks."

I suppressed a giggle. "Oh, shut up, Anglo.", I replied.

[Ezhara]

If the two really went for the nearest bakery, then they might meet me...

Gyeongju and Dolgae walked over to the bakery, the latter with his headphones over his head as he trailed behind his mother, eyes half-closed, but his gait and direction remained unaltered. Though she hadn't taken his hand to guide him, if one got close enough and looked at her, they would find that she had some iridescent material on the interior of her sleeve, gleaming even despite the darkness. Why she invested in such an extravagant item was another matter, but it wasn't obstructive nor distracting towards others by any means, but it resembled gazing inside of a prism, with a hundred colors splitting, merging, shattering.
Nonetheless, she and her son made it to the bakery's line just behind Imogen; they, of course, did not know her either, but Gyeongju's presence still carried most of that youthful, impulsive air as more than a decade ago; she seemed an easy conversation. Her son, with his headphones on and his eyes closed, did not exude anything similar, though he remained somehow alert, shifting away whenever anyone else came close to him.

"You remember 'Gala,' right? I think we can use that" Dolgae turned towards the entrance, at a boy dressed with a dark shirt that split at his waist, adorned by vivid weaves depicting a sun-headed deity walking out of lake, his rainbow-colored presence accompanied by a flock of macaws and flowers. A few woven beads hung from his hair, and a black headband on his head, slanted and barely visible beyond the loose, draping ends on his left side, coalesced into a brilliant rainbow at the center. His pants descended into darker tones, decorated with a couple streams of colorful weaves and a tail ornament at his waist, and the split coattails of his shirt had a few strips of rainbow amidst a dark night. "Oh, Dokkie, perfect meeting you here." The boy dashed forward, and the younger of the two stepped back.
"Don't do that..."

"Sorry Dokkie, it was just..." He extracted his phone and tapped around, and the half-awake Dokkie looked towards an androgynous figure at the doorway that resembled a prison guard with their attire, the only hint otherwise being sixteen keys beneath a colorful collar, with each key having its own design and color, none of them practical for an actual prison. "That ceremony earlier was amazing, and I just had to take notes for my music video, so I was talking with Omi over there while we were heading here to get some breakfast and all, and—"
"Did you take something earlier? You sound like you did."
"What, no. Of course not. I wouldn't go to a foreign nation with something like that in my system. I don't even have my bag, see?" He spun around on one leg while the prison guard, evidently named Omi, approached him; though unsmiling, their eyes betrayed a slight amusement.
"Illapa, stop harassing Dokkie," they said, their voice revealing nothing further of their gender.

"Ah, wali, I'm just asking for his advice on the music video."
"What, I'm not good enough for you?" They didn't lean forward or change their posture, but an intimidating energy spilled forth from them, though it was of playful more so than hostile intent.
"No, no, it's not that, wali, it's just that he's also a musician with his own music videos, and—"
"If that's what you want to talk about," Dokkie said, "shouldn't you talk with my artist then?"
"Surely you talk with them, occasionally?" The younger opened his eyes, looked around, and shook his head no.

"It's never been official. I don't think I want it to be. He's a creep anyway." He yawned. "Now stop bothering me..." His mother half-turned her head; she hadn't reacted throughout the entire conversation, but still, a half-crescent of a smile crept over her, and Illapa stepped back, followed by Omi; this time, the mischief of a vibrant nightlife swirled around Gyeongju, rather than the mischief of her youthful vigor. It wasn't anything greater than romantic, but rather, it embodied those quick-step parties, where deft weaving on floor and mouth alike were needed. It wasn't what she could do, but that she could or could not, and it was impossible to tell what she sought with that smile. Amusement? Planning? A hidden threat? Whatever it was, her half-smile hung in the air like a plastic moon that had replaced the actual moon.

[The Selkie]

Peter Turrija
City Hall Square, Ironcastle

"Not sure about driving a tank, seeing as I never served in an armored division," Peter replied. There was truth in his statement: he served in a reserve unit, the First Leyte Mountain Division, not too long ago. "I was more of a mountain man back in the day, actually. Perhaps you could guide me to their showroom?" There was a gleam in Peter's eyes as the thought of having someone who knew her way guiding him crossed his mind; he was smiling behind the mask.
"Hopefully the second wave doesn't hit that hard," he said. "Had something similar happen in the District of Humabon a few months back, and it was good they got things done quickly."

Nora Scriúire of the Tribe of Cavan.
I nodded.
“Hopefully.”, I said, “We'll see soon enough. Now, come! Carreis House is that way!”
I regained a bit of cheer and went ahead, before I remembered something. Reaching into one of my pocket, I took out a leather glove, putting it on. Holding out both of my hands so that he had to pick between a gloved hand and an ungloved hand, I smiled.
“Wanna hold hands so we don't loose each other?”, I offered. Not to mention, that this would also prevent him from getting lost himself.

Fionn Gurléit of the Tribe of Louth.
I nodded, then came out behind my counter.
"I think, that I might know something.", I said with a wink. We were specialized in wooden toys, that was true, but my sister was better with the sewing needle then with the whittle. And so, when she made something, she made stuffed toys.
She was very good at it, too, her stuffed animals all having personality.
We had them in one shelf a bit to the side, she had picked that spot herself, and in many different sizes. Some were small enough to fit into a small backpack, some were even larger then the customer I was advising!
Many different species were represented here, some cuddly ones like Ice Fox, Fire Fennek or a Kyrenaian Desert Mouse, some less cuddly one, but still awesome, like a Sandpanther, a Sickle Cat or a Star Lynx... and some were things, where I honestly had to ask myself what drove my sister to make a plush out of that, like the Cavephantom, complete with suckers to attack it to flat surfaces.
For boys, she had also made a Woodstalker and a Sand Wyvern, especially the latter looked like he could kick rear ends - and he was larger then the girl.
"Here we go.", I said with a smile, then winked: "Test cuddling is allowed."

Her eyes were wide at the vast selection, wow they were all very cute and they all seemed pretty cuddly. She reached out for the Ice Fox first, feeling it, pretty nice material whatever it was made of. Honestly she kind of wanted one herself but her money was limited so best keep focus on the mission, her sister's present! "Mmmm you know, I really think she'd like the Ice Fox, although the Fire Fennek is pretty nice too." She felt up the Fire Fennek. "I think I'll take the Fire Fennek for her. Yes, that's the one, she'll love it!" She reached into the breast pocket of her kimono pulling out her cute little wallet.

Fionn Gurléit of the Tribe of Louth.
I smiled and nodded, motioned to the register.
“Follow me and we'll tally it up.”, I said and took a glance at the small sign next to the display, written in English and in Selkie, which also had the prices. This one was a small one, so... “Please hold three Gil at the ready.”
Three Gil, or 45 NSD, were a good price for a handmade plushie of that size and quality. Besides, we had to live from something, too...
At the register, I went behind it and smiled at the young lady. Her sisters were... somewhere in the shop.

Leonard Seanbhoc of the Tribe of Wicklow.
I nodded.
"Then come. I know a nice place, where two old men can sit, enjoy whiskey, and swap stories.", I said and began to move. "And they have... charming waitresses as well."
I smiled under my beard, which moved up slightly at the edges.
Who said, that an old man couldn't appreciate the female form?
It wasn't far anway, maybe three minutes by foot. I'd lead the other man through the crowd onto the main street, then down one side street, then down another.
While I did that, I asked him: "Any preferences when it comes to whiskey? Smooth or fiery?"

"Huh... Looks like beard and battle scars have added some age to mah' looks. Alright... guess that's gonna be a nice saloon for us, veterans to share a story or two. And watch some local eye candy. Just like on the last Veteran meeting, I had back home. Such a crowd ain't gonna let ya' hear a thing, if it cheers."-Said Graham, as he followed Leonard through the crowd right to the main street. When he heared the question about booze, his eyes sparked. -"Speakin' of whiskey, I'd like something unique, specific for your country. Maybe there is some ol' recipe. Ain't gonna turn away something new, ya' know. I'll buy some for ya'."-Jacob casually looks around and just admires local architecture. It's far older and more authenic, than back at homeland, where countless old buildings were damaged during a civil war for freedom. As he walked the street, his hip felt unusual without weight of his gun, he used to carry in Skyhooked.

Leonard Seanbhoc of the Tribe of Wicklow.
I nodded. “I might know something, then...”
That being said, we stood in the middle of a seemingly empty street deep in Ironcastle. The sounds of the Festival were far away, if audible at all, and a small set of stairs led down to a dark, wooden door. Nothing told anyone of there being a place to have a drink down there.
Still, I approached the door, knocked on it twice.
A slit opened around eye level and a pair of eyes, far younger then mine, looked out. “Yes?”, a slightly girly voice asked in Selkie.
“Who rode Macha through wind and weather?”, I replied with a small smile.
“High King Áed the Hunter.”, the girl replied and closed the slit. A moment later, keen ears would hear a bit of shuffling and then, the door opened. Standing behind it was indeed a young woman, maybe seventeen, her smile visible even under her face mask. She was slim, lean, blonde, quite pretty and dressed in a maid costume. “Welcome back, Mister Seanbhoc.”
For a moment, her eyes fell onto Graham.
“Glad to be back.”, I said in English, walking in, “Don't worry about him. He belongs to me. Does Ayden still have that barrel of Firewater?” The young woman nodded and I pulled out a golden coin. “Then tell him to get it out. Round's on me.”
“Of course.”, the young woman replied and closed the door.

Imogen Teithiwr, of Cefnffordd Descent.
I smiled a bit sheepish when the two corrected me - of course, there were animal-eared folk (as we are called in some places) in many places. The chance for two foreigners to be Spiorad...
I bowed my head lightly at the introductions, but when they mentioned, that they knew someone, who might be kinsfolk, I was surprised. A resort on Aurora, huh? I have never been to the UIS, so...
"Indeed I am.", I replied to Ichigo, "I also travel a lot, we call people like me yisbryd teithio in Tafod, that is our language." I let a beat pass. "May I invite you to a cuppa tea? I am very curious about your kinsfolk, if you don't mind telling me a bit."

"A cup of hot tea sounds perfect for a couple'a chilled weary travelers as ourselves! You think so, Ichigo?"

"Yeah, tea sounds wonderful! And I'm sure there's plenty we could tell each other. Hikage especially loves to regale people with what it's like to sail the seas."

"Ahahaa, guilty as charged. And we had a long trip here too. We're newly weds ya know, on an adventure to see what is beyond our humble little island! So far we're loving what we're seeing."

Imogen Teithiwr, of Cefnffordd Descent.
I smiled. So, she liked to tell stories of sailing, huh? Oh, she would be in wonderful company!
“My congratulations, then!”, I said with a smile, “May Besencla bless the two of you.” I motioned for them to follow me. “Come, the place I had in mind is not too far away from here... one of those little joints you wouldn't find even if you tried...”
They'd like Moricil's Hangout, that was for sure!

It was the hardware that interested Melanie, she pointed out a few of the military trucks to Hannah, before turning her eyes on the field kitchen, however the military officer was not known to Melaine or Hannah, however Hannah's face was plastered across local Orcadian papers as she was one of a few people who survived someone's self destructive terrorist act, and its something she would like to forget.

Melanie was keeping her eyes on the howitzer, "I wander, some military displays, folk can get to step into the cabins, cockpits and turrets of military vehicles, If i can get to step in, Hannah if its allowed get your camera out" she says

"aye, sounds like an idea, maybe even try the field kitchen as well" replies Hannah.

Checking out the vehicles' insides was strictly limited: One could peek inside the cockpit of the Veibhit on display via the ladder, but one was not allowed to sit in it. People were free to sit in the back of the AFVs present, but the turret, driver's seat and commander's seat were off limits. The howitzer could only be admired from a distance, though the crew made up for that by demonstrating how they calculated firing solutions the old-fashioned way.
People weren't even allowed to touch the ammunition on display, let alone the weapons, all of which was strictly guarded.
Still, people had fun.

City Hall Square; Old Town; Iron Castle.
Jolene Gudfrey

Upon linking her arms into those of Áed, she felt him pull her closer against him, done almost as an afterthought. Jolene could not help but imagine the true strength of her friend. Due to their physical closeness, Jolene knew that some of her scent would attach itself to him, and he would clearly smell like her for a good portion of the day, which would no doubt drive some other lassies in this world mad with jealousy. Jolene smiled in silence at the thought.

As they walked forth, the residual body heat radiating from Áed warmed her slowly, dissipating the worst of her shivers, with her feeling her body and mind slowly transforming into her natural self.

Áed continued to show her the electronic conversation between him and Malra, her basically instructing him to fetch her and bring them together. There was tea, cookies, warmth and friendship waiting as reward - so how could she possibly decline!? Even more enticing was the promise of a showing of her favourite sport, and this prospect really got her blood pumping.

After reading the message, she let out a soft giggle before responding,
"Oh silly, you know I cannot refuse such an offer! And I see that my incapability to handle the cold climate of the Free Lands has now become legendary. You know dear, my previous offer which I extended to you and Marla the last time I was here, still stands. I would be absolutely thrilled to host you within the Republic. There is no party like a tropical island party!"

Jolene looked up to Áed once again, looking deep within his eyes, speaking again, in a much softer tone,
"So, how are you hun? Truly?"

Áed Gadhair of the Tribe of Fermanagh.
I was not opposed to our closeness and if some lassies would get jealous over me smelling like another woman, I would get over it. Those, who knew me, knew, what I did the whole day long. Marla was even an accomplice of mine in this and I was sure, that I'd have a dance with her later.
Her invitation made me smile. I'd be quite likely to accept the invitation, that was for sure!
Her question, however, made me exhale.
“It's difficult to describe.”, I said after a moment of thinking. “This COVID-19 Shindig is getting more and more complicated by the day, as we are preparing for the Second Wave. Internationally, the relations with some are under strain with that, but the Strategic and Economic Alliance is holding together. That is at least a relief.” I smiled slightly at that. “A few more conflicts will pop up over the next few years, but none of them close to us.”
I looked at her.
“Keep an eye out on the former Kyrenaian Colony Eadhra.”, I said, “There, you'll see an explosion.”

After listening to the Private's description of books, Orem and Mareva exchange a few glances, before the female Colonel turns her head back towards the Private and Professor Socheo.
"They all have our interest, so we will take all of that please please." she asks with a smile. "And also, I would like to know if it would be possible through you to order those books in a larger quantity. We have some friends back home that might really like them too."

Amy Socheo of the Tribe of Navan.
The young man shook his head.
“I'm afraid, that you'll have to get in touch with the publishing houses, sorry.”, he said and began to pack all the books he had mentioned, packing them into a wool bag carefully. “The addresses are on the copyright page. That'd also make a total of seven Gil, please.”
Seven Gil, or 105 NSD, was a good price considering, that all four books were hardcovers and had their illustrations printed in colour. Also, two of those four were scientific works while another one was a source edition, which all usually tended to be a bit more expensive.
The novel was, of course, a bit cheaper.

Athena Freezis
Athena grinned at Leo congratulating her for such thing; that travel was very crucial for everyone involved and would certainly be a big push foward if successful.

"Thank you; I appreciate it." She said smiling beneath her mask while staying close to Leo as they moved through the crowd, making sure to not bump into someone. She then heard him talk about the travels of the elders and a advice that is pretty much worth for her visit, one which made her chuckle from it.

"Well that's great to hear, I can be certain that without your arm injured and if invited once again, you would take 1st place. And; Will take that into consideration then." Freezis said with a smile before letting a beat pass before continue with the rest. "How's your sister by the way?? I hope she's alright."

Leonard Rualacha of the Tribe of Wicklow.
I smiled. “She's fine. School's a bit rough on her, but she is a child, that is better with manual things anyway, like craftsmanship.”, I explained with a small shrug. I, as she maybe remembered, wasn't much better. “I actually planned to take her along here, but she rather stayed with Dad in Scrín... there's a boy she likes and wanted to ask for a dance.”
I grinned, happy for her.
“Don't worry, though. He was already suitably made aware of the consequences of breaking my little sis' heart.”, I said and grinned.

Marie

A young boy, presumably the officer's son, spoke up, and I knelt down to be face-to-face with him. "'Ello." I responded, smiling a little. "I presume that you are with your.. mother, correct?" I glanced at the officer. "Do you mind terribly if I were to speak with her for a short while?"

---

Liutgard "Lilly" Fischer
What, you thought I would just go home after the trimester was over? No dice. A hilarious series of events lead to my flight not occuring for another 2 months.
Oh well. I had been keeping up with my work anyway, with my professors mailing me my coursework and assignments, and I had kept in touch with many of the students I had met. As luck would have it, one of my fellow students, my new friend, and the reason I wasn't in a mental ward, was in the same predicament-Charlotte Northam, although I call her Charlie.

We were sitting on a bench in the streets- to be precise, the City Town Hall. Well, correction. I was sitting. Charlotte was slumped on my shoulder, feigning exhaustion and possibly getting her drool all over my button-down shirt.

"Oi." I said, at last, poking her in the ribs. "Get up."

"Not right nooooooow..." she whined. "I'm tiiiired..."

I huffed in frustration. Friend or not, Charlotte was still filthy rich, and had the laziness that seemed to be inherent in the people of her class. Although, thankfully, less of the arrogance. "Come on, Charlie. Let's go."

"Fiiiine..." she groaned, as I dragged her up. She blinked a few times and then linked her arm with mine, shooting me a sloppy grin. "Well, then...where to?"

"Dunno. The AFV exhibition looks nice."

Charlie snorted in mock derision. "You silly Prussian-Poles and your silly obsession with tanks."

I suppressed a giggle. "Oh, shut up, Anglo.", I replied.

Viola Arán of the Tribe of Fermanagh.
Áed wanted to reply, but I preempted him, glancing to her with Darufa at my side. “Depends on what you need, Miss...?”, I asked the young woman.
Áed joined my other side, smiling as I placed a hand on his head, ruffling his hair.
He was not yet of the age, where affection shown by his mother would invariably result in him getting concerned about the state of his hairstyle, but that'd come soon enough, just like his sister wouldn't remain the cute little girl she was now forever.
That didn't stop me from showering both of them in affection, though.

Ritubani Aoi.
I would be lying if I said, that I spotted them immediately.
Still, of course I recognized Lilly and Charlotte, who had made a foreign semester at the same university at which my girlfriend Elin and I studied. Elin had a few things to prepare for the tournament, she would be up against Viola Péire in the first round, so I roamed the city a bit... and had stumbled both across the Army apparently and over two acquaintances of mine.
“Good morning, you two.”, I said politely, the bunny ears on my head twitching. They were, much akin to the Spiorad (of which the two at least knew Elin) and their ears, natural.

If the two really went for the nearest bakery, then they might meet me...

Gyeongju and Dolgae walked over to the bakery, the latter with his headphones over his head as he trailed behind his mother, eyes half-closed, but his gait and direction remained unaltered. Though she hadn't taken his hand to guide him, if one got close enough and looked at her, they would find that she had some iridescent material on the interior of her sleeve, gleaming even despite the darkness of her interior sleeve. Why she invested in such an extravagant item was another matter, but it wasn't obstructive nor distracting towards others by any means, but it resembled gazing inside of a prism, with a hundred colors splitting, merging, shattering.
Nonetheless, she and her son made it to the bakery's line just behind Imogen; they, of course, did not know her either, but Gyeongju's presence still carried most of that youthful, impulsive air as more than a decade ago; she seemed an easy conversation. Her son, with his headphones on and his eyes closed, did not exude anything similar, though he remained somehow alert, shifting away whenever anyone else came close to him.

"You remember 'Gala,' right? I think we can use that" Dolgae turned towards the entrance, at a boy dressed with a dark shirt that split at his waist, adorned by vivid weaves depicting a sun-headed deity walking out of lake, his rainbow-colored presence accompanied by a flock of macaws and flowers. A few woven beads hung from his hair, and a black headband on his head, slanted and barely visible beyond the loose, draping ends on his left side, coalesced into a brilliant rainbow at the center. His pants descended into darker tones, decorated with a couple streams of colorful weaves and a tail ornament at his waist, and the split coattails of his shirt had a few strips of rainbow amidst a dark night. "Oh, Dokkie, perfect meeting you here." The boy dashed forward, and the younger of the two stepped back.
"Don't do that..."

"Sorry Dokkie, it was just..." He extracted his phone and tapped around, and the half-awake Dokkie looked towards an androgynous figure at the doorway that resembled a prison guard with their attire, the only hint otherwise being sixteen keys beneath a colorful collar, with each key having its own design and color, none of them practical for an actual prison. "That ceremony earlier was amazing, and I just had to take notes for my music video, so I was talking with Omi over there while we were heading here to get some breakfast and all, and—"
"Did you take something earlier? You sound like you did."
"What, no. Of course not. I wouldn't go to a foreign nation with something like that in my system. I don't even have my bag, see?" He spun around on one leg while the prison guard, evidently named Omi, approached him; though unsmiling, their eyes betrayed a slight amusement.
"Illapa, stop harassing Dokkie," they said, their voice revealing nothing further of their gender.

"Ah, wali, I'm just asking for his advice on the music video."
"What, I'm not good enough for you?" They didn't lean forward or change their posture, but an intimidating energy spilled forth from them, though it was of playful more so than hostile intent.
"No, no, it's not that, wali, it's just that he's also a musician with his own music videos, and—"
"If that's what you want to talk about," Dokkie said, "shouldn't you talk with my artist then?"
"Surely you talk with them, occasionally?" The younger opened his eyes, looked around, and shook his head no.

"It's never been official. I don't think I want it to be. He's a creep anyway." He yawned. "Now stop bothering me..." His mother half-turned her head; she hadn't reacted throughout the entire conversation, but still, a half-crescent of a smile crept over her, and Illapa stepped back, followed by Omi; this time, the mischief of a vibrant nightlife swirled around Gyeongju, rather than the mischief of her youthful vigor. It wasn't anything greater than romantic, but rather, it embodied those quick-step parties, where deft weaving on floor and mouth alike were needed. It wasn't what she could do, but that she could or could not, and it was impossible to tell what she sought with that smile. Amusement? Planning? A hidden threat? Whatever it was, her half-smile hung in the air like a plastic moon that had replaced the actual moon.

Imogen Céilt of the Tribe of Fermanagh.
Someone joined the line behind me, I glanced over my shoulder – a mother and her son, I was tempted to say. She seemed like a nice woman, her son... he didn't seem like an arsehole or something, but more like his interest came out of his headphones.
And who could blame him? I was putting him somewhere between ten Springs and twelve, and he was standing in a line with his Mom at a bakery.
I smiled at his mother and nodded.
Then a couple of kids left the bakery, approached the boy and a quick, furious discussion began, a storm of words, which might make sense in the context the three kids had, but I was severely lost.
What wasn't lost on me was the unspoken threat in the aura of the mother as her son told the other two to bugger off and leave him alone. She reminded me a bit of Brigadier Fuil in that moment, if I were honest...
The line moved forward a bit.

[New Visayan Islands]

Peter Turrija
City Hall Square, Ironcastle

"Lead on," Peter replied with barely disguised glee as he took the gloved hand. As the two of them made their way to Carreis House, Peter thought back to the ceremony. It was engaging, and his VIP status as Acting Branch Manager of VSSB was its own boon, but there was something about getting on the ground, so to speak, that had immense appeal. The fact that he was hand in hand with Nora helped, too.
"I must admit: this is an entirely different experience when compared to what I faced earlier," Peter said.

[Astares Amauricanum]

Amy Socheo of the Tribe of Navan.
The young man shook his head.
“I'm afraid, that you'll have to get in touch with the publishing houses, sorry.”, he said and began to pack all the books he had mentioned, packing them into a wool bag carefully. “The addresses are on the copyright page. That'd also make a total of seven Gil, please.”
Seven Gil, or 105 NSD, was a good price considering, that all four books were hardcovers and had their illustrations printed in colour. Also, two of those four were scientific works while another one was a source edition, which all usually tended to be a bit more expensive.
The novel was, of course, a bit cheaper.

"Okay, we will do that. Thank you for the info." replies Mareva as she hands seven Gil to the young Private, as her husband takes the wool bag. The female Colonel bites her lip as if she wanted to say something, but unsure if this would pass as appropriate. After a few seconds, she speaks again, this time with more confidence in her voice.
"Forgive me if htis sounds innapropriate, but since we are in the military too, we would like to know if you would accept a donation for a veteran's association, on top of the things we will by that would go to your Military Graves Registration Service." she says with a small, but a bit sheepish smile.

[Kuronami]

Fionn Gurléit of the Tribe of Louth.
I smiled and nodded, motioned to the register.
“Follow me and we'll tally it up.”, I said and took a glance at the small sign next to the display, written in English and in Selkie, which also had the prices. This one was a small one, so... “Please hold three Gil at the ready.”
Three Gil, or 45 NSD, were a good price for a handmade plushie of that size and quality. Besides, we had to live from something, too...
At the register, I went behind it and smiled at the young lady. Her sisters were... somewhere in the shop.

"Right!" She pulled out the Three Gil she had converted when they arrived. The exchange between the Kronor and Gil wasn't too bad actually, they had plenty of cash on hand to make this a long fruitful vacation. And just like that, the perfect gift for her sister. Speaking of the sisters it seemed Aoi was eager to go, even with Yasuko still trying to hold her back "Wait I saw one more thing..."

"Come on, we can't stay here all day! We want to see other things don't we?"

Thankfully by the time they got up to the counter it was bagged and ready to go and she could conceal it.

"Oh, did you buy something, Bocchi?"

"Oh well...Yes I did...Uh but I'll show it later, I want to be careful to not drop it."

"Oh something fragile then?"

Well it wasn't but it was an easy out. "Y-yeah, that's right."

"Mmm..." Aoi thought with a glint of suspicion to what her little sister was up to "Wait I bet I know what it is!"

"Y-ya do?"

"You always admire the glass animals mom has I bet you found one just like that and decided to get one for yourself. Well I hope it wasn't too expensive."

"Not at all!" Bocchi grinned, her sister was going to be really surprised, because this was a gift for her!


"Anyway, why don't we get going, I want to start doing some more sight seeing. Thanks sir." Aoi bowed to thank the shopkeep for his hospitality and a way to thank him for 'putting up with her sister's antics'

"Yes thank you very much for your help sir!" Bocchi thanked also with a bow but also shooting a wink of thank you back for his cooperative silence on the matter. Honestly she had no idea if this shop had such glass animal figures here but it was the perfect cover. Taking her older sister by the hand the three sisters exited the shop. "Let's see where to next?" Bocchi asked

"Mmmmm." Aoi pulled out the map and guide they were studying earlier.

"Hey, Aoi, ya should try a brew!" Yasuko cheekily suggested "For you at 15, I hear it's legal here!"

"I-I..." She had certainly thought about it, but maybe that'd be best when her sisters were safe at their hotel, she had to be the responsible one "Maybe later. I still gotta keep an eye on you two! For now we should find something we can all enjoy."

[Polish Prussian Commonwealth]

OOC: Soon.

[AHSCA]

Imogen Teithiwr, of Cefnffordd Descent.
I smiled. So, she liked to tell stories of sailing, huh? Oh, she would be in wonderful company!
“My congratulations, then!”, I said with a smile, “May Besencla bless the two of you.” I motioned for them to follow me. “Come, the place I had in mind is not too far away from here... one of those little joints you wouldn't find even if you tried...”
They'd like Moricil's Hangout, that was for sure!

"Thank you!" Hikage said with a wide grin "And thanks for the blessings, may Madokami bless your folk too when you travel to our lands just as your Gods surely bless us when we come here. Cause boy oh boy can we ever use some good blessings as we take to the high seas. But that in good time, right, can't talk traveling and island life and all that fun stuff without some tea in front of us, wouldn't you say so, ichigo?"

"uh yeah, whatever you say, Hikage..." Sometimes Hikage was a bit much for her but oh well, some tea was good either way. "We'd be delighted to join you," Ichigo added "So please lead the way."

[Brettenwald]

"Very impressive. Not surprised you can't talk about the armor since you're actively using them, I don't even know why I asked." Henrik chuckled. "Don't worry about sounding like you're a car salesman. I grew up around my father's repair shop and secondhand dealership, it's the soundtrack of my childhood. I see my children are on their usual best behavior." He glanced in Mau and Zena's direction. "I apologize for any disruption. What's the water boiler used for?" Petra gave the Lieutenant a wry smile. "Don't go giving her any ideas." Zena was suddenly the picture of innocence. "Mom, I would never-"
"I know, dear. You'd only do it when I wasn't looking." She checked the time on her phone. "How long does it take to get to Clais Castle from here?"

Sergeant/Lieutenant Juna Sint of the Tribe of Fingal.
The Chosen Man, smiled and nodded, glad, that he hadn't offended the actually quite nice man, while the mother of the lass cautioned her girl before she did anything stupid.
The driver grinned slightly at the question: "Boiling water.", he said, then elaborated: "SDF-Vehicles usually have an internal water boiler so that the crew doesn't have to leave their vehicles to cook water for instant meals or a cuppa tea, which is quite important in a war zone. Less chance for the enemy to shoot at squishy humans."
I, meanwhile, smiled at the scene with the mother and daughter. It sounded so familiar, though I was more used to the girl's perspective.
"If you take one of the trams...", I told the mother, "...you can be there in ten minutes. Add to that, that you need to walk to the station, call it a quarter of an hour." I smiled slightly. "I'm from here, actually."

Henrik laughed sheepishly. "Gods. I must be more jet lagged than I thought. Well, it looks like my family's getting ready to move on, but it's been a pleasure talking to you . . . Hey, honey. Where to next?" Petra rummaged in her purse for her phone and keyed "Duna Clais" into Google Maps. "Clais Castle. 15 minutes by tram, including the walking bits. Mau, Zena, ready to go?" A unison chorus of "yes" followed, and after saying goodbye to the lieutenant and a check to make sure they all had their guest cards for the tram (it really was quite kind of the inn to do that, thought Petra), the family made their way to the station.

[Ezhara]

Someone joined the line behind me...

Gyeongju turned to Imogen with a smirk, a hand on her chin, and a slight tilt to her head. "You were listening, weren't you?"
"Mom." Dolgae kicked her foot. "Don't creep people out like that. And besides, I was pretty loud." He looked ahead at the line as the other boy nodded. "We're gonna be here for a while..."
"In that case, you wanna—"
"No." He waddled closer to behind his mother, leaning against her as he shut his eyes. "Go away, Illapa..."
"Agh, for a ten-year-old, you're so cold."
"Eleven..." Gyeongju exhaled and smiled, though now it was more like the gleaming smile of a wolf's fangs in the moonlight.

"Yeah-yeah, I was clo— akh!" Omi had snatched his headband, and was now yanking him away to a nearby table. "Wah, Om—"
"I told you, Illapa, stop harassing him. Talk with his artist instead." They pulled him in closer. "And besides, I'm getting kinda scared of his mom."
"Okay, okay, fine, fine. But still!" He pointed at Dolgae. "I'll be back, Dokkie."
The boy glanced up at his mother. "I was planning on talking to him for the music video, but now... I think I need a nap first. I'm too tired to think." Simply being near Illapa and his hyperactive force for a few moments was enough to drain him and remind him of the glories of sleep again, but Dolgae figured that maybe he was just being selfish. Then again, it wasn't like he got that overexcited and exuberant when it came to his music, but maybe he needed that exact energy. "Fire Flying" was a title that called that sort of exuberance, after all, but after all that thinking earlier...
Some carbs, and a quick nap on a table would do. Maybe the music video would come in his dreams, or something to that effect.

[Seleucid Pergamon]

The vacation was going along well for the three Pergamonians. The uniqueness of the Free Lands had made them forget that corona still existed around them, and there were many sights to see to shroud this further. Efrosyni, the sponsor of this relieving field trip, was fortunate enough to leave around the time that the home government was still considering initiating lockdown measures for a second wave prevention. From all the looming hysteria revolving around the pandemic situation back home, a foreign country was a good choice to get away from it. While she sauntered around after witnessing the opening ceremony, she smiled behind her mask, knowing that it wasn't as bad as back home.

As her two trusted friends, Epameinondas and Zissis went along to accompany her at the risk of leaving their loved ones behind. They had felt the need to head somewhere else for a while as a duty to a mutual friend, if not head off someplace else in the world to relax for a while also. Nevertheless, one benefit of the modern age was video call technology, and bringing their laptops along would give one sign of content from their respective families. They conversed with each other about the times when they met with and talked with a renowned stand-up comedian several days before leaving, with not one bit of homesickness embedded in their speech.

"So, where do you guys want to go," asked Efrosyni in her native tougue as she caressed her pink hair with her favorite black gloves, "I feel like going to the Dúna Clais to see that competition they're hosting. Though I know that they don't start until noon."

"That's going to be fun to see," replied Zissis as his red turban gleamed vividly under the sun, "I haven't seen an actual swordfight in a while, especially since the Atheniad was cancelled seven months ago."

"We could head to the Bicíní Industries Outlet Store and check out some clothes. And I know you have a taste for fashion, being that you're still wearing your favorite gloves," suggested Epameinondas as he tilts his head with a little smile that complimented his apparent piercing eyes well.

"And at least they still provide me protection," Efrosyni chuckled as she observed the little tin spikes, "Sure. I can afford the time to check it out."

The three then headed into the Outlet, welcomed with the sight, scent and atmosphere of the fashion store. They then split up to browse through clothes of their respective genders.

[Polish Prussian Commonwealth]

Marie

A young boy, presumably the officer's son, spoke up, and I knelt down to be face-to-face with him. "'Ello." I responded, smiling a little. "I presume that you are with your.. mother, correct?" I glanced at the officer. "Do you mind terribly if I were to speak with her for a short while?"

---

Liutgard "Lilly" Fischer
What, you thought I would just go home after the trimester was over? No dice. A hilarious series of events lead to my flight not occuring for another 2 months.
Oh well. I had been keeping up with my work anyway, with my professors mailing me my coursework and assignments, and I had kept in touch with many of the students I had met. As luck would have it, one of my fellow students, my new friend, and the reason I wasn't in a mental ward, was in the same predicament-Charlotte Northam, although I call her Charlie.

We were sitting on a bench in the streets- to be precise, the City Town Hall. Well, correction. I was sitting. Charlotte was slumped on my shoulder, feigning exhaustion and possibly getting her drool all over my button-down shirt.

"Oi." I said, at last, poking her in the ribs. "Get up."

"Not right nooooooow..." she whined. "I'm tiiiired..."

I huffed in frustration. Friend or not, Charlotte was still filthy rich, and had the laziness that seemed to be inherent in the people of her class. Although, thankfully, less of the arrogance. "Come on, Charlie. Let's go."

"Fiiiine..." she groaned, as I dragged her up. She blinked a few times and then linked her arm with mine, shooting me a sloppy grin. "Well, then...where to?"

"Dunno. The AFV exhibition looks nice."

Charlie snorted in mock derision. "You silly Prussian-Poles and your silly obsession with tanks."

I suppressed a giggle. "Oh, shut up, Anglo.", I replied.

Viola Arán of the Tribe of Fermanagh.
Áed wanted to reply, but I preempted him, glancing to her with Darufa at my side. “Depends on what you need, Miss...?”, I asked the young woman.
Áed joined my other side, smiling as I placed a hand on his head, ruffling his hair.
He was not yet of the age, where affection shown by his mother would invariably result in him getting concerned about the state of his hairstyle, but that'd come soon enough, just like his sister wouldn't remain the cute little girl she was now forever.
That didn't stop me from showering both of them in affection, though.

Ritubani Aoi.
I would be lying if I said, that I spotted them immediately.
Still, of course I recognized Lilly and Charlotte, who had made a foreign semester at the same university at which my girlfriend Elin and I studied. Elin had a few things to prepare for the tournament, she would be up against Viola Péire in the first round, so I roamed the city a bit... and had stumbled both across the Army apparently and over two acquaintances of mine.
“Good morning, you two.”, I said politely, the bunny ears on my head twitching. They were, much akin to the Spiorad (of which the two at least knew Elin) and their ears, natural.

Liutgard "Lilly" Fischer

I smiled as Ritubani greeted me. I recognized her too; she was a friend(girlfriend? I hadn't been sure; not like it mattered) of Elin, and although I had not met her enough to consider her a friend, she was a decent enough lass. "Hey there." I replied. "A good morning to you too, Miss Aoi."
" 'Sup." Charlie slurred slightly, also smiling. "What's good, 'eh?"
I resisted the furious urge to smack her on the back and/or groan. Even though Charlie might be well-intentioned, in the Commonwealth and in Ochjno this sort of disrespect would have warranted glares and a few slaps on the hand.

---

Marie

I bowed my head slightly in deference. "Marie Ernst Gluck. I'm from the Commonwealth." I replied. "I've been away from the Free Lands for an extended period of time, and I haven't been able to get any news regarding it. I was hoping to ask about the current state of the SDF, to sate my own curiosity, and I thought that you might know something, ma'am. If you would be so kind as to indulge my curiosity, that would be very much appreciated."
I clicked my heels together and stood up a little straighter as I spoke; I wasn't sure if she knew I was with the Reichswehr, but one could normally tell from one's bearing, and I did not want to give the impression of the Reichswehr being slovenly, even while on leave.

[Mervay]

Leonard Rualacha of the Tribe of Wicklow.
I smiled. “She's fine. School's a bit rough on her, but she is a child, that is better with manual things anyway, like craftsmanship.”, I explained with a small shrug. I, as she maybe remembered, wasn't much better. “I actually planned to take her along here, but she rather stayed with Dad in Scrín... there's a boy she likes and wanted to ask for a dance.”
I grinned, happy for her.
“Don't worry, though. He was already suitably made aware of the consequences of breaking my little sis' heart.”, I said and grinned.

Athena Freezis
Well like brother and sister after all; she knew Leo had his difficulties with school and was great at manual things entirely.

"Well, school it's sometimes difficult but I can be certain she will get through it; besides, everyone has their strong points." Athena grinned at him warmly while tightening her hold on Leo's arm to keep close to him while looking at his eyes warmly, they could certainly pass as a couple and that was something she wished could be with him.

As soon as she heard him saying that the guy that his sister liked was adviced of the consequences of breaking her heart, Athena chuckled while glaring at him.

"I guess it was bound to happen as you are her older brother." The purple eyed young woman said before continue. "It's nice to see her in love with someone, perhaps you will find someone soon too." It was as much as subtle of a hint as it could be.

[The Selkie]

Peter Turrija
City Hall Square, Ironcastle

"Lead on," Peter replied with barely disguised glee as he took the gloved hand. As the two of them made their way to Carreis House, Peter thought back to the ceremony. It was engaging, and his VIP status as Acting Branch Manager of VSSB was its own boon, but there was something about getting on the ground, so to speak, that had immense appeal. The fact that he was hand in hand with Nora helped, too.
"I must admit: this is an entirely different experience when compared to what I faced earlier," Peter said.

Nora Scriúire of the Tribe of Cavan.
Oh, someone was excited – whether it was about the cars we were going to look at or about holding hands with me? I would bet the former. He didn't strike me as a guy, who was mentally still a schoolboy.
Either way, as we made our way through the crowd, he said: “I must admit: this is an entirely different experience when compared to what I faced earlier.”
I looked at him over my shoulder. “Oh?”, I asked, “What happened?”

"Okay, we will do that. Thank you for the info." replies Mareva as she hands seven Gil to the young Private, as her husband takes the wool bag. The female Colonel bites her lip as if she wanted to say something, but unsure if this would pass as appropriate. After a few seconds, she speaks again, this time with more confidence in her voice.
"Forgive me if htis sounds innapropriate, but since we are in the military too, we would like to know if you would accept a donation for a veteran's association, on top of the things we will by that would go to your Military Graves Registration Service." she says with a small, but a bit sheepish smile.

Amy Socheo of the Tribe of Navan.
The young man shook his head.
“My apologies, we won't take donations today.”, he said, “The entire point of this...” He made a gesture enveloping the entire tent. “...is to sell stuff in order to earn the funds.” He reached for a card. “Though if you insist, here is the contact and bank information of the Service.”
He held the card out to the couple.
“Please contact them before any larger donations.”, he added.

Fionn Gurléit of the Tribe of Louth.
I smiled and nodded, motioned to the register.
“Follow me and we'll tally it up.”, I said and took a glance at the small sign next to the display, written in English and in Selkie, which also had the prices. This one was a small one, so... “Please hold three Gil at the ready.”
Three Gil, or 45 NSD, were a good price for a handmade plushie of that size and quality. Besides, we had to live from something, too...
At the register, I went behind it and smiled at the young lady. Her sisters were... somewhere in the shop.

"Right!" She pulled out the Three Gil she had converted when they arrived. The exchange between the Kronor and Gil wasn't too bad actually, they had plenty of cash on hand to make this a long fruitful vacation. And just like that, the perfect gift for her sister. Speaking of the sisters it seemed Aoi was eager to go, even with Yasuko still trying to hold her back "Wait I saw one more thing..."

"Come on, we can't stay here all day! We want to see other things don't we?"

Thankfully by the time they got up to the counter it was bagged and ready to go and she could conceal it.

"Oh, did you buy something, Bocchi?"

"Oh well...Yes I did...Uh but I'll show it later, I want to be careful to not drop it."

"Oh something fragile then?"

Well it wasn't but it was an easy out. "Y-yeah, that's right."

"Mmm..." Aoi thought with a glint of suspicion to what her little sister was up to "Wait I bet I know what it is!"

"Y-ya do?"

"You always admire the glass animals mom has I bet you found one just like that and decided to get one for yourself. Well I hope it wasn't too expensive."

"Not at all!" Bocchi grinned, her sister was going to be really surprised, because this was a gift for her!


"Anyway, why don't we get going, I want to start doing some more sight seeing. Thanks sir." Aoi bowed to thank the shopkeep for his hospitality and a way to thank him for 'putting up with her sister's antics'

"Yes thank you very much for your help sir!" Bocchi thanked also with a bow but also shooting a wink of thank you back for his cooperative silence on the matter. Honestly she had no idea if this shop had such glass animal figures here but it was the perfect cover. Taking her older sister by the hand the three sisters exited the shop. "Let's see where to next?" Bocchi asked

"Mmmmm." Aoi pulled out the map and guide they were studying earlier.

"Hey, Aoi, ya should try a brew!" Yasuko cheekily suggested "For you at 15, I hear it's legal here!"

"I-I..." She had certainly thought about it, but maybe that'd be best when her sisters were safe at their hotel, she had to be the responsible one "Maybe later. I still gotta keep an eye on you two! For now we should find something we can all enjoy."

Fionn Gurléit of the Tribe of Louth.
I smiled at the young women.
“No problem, lassies, it was our pleasure!”, I replied and threw a small smile especially at the oldest. Though, admittedly, we didn't have glass animals. Things of glass tended to be not good as toys... if they were interested, I would know someone, but I saw a cover when I saw one, so I kept my trap shut.

Once outside, the hustle and bustle of the city had them back.
That, however, raised another question: What would they enjoy? Aside from the things in the large brochures, like the tournament or the air show, there were a lot of other things planned over the day, which one could find advertisements for.
For example, the Muciarana Girls' High School not only had their Music Club play a concert later at the Ionadhála Convention Center, there was also an open house day at one of the most prestigious high schools of the area. Their Younger Militia Contingent was announced to show their skills, the different clubs would present themselves (first and foremost there would be the premiere of a movie made by the Movie Club), and in general one could take a look through the school building.
For example, street vendors and travelling people were forbidden from selling under open air, but the local Merchant Guild had opened its halls for them to sell, though under strict rules for face masks and disinfectant. And the travelling people always had nice things on offer.
Or one could simply stroll through the streets, see the shops and their windows and maybe have a pint or two after all...

"Thank you!" Hikage said with a wide grin "And thanks for the blessings, may Madokami bless your folk too when you travel to our lands just as your Gods surely bless us when we come here. Cause boy oh boy can we ever use some good blessings as we take to the high seas. But that in good time, right, can't talk traveling and island life and all that fun stuff without some tea in front of us, wouldn't you say so, ichigo?"

"uh yeah, whatever you say, Hikage..." Sometimes Hikage was a bit much for her but oh well, some tea was good either way. "We'd be delighted to join you," Ichigo added "So please lead the way."

Imogen Teithiwr, of Cefnffordd Descent.
I nodded and turned towards the place I had in mind – and led them straight to the side of the road, where we wouldn't be swept apart by the crowd this easily.
From the Main Square it wasn't a long trip anyway.
“The establishment I want to invite you two to is known as Moricil's Hangout.”, I explained, “In the religion of my people, Moricil is the God of Winds and Travelling, as well as of the Sky. So, as you can imagine, this is a place, where many travellers hang out at.”
And indeed, I led them towards the River-Harbour, but not directly to it.
I led them into a small side street, where a staircase went up onto the building's second floor and its arcade. The ground floor was occupied by shops and storage rooms, but up here, there were two establishments of various repute.
The Hangout was the first one and it had a good reputation, which was why I had chosen it to have tea with the two.
I knocked on the door and a waitress opened the door. “Ah, Milady Imogen!”, she greeted with a smile, “With guests, too! Welcome!” And with that, she handed us face masks. “I am afraid, that I must ask you to wear these until you are at your table.”
I nodded and handed two to my newly found acquaintances and smiled as I put mine on – we all had to obey the rules of the house, after all.

Sergeant/Lieutenant Juna Sint of the Tribe of Fingal.
The Chosen Man, smiled and nodded, glad, that he hadn't offended the actually quite nice man, while the mother of the lass cautioned her girl before she did anything stupid.
The driver grinned slightly at the question: "Boiling water.", he said, then elaborated: "SDF-Vehicles usually have an internal water boiler so that the crew doesn't have to leave their vehicles to cook water for instant meals or a cuppa tea, which is quite important in a war zone. Less chance for the enemy to shoot at squishy humans."
I, meanwhile, smiled at the scene with the mother and daughter. It sounded so familiar, though I was more used to the girl's perspective.
"If you take one of the trams...", I told the mother, "...you can be there in ten minutes. Add to that, that you need to walk to the station, call it a quarter of an hour." I smiled slightly. "I'm from here, actually."

Henrik laughed sheepishly. "Gods. I must be more jet lagged than I thought. Well, it looks like my family's getting ready to move on, but it's been a pleasure talking to you . . . Hey, honey. Where to next?" Petra rummaged in her purse for her phone and keyed "Duna Clais" into Google Maps. "Clais Castle. 15 minutes by tram, including the walking bits. Mau, Zena, ready to go?" A unison chorus of "yes" followed, and after saying goodbye to the lieutenant and a check to make sure they all had their guest cards for the tram (it really was quite kind of the inn to do that, thought Petra), the family made their way to the station.

The trip to the tram station would be quite boring and even at the station itself, where they would have to wait two minutes for the next tram to arrive, there was not much going on.
The ride, however, was a different matter: Ten minutes long in total and leading north, but still keeping inside of the City Limits, was uneventful for the first six minutes (safe for three stops). But by the start of minute seven, Clais Castle came into view.
Clais Castle was what the Selkie called a Clódún or Stone Castle, purely military structures without any administrative functions built of stone. This particular example was among the largest of its kind in the Free Lands, built for a garrison of over six hundred Swordmaidens, member of the Swordmaidens of Carman Fea.
Her Red-White Banner still fluttered over the fortification.
Said fortification was also a marvel of mid-16th century engineering and architecture, the original castle having burned down in 1501. The Swordmaidens and the City of Ironcastle had, at the time, decided to build a more modern fortification there in stead of the old one.
Surrounded by a moat, which was filled by water from the Socair River, the curtain walls rose ten meters high, sloped to not make shooting through them or scaling them too easy. A total of six bastions, all named after minor flower-deities and children of Carman Fea, surrounded the inside of the castle, together with two ravelins, both connected to the main fortification via bridges and both aimed away from the river.
The tram stopped around two hundred meters away from the bridge leading over the moat into the fortification at a small station, where many other people were already milling about – after all, there would be quite the events at Clais Castle today!

Someone joined the line behind me...

Gyeongju turned to Imogen with a smirk, a hand on her chin, and a slight tilt to her head. "You were listening, weren't you?"
"Mom." Dolgae kicked her foot. "Don't creep people out like that. And besides, I was pretty loud." He looked ahead at the line as the other boy nodded. "We're gonna be here for a while..."
"In that case, you wanna—"
"No." He waddled closer to behind his mother, leaning against her as he shut his eyes. "Go away, Illapa..."
"Agh, for a ten-year-old, you're so cold."
"Eleven..." Gyeongju exhaled and smiled, though now it was more like the gleaming smile of a wolf's fangs in the moonlight.

"Yeah-yeah, I was clo— akh!" Omi had snatched his headband, and was now yanking him away to a nearby table. "Wah, Om—"
"I told you, Illapa, stop harassing him. Talk with his artist instead." They pulled him in closer. "And besides, I'm getting kinda scared of his mom."
"Okay, okay, fine, fine. But still!" He pointed at Dolgae. "I'll be back, Dokkie."
The boy glanced up at his mother. "I was planning on talking to him for the music video, but now... I think I need a nap first. I'm too tired to think." Simply being near Illapa and his hyperactive force for a few moments was enough to drain him and remind him of the glories of sleep again, but Dolgae figured that maybe he was just being selfish. Then again, it wasn't like he got that overexcited and exuberant when it came to his music, but maybe he needed that exact energy. "Fire Flying" was a title that called that sort of exuberance, after all, but after all that thinking earlier...
Some carbs, and a quick nap on a table would do. Maybe the music video would come in his dreams, or something to that effect.

Imogen Céilt of the Tribe of Fermanagh.
Lady, if you want to look scary, ya need to work a bit – on a scale from one to Brigadier Fuil during her period you were... somewhere between seven or eight, I'd say. And I knew, how nasty Fuil could be during that special time of the month.
Before I could reply with more then a smile, there whole situation of the kids was unfolding and by the end of it, the lad was... tuckered out, it seemed.
Once they had calmed down, I bowed my head lightly to either of them.
“My apologies, I couldn't help but listen in, Ma'am.”, I said as the line advanced by one. Not long and we would have our turns! “Is he alright?”
I motioned to the lad, a bit of concern in my voice.

The vacation was going along well for the three Pergamonians. The uniqueness of the Free Lands had made them forget that corona still existed around them, and there were many sights to see to shroud this further. Efrosyni, the sponsor of this relieving field trip, was fortunate enough to leave around the time that the home government was still considering initiating lockdown measures for a second wave prevention. From all the looming hysteria revolving around the pandemic situation back home, a foreign country was a good choice to get away from it. While she sauntered around after witnessing the opening ceremony, she smiled behind her mask, knowing that it wasn't as bad as back home.

As her two trusted friends, Epameinondas and Zissis went along to accompany her at the risk of leaving their loved ones behind. They had felt the need to head somewhere else for a while as a duty to a mutual friend, if not head off someplace else in the world to relax for a while also. Nevertheless, one benefit of the modern age was video call technology, and bringing their laptops along would give one sign of content from their respective families. They conversed with each other about the times when they met with and talked with a renowned stand-up comedian several days before leaving, with not one bit of homesickness embedded in their speech.

"So, where do you guys want to go," asked Efrosyni in her native tougue as she caressed her pink hair with her favorite black gloves, "I feel like going to the Dúna Clais to see that competition they're hosting. Though I know that they don't start until noon."

"That's going to be fun to see," replied Zissis as his red turban gleamed vividly under the sun, "I haven't seen an actual swordfight in a while, especially since the Atheniad was cancelled seven months ago."

"We could head to the Bicíní Industries Outlet Store and check out some clothes. And I know you have a taste for fashion, being that you're still wearing your favorite gloves," suggested Epameinondas as he tilts his head with a little smile that complimented his apparent piercing eyes well.

"And at least they still provide me protection," Efrosyni chuckled as she observed the little tin spikes, "Sure. I can afford the time to check it out."

The three then headed into the Outlet, welcomed with the sight, scent and atmosphere of the fashion store. They then split up to browse through clothes of their respective genders.

Felicia Leathchúpla of the Tribe of Navan.
There was indeed an outlet store of BI near the Main Square, where we had the new Winter Collection – and the one of last year, too. Amy, Lykke and I were present as promotional models and advisors for customers needing a guiding hand.
The actual store workers had their hands full with limiting access, only twenty customers in the store due to COVID (a measure they had placed upon themselves), but the three from Pergamon slipped in as numbers eighteen, nineteen and twenty. They also provided aid and assistance to customers, tallied up the total prices, saw to it, that everyone was wearing their face masks correctly...
As the three Pergamonians separated, they would become aware, that BI's main business were swimsuits (a bit inappropriate for this time of the year) and utility clothing.
We did have quite the winter collection, though: After last year, with the clothes inspired by Shikonmanjese Traditional Clothing, we had a bit more of a conventional collection for foreigners, Lykke rocking that white sweater and combined with thick pants, while Amy and I were more dressed in something appealing to the local markets.
That meant fur trimmings.
Amy wore a thick, light blue jacket with fur trimmings on the collar with a white overcoat, a blue skirt and white thighhighs. There was a small bit of fur trimming at the upper edge of the legwear, too, but that completely vanished under the skirt, which went down to the knees. A pair of boots covered her feet, courtesy of Barrial Cobblers, the upper adorned with fur as well. A hairband held back her long, flowing blonde hair.
I, meanwhile, was the proof, that just because it was winter approaching, there was no reason to quit wearing dresses – and what a stunner it was! The body was worked as a sweater, but shoulderless and sleeveless, reaching down a bit below my hips, the garnment being adorned by fur trimmings at the top and the bottom, as well as a bit of a cleavage.
Above it, I wore a floor-length dress somewhere between dark grey or anthracite in colour, which ran from my neck down in a wide halter-strap neckline flowing into a bit of a plunge (if I wouldn't wear the sweater-part, I would offer quite a generous view). The dress was fixed around my hips with a slim silver chain, the fabric overlapping as if the dress was folded. Where the fabric parted, there was a leg slit, offering a good view of my long legs, which were dressed in white thighhighs. My feet were clad in silver ballerinas. The back was bare. The dress was also made of fine silk, enwrought with light blue and ice blue thread, which depicted stars and and snowflakes and other such things, but only in places, for example down the left side of my body until the dress met its folds.
There was a collar like from a dress shirt around my neck, which was adorned by a short cravat, which barely reached my collarbone.
Long, puffy sleeves, which were not connected to anything else and reached past the wrists, completed the ensemble together with jewelry. Small, snowflake-shaped earrings glittered through my hair from time to time, the silver chain around my hips was adorned with small chains hanging from it, small medallions at their end, which bore jewels.
Of course, the accessoire of this season, the face mask, was not missing either.
The fun part about this dress was, however, that each part could be worn individually (before you ask anything, yes) or in varying combinations depending on what you want to wear or how warm or cold it was.
Then again, I did not want to think about how expensive the jewelry was.
And so, I stood by the dresses, showed a mother and her kid (a boy of maybe ten Springs, who was awed by how pretty I was), to where they could find winter jackets for the young gentleman, who remarked how pretty his mother would look in a dress like mine upon departure (I had to agree).
So, who was next...?

Liutgard "Lilly" Fischer

I smiled as Ritubani greeted me. I recognized her too; she was a friend(girlfriend? I hadn't been sure; not like it mattered) of Elin, and although I had not met her enough to consider her a friend, she was a decent enough lass. "Hey there." I replied. "A good morning to you too, Miss Aoi."
" 'Sup." Charlie slurred slightly, also smiling. "What's good, 'eh?"
I resisted the furious urge to smack her on the back and/or groan. Even though Charlie might be well-intentioned, in the Commonwealth and in Ochjno this sort of disrespect would have warranted glares and a few slaps on the hand.

---

Marie

I bowed my head slightly in deference. "Marie Ernst Gluck. I'm from the Commonwealth." I replied. "I've been away from the Free Lands for an extended period of time, and I haven't been able to get any news regarding it. I was hoping to ask about the current state of the SDF, to sate my own curiosity, and I thought that you might know something, ma'am. If you would be so kind as to indulge my curiosity, that would be very much appreciated."
I clicked my heels together and stood up a little straighter as I spoke; I wasn't sure if she knew I was with the Reichswehr, but one could normally tell from one's bearing, and I did not want to give the impression of the Reichswehr being slovenly, even while on leave.

Viola Arán of the Tribe of Fermanagh.
I smiled.
A very open young lass, I had to give her that. No spy would be this tremendously stupid to ask out in the open like that, but then again, reverse psychology. Then again, I did not think her, just from the looks, to be a spy.
Ugh, the pains of the rank...
“Well, I hope you can forgive me for not going into more details, but we are currently preparing to reform and reorganize after the lessons we learned from Operation Spartacus, we are introducing new equipment and tactics and we are preparing for Winter.”, I said – and I left out, that we were also preparing for the Second Wave of COVID. “If I may ask, is this your first time in Ironcastle?”
She did mention, that she had been here before.

Ritubani Aoi.
I was Elin's girlfriend and she was, actually, my Champion later. I looked forward to the tournament later...
Anyway, Charlie greeted me much less formally then Lilly did, which I did not mind. Sure, people here saw the ears on my head and thought me to be a Spiorad, thus they treated me with a lot of respect, so it was refreshing to be treated like I was back home: Where I was just another woman.
And actually more akin to a kit, a young one.
“Everything's good and cool.”, I said with a small smile, addressing both of them: “How about you? Wanna grab a cuppa tea?”
As said, I had time to spare.

Athena Freezis
Well like brother and sister after all; she knew Leo had his difficulties with school and was great at manual things entirely.

"Well, school it's sometimes difficult but I can be certain she will get through it; besides, everyone has their strong points." Athena grinned at him warmly while tightening her hold on Leo's arm to keep close to him while looking at his eyes warmly, they could certainly pass as a couple and that was something she wished could be with him.

As soon as she heard him saying that the guy that his sister liked was adviced of the consequences of breaking her heart, Athena chuckled while glaring at him.

"I guess it was bound to happen as you are her older brother." The purple eyed young woman said before continue. "It's nice to see her in love with someone, perhaps you will find someone soon too." It was as much as subtle of a hint as it could be.

Leonard Rualacha of the Tribe of Wicklow.
“Indeed it is my duty.”, I said with a smile. I got the hint, but I did not see a chance as to how to work it into the conversation naturally – sure, I liked her, that was not the question, but... yeah... I was not too good with romance. My smile turned into a grin. “Short question, though, any older siblings I need to watch out for?”
It was both a serious concern and a joke.
I mean, I was an older brother and I knew first hand how protective they could become in regards to their little sisters. And how easily they could take any sleight, perceived as such or not, as a reason to break a nose.
Besides, potential siblings in law were always fun. The guy my little sis had an eye on had an older brother, who was quite a nice chap.

[New Visayan Islands]

Peter Turrija
City Hall Square, Ironcastle

"Without sounding conceited, I expected to have an engaging moment close to high-profile personalities earlier," Peter said. "It's telling that this is more interesting by several degrees of magnitude." As far as he could tell, he wasn't wrong; the cars were something to be excited about.
"I get the solemnity in the ceremony. But you'd think after the beginning, people would chat each other up, virus or no virus, right? Or maybe they are, in a digital sense, and I missed that?" Peter laughed at the thought.

[Kuronami]

Fionn Gurléit of the Tribe of Louth.
I smiled at the young women.
“No problem, lassies, it was our pleasure!”, I replied and threw a small smile especially at the oldest. Though, admittedly, we didn't have glass animals. Things of glass tended to be not good as toys... if they were interested, I would know someone, but I saw a cover when I saw one, so I kept my trap shut.

Once outside, the hustle and bustle of the city had them back.
That, however, raised another question: What would they enjoy? Aside from the things in the large brochures, like the tournament or the air show, there were a lot of other things planned over the day, which one could find advertisements for.
For example, the Muciarana Girls' High School not only had their Music Club play a concert later at the Ionadhála Convention Center, there was also an open house day at one of the most prestigious high schools of the area. Their Younger Militia Contingent was announced to show their skills, the different clubs would present themselves (first and foremost there would be the premiere of a movie made by the Movie Club), and in general one could take a look through the school building.
For example, street vendors and travelling people were forbidden from selling under open air, but the local Merchant Guild had opened its halls for them to sell, though under strict rules for face masks and disinfectant. And the travelling people always had nice things on offer.
Or one could simply stroll through the streets, see the shops and their windows and maybe have a pint or two after all...

Aoi scrutinized the brochure carefully as her sisters stood a bit patient but also a bit eager. Well again tempting as it was to try her first taste of alcohol, she really felt it was best to wait until she didn't have to worry about her two little sisters in tow. Eyes on the prize, caring for her sisters would mean her parents would say she's responsible enough to get a job so best not deviate from that mission. "Sooo, Aoi, what's the plan?" Bocchi asked

"Lots to do and see, hard to pick. Well this is kind of interesting, a music event is coming up today. And apparently a high school with an open house. Honestly, I'm pretty curious what a school in another country is like."

"Well that's like you." Yasuko replied, not the most exciting but well what could they really do when Aoi was in charge.

"Okay, we're going there then?"

"Yes, let's go see that. I promise, next one, I'll let you pick. So let's go!"

The three sisters moved along. Actually even Bocchi was kind of curious what a school in a whole other country would be like. I mean maybe it'd be just like their own, only just slightly different, but who knows. It'll be fun, honestly the three sisters together enough was just a lot of fun for them.

[Astares Amauricanum]

Amy Socheo of the Tribe of Navan.
The young man shook his head.
“My apologies, we won't take donations today.”, he said, “The entire point of this...” He made a gesture enveloping the entire tent. “...is to sell stuff in order to earn the funds.” He reached for a card. “Though if you insist, here is the contact and bank information of the Service.”
He held the card out to the couple.
“Please contact them before any larger donations.”, he added.

"We will, thank you very much." replies Mareva with a smile as she takes the card from the Private's hand. "Now that is done, who must we speak to if we want to take a closer look at the vehicles you're presenting today?" asks the female Colonel with the same smile.

[AHSCA]

Imogen Teithiwr, of Cefnffordd Descent.
I nodded and turned towards the place I had in mind – and led them straight to the side of the road, where we wouldn't be swept apart by the crowd this easily.
From the Main Square it wasn't a long trip anyway.
“The establishment I want to invite you two to is known as Moricil's Hangout.”, I explained, “In the religion of my people, Moricil is the God of Winds and Travelling, as well as of the Sky. So, as you can imagine, this is a place, where many travellers hang out at.”
And indeed, I led them towards the River-Harbour, but not directly to it.
I led them into a small side street, where a staircase went up onto the building's second floor and its arcade. The ground floor was occupied by shops and storage rooms, but up here, there were two establishments of various repute.
The Hangout was the first one and it had a good reputation, which was why I had chosen it to have tea with the two.
I knocked on the door and a waitress opened the door. “Ah, Milady Imogen!”, she greeted with a smile, “With guests, too! Welcome!” And with that, she handed us face masks. “I am afraid, that I must ask you to wear these until you are at your table.”
I nodded and handed two to my newly found acquaintances and smiled as I put mine on – we all had to obey the rules of the house, after all.

Hikage's ears perked up a bit more as Imogen explained where they were going as well as her own religious beliefs. How interesting it was, Moricil the God of Winds and Traveling and Sky. Sounded a bit like Homura for them. "Winds, Travel, and The Sky eh? I sure hope he can get along with Homura. She's pretty temperamental in those areas."

"Hikage, shhhh, you're only going to bring her wrath down on us when we take to the seas next!" Ichigo urged her to not tempt the Heavens and not insult the Goddess. "Well either way," Ichigo continued "Maybe this Moricil God will also watch out for us as we go on the seas."

"I told ya, Ichigo, ya got nothing to worry about as long as you got me. Waves, winds, rain, thunder are no problem for little ol'e me!"

They entered and were asked to wear masks. Ichigo was surprised but she wouldn't protest, Hikage was also surprised but she took it in good stride she put hers on and turned to Ichigo, you couldn't really see it except in her eyes she was smiling. "Heeey not bad, just call me Ninja! I Hikage of the Sawai Clan shall protect all that is precious to My Lady Ichigo Sumino."

"Hehe, Hikage." Ichigo giggled at her. "Don't think your long line of fisherman and Mikos are ninja."

"Well ya never know, right!? So good lady, we all set?"

[Seleucid Pergamon]

Felicia Leathchúpla of the Tribe of Navan.
There was indeed an outlet store of BI near the Main Square, where we had the new Winter Collection – and the one of last year, too. Amy, Lykke and I were present as promotional models and advisors for customers needing a guiding hand.
The actual store workers had their hands full with limiting access, only twenty customers in the store due to COVID (a measure they had placed upon themselves), but the three from Pergamon slipped in as numbers eighteen, nineteen and twenty. They also provided aid and assistance to customers, tallied up the total prices, saw to it, that everyone was wearing their face masks correctly...
As the three Pergamonians separated, they would become aware, that BI's main business were swimsuits (a bit inappropriate for this time of the year) and utility clothing.
We did have quite the winter collection, though: After last year, with the clothes inspired by Shikonmanjese Traditional Clothing, we had a bit more of a conventional collection for foreigners, Lykke rocking that white sweater and combined with thick pants, while Amy and I were more dressed in something appealing to the local markets.
That meant fur trimmings.
Amy wore a thick, light blue jacket with fur trimmings on the collar with a white overcoat, a blue skirt and white thighhighs. There was a small bit of fur trimming at the upper edge of the legwear, too, but that completely vanished under the skirt, which went down to the knees. A pair of boots covered her feet, courtesy of Barrial Cobblers, the upper adorned with fur as well. A hairband held back her long, flowing blonde hair.
I, meanwhile, was the proof, that just because it was winter approaching, there was no reason to quit wearing dresses – and what a stunner it was! The body was worked as a sweater, but shoulderless and sleeveless, reaching down a bit below my hips, the garnment being adorned by fur trimmings at the top and the bottom, as well as a bit of a cleavage.
Above it, I wore a floor-length dress somewhere between dark grey or anthracite in colour, which ran from my neck down in a wide halter-strap neckline flowing into a bit of a plunge (if I wouldn't wear the sweater-part, I would offer quite a generous view). The dress was fixed around my hips with a slim silver chain, the fabric overlapping as if the dress was folded. Where the fabric parted, there was a leg slit, offering a good view of my long legs, which were dressed in white thighhighs. My feet were clad in silver ballerinas. The back was bare. The dress was also made of fine silk, enwrought with light blue and ice blue thread, which depicted stars and and snowflakes and other such things, but only in places, for example down the left side of my body until the dress met its folds.
There was a collar like from a dress shirt around my neck, which was adorned by a short cravat, which barely reached my collarbone.
Long, puffy sleeves, which were not connected to anything else and reached past the wrists, completed the ensemble together with jewelry. Small, snowflake-shaped earrings glittered through my hair from time to time, the silver chain around my hips was adorned with small chains hanging from it, small medallions at their end, which bore jewels.
Of course, the accessoire of this season, the face mask, was not missing either.
The fun part about this dress was, however, that each part could be worn individually (before you ask anything, yes) or in varying combinations depending on what you want to wear or how warm or cold it was.
Then again, I did not want to think about how expensive the jewelry was.
And so, I stood by the dresses, showed a mother and her kid (a boy of maybe ten Springs, who was awed by how pretty I was), to where they could find winter jackets for the young gentleman, who remarked how pretty his mother would look in a dress like mine upon departure (I had to agree).
So, who was next...?

The three were surprised that most of the store was populated by swimsuits. Unfitting for this holiday of course, even Epameinondas had contemplated of heading into another shop. Nevertheless, they all went in and dispersed, with Efrosyni insisting that she take a look for herself.

Epameinondas and Zissis went together to the men's section to consider any swimwear and clothes they go bring home. Nothing like wearing something new that could be useful for this season and the summer. Efrosyni, on the other hand, sauntered to the women's section for any utility clothing that catches their eyes, as swimwear was out of the question for now. But first, she had to meet the woman up front who exhibited a captivating dress for marketing. Efrosyni, retaining a good taste for fashion, felt her eyes shine with allure and curiosity as this dress makes a woman feel like she was from the North Pole itself. For an upcoming evening party on Christmas Day, it had potential.

"Hello. I absolutely love your dress," she expressed to the woman on display, "The overall design of it is splendid, the dress style, the fur trimmings, collar, earrings and the thread. Especially the thread, it's a nice addition! And made of fine silk which is also cool. Though, interesting color choice for the rest of the dress. Why dark grey when it could be white to make it evoke a Christmas sentiment more?"

[Mervay]

Leonard Rualacha of the Tribe of Wicklow.
“Indeed it is my duty.”, I said with a smile. I got the hint, but I did not see a chance as to how to work it into the conversation naturally – sure, I liked her, that was not the question, but... yeah... I was not too good with romance. My smile turned into a grin. “Short question, though, any older siblings I need to watch out for?”
It was both a serious concern and a joke.
I mean, I was an older brother and I knew first hand how protective they could become in regards to their little sisters. And how easily they could take any sleight, perceived as such or not, as a reason to break a nose.
Besides, potential siblings in law were always fun. The guy my little sis had an eye on had an older brother, who was quite a nice chap.

Athena Freezis
Well at least he got the hint so that should do for now. Hopefully today, Athena can cross that bridge and kiss him, one step at a time after all. Then she had an interesting question which made her smile amused; if she had to tell about it, it's only her and her step sister plus her brother, which was 17 years old.

"Thankfully for you; no." She chuckled a bit at saying that before continue. "Albeit I have my step-sister/cousin, Olivia, which is only two years younger than me and then you have my younger brother, Jean, which is 17 years old." She smiled at that before adding.

"Which means I'm the oldest of the three." She grinned warmly at Leo as she placed herself in front of him before getting her arms back linked to his.