The Festival of Holy Light III (IC)

[Mervay]

"Certainly two Darjeeling teas for the ladies and two green teas, one for the gentleman and one for the lady. I will be back with those in a moment, please get comfortable."

To Satou's surprise the good Prince and Princess were ready to take on the tab for them. Satou felt just a bit uneasy for now suggesting a very classy and expensive place but again it was with the best intent, given they were Nobility and deserved a classy experience. "Milord and Lady, that's so very kind of you, if you are certain than I gratefully accept." Satou agreed. Tess asked her about how she knew of this place "Oh, well like Hiromi, another one of our own, from the Kitan that is, she's gone to set up this place with a few others."

Prince Damir ibn-Razia.
Sanda.
I smiled and waved at the question. "Thank you for the concern, but it is my pleasure.", I said.
One should know, that Kyrenaian Princes, especially those of the Ilkhanates were... shall we say... well off, which is to say, that 'stinking rich' was an understatement. That came with two caveats, though, as the territories owned by us (in my case, I was the Bey of Mawjayi and Khalsamak (the latter within the Khanate of Motya, which belonged to an uncle of mine), too, while for example Aurelia was Beyeha of Malakiard near Larsa) paid into our accounts, yes, but we paid everything there from our accounts as well, ideally for positive revenue. The other caveat was, that we had to pay a certain percentage of these profits to the superordinate level of rulership, in my case, that was the Khan of Motya and the Ilkhana of Utica respectively.
And then, there was the more normal owning of real estate, which of course resulted in us paying taxes like everyone else.
Of course, I did not mention any of that. If Tess knew, and judging by the name Dileva, it was not unlikely, that she was in a similar station, then she knew, if not... well, she knew, that I was a Kyrenaian Prince.
"More important question.", Yasmin asked, "If I may ask, how did the two of you meet?"

Tess Dileva
Aurora Village
Sanda Restaurant
Well that explains it all, this certainly comes from the recent boom in tourism that the islands had been getting since two years for sure. She smiled at her wife before replying to that.

"I see, that explains why you knew about it then." Tess kept smiling at Satou and kissed her on the cheek to then giggle a bit before looking at the Kyrenaian Couple.

She could say that she is in the same boat as them regarding wealth considering her surname and who her parents were alongside who she was; it would be no secret they knew that Tess was the daughter of one of Mervay's most wealthiest and powerful families. She could safely pay their meals as well without trouble, they both knew well who they were; he and his wife, Kyrenaian Royalty and she, well, she was daughter of the Chancellor and of the person in charge of the entire Dileva Group. Of course, they wouldn't say that to the other when it was already obvious.

Albeit those thoughts were suddenly replaced by a sudden blush on her face when asked about how did Satou and Tess met by Yasmin, to which she looked at her wife to see if she wanted to answer or not.

"Would you want me to answer dear or I do it?" She asked in Auroran.

"Hehe I was certainly a lot younger back then, that's for sure. Yup that's the little girl I'm looking for. Well again, I'm sure she's an adult by now but that bright smile of hers just filled me with so much joy then."

"I have a good feeling we're gonna see her again." Sasha responded tucking her phone back into her yukata.

Tsubaki
"Perhaps, and I wish you good luck in your search." Eduard smilied while he motioned for a waitress to come and give him the account of all the food. He still had to see the rest of town after all. "If I may make things easier, in case I find her, I'll promise to tell you where she is; if that's alright for you two?"

[Kyrenaia]

[...]

The Kitan with Aurelia and Marcella

"I heartily support the sentiment of that quote, Milady. I'm glad things are on the mend. I know I'm just an old soul who's made these islands her home but I would still like to offer my support in any way I can. I know it's been a year but still, I want to give my support even just my words if that's enough. Anyway, Miladies, I want to let you to two enjoy your time together, if you need anything more from me, just have Miss Sapphire come fetch me."

"Of course, I'm sure you're very busy."

She bowed a little and made her departure.

"Now Miladies, is there a dish I can get started for you?" Sapphire asked them ready to take their order. "Oooh yeah. Mmm what's today's special?"

"Sea bass with a Mokan style chili powder."

"That sounds delightful, I'll take that for myself."

"Very good, Milady. And you, Milady?" She asked Aurelia "Would you like more time with the menu or would you too like the special?"

Hoshino

"Hum...My phone's light is pretty bright but a long swim or soak in high tide might call for a lantern light. Think just about every store sells them around here. It actually does sound kind of fun and the weather is still expected to be calm tonight to so it'd be like a little pool! You two ladies just hatched a great idea!"

The Kitan Baths

"Aww well that is understandable, you gotta schedule to keep then you gotta keep it and when money is involved you gotta keep your end of the bargain! Hopefully next time we'll get the pleasure of having you as passengers aboard. I assure I'll carry you to safety!" She saluted "Oh you want to know about ferry service huh? Well afraid we're long haulers but maybe I can still help or I'll find you someone who would help. Wouldn't hurt to head down to the pier and talk to a ship captain. An easy way to know is they usually don't have UIS Flags on their masts like long haulers do."

[...]

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
The Special Table at the Kitan, Port Aurora.
I nodded. "I'll take the special as well, thank you.", I told Sapphire with a bit of cheer, closing the menu.
Marcella had taken it and seemed quite interested in it, so it had to be good.
As soon as Sapphire was gone, I looked over to my girlfriend, smiled slightly. "She is of the Spiorad, isn't she?", I asked outright, "Milady Tsubaki, I mean." Then shook my head. "It does not matter if she is or isn't. She carries herself with the wisdom and grace of one, that is for sure."
I exhaled, smiling, lost in a memory.
"You know, I know a few of the Spiorad Ainmhithe, first and foremost of course Milady Branwen Chwilfrydig. She is... well, the leader or spokesperson of them.", I said, "It was actually one of my first trips abroad as a Princess and as my Father's Plus One, so which place was better then my home? I was given a cultural programme while Dad did Politics. And as such, I was seated next to her, who was already ancient, when Almadaldima was but a village of goat herders." I made a pause. "We talked. I don't know, about what, but by the end, she told me: Many things will vie for dominance in you, young cub. Your heart, your duty, your very soul and mind... you have many lessons to learn and many battles to fight. The days will come, when the fiercest battles are fought inside of you. Yet, strength will not win you that day. Nothing will win you that day."
I was silent, then shook my head.
"Sorry.", I said with a smile, "I don't know, why I remembered that suddenly." I smiled at Marcella. "Not even Dad knows, what Milady Branwen told me that day."

Nela, Prinzessin von Zieselhaven und Elms.
Port Aya, Hoshino.
I looked to Rena, who smiled and shrugged slightly.
Not exactly what I had in mind, I had just wanted more light for my friend studying the rock, but this actually did sound like a nice idea, however... Kaori had warned us about swimming here at high tide.
"We'll think about joining you later.", I said with a small smile, "For now, would you be a dear, young man, and give my friend some light?"
Rena waved in the shadows. "Would appreciate it!", she said, then added: "And I'd pay you off with ice cream!"
I had to snort in amusement.

Elin Blaidd, of Tralee Descent.
Kitan, Port Aurora.
I nodded. "Thank you for the advice.", I said and Branwen gave an agreeing hum. I leaned back in the bath. "You two wouldn't also happen to know a nice place, where one can get some drinks in nice company?"
"And where one can invite a friendly couple one met in a bath for a drink?", Branwen added with a smile.
That made me nod. That was a good idea, actually.

[AHSCA]

Prince Damir ibn-Razia.
Sanda.
I smiled and waved at the question. "Thank you for the concern, but it is my pleasure.", I said.
One should know, that Kyrenaian Princes, especially those of the Ilkhanates were... shall we say... well off, which is to say, that 'stinking rich' was an understatement. That came with two caveats, though, as the territories owned by us (in my case, I was the Bey of Mawjayi and Khalsamak (the latter within the Khanate of Motya, which belonged to an uncle of mine), too, while for example Aurelia was Beyeha of Malakiard near Larsa) paid into our accounts, yes, but we paid everything there from our accounts as well, ideally for positive revenue. The other caveat was, that we had to pay a certain percentage of these profits to the superordinate level of rulership, in my case, that was the Khan of Motya and the Ilkhana of Utica respectively.
And then, there was the more normal owning of real estate, which of course resulted in us paying taxes like everyone else.
Of course, I did not mention any of that. If Tess knew, and judging by the name Dileva, it was not unlikely, that she was in a similar station, then she knew, if not... well, she knew, that I was a Kyrenaian Prince.
"More important question.", Yasmin asked, "If I may ask, how did the two of you meet?"

The Sanda

Satou was always thrilled to tell the story of how she met Tess. "Well actually, we met during the festival a few years ago! I work at the Kitan, I'm sure you've been there. Well I was working staff during the festival and there Tess was with her family, Tess the most beautiful girl I'd ever seen. Truly if I had questions about my orientation by then that question was firmly answered when I laid eyes on her. Well anyway, her parents decided to have a quiet evening for themselves, Tess was enjoying a little time alone but I really felt like she might be lonely sitting all by herself so I wanted to go sit with her. Oh to make the long story short, we got to talking, know each other better and next thing we know, here we are, married! We're splitting our time between here and Mervay often so getting the best of both our countries. Mervay is super beautiful I might say! But okay, not your turn!" Satou eagerly pushed them to share their first meeting story! She already forgotten they were nobles and was relaxed around them as if they were old friends or recent acquaintances.

--snip

The Kitan with Aurelia and Marcella

"Two specials coming on up!" Sapphire took the menus from the ladies and went to send their orders onto the kitchen.

"oh as a matter of fact, you're right, Miss Tsubaki is a Spiorad." Given Marcella had a positive report with the staff here, she's gotten to know the manager well. "She's told me quite a bit of her life, a life that's existed long before I was born. Incredible how she's seen this place grown from a kingdom, an empire, a loose clusters of islands to today's Duchy under my rule. I've even confided in her, that sometimes feels a little awkward someone as young as me should be Duchess when she has a lot of years and experience compared to me. I guess I'm just blessed to be my Mother's daughter. Speaking of, she wanted me to tell you hello for her and she's wishing you and your family well."

Hoshino

"Hehe an icy treat sounds great on a warm day like today so sure it's the least we can do." He chuckled as his girlfriend turned on the phone's flashlight giving a pretty good illumination.

"The light kind of makes some cool shadows!" The girl said as she illuminated the cave "It's pretty the way it hits the rock and grooves in the wall!"

The Kitan's Baths

"Huh good place to drink? Well if you're looking for a good watering whole, i'd suggest a nice pub on the edge of the port as well. Don't worry too much about drunken sailors, it's not that rough of a joint, the folks who run it are pretty nice actually and run a good joint. It's very informal because it is made more for the passing seamen and that but hey it'd kill two birds with one stone if you wanna go talk to some Island Hoppers."

"If you want a more formal classy place, there's always The Kitan, but I've heard of a newer place that's a little more out of the way and really upscale. Made for the high end foreign tourists and well to do islanders here."

"There's other nice little places scattered around the village as well that might be worth a try, these are the ones we know about the best."

Tsubaki
"Perhaps, and I wish you good luck in your search." Eduard smilied while he motioned for a waitress to come and give him the account of all the food. He still had to see the rest of town after all. "If I may make things easier, in case I find her, I'll promise to tell you where she is; if that's alright for you two?"

"Well that'd be great!" Sasha said really speaking for herself and her mother. Honestly Sasha was just as eager to meet the little girl and see the impact of her mother's time and service here.

"Ehe yes, that would be nice, thank you very much. I do hope we won't end up eating into your time at the Festival, this is a fun time for all."

"Yeah it's our first time but...Or I guess my first time because mom did enjoy one during her time here."

"Well I wouldn't say enjoy because I was on duty at the time but it was a nice sight to see."

Cornelia found the display of the store's best goods with deep interest. Intrigued by the strange craftsmanship of not only the vase but also the painting and the masterfully crafted necklace that was presented to her. Her husband, Count Treize in the meanwhile did not even bother to pay attention to the transaction that his wife was cobbling up. What he truly desired at the moment was to get out of this accursed hellhole as soon as possible.

''Oh my, they are all so pretty!'' Exclaimed Cornelia in a fashion that was animated, as she turned her gaze to her husband, her lips grinning wide into a smile that showed her perfect white teeth,'' what do you think of this honey?'' The words of Cornelia made Treize feel a strong craving at the back of his mind, of pure irritability.

'' It is not my place to choose charms that are womanly in nature. All is up to do you.'' The Count swallowed his high-mindedness for a moment, telling Cornelia in that usual aristocratic attitude in which he was bred in, that he won't concern himself with such petty objects.

The Princess made a pouty face at this, but she allowed for it to slide by choosing to not bother commenting on her husband's act of rudeness.

''I absolutely love all of this. I'll take all of them for 100 000 US dollars if you find this sum to be acceptable.'' Cornelia said with an excited voice, before moving on,'' I don't mean to prod, but do you perhaps happen to own some more spiritual charms and other items of great importance? I am asking because I have a friend back in my country that collects such objects, who is always open to receiving more idols for his collection.''

Treize just rolled his eyes as the pushy Princess went on. He took out a smartphone from his pocket as he phoned back to the HMS Dauntless to have the sum his wife just mention to the two shopkeepers, to be withdrawn and taken to the place where they were at.

The Count did not care if the things she was bought would have turned out to have been dummies of whatever the real thing was. It was the folly of the First Princess to be burned in this case.

All while this was happening. Honchar had the rather unexpected opportunity of having to deal with an undercover policeman of whatever law-enforcement this nation had. Now that he had, Honchar pulled out nonchalantly his own badge, a butterfly-like creature that was excellently handcrafted and shaped from platinum.

''I am Andres Honchar, Knight-Agent of the Royal Guard to the Cassadian Royal Family. I have been tasked like all my colleagues to protect the safety of their persons of Her Highness Princess Cornelia Von Peacekraft and her Consort, Count Treize Khushrenada of Novobirsk.'' The man declared to the woman his identity, and while the disclosure of who he and in turn, his masters were, Honchar nevertheless hoped they would understand the kind of predicament he was in.

The idea they were willing to pay so much money was nothing short of staggering! "1-10D-thousand-Dollars?!" Ayane, the twin in purple was floored, flabbergasted that amounted to a real good chunk of Credits, even with how much would go to taxes it certainly would make good on the family's expenses for a good while. "Thank you so much! Your generosity is most welcome."

"Thank you for my sister and I!" Ayumi, the twin in pink was equally impressed and thankful. "Yes we do have some little trinkets we can give you." She pulled out a few more things, some little charm tags that had uplifting messages on them and wishes for good luck and prosperity and health. The last was a good little statue, a 17 centimeters tall, it was the two Goddess joined together. "Hand forged by our grandpapa. Crafted out of real stone and painted by us! This will run you about 200 Credits."

outside the man introduced himself as a bodyguard. That's good, because he's probably trained with proper weapons procedure, how to talk with law enforcement and not a gung ho wannabe cowboy. It also probably meant he was familiar with laws regarding firearms in the UIS.

"It's good to meet you, Mr. Honchar. I'm Captain Mayuri Akazaki, Aurora Police Officers. Just doing rounds, making sure all is well on the streets and things are fine. "I trust all is well here, no issues?" She could bring up the scene at the temple but she was going to let that slide so long as they didn't cause more issues.

Joel Miller,
Kino, Corona
"Thank you very much for the advice Matron." I reply with a grateful nod. "Actually, speaking of gifts, do you sell some little trinkets or other things here at the Temple that would please Sunplena's child?" I ask.



Staff Sergeant Abigail "Abby" Anderson
Port Aya Hoshino.
"Thank you very much for your welcome and the nice meal and company! Enjoy the Festival too! See you soon!" I reply as we leave the restaurant and grab our bikes.
"So, where do we go now? Tabby's Point?" I ask to Owen.
"I was just about to suggest the same thing." he replies with a smile. "Alright, let's take a look at the map."
As he takes the map out of his backpack, he unfolds it, and we look at it for a few minutes in order to find a good way to go to the top of the mountain, that would allow our bikes to go through, and also give us somme good sightseeing points.
Once we have checked all of this, Owen puts the map back in his backpack, and we start to pedal towards Tabby's Point...

Corona

"We sure do! Go back inside the main hall and you'll see a little storefront in the wall, you can't miss it. I'm sure the girl at the desk can help you pick something cute out for the little one."

Hoshino

Tabby's Point was a pretty well marked trail to go up, signs and little stone path markers made it an easy ride and actually the climb wasn't too bad just a little more windy than a steep incline, like going up a very large hill almost. A few folks had gathered up at the top of the hill to get pictures, enjoy the scenery or pay tribute at the little monument.

Tabby (c. 1979-1999)

From this point, a 17 year old from Animalpolis sat upon this tall mound and spotted the first warships incoming. Tabby's swift alert helped save many more lives of women, children and those unable to fight back. For that, this point is named in her honor.

[Astares Amauricanum]

Corona

"We sure do! Go back inside the main hall and you'll see a little storefront in the wall, you can't miss it. I'm sure the girl at the desk can help you pick something cute out for the little one."

Hoshino

Tabby's Point was a pretty well marked trail to go up, signs and little stone path markers made it an easy ride and actually the climb wasn't too bad just a little more windy than a steep incline, like going up a very large hill almost. A few folks had gathered up at the top of the hill to get pictures, enjoy the scenery or pay tribute at the little monument.

Tabby (c. 1979-1999)

From this point, a 17 year old from Animalpolis sat upon this tall mound and spotted the first warships incoming. Tabby's swift alert helped save many more lives of women, children and those unable to fight back. For that, this point is named in her honor.

Joel Miller,
Kino, Corona
"Thank you very much Matron!" I reply with a wide smile, before standing up. "I'll be right back." i say to Sarah, Tommy and Maria before walking towards the storefront.

As I arrive there, I indeed spot a girl at the desk.
"Good morning Miss." I say with a smile. "The Matron told me that yoi might help me find a gift for a little girl, whose mother I would like to court." I explain simply.

Tommy Miller
"Ah, ain't love grand?" I ask to Sarah and Maria as we see Joel walk away, happy as can be. They both nod back to me, before turning our attention back to the Matron.
"Speaking of courtship Matron," asks Maria, " can members of the Madokamism clergy marry, or are you and your colleagues sworn to a vow of celibacy?"

---

Staff Sergeant Abigail "Abby" Anderson
Port Aya Hoshino.
Indeed, we follow the path to Tabby's Point easily, snapping photos here and there of our beautiful surroundings.
After an hour or two, we arrive there, where already a few people, mostly locals, but also some tourists, (including a few Astarians like us, who wave to us and we wave back at them.)

First, we take a few pictures, of the sea and island all around us, of the ocean in the distance, and even a few selfies, including one where we unfold a small flag of our regiment, the 44th Ranger, before Owen puts it back in his bagpack.
Then, we approach the small monument, and we say a little prayer in whisper, praying to the local deities, Madoka and Homura, as well to Ymir and Astartes, our deities of the Afterlife and War, to ensure that Tabby's sould can rest in peace for eternity, and we also swear to ourselves that we won't let a situation like this happen again in the UIS.
Once it is done, I grab a small piece of wood that lies nearby, and after a few minutes of carving it with my knife, I end up with a small star, carved with 44th Ranger, Astares Amauricanum. RIP Tabby.
I put it down next to the monument, among other tribute trinkets and things, and step back, bowing my head and closing my eyes for a few seconds.
Once that is done, Owen and I walk back to the edge of the point, and sit down, letting the sun beam down on us as we enjoy the view.

[Greater Orcadia]

"Well when it's winter back home, it gets really low so all houses have heating. There is also a hotel made of ice" comments Nebo, "though where Tricia comes from, it's not too bad, more cold damp and wet in winter. Summer is nice, and the fall is beautiful"

It was at this point that Tricia chimed in
"Although it has to be said, the small islands here are nice, and when we head to the festivities it should be fun, unlike the plane and boat trip to get here."

"Don't remind me, I don't sail well on small boats, How do you cope?"

Tricia just shrugs

[Qassadia]

The idea they were willing to pay so much money was nothing short of staggering! "1-10D-thousand-Dollars?!" Ayane, the twin in purple was floored, flabbergasted that amounted to a real good chunk of Credits, even with how much would go to taxes it certainly would make good on the family's expenses for a good while. "Thank you so much! Your generosity is most welcome."

"Thank you for my sister and me!" Ayumi, the twin in pink, was equally impressed and thankful. "Yes, we do have some little trinkets we can give you." She pulled out a few more things, some little charm tags that had uplifting messages on them, and wishes for good luck and prosperity and health. The last was a good little statue, 17 centimeters tall, it was the two Goddess joined together. "Hand forged by our grandpapa. Crafted out of real stone and painted by us! This will run you about 200 Credits."

Outside, the man introduced himself as a bodyguard. That's good because he's probably trained with proper weapons procedure, how to talk with law enforcement and not a gung-ho wannabe cowboy. It also probably meant he was familiar with laws regarding firearms in the UIS.

"It's good to meet you, Mr. Honchar. I'm Captain Mayuri Akazaki, Aurora Police Officers. Just doing rounds, making sure all is well on the streets and things are fine."I trust all is well here, no issues?" She could bring up the scene at the temple but she was going to let that slide so long as they didn't cause more issues.

The Princess looked on with a warm, fuzzy feeling that building up in her stomach. Cornelia smiled at the sight of the two siblings who almost jumped with joy at the luck they had received from fate, which had certainly smiled down on their fortune. Cornelia in the face of this expressed sadness, reminding her of the days of her youth when she spent time looking after her two younger sisters; the studious, serious, and upstanding Euphemia and the cute, goofy Relena who always seemed to get in trouble for one or other reason being on the receiving end of their mother, Marianne's stern scoldings or her wrathful disciplinary spankings and ear-twisting.

Cornelia flustered at the thought, she snapped out of it and re-focused on the two pretty ladies whom she towered over.

''I am so glad, that you have agreed to this.'' Exclaimed with a subdued joy,'' as for these little charms and the statuette, I think the sum I am offering you will more than reimburse you for these intriguing trinkets you have so kindly offered us.'' Cornelia said with a bright, warm expression on her face. The Princess turned to her husband, with a needy expression.

''Did you call back for our Knights back on the Yacht - what did they say?'' Cornelia inquired of her husband, o' so sweetly. At this sight, Treize could do nothing but smile.

''They'll be here as fast as they can. Unless the customs slow them down because of the money they'll carry with them.'' The count replied drily.

''Oh, that's great, how wonderful!'' Exclaimed Cornelia, before she turned back to the two girls, who looked up to them. She clasped her hands behind the waist of her violin-shaped hourglass, her high jiggly bosom rocked slightly as she leaned on one of the counters. '' My hubby called for one of our servants back at the yacht to deliver the aforementioned sum. Though customs will slow them down, as they did so in our case. While this is going on, may I ask more about your country - I am very curious to know about your land?''

Meanwhile, at the store's entrance, Honchar had surprisingly bumped heads with someone who identified herself as someone from the island's Law - Enforcement. No doubt having followed them because of his mistress agitated ruckus back at the temple. He nevertheless reciprocated the plain-clothed policewoman gesture, as he showed his own badge and identification. All in a neat passport-format with the Emblem of the Royal Guard on the cover of it, opening it up showing his ID.

''I apologize if Her Highness has caused you to take note of her. She can be rather opinionated and passionate about matters that fancy her interest. If you don't have anything other of relevance to bring to me, then I think it would be for the best if we go on about our separate ways.'' Honchar said, hoping to shoo away this unexpected nuisance as fast as possible.

[AHSCA]

Joel Miller,
Kino, Corona
"Thank you very much Matron!" I reply with a wide smile, before standing up. "I'll be right back." i say to Sarah, Tommy and Maria before walking towards the storefront.

As I arrive there, I indeed spot a girl at the desk.
"Good morning Miss." I say with a smile. "The Matron told me that yoi might help me find a gift for a little girl, whose mother I would like to court." I explain simply.

Tommy Miller
"Ah, ain't love grand?" I ask to Sarah and Maria as we see Joel walk away, happy as can be. They both nod back to me, before turning our attention back to the Matron.
"Speaking of courtship Matron," asks Maria, " can members of the Madokamism clergy marry, or are you and your colleagues sworn to a vow of celibacy?"


Staff Sergeant Abigail "Abby" Anderson
Port Aya Hoshino.
Indeed, we follow the path to Tabby's Point easily, snapping photos here and there of our beautiful surroundings.
After an hour or two, we arrive there, where already a few people, mostly locals, but also some tourists, (including a few Astarians like us, who wave to us and we wave back at them.)

First, we take a few pictures, of the sea and island all around us, of the ocean in the distance, and even a few selfies, including one where we unfold a small flag of our regiment, the 44th Ranger, before Owen puts it back in his bagpack.
Then, we approach the small monument, and we say a little prayer in whisper, praying to the local deities, Madoka and Homura, as well to Ymir and Astartes, our deities of the Afterlife and War, to ensure that Tabby's sould can rest in peace for eternity, and we also swear to ourselves that we won't let a situation like this happen again in the UIS.
Once it is done, I grab a small piece of wood that lies nearby, and after a few minutes of carving it with my knife, I end up with a small star, carved with 44th Ranger, Astares Amauricanum. RIP Tabby.
I put it down next to the monument, among other tribute trinkets and things, and step back, bowing my head and closing my eyes for a few seconds.
Once that is done, Owen and I walk back to the edge of the point, and sit down, letting the sun beam down on us as we enjoy the view.

Corona

The Matron answered, "We can indeed marry and date and do anything most people do. You can also work as a part time Priestess which some like to do as a way to give a little more back to their communities or just be of help during Festival times when we are so busy."

The young shop tending Priestess had wrapped up with a couple of customers before as another approached her with a simple request getting a little thing for a child of someone who had caught his eye, pretty common for those wanting to date widows, divorcees or single-parent adopters. "Aaah yeah, needing a little charm I get'cha. Lemme think.." She paused a moment to ponder, every child was a little different and liked different things, some were satisfied with a little treat to eat, some wanted something more substantial so to speak. "I think I have the perfect little gift for the small one." She reached under the counter pulling out a small doll that was hand crafted doll that was made to look like any Corona Islander. "This should do well, it's been popular with many children today, this is my last one so you're in luck. Two Credits and it's all yours."

---

Hoshino

With the visitors at the edge now again the sparkling sunshine made the water shimmer with beauty. Another young female arrived at the point with a cloth to clean and tidy up the monument and she took notice of the little message left behind. It was heat warming to say the least, many tourists paid their respects in their own ways and some also were sweet to leave flowers or messages and well she wanted to thank them. "Excuse me? By chance did you leave this nice little message at the monument? That was so kind of you. Uh sorry I'm Mayna, Tabby was my grandmother."

"Well when it's winter back home, it gets really low so all houses have heating. There is also a hotel made of ice" comments Nebo, "though where Tricia comes from, it's not too bad, more cold damp and wet in winter. Summer is nice, and the fall is beautiful"

It was at this point that Tricia chimed in
"Although it has to be said, the small islands here are nice, and when we head to the festivities it should be fun, unlike the plane and boat trip to get here."

"Don't remind me, I don't sail well on small boats, How do you cope?"

Tricia just shrugs

"Ice hotel huh? Brrr sounds too cold for me but does sound pretty interesting. Small boats are no issue for me or my little one. Well for me, I was raised with a fisherman father and older brother so I helped out a lot with them back as a little cat. So small boats are no issue for me. Frankly I welcome whatever the sea throws at me, bring it on, I say!"

The Princess looked on with a warm, fuzzy feeling that building up in her stomach. Cornelia smiled at the sight of the two siblings who almost jumped with joy at the luck they had received from fate, which had certainly smiled down on their fortune. Cornelia in the face of this expressed sadness, reminding her of the days of her youth when she spent time looking after her two younger sisters; the studious, serious, and upstanding Euphemia and the cute, goofy Relena who always seemed to get in trouble for one or other reason being on the receiving end of their mother, Marianne's stern scoldings or her wrathful disciplinary spankings and ear-twisting.

Cornelia flustered at the thought, she snapped out of it and re-focused on the two pretty ladies whom she towered over.

''I am so glad, that you have agreed to this.'' Exclaimed with a subdued joy,'' as for these little charms and the statuette, I think the sum I am offering you will more than reimburse you for these intriguing trinkets you have so kindly offered us.'' Cornelia said with a bright, warm expression on her face. The Princess turned to her husband, with a needy expression.

''Did you call back for our Knights back on the Yacht - what did they say?'' Cornelia inquired of her husband, o' so sweetly. At this sight, Treize could do nothing but smile.

''They'll be here as fast as they can. Unless the customs slow them down because of the money they'll carry with them.'' The count replied drily.

''Oh, that's great, how wonderful!'' Exclaimed Cornelia, before she turned back to the two girls, who looked up to them. She clasped her hands behind the waist of her violin-shaped hourglass, her high jiggly bosom rocked slightly as she leaned on one of the counters. '' My hubby called for one of our servants back at the yacht to deliver the aforementioned sum. Though customs will slow them down, as they did so in our case. While this is going on, may I ask more about your country - I am very curious to know about your land?''

Meanwhile, at the store's entrance, Honchar had surprisingly bumped heads with someone who identified herself as someone from the island's Law - Enforcement. No doubt having followed them because of his mistress agitated ruckus back at the temple. He nevertheless reciprocated the plain-clothed policewoman gesture, as he showed his own badge and identification. All in a neat passport-format with the Emblem of the Royal Guard on the cover of it, opening it up showing his ID.

''I apologize if Her Highness has caused you to take note of her. She can be rather opinionated and passionate about matters that fancy her interest. If you don't have anything other of relevance to bring to me, then I think it would be for the best if we go on about our separate ways.'' Honchar said, hoping to shoo away this unexpected nuisance as fast as possible.

"Thank you again madam. We'd be delighted to tell you anything you'd like to know that we can tell you anyway. I mean my sister and I are pretty young but we do go to school so we can probably tell you plenty. Right, Ayumi?"

"I sure hope so, Ayane!"


Outside the shop the Officer listened attentively and nodded.

"She did raise a real ruckus. I wanted to say I was concerned for your safety and security here but you seem to have it well in hand. Just want you all to be careful and have a nice festival. If you have issues though I do urge you to talk to any officer you see, most of them are in uniform, a few like myself are patrolling as plain clothed." He seemed a little eager to get rid of her, so she should be on her way. "All right, just be safe now."

[Astares Amauricanum]

Corona

The Matron answered, "We can indeed marry and date and do anything most people do. You can also work as a part time Priestess which some like to do as a way to give a little more back to their communities or just be of help during Festival times when we are so busy."

The young shop tending Priestess had wrapped up with a couple of customers before as another approached her with a simple request getting a little thing for a child of someone who had caught his eye, pretty common for those wanting to date widows, divorcees or single-parent adopters. "Aaah yeah, needing a little charm I get'cha. Lemme think.." She paused a moment to ponder, every child was a little different and liked different things, some were satisfied with a little treat to eat, some wanted something more substantial so to speak. "I think I have the perfect little gift for the small one." She reached under the counter pulling out a small doll that was hand crafted doll that was made to look like any Corona Islander. "This should do well, it's been popular with many children today, this is my last one so you're in luck. Two Credits and it's all yours."



Hoshino

With the visitors at the edge now again the sparkling sunshine made the water shimmer with beauty. Another young female arrived at the point with a cloth to clean and tidy up the monument and she took notice of the little message left behind. It was heat warming to say the least, many tourists paid their respects in their own ways and some also were sweet to leave flowers or messages and well she wanted to thank them. "Excuse me? By chance did you leave this nice little message at the monument? That was so kind of you. Uh sorry I'm Mayna, Tabby was my grandmother."

Joel Miller,
Kino, Corona

"Okay, here it is." I reply as I hand the Priestess two Island Credits, before taking the doll with a smile. "Thank you very much, have a nice Festival." I add as I put the doll in my bag and walk back towards where my family and the Matron are talking.

"So, did you find something good for Sunplena's kid?" asks Tommy as I sit back with the group.
"Yup." I reply as I show them briefly the doll, Tommy Maria and Sarah nodding with smiles. "So, what did you talked about?" I ask.
"The Matron was explaining to us how the Madokamism clergy members are allowed to marry, and some of them are only part time Priestesses." replies Sarah.
"Oh, interesting. By the way, for how much time an Islander needs to undergo training before becoming a Priest or Priestess?" I ask the Matron.

---

Staff Sergeant Abigail "Abby" Anderson
Port Aya Hoshino.

As we enjoy the scenery, we spot a young girl with a cloth approaching the monument, then looking at the small trinker we left, thenlooking towards us and approaching Owen and me.
"Indeed it was us." I reply with a smile as I stay seated, looking lightly up to Mayna "Nice to meet you Mayna. I'm Abigail, but you can call me Abby. This handsome guy here is my colleague Owen." I continue as I designate my squadmate.
"Nice to meet you Miss Manya." he says with a smile and a nod.
"We're glad you enjoy it. As you may see, we both belong to a military unit currently stationed in the Islas Malditas. Even though we're soldiers, we don't enjoy all the aspects of war, such as the deaths of innocents such as your grandmother. So that's what we wanted to convey by leaving this little token here. To show that for us, your grandmother is a hero."

[Greater Orcadia]

"Ice hotel huh? Brrr sounds too cold for me but does sound pretty interesting. Small boats are no issue for me or my little one. Well for me, I was raised with a fisherman father and older brother so I helped out a lot with them back as a little cat. So small boats are no issue for me. Frankly I welcome whatever the sea throws at me, bring it on, I say!"

Tricia smiles, yup. I can sleep quite well on a ship, the large ferries that take vehicles have a nice slow movement and tend to rock me to sleep and so long as they chain down the trucks i have no worries at sea.

Nebo listens carefully, "so what do you do for a living?" She asks

[AHSCA]

Joel Miller,
Kino, Corona

"Okay, here it is." I reply as I hand the Priestess two Island Credits, before taking the doll with a smile. "Thank you very much, have a nice Festival." I add as I put the doll in my bag and walk back towards where my family and the Matron are talking.

"So, did you find something good for Sunplena's kid?" asks Tommy as I sit back with the group.
"Yup." I reply as I show them briefly the doll, Tommy Maria and Sarah nodding with smiles. "So, what did you talked about?" I ask.
"The Matron was explaining to us how the Madokamism clergy members are allowed to marry, and some of them are only part time Priestesses." replies Sarah.
"Oh, interesting. By the way, for how much time an Islander needs to undergo training before becoming a Priest or Priestess?" I ask the Matron.



Staff Sergeant Abigail "Abby" Anderson
Port Aya Hoshino.

As we enjoy the scenery, we spot a young girl with a cloth approaching the monument, then looking at the small trinker we left, thenlooking towards us and approaching Owen and me.
"Indeed it was us." I reply with a smile as I stay seated, looking lightly up to Mayna "Nice to meet you Mayna. I'm Abigail, but you can call me Abby. This handsome guy here is my colleague Owen." I continue as I designate my squadmate.
"Nice to meet you Miss Manya." he says with a smile and a nod.
"We're glad you enjoy it. As you may see, we both belong to a military unit currently stationed in the Islas Malditas. Even though we're soldiers, we don't enjoy all the aspects of war, such as the deaths of innocents such as your grandmother. So that's what we wanted to convey by leaving this little token here. To show that for us, your grandmother is a hero."

Corona

"Thank you for your business." The Priestess thanked as he took the doll and returned to the party. Now another question, time. "Well there's no real set amount of time really, it's always the discretion of the head. But for us full timers, we usually train for a few years at the Temples or Shrines then be assigned a mentor. The Mentor will then talk with the Matron or other ranking High Priestess and after that you can be deemed worthy. I myself trained for about four years to become a Priestess, Mentored for two then became this temple's Matron after my Mentor retired. Frankly what she saw in me I don't know but here I am. I'm pretty young all things considered compared to most of my fellow matrons around the islands but I was deemed best to lead. And my age is a closely guarded secret." She winked just to head off that question.

Hoshino

"It's good to meet you all here! And I'm so glad you revere her. I wish I had gotten to know her but the stories mama tells me, she was something special. I'm glad she lived long enough to continue on her family line just a little more."

Tricia smiles, yup. I can sleep quite well on a ship, the large ferries that take vehicles have a nice slow movement and tend to rock me to sleep and so long as they chain down the trucks i have no worries at sea.

Nebo listens carefully, "so what do you do for a living?" She asks

"Ah me? Well I'm a midwife as a matter of fact. So yeah I help bring small ones into this brave new world of ours."

[Qassadia]

"Thank you again, madam. We'd be delighted to tell you anything you'd like to know that we can tell you, anyway. I mean my sister and I are pretty young but we do go to school so we can probably tell you plenty. Right, Ayumi?"

"I sure hope so, Ayane!".

''Aw, pish posh, there is no need for you two sweet little dames to call me madam. Cornelia will do just fine, and besides, it is not like we are at some official function like a ball or anything.'' The matronly princess assured the two young ladies. Having to look down on them because of the queenly stature that put her at 5'11, that is the heels weren't included in the equation, that is.

''But do tell me about this - and I hope you can enlighten me; Aren't you two a little too young to stand behind a shop counter?'' Cornelia politely queried the two.

As the conversation carried on, the Count, the consort to this most-difficult of Royals, played up his own distractions at the back of his conscious; entertaining such notions of having to be surrounded by a cohort of pretty women, or what kind of refreshments should he stop on when his august person was back on the Dauntless.

Then again, a golden opportunity had arisen, in that there appeared to be some woman who had approached the bodyguard. By the looks of it, the Count discerned that she was not any kind of regular civilian, judging by the way she carried herself in her attitude to the Knight Agent. This raised his interest, Treize wanted to know more.

''Pardon honey, but I need to see what's this gig about with that woman at the entrance,'' Khushrenada announced to Cornelia in turn who simply nodded with acknowledgment, as she returned to her conversing with the two youngish ladies, that to Cornelia, were still in their teen. At this, Cornelia felt a quick burst of nostalgia of how she missed her days as a girl; wild and merry with mama and papa still around all the while having to look after Relena, the little rascal who would not stop running around and doing antic after antic.

Cornelia smiled as she fought the urge to shed a tear for those long lost innocent days.


Outside the shop, the Officer listened attentively and nodded

"She did raise a real ruckus. I wanted to say I was concerned for your safety and security here, but you seem to have it well in hand. Just want you all to be careful and have a nice festival. If you have issues though, I urge you to talk to any officer you see, most of them are in uniform, a few like myself are patrolling as plain-clothed." He seemed a little eager to get rid of her, so she should be on her way. "All right, just be safe now."

''Her Highness can be quite...opinionated every once in a while regarding matters she is passionate about. But that is an inseparable part of her character, and besides, Her Highness did offer to the temple a very charitable sum in exchange for the temple's artifacts. The kind of sum that could have been spent on noble philanthropic causes like feeding the poor or the homeless, of which I am sure your people would have generously benefited from.'' Honchar said to the policewoman, trying to justify his mistress's conduct without a hint of shame in either his voice or face.

''Then again, you're pagans so I can't really blame you though...''

''What's happening over here, Honchar,'' A voice from the back spoke up belonging to the Count Treize Khushrenada who swooned over to the front of the entrance, to face whoever this unknown, unknown was bothering not only him but also the aristocrat's underling.

''This lady, claims she's from the police sir,'' Honchar said, giving a reverent bow to the Count.'' She brought up to me about Her Highness's supposed misbehavior or something along those lines.''

''Ah, I see,'' Kshushrenada sighed, looking down on this covert, agent of the law. What's up, with these islanders having to be so short. Treize thought, though before he addressed this person, he turned to the Royal Guard, telling him thus in Cassadian;

''Call the guys, back at the yacht to bring the following sum of one hundred thousand dollars over at this, forsaken little crap corner of a shop. It's a block away down the street from the Kitan hotel, they can't miss it.''

Honchar nodded, producing a smartphone from his pocket as he called the Dauntless's satellite phone system which he had on speed dial. The call was short, and straight to the point, for Honchar did not need to say anything else than what was necessary. Not after even a minute, he hung up, the order having been passed down and now having to come down to members of the security detail to tend to this specific task.

HMS Dauntless

The imposing sight of the yacht was truly a peculiar sight to behold, being one of the larger vessels that had been moored in the harbor, besides standing out from the rest with its elongated shape and opulent exterior. Though what was even more eyebrow-raising than this, were the many people who went about the yacht's deck; many of them carrying assault weapons with slings around their shoulders, ready to utilize them for their purpose upon any would-be infiltrator that had the audacity to even try to infiltrate their way into the yacht.

Though, there did come a moment when three figures descended the aisle and onto AHSCA soil. The trio consisted of two men who were by the looks of it in their middle years, while the one in the middle, who carried with him a modest but heavy-looking duffle sack, was still in the fire of his youth, however much in the twilight had begun to dawn on him. The three men were of the Royal Guard, who had been attached to the security detail to Princess Cornelia and her consort, Treize Khushrenada.

The trio of Knight-Agents proceeded over to the customs desks, presenting out of their pockets their ID's and registering their personal firearms, all three pistols being of the SIG Sauer brand.

After that came the rather most questionable of moments to their customs issues; the fact that they were supposed to carry so much money through customs check did not bode well with all three of the Knight-Agents, since the sight of large money stuffed into bags tended to always raise the suspicions of the authorities.

'' Our boss is has struck a deal that requires a transaction of a significant amount of money....involving statuettes and other artifacts.'' Said the young Royal Guard, very much intending to obscure the real identities of his masters. After all he was entrusted with this serious sum of money. The “rabbit” as new additions to the Royal Guard were called, turned to glance at his colleagues who were next to him as they cleared through their own check-ups through customs authorities.

[AHSCA]

''Aw, pish posh, there is no need for you two sweet little dames to call me madam. Cornelia will do just fine, and besides, it is not like we are at some official function like a ball or anything.'' The matronly princess assured the two young ladies. Having to look down on them because of the queenly stature that put her at 5'11, that is the heels weren't included in the equation, that is.

"No ma'am." Ayane replied. "We're old enough to walk, talk and well that means we're old enough to help out here. Grandma and grandpa run the shop and handle everything, we just help out by taking the money and stocking and cleaning."

"Yup, that's what we do!" Ayumi replied just as cheerful. "I guess you never had to?"

The girls craned their necks a little to see if they could see what was happening outside but all they could gather from their vantage point was a few figures near the doorway so they returned their attention back to Cornelia.

"You know they do accept donations without the need to buy anything right?" She pulled out a pen and paper to write a few things down, just making a few notes for later. Someone else joined them, making a few disparaging remarks about the shop and a large sum of money, no doubt that also meant she was about to get a little radio buzz herself in just a moment. "Yessir, I'm with the Aurora Police." She pointed again at the badge fastened to the front of her hakama, "I followed you from the temple to watch your backs for you, but I can see you folks can take care of yourselves. I've seen my share of tourists making a spectacle of themselves and painting a large target on their backs but I'm not going to worry about you." Her radio buzzed it was indeed the port police officers, frankly the sooner she got these folks to move along the better or she might just feel the urge to shoot them herself. "Yeah just give it the quick over and send them through." She replied into her radio.

"Enjoy the festival." Instead of leaving though she actually entered the shop. "Welcome!" Ayumi greeted.

"Oh good afternoon ladies. Don't mind me, I'm wanting to browse a little."

"Okay, let us know if you need something."

The girls returned their attention again to Cornelia. "So what else would you like to know? It's not every day we get to talk to people from other countries."

[Astares Amauricanum]

Corona

"Thank you for your business." The Priestess thanked as he took the doll and returned to the party. Now another question, time. "Well there's no real set amount of time really, it's always the discretion of the head. But for us full timers, we usually train for a few years at the Temples or Shrines then be assigned a mentor. The Mentor will then talk with the Matron or other ranking High Priestess and after that you can be deemed worthy. I myself trained for about four years to become a Priestess, Mentored for two then became this temple's Matron after my Mentor retired. Frankly what she saw in me I don't know but here I am. I'm pretty young all things considered compared to most of my fellow matrons around the islands but I was deemed best to lead. And my age is a closely guarded secret." She winked just to head off that question.

Hoshino

"It's good to meet you all here! And I'm so glad you revere her. I wish I had gotten to know her but the stories mama tells me, she was something special. I'm glad she lived long enough to continue on her family line just a little more."

Joel Miller,
Kino, Corona
"Interesting, so it's up to your instructor to decide the length of your training." I reply. "And what about your service to the Goddesses? Do you honor them with prayers and masses like we Astarians do, or do you offer things to them such as food like in Ancient Egypt?"

---

Staff Sergeant Abigail "Abby" Anderson
Port Aya Hoshino."
"Well, we don't revere here literally," I correct, "but we really like stories such as hers. Even though it's tragic she didn't live to tell the tale. But you're right Mayna, she did have time though to continue her family, and that's the more important. So, do you often come here to watch over your grandmother's monument?" I ask with a genuine smile.

[Greater Orcadia]

"Ah me? Well I'm a midwife as a matter of fact. So yeah I help bring small ones into this brave new world of ours."

"Sounds an interesting job, bet it can be stressful at times" replies Tricia, "I dont think I could do it, I have enough stress to deal with getting around our capital and second city, though I have heard of bus drivers having to help deliver babies from time to time, rare but it happens"

"yeah but Tricia, you have not had to deal with a hundred Auroran's all sloshed and sozzled on the wobble juice, Ryan's bar was a busy place at weekends and small" replies Nebo before turning to the kid, "so what do you want to be when you get older eh kid?" she asks

[AHSCA]

Joel Miller,
Kino, Corona
"Interesting, so it's up to your instructor to decide the length of your training." I reply. "And what about your service to the Goddesses? Do you honor them with prayers and masses like we Astarians do, or do you offer things to them such as food like in Ancient Egypt?"


Staff Sergeant Abigail "Abby" Anderson
Port Aya Hoshino."
"Well, we don't revere here literally," I correct, "but we really like stories such as hers. Even though it's tragic she didn't live to tell the tale. But you're right Mayna, she did have time though to continue her family, and that's the more important. So, do you often come here to watch over your grandmother's monument?" I ask with a genuine smile.

"Simple prayers are all the Goddesses ask of us. Prayers and a little bit of song maybe, well song anywhere but on the seas you know. Bad luck will surely befall you. It's why sea shanties never caught on here in the good ol'e UIS. But there are those who will do it."

---

"I do come up here often! Most people are respectful and only leave things, there's been sadly a few times folks have defaced it. But I always clean it up. Granny is the reason I'm here, that my mom is here! So I owe this much to her at least."

"Sounds an interesting job, bet it can be stressful at times" replies Tricia, "I dont think I could do it, I have enough stress to deal with getting around our capital and second city, though I have heard of bus drivers having to help deliver babies from time to time, rare but it happens"

"yeah but Tricia, you have not had to deal with a hundred Auroran's all sloshed and sozzled on the wobble juice, Ryan's bar was a busy place at weekends and small" replies Nebo before turning to the kid, "so what do you want to be when you get older eh kid?" she asks

"Hehe yeah it's a lot to manage. Most are surprised when they find out I am one but I do a helluva job to help the ladies in my care and the little ones that come into the world."

"O-oh!" Shino's ears perked up, when she was surprised to be asked a question again, "I want to be a Priestess!"

"Aint that sweet! Gonna devote her time to the Holy Mothers! My little one has a heart'a gold I tell ya! But I guess that only means she takes after me! Maybe I oughta be a little scared 'bout that, I mean I was a little crazy as a teenager but if she's like her father, she'll be fine!" She ruffled her daughter's hair a little.

[Astares Amauricanum]

Simple prayers are all the Goddesses ask of us. Prayers and a little bit of song maybe, well song anywhere but on the seas you know. Bad luck will surely befall you. It's why sea shanties never caught on here in the good ol'e UIS. But there are those who will do it."



"I do come up here often! Most people are respectful and only leave things, there's been sadly a few times folks have defaced it. But I always clean it up. Granny is the reason I'm here, that my mom is here! So I owe this much to her at least."

Joel Miller,
Kino, Corona

"Okay." replies Tommy as we all nod in understanding.
"But in case someone feels rebel or daring enough to try such a thing, what would be his crewmates reaction?" I ask in curiosity. "Would they try to shush him by any means necesary, such as knocking him out?"

---

Staff Sergeant Abigail "Abby" Anderson
Port Aya Hoshino.

When Owen and me hear that people would defile such a beautiful monument, our faces show an expression of pure rage for a few seconds, but we quickly calm down in order to not scare Mayna
"We hope the defacement has never been too severe." I say with a semi-worried tone. "But judging by its state, you keep it all nice and clean. Good job Mayna.
That aside, what do you do in life aside from looking after your grandmother's monument, if you don't mind me asking?" I ask with a smile and genuine curiosity.

[AHSCA]

Joel Miller,
Kino, Corona

"Okay." replies Tommy as we all nod in understanding.
"But in case someone feels rebel or daring enough to try such a thing, what would be his crewmates reaction?" I ask in curiosity. "Would they try to shush him by any means necesary, such as knocking him out?"


Staff Sergeant Abigail "Abby" Anderson
Port Aya Hoshino.

When Owen and me hear that people would defile such a beautiful monument, our faces show an expression of pure rage for a few seconds, but we quickly calm down in order to not scare Mayna
"We hope the defacement has never been too severe." I say with a semi-worried tone. "But judging by its state, you keep it all nice and clean. Good job Mayna.
That aside, what do you do in life aside from looking after your grandmother's monument, if you don't mind me asking?" I ask with a smile and genuine curiosity.

"Ohoho I truly pity the fool who dares go against his or her crew to tempt the Black Goddess. Believe me, they'll be in for a walloping if they do. in the olden days you might have even been tossed overboard but not so much these days. These days just getting common sense kicked into you."

---

"Oh my mom and I run a little food stand! Fresh fish, raw, diced, sliced, fried, however you like it, we do it! My dad catches all the fish, we cook it up! So does my little brother too, he helps as well. The grave care taking is something I do on my own time. I don't mind it, like I said, granny is a hero to me. "

[Greater Orcadia]

"Hehe yeah it's a lot to manage. Most are surprised when they find out I am one but I do a helluva job to help the ladies in my care and the little ones that come into the world."

"O-oh!" Shino's ears perked up, when she was surprised to be asked a question again, "I want to be a Priestess!"

"Aint that sweet! Gonna devote her time to the Holy Mothers! My little one has a heart'a gold I tell ya! But I guess that only means she takes after me! Maybe I oughta be a little scared 'bout that, I mean I was a little crazy as a teenager but if she's like her father, she'll be fine!" She ruffled her daughter's hair a little.

"sounds interesting" says Nebo, "I was believe it or not, not that wild in school, Had a good job, studied at Uni, got a job in a bar, I dont speak much with my family back home though"

Tricia listenned, "maybe you should show us around the area this afternoon, and we'll take Chyna along with us, allow her to see the island"

[Astares Amauricanum]

"Ohoho I truly pity the fool who dares go against his or her crew to tempt the Black Goddess. Believe me, they'll be in for a walloping if they do. in the olden days you might have even been tossed overboard but not so much these days. These days just getting common sense kicked into you."


"Oh my mom and I run a little food stand! Fresh fish, raw, diced, sliced, fried, however you like it, we do it! My dad catches all the fish, we cook it up! So does my little brother too, he helps as well. The grave care taking is something I do on my own time. I don't mind it, like I said, granny is a hero to me. "

Joel Miller,
Kino, Corona

"If the poor soul does not learn after that, I wonder if they'll ever will." I say with a small chuckle.
"I have another question if you don't mind Matron." continues my brother Tommy. "About marriage rites, I've heard that it's the bride in the couple that's supposed to undergo a set of special tasks. But what if the groom also wants to undergo them?"
Even though I look at him sideways, with a look that says That's way too early to think about between me and Sunplena, I still wait for the Matron's answer with great interest.

---

Staff Sergeant Abigail "Abby" Anderson
Port Aya Hoshino.

"We will be sure to come and try your family's dishes before we go back to the Malditas at the end of the Festival." replies Owen with a warm smile.
"Yup." I continue with the same smile, before asking with a bit more of seriousness to Mayna. "If you don't mind me asking Mayna, what do you think of the Festival's opening to foreign tourists? Do you feel it has started to change things around here?"

[Kyrenaia]

The Sanda

Satou was always thrilled to tell the story of how she met Tess. "Well actually, we met during the festival a few years ago! I work at the Kitan, I'm sure you've been there. Well I was working staff during the festival and there Tess was with her family, Tess the most beautiful girl I'd ever seen. Truly if I had questions about my orientation by then that question was firmly answered when I laid eyes on her. Well anyway, her parents decided to have a quiet evening for themselves, Tess was enjoying a little time alone but I really felt like she might be lonely sitting all by herself so I wanted to go sit with her. Oh to make the long story short, we got to talking, know each other better and next thing we know, here we are, married! We're splitting our time between here and Mervay often so getting the best of both our countries. Mervay is super beautiful I might say! But okay, not your turn!" Satou eagerly pushed them to share their first meeting story! She already forgotten they were nobles and was relaxed around them as if they were old friends or recent acquaintances.

The Kitan with Aurelia and Marcella

"Two specials coming on up!" Sapphire took the menus from the ladies and went to send their orders onto the kitchen.

"oh as a matter of fact, you're right, Miss Tsubaki is a Spiorad." Given Marcella had a positive report with the staff here, she's gotten to know the manager well. "She's told me quite a bit of her life, a life that's existed long before I was born. Incredible how she's seen this place grown from a kingdom, an empire, a loose clusters of islands to today's Duchy under my rule. I've even confided in her, that sometimes feels a little awkward someone as young as me should be Duchess when she has a lot of years and experience compared to me. I guess I'm just blessed to be my Mother's daughter. Speaking of, she wanted me to tell you hello for her and she's wishing you and your family well."

Hoshino

"Hehe an icy treat sounds great on a warm day like today so sure it's the least we can do." He chuckled as his girlfriend turned on the phone's flashlight giving a pretty good illumination.

"The light kind of makes some cool shadows!" The girl said as she illuminated the cave "It's pretty the way it hits the rock and grooves in the wall!"

The Kitan's Baths

"Huh good place to drink? Well if you're looking for a good watering whole, i'd suggest a nice pub on the edge of the port as well. Don't worry too much about drunken sailors, it's not that rough of a joint, the folks who run it are pretty nice actually and run a good joint. It's very informal because it is made more for the passing seamen and that but hey it'd kill two birds with one stone if you wanna go talk to some Island Hoppers."

"If you want a more formal classy place, there's always The Kitan, but I've heard of a newer place that's a little more out of the way and really upscale. Made for the high end foreign tourists and well to do islanders here."

"There's other nice little places scattered around the village as well that might be worth a try, these are the ones we know about the best."

[...]

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
The Special Table at the Kitan, Port Aurora.
I smiled.
"Thank you. I hope, that I can see her some time over the next few days.", I told Marcella. I liked her mother. She was a good woman. The thought also distracted me a bit from my thoughts about what Milady Branwen told me way back when. "But yes, Spiorad are something else to behold, to talk to and to listen to... their experiences and wisdom are second to none, yet they usually try to stay away from meddling 'in the affairs of the young folks', as Milady Macha once told me."
I let a beat pass.
"Have you ever heard about a country by the name of Okunaratsuru?", I asked.

Nela, Prinzessin von Zieselhaven und Elms.
Port Aya, Hoshino.
I looked to Rena, who nodded with a small smile.
"It indeed does.", she agreed, then explained: "Though, to be honest, that is not what I had in mind. A friend of ours studied geology, I think, that he would be quite excited to be here."
I, meanwhile, thought, that Ice Cream might be a good replacement as a currency, if this went on... I smiled as Rena looked around, studied the wall closely.
"Fiete told you a few things, didn't he?", I asked her.
She blushed lightly - oh, I had a bit of a clue about when and where he told her... "He told me, what to look out for.", she explained, while studying the wall.

Elin Blaidd, of Tralee Descent.
Kitan, Port Aurora.
I looked to Branwen and I knew, that the harbour pub option sounded like the most appealing to her, too, both due to the option to find a ferry around and because the Kitan was really upscale, from what we heard and seen so far.
That being said, we also wouldn't have minded a bit of a rougher place. Our favourite hangout during High School, the Amhucamh, had been quite rough around the edges.
"Those sound like interesting places, thank you.", I said and leaned back, exhaled. "If you are ever in Leuda, look for the Dorcha Inn. Chances are, we might meet again there."

Prince Damir ibn-Razia.
Sanda.
Well, that was a coincidence!
"A nice story.", Yasmin said, looked to me, the unspoken question of Do you want or should I? hanging in the air. I was in a similar predicament to Satou, I loved to tell that story. I motioned to her, for she could actually tell it better then me. Neither of us minded, that the two were relaxing a bit. We were here to relax, after all, so no need to stand on ceremony all the time. "So, how did we first meet? I was six or seven or something, actually. You see, I am the Princess of the Khanate of Tanin and that Khanate is a part of the Ilkhanate of Utica, so I had to be introduced at Court once I was ready. And that was shortly before a certain someone departed for a state visit by his Mother's side to the Free Lands."
I nodded. That had been in 2000, for the Spring Festival. Nine months later, Marla would give birth to Aurelia. Back then, I had met Yasmin, but thought her to be a curious child, wake me up when she is an adult.
Well...
"So, I was introduced at Court, bowed my head, shook hands, danced with him at a ball and that's about it.", she continued, "I crushed on him, too, if I am honest..."
"It was the uniform.", I said from the side, earning a giggle from my wife, as I added for the benefit of our listeners: "At the time, I was doing my Service with the Utica Metropolitan Police."
"Fast forward a few many years, we all grew up, Aurelia became known, Damir took her to Kyrenaia, I met her, too, at some function or the other, but nothing really came from it.", Yasmin continued and swallowed. "Then, in 2017, my Father had a stroke and he could no longer rule. I was named Princess-Regent of Tanin, aborted my studies of Geology and... had no clue about ruling a Khanate." She swallowed, I put an arm around her. She gave me a smile. "I asked the Sultana if she couldn't send someone as a regent, similarly to Khana Dilara, of the Khanate of Las, who's position is currently filled by Aynur-Ilkhana, until she finishes her Service. She sent me an advisor and teacher, her own Wasita - Damir."
She looked at me, squeezed my hand.
"I don't know, when exactly we fell for each other, but we did and... a few months ago, we married.", she finished, smiling. "Father approved heartily."

[AHSCA]

sounds interesting" says Nebo, "I was believe it or not, not that wild in school, Had a good job, studied at Uni, got a job in a bar, I dont speak much with my family back home though"

Tricia listenned, "maybe you should show us around the area this afternoon, and we'll take Chyna along with us, allow her to see the island"

"oooh that's a fine idea! Well again we're not local to the island but it's not as tough we won't know our way around neither. So why not, I can be a guide! You wanna stay close or you looking to really venture of the beaten path?"

Joel Miller,
Kino, Corona

"If the poor soul does not learn after that, I wonder if they'll ever will." I say with a small chuckle.
"I have another question if you don't mind Matron." continues my brother Tommy. "About marriage rites, I've heard that it's the bride in the couple that's supposed to undergo a set of special tasks. But what if the groom also wants to undergo them?"
Even though I look at him sideways, with a look that says That's way too early to think about between me and Sunplena, I still wait for the Matron's answer with great interest.


Staff Sergeant Abigail "Abby" Anderson
Port Aya Hoshino.

"We will be sure to come and try your family's dishes before we go back to the Malditas at the end of the Festival." replies Owen with a warm smile.
"Yup." I continue with the same smile, before asking with a bit more of seriousness to Mayna. "If you don't mind me asking Mayna, what do you think of the Festival's opening to foreign tourists? Do you feel it has started to change things around here?"

"It's true, traditionally the riruals are done by the women but men can and do participate. It does depend a great deal where you are, what kind of people you are wedding and what the core values of their beliefs are. That's pretty rare here on Corona, we're considerably, old fashioned here, but it happens, I've done one occasion where both the man and woman want to perform the ritual together. That said, I don't think you'll ever find an instance where the man would take the ritual upon himself solely, it would be a great insult to the woman he's ready to call his wife. She would take it as an insult that she isn't strong enough to perform the ritual to show her strength and dedication to being a wife and mother. And a man who averts his gaze from the ritual would be an equally great insult. Of course exceptions will be taken for a woman who is indeed physically incapable of doing the ritual by some kind of mark upon them. These are more old traditions that date back to our people for many centuries than hard and fast spiritual rules that we're expected to oblige by but I for one certainly believe there is a spiritual obligation to perform."

---

"Wonderful! I'm sure we'll prepare a real delectable delight for you! Onto your question, well my mother says, change is always going to come. By the wind, by the sun, by the rain, by the moon, as sure as we grow. You can either accept the change and go with it, or fight the current and be swept away. Well to put that very simply, I'm all for it! People are people wherever they're from and folks like you are no different. You can either be good people, or bad people. Well in your case I think your good people. Plus we run a little stand so hey it brings us good money to live by!"

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
The Special Table at the Kitan, Port Aurora.
I smiled.
"Thank you. I hope, that I can see her some time over the next few days.", I told Marcella. I liked her mother. She was a good woman. The thought also distracted me a bit from my thoughts about what Milady Branwen told me way back when. "But yes, Spiorad are something else to behold, to talk to and to listen to... their experiences and wisdom are second to none, yet they usually try to stay away from meddling 'in the affairs of the young folks', as Milady Macha once told me."
I let a beat pass.
"Have you ever heard about a country by the name of Okunaratsuru?", I asked.

Nela, Prinzessin von Zieselhaven und Elms.
Port Aya, Hoshino.
I looked to Rena, who nodded with a small smile.
"It indeed does.", she agreed, then explained: "Though, to be honest, that is not what I had in mind. A friend of ours studied geology, I think, that he would be quite excited to be here."
I, meanwhile, thought, that Ice Cream might be a good replacement as a currency, if this went on... I smiled as Rena looked around, studied the wall closely.
"Fiete told you a few things, didn't he?", I asked her.
She blushed lightly - oh, I had a bit of a clue about when and where he told her... "He told me, what to look out for.", she explained, while studying the wall.

Elin Blaidd, of Tralee Descent.
Kitan, Port Aurora.
I looked to Branwen and I knew, that the harbour pub option sounded like the most appealing to her, too, both due to the option to find a ferry around and because the Kitan was really upscale, from what we heard and seen so far.
That being said, we also wouldn't have minded a bit of a rougher place. Our favourite hangout during High School, the Amhucamh, had been quite rough around the edges.
"Those sound like interesting places, thank you.", I said and leaned back, exhaled. "If you are ever in Leuda, look for the Dorcha Inn. Chances are, we might meet again there."

Prince Damir ibn-Razia.
Sanda.
Well, that was a coincidence!
"A nice story.", Yasmin said, looked to me, the unspoken question of Do you want or should I? hanging in the air. I was in a similar predicament to Satou, I loved to tell that story. I motioned to her, for she could actually tell it better then me. Neither of us minded, that the two were relaxing a bit. We were here to relax, after all, so no need to stand on ceremony all the time. "So, how did we first meet? I was six or seven or something, actually. You see, I am the Princess of the Khanate of Tanin and that Khanate is a part of the Ilkhanate of Utica, so I had to be introduced at Court once I was ready. And that was shortly before a certain someone departed for a state visit by his Mother's side to the Free Lands."
I nodded. That had been in 2000, for the Spring Festival. Nine months later, Marla would give birth to Aurelia. Back then, I had met Yasmin, but thought her to be a curious child, wake me up when she is an adult.
Well...
"So, I was introduced at Court, bowed my head, shook hands, danced with him at a ball and that's about it.", she continued, "I crushed on him, too, if I am honest..."
"It was the uniform.", I said from the side, earning a giggle from my wife, as I added for the benefit of our listeners: "At the time, I was doing my Service with the Utica Metropolitan Police."
"Fast forward a few many years, we all grew up, Aurelia became known, Damir took her to Kyrenaia, I met her, too, at some function or the other, but nothing really came from it.", Yasmin continued and swallowed. "Then, in 2017, my Father had a stroke and he could no longer rule. I was named Princess-Regent of Tanin, aborted my studies of Geology and... had no clue about ruling a Khanate." She swallowed, I put an arm around her. She gave me a smile. "I asked the Sultana if she couldn't send someone as a regent, similarly to Khana Dilara, of the Khanate of Las, who's position is currently filled by Aynur-Ilkhana, until she finishes her Service. She sent me an advisor and teacher, her own Wasita - Damir."
She looked at me, squeezed my hand.
"I don't know, when exactly we fell for each other, but we did and... a few months ago, we married.", she finished, smiling. "Father approved heartily."


Aonas Folracht of the Tribe of Wicklow.
Port of Kino, Corona Island.
Feeling her arms around my waist and her body so close to mine, I could only agree with Ayla. This was different. I did not mind, though.
Asalcloig didn't complain either, so I softly got him to move and he began a slow trot.
"We'll go a bit slow at first so that we all get used to the motion.", I explained to my passenger, "I don't often ride bareback and even less often with someone accompanying me... but we'll manage."
I smiled.

The Kitan, Marcella and Aurelia

" Okunaratsuru?" Marcella repeated and though a bit to all her many geography lessons over the years but she came up blank. "Afraid I haven't, doesn't ring any bells."

Port Aya

It wasn't too much longer now, the tide began to creep in a little more starting to swell just at the base of their feet close to their ankles but no real concern, high tide was still a long ways away for now it was enjoyable to have the cool ocean spray being kicked up by the breeze making a fine mist in the cave. "Geology huh?" he repeated "I'm sure you could teach us a thing or two, I think Lucy and me are more uuh..."

"Never mind, Benji. Anyway, can't do much but give you a little light but that's what we'll do!"

Corona

"First time huh? Well no matter, I trust you all the way. You know your loyal steed better than anyone, I'm certain. And already, this is pretty fun, I gotta say!" Still Ayla did tighten her grip around him a little more, best be on the safe side. The motion was pretty easy and comfortable to get used to. No different than riding a small boat on the waves she thought. Well maybe not the exact same but it was okay.

The Kitan, Baths

She giggled a littel, "Well then, I'd say the seaside pubs are going to be your style then. Maybe not rough and tough but more on the fly compared to your nicer joints on the island to appeal to the tourists. So go right on with that choice, I think you can't go wrong."

Rikka nodded in agreement "Watering holes along the shore. I'm sure at some point our trips on the seas will take us there to meet you again! I've always wanted to go."

"Yeah me too. Well Captains do get a lot of pick in charters. If I can get us a charter to haul freight or passengers, I bet we could make a trip out of it!"

Satou, Tess and the Prince & Princess

Now it was their turn, it was a great story indeed, not only of the current couple before them, but how he met his first love that blessed him with Aurelia, the woman who also captured the heart of the Duchess. Satou admitted she didn't know much about government, politics or that but she did know plenty that the Duchess and a princess from a far off Desert land had fallen on love and that was a romantic tale for the ages. "That is a great story too!" Well it had it's highs and tragic lows but it was a good story to listen too. "I guess the winds of change all brought us together in some way. That's what my granny always said."

[Kyrenaia]

[...]

The Kitan, Marcella and Aurelia

" Okunaratsuru?" Marcella repeated and though a bit to all her many geography lessons over the years but she came up blank. "Afraid I haven't, doesn't ring any bells."

Port Aya

It wasn't too much longer now, the tide began to creep in a little more starting to swell just at the base of their feet close to their ankles but no real concern, high tide was still a long ways away for now it was enjoyable to have the cool ocean spray being kicked up by the breeze making a fine mist in the cave. "Geology huh?" he repeated "I'm sure you could teach us a thing or two, I think Lucy and me are more uuh..."

"Never mind, Benji. Anyway, can't do much but give you a little light but that's what we'll do!"

Corona

"First time huh? Well no matter, I trust you all the way. You know your loyal steed better than anyone, I'm certain. And already, this is pretty fun, I gotta say!" Still Ayla did tighten her grip around him a little more, best be on the safe side. The motion was pretty easy and comfortable to get used to. No different than riding a small boat on the waves she thought. Well maybe not the exact same but it was okay.

The Kitan, Baths

She giggled a littel, "Well then, I'd say the seaside pubs are going to be your style then. Maybe not rough and tough but more on the fly compared to your nicer joints on the island to appeal to the tourists. So go right on with that choice, I think you can't go wrong."

Rikka nodded in agreement "Watering holes along the shore. I'm sure at some point our trips on the seas will take us there to meet you again! I've always wanted to go."

"Yeah me too. Well Captains do get a lot of pick in charters. If I can get us a charter to haul freight or passengers, I bet we could make a trip out of it!"

Satou, Tess and the Prince & Princess

Now it was their turn, it was a great story indeed, not only of the current couple before them, but how he met his first love that blessed him with Aurelia, the woman who also captured the heart of the Duchess. Satou admitted she didn't know much about government, politics or that but she did know plenty that the Duchess and a princess from a far off Desert land had fallen on love and that was a romantic tale for the ages. "That is a great story too!" Well it had it's highs and tragic lows but it was a good story to listen too. "I guess the winds of change all brought us together in some way. That's what my granny always said."

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
The Special Table at the Kitan, Port Aurora.
I nodded. "Don't worry, not many people know of the country. It is small, not much of a population... actually in a similar boat to the UIS, only that there are not as many nations vying for regional hegemony." I shrugged. It was no secret, that the UIS was the grindstone the interests of quite a few nations were tested against each other, not to mention the UIS' interests itself. "A friend of mine was there once... it is a pretty place. The people there call themselves either the Migakemujara or the Yojaode, depending on whether or not they have animal ears like the Spiorad or horns. They grow incredibly ancient, to my understanding, and have a wisdom to match."
I smiled.
"If we ever find the time, we should make a trip to the place, just the two of us.", I suggested.

Nela, Prinzessin von Zieselhaven und Elms.
Port Aya, Hoshino.
I felt something around my ankles as Rena explained something or the other, so I looked down.
Ah...
"Alright, that is enough of the geology lesson, I am afraid.", I said with a small smile, drawing attention, then pointing down, "The tide rises and I would hate to drown."
There were many reasons for that, too.
Rena nodded in agreement, handing back the torch. "Yes, we might want to avoid swimming until we are outside.", she said, then smiled at the two Islanders. "Thank you very much. Though, admittedly, I am more of a Horse Doctor, not a Geologist."
"And a registered member of the Marcach Guild of Redruth.", I added with a small smile, which made Rena blush. I extended my hand. "Now then, shall we?"

Elin Blaidd, of Tralee Descent.
Kitan, Port Aurora.
I smiled at my sister, who said: "I am sure, that it would be fun for all involved.", she said. She knew the Dorcha. She knew, that it was not just any seaside watering hole, but a riverside one. And that it was... maybe a bit rougher then the Islanders might like. In any case, she smiled and rose, water running down her body. I knew, that there many men and quite a few women desiring, but I also knew, that the majority of them were only out for two things. I knew, that my sister knew as well and that she avoided them like the plague. She, like myself with Ritu, wanted someone, who loved her for her mind, not her body. "Now, ladies, it was fun talking to you both, but I think, that I should get going... the hot water is making me dizzy."
I nodded and rose as well with a similar effect.
"Lemme give you a hand.", I offered to my sister, who indeed looked a bit wobbly on her feet. I wasn't, so I got up.

Aonas Folracht of the Tribe of Wicklow.
Port of Kino, Corona Island.
I blushed at the compliments, but also at the feeling of her body against mine.
Taking a deep breath, I got Asalcloig moving out onto the street, adjusted my seating lightly, then smiled over my shoulder.
"Milady, which way to go?", I asked Ayla, "Carried to the left into the metropolis that is Kino? To the right, into the wild, where I shall protect you from wild beasts?" At the latter point, I petted the pommel of the sword hanging on the saddle. "It is up to you, Milady!"

[Greater Orcadia]

"oooh that's a fine idea! Well again we're not local to the island but it's not as tough we won't know our way around neither. So why not, I can be a guide! You wanna stay close or you looking to really venture of the beaten path?"

"Not too far off the path for now, this is our first time in these islands so we are not sure where things are" replies Tricia as Nebraska gently pushes off from the side of the pool to swim across the water, as she does so with soft, gentle arm movements she creates little in the way of spray and wash but instead her arms and legs propel her across the water as she does a gentle breast stroke.

"We will have to get changed and pick up the kitty from the room before heading out, however have you guys had breakfast yet, if not we can go after you've ate?" says Tricia

[Mervay]

[spoiler=AHSCA and Kyre]

The Sanda

Satou was always thrilled to tell the story of how she met Tess. "Well actually, we met during the festival a few years ago! I work at the Kitan, I'm sure you've been there. Well I was working staff during the festival and there Tess was with her family, Tess the most beautiful girl I'd ever seen. Truly if I had questions about my orientation by then that question was firmly answered when I laid eyes on her. Well anyway, her parents decided to have a quiet evening for themselves, Tess was enjoying a little time alone but I really felt like she might be lonely sitting all by herself so I wanted to go sit with her. Oh to make the long story short, we got to talking, know each other better and next thing we know, here we are, married! We're splitting our time between here and Mervay often so getting the best of both our countries. Mervay is super beautiful I might say! But okay, not your turn!" Satou eagerly pushed them to share their first meeting story! She already forgotten they were nobles and was relaxed around them as if they were old friends or recent acquaintances.

Prince Damir ibn-Razia.
Sanda.
Well, that was a coincidence!
"A nice story.", Yasmin said, looked to me, the unspoken question of Do you want or should I? hanging in the air. I was in a similar predicament to Satou, I loved to tell that story. I motioned to her, for she could actually tell it better then me. Neither of us minded, that the two were relaxing a bit. We were here to relax, after all, so no need to stand on ceremony all the time. "So, how did we first meet? I was six or seven or something, actually. You see, I am the Princess of the Khanate of Tanin and that Khanate is a part of the Ilkhanate of Utica, so I had to be introduced at Court once I was ready. And that was shortly before a certain someone departed for a state visit by his Mother's side to the Free Lands."
I nodded. That had been in 2000, for the Spring Festival. Nine months later, Marla would give birth to Aurelia. Back then, I had met Yasmin, but thought her to be a curious child, wake me up when she is an adult.
Well...
"So, I was introduced at Court, bowed my head, shook hands, danced with him at a ball and that's about it.", she continued, "I crushed on him, too, if I am honest..."
"It was the uniform.", I said from the side, earning a giggle from my wife, as I added for the benefit of our listeners: "At the time, I was doing my Service with the Utica Metropolitan Police."
"Fast forward a few many years, we all grew up, Aurelia became known, Damir took her to Kyrenaia, I met her, too, at some function or the other, but nothing really came from it.", Yasmin continued and swallowed. "Then, in 2017, my Father had a stroke and he could no longer rule. I was named Princess-Regent of Tanin, aborted my studies of Geology and... had no clue about ruling a Khanate." She swallowed, I put an arm around her. She gave me a smile. "I asked the Sultana if she couldn't send someone as a regent, similarly to Khana Dilara, of the Khanate of Las, who's position is currently filled by Aynur-Ilkhana, until she finishes her Service. She sent me an advisor and teacher, her own Wasita - Damir."
She looked at me, squeezed my hand.
"I don't know, when exactly we fell for each other, but we did and... a few months ago, we married.", she finished, smiling. "Father approved heartily."[/quote]

Satou, Tess and the Prince & Princess

Now it was their turn, it was a great story indeed, not only of the current couple before them, but how he met his first love that blessed him with Aurelia, the woman who also captured the heart of the Duchess. Satou admitted she didn't know much about government, politics or that but she did know plenty that the Duchess and a princess from a far off Desert land had fallen on love and that was a romantic tale for the ages. "That is a great story too!" Well it had it's highs and tragic lows but it was a good story to listen too. "I guess the winds of change all brought us together in some way. That's what my granny always said."

Tsubaki
"Well that'd be great!" Sasha said really speaking for herself and her mother. Honestly Sasha was just as eager to meet the little girl and see the impact of her mother's time and service here.

"Ehe yes, that would be nice, thank you very much. I do hope we won't end up eating into your time at the Festival, this is a fun time for all."

"Yeah it's our first time but...Or I guess my first time because mom did enjoy one during her time here."

"Well I wouldn't say enjoy because I was on duty at the time but it was a nice sight to see."

Tess Dileva
Sanda Restaurant
The memories of that day were so warm to Tess as she remembered it like the palm of her hand; her parents decided to have their private date quite earlier and left Tess to her own devices, which she couldn't blame them considering she was to propose the samething sooner or later anyway, more considering how long they were away of the other; then after having her dinner brought, she remembered Satou approaching her and talked with her; from then things got better. It was funny how they did as they went to a date after that and confessed their feelings to the other, it might had been unwise to many to rush an relationship, but her beloved wife; well, she was the exception to the rule after all. In an spawn of a week, one unforgettable week, she found the love of her life and in two years, here they were! Happily married and roaming off from both ends of their countries, both of them making a contrast of the other, yet so peaceful and complementing of the other; which was how Tess saw her relationship with Satou, they both were the complement of the other, always watching the backs of the other and when one was in need of a hand, they will always find one and support the other; individually they were strong, but together they were unstoppable.
As she heard her wife tell the story, the brunette couldn't help but blush at her wife's comments, she dearly loved Satou and was grateful to have met her and have her at her side.

She was about to say something, but then decided against it, letting the couple in front of them to tell their story; fairly simple yet also tragic considering the Lady Yasmin Father's state, she could notice her worry as she talked about that part; to be thrown to running an territory without knowledge was no easy feat, something that she also had when thinking about. she chuckled a bit at the mention of the uniform, it seemed universal wherever you went, you will always hear the joke of the uniform. And it appeared the time they spent together back then was when they fell in love; nice!

She couldn't help but smile at the comments of her wife before replying.

"I must agree with my wife, it is certainly interesting to see how life bring us to where we are." She replied with a smile before replying at the other detail. "I don't know if I said this, but I would like to congratulate you two for the child you're about to have as a couple, may he be blessed with a great future."

Eduard De La Mercant
Tsubaki
He couldn't help but smile at them before sighing fondly.

"Don't worry, I have time to spare; it's also my first visit after all." He told them before letting a beat pass. "Besides; I cannot leave without having the waitress bring me the account and pay up; which allow me to please pay up for your food if you two wouldn't mind?"

[Astares Amauricanum]

"It's true, traditionally the riruals are done by the women but men can and do participate. It does depend a great deal where you are, what kind of people you are wedding and what the core values of their beliefs are. That's pretty rare here on Corona, we're considerably, old fashioned here, but it happens, I've done one occasion where both the man and woman want to perform the ritual together. That said, I don't think you'll ever find an instance where the man would take the ritual upon himself solely, it would be a great insult to the woman he's ready to call his wife. She would take it as an insult that she isn't strong enough to perform the ritual to show her strength and dedication to being a wife and mother. And a man who averts his gaze from the ritual would be an equally great insult. Of course exceptions will be taken for a woman who is indeed physically incapable of doing the ritual by some kind of mark upon them. These are more old traditions that date back to our people for many centuries than hard and fast spiritual rules that we're expected to oblige by but I for one certainly believe there is a spiritual obligation to perform."



"Wonderful! I'm sure we'll prepare a real delectable delight for you! Onto your question, well my mother says, change is always going to come. By the wind, by the sun, by the rain, by the moon, as sure as we grow. You can either accept the change and go with it, or fight the current and be swept away. Well to put that very simply, I'm all for it! People are people wherever they're from and folks like you are no different. You can either be good people, or bad people. Well in your case I think your good people. Plus we run a little stand so hey it brings us good money to live by!"

Joel Miller
Kino, Corona.
"It's really interesting, thank you for these detailed insights Matron." I say with a small bow of gratitude. I don't know if I'll marry Sunplena one day, but if I can, I would do the rituals by her side.
"Say Matron, since we're talking about marriage ceremonies, is there some sort of musical accompaniement for it? And if so, what types of instruments are used?"

---

Staff Sergeant Abigail "Abby" Anderson
Port Aya Hoshino.
"Your mother speaks very wise words Mayna" Owen replies with a smile. "And we'll be delighted to taste what your family offers on her stand. We've heard that the local authorities are going to implement a pledge for tourists to respect the nature and their surroundings, it's a very good gesture to make everyone respect the beauty of those Islands." adds my squadmate with a dreamy smile.
"What's the matter Owen? Are you getting all sentimental on me?" I ask with a small smirk and a raised eyebrow.
"N-no I'm not!" he replies hastily with a small blush that appears on his cheeks. "But you can't deny that these Islands are beautiful, and that it's our duty as tourists to respect them and ensure they stay the way they are now."
"Amen to that." I answer with a nod, before looking back to Mayna.