Cruise Beautiful Lake Agloza (IC - SIGN UP FIRST)

by **Carthatska** » Wed Jun 23, 2021 6:23 am

Abel watched as the woman stopped, turned around, and got out of there. He moved his face into a position meaning 'sorry' on Carthatska, and said as much. "Sorry about that," he said, also in the French dialect that Maurice was using. "But, uh, thanks for coming along." They walked to the restaurant and found an empty table in the middle of the room, with cheerful salt and pepper shakers in the middle of the table. There were four seats at the table, and Abel took the bottom one, if you looked at the table from above.

He watched as servers milled about the restaurant, seating guests and giving out menus. He watched as a server approached them, gave them menus, and warned them that others could and might sit near them, due to the two empty seats. Abel nodded nonchalantly and opened his folded menu. His heart slowly began to pump faster when he saw the wide selection of choices. Crème brulee, Porterhouse steak, Chateaubriand, to name a few. He looked for anything Carthatskan or generally containing banana leaves, a favorite seasoning of his, but to no avail. He settled for a Porterhouse steak with a little Crème brulee on the side. Abel then put down the menu and looked at the mass of people entering the restaurant.

by **Cortexis** » Wed Jun 23, 2021 11:03 am

" I wonder what the options will be regarding food. Counting on something from our nation being available here would be quite unwise, in my opinion." Galvan said to Artifia as they entered the restaurant.
"Yes. Cortexisian cuisine does not seem fancy and sophisticated enough for this place.", she responded.
"Most definitely."
Galvan looked around at the tables. Several empty tables seemed quite aluring, but he dismissed the thought. First of all, people were still pouring into the restaurant, so there was no quarantee any empty table would remain that way. More importantly though, this was how old Galvan would think, the Galvan with good reasons to avoid people or even general society. Vektorins went on this cruise to experience new things and people, and that was what they would do. They did great during that encounter at the deck, why break the streak? It wasn't bad at all so far, even enjoyable.
"Several tables are missing precisely two people..." Galvan pointed out. This way, they could precisely choose who they would sit with.
"I understand and agree, good thinking."
"Those two seem nice.", said Galvan as set out towards a table, with Artifia tailing him.
"Excuse me, gentlemen. Are the other two seats taken?", he asked Abel and Maurice.

by **Terre des Gaules** » Thu Jun 24, 2021 7:15 pm

Maurice looked up and smiled at the Vektorins. They were a nice older, middle-aged couple.
In a part of his mind, he was thinking of what this was called in Anglo colloquialisms - 'Sausage fest'. Although, that would also likely refer to all men, not just 3 to 1.

It didn't matter. This wasn't about dating opportunities, but making friends and networking. These people seemed to be really nice and they could be full of interesting stories. Abel seemed to be up for whatever came along and open to any interaction, so that made the final decision easier for Maurice after a glance at his Carthatskan friend.
"Please, have some seats. We look forward to your company."
Maurice nodded with confidence at Abel before turning to the couple again.
"This is my friend, Abel Dupont, from Carthatska.
My name is Maurice Lesamme, from Gaul. We look forward to your company tonight."
He reinforced his statement with a broad smile, as he motioned to the empty chairs.

by **Cortexis** » Sat Jun 26, 2021 10:33 am

Galvan smiled as well as they both took their seat, sitting next to each other.
"Well, it's nice to meet you both. The name's Galvan Vektorin, this is my dear wife Artifia. We're from Cortexis. Maybe you heard of the country, maybe you didn't, doesn't matter. I am not too knowledgeable when it comes to political geography myself. I'm not that much of a traveler, really. Actually, this is the first time I left the country."
He briefly chuckled, shaking his head, as if in disbelief over his own actions.
"Never made time for it before. But, as they say, broadening one's horizons is important, is it not?"
Galvan was about to continue when a server approached the table yet again and provided the couple with their menus.
"Looks like we were correct, darling." Galvan, content, said to his wife as he finished reading his in its entirety. Still reading hers, she nodded, smiling subtly. They guessed correctly. They were right. She was right. Excelent.
"Decisions, decisions... So many options... Why not introduce a random element into the system?" Galvan continued as he closed his eyes and blindly stabbed his finger into the menu. He then proceeded to read his "choice". Satisfied with it, he nodded and closed the menu.
Artifia took much longer to decide, reading the entire menu with an expression of maximal concentration and interest.

by **Carthatska** » Sat Jun 26, 2021 2:49 pm

Abel looked at the older couple that came to sit near them. The taller male walked in front, before asking if he could sit near them. Abel looked the two over. The male completely lacked hair, and the female was... a sight. She was thin and pale, but at least she had hair. Abel glanced at Maurice, giving him control of the situation. Maurice decided to let the couple sit with them, and Abel knew now would be a good time to make a good impression. he listened as the man introduced himself as 'Galvan' and the female as 'Artifia'.
As the two made their selections from the menu, Abel whipped out his phone and tapped away before putting it back. Galvan and Artifia had made their selections by now. Abel spoke up. "So what do you two do for a living? Can't be anything too cold, what with the lack of... hair," He said, gesturing at the male. He chuckled a bit.

by **AHSCA** » Sat Jun 26, 2021 3:00 pm

Their pleasant chat up on the deck maybe went along too long as before long, Asuka realized they might be running late for dinner. Given they had a seat at the Captain's Table it would be very impolite to be late or skip out on it. After all, not many had the chance to dine with a ship captain, right? Hastily but still calm, the young couple made way to the dining room and to the table of honors, it seemed a few guests had begun to assemble but it didn't seem like they were terribly late which was good, how improper it would be? "Good evening." Asuka politely greeted as she and her husband took their seats at the table.

by **Terre des Gaules** » Sat Jun 26, 2021 7:02 pm

The Dining Room
The Upplausn

Maurice nodded, still smiling.
"Galvan and Artifia. It is a pleasure to meet you both...
It certainly is the best way to meet new people and new cultures. I have been many places in Teremara in my job, but to be honest, I have never travelled to the Lake Agloza basin. It is truly a melding of cultures here, but also, the collection of international travelers, from many corners beyond Teremara, on just this little boat, is quite amazing to behold. So, yes, broadening your horizons is important and this is the perfect spot to do so."

They sat down, quite satisfied with their company, and began to peruse the menu. Maurice did as well. It was shockingly close to a menu he might see in a fine establishment in Paritte or Touloux of his home country. Which, while comforting, was also a little disappointing as he expected the menu to reflect more of the local cuisine of the Lake coasts, rather than gourmet Pan-Franco tastes, which he was sure wasn't the local cuisine of any of these ports. In any case, it was food that he would be fine with dining on, so it wasn't that big a deal.

As they began to converse while reviewing the menus, Abel remarked,
"So what do you two do for a living? Can't be anything too cold, what with the lack of... hair,"
He even gestured at Galvan and chuckled a bit. It was a side of Abel that Maurice hadn't expected to see.

Maurice put a hand up to his mouth, more to cover it than anything. Out of the corner of his mouth, and quite low under his breath, he said in French to Abel,
["Ton putain de problème?! Tu ne peux pas parler aux gens comme ça!"] (The fuck is wrong with you?! You can't talk to people like that!)

by **Carthatska** » Sat Jun 26, 2021 8:33 pm

Abel chuckled a bit more until he saw Maurice's reaction to his joke. He seemed quite... taken aback, for some reason. He looked at Maurice with a confused look in his eyes. His palms started sweating and his heart pumped faster as anxiety started to kick in. Alright, Abel, he thought to himself. You've offended Maurice. What did you do? His mind raced before deciding that, yet again, one of his jokes was too offensive to say and he hadn't thought through his joke. Maurice berated him in hushed French and Abel was quick to do the same.

"Oh merde, tu as raison. euh... Donnez-moi une seconde..." (Oh, you're right. uh... Give me a second...)

Abel blushed and cleared his throat. "Uh... sorry about that, um... I tend to make jokes that are too offensive and I don't think through them beforehand and that's how we, uh... get to this sort of situation. I'm so sorry."

by **Terre des Gaules** » Sun Jun 27, 2021 6:55 am

Maurice lightened up from his annoyed expression, realizing that Abel was mortified with his own social slip.
"It's okay. Never mind that." He put out a subtle placating hand. It was time for him to put his social skills to work and smooth things over, shifting the attention away from Abel, and also not force Galvan to address the issue directly, unless he wanted to.
"Galvan, that was a very brave way to make a meal selection in such a foreign country. What were you right about from before? Did you predict your finger would land on that exact choice?"

by **Cortexis** » Sun Jun 27, 2021 8:33 am

Carthatska wrote:Abel spoke up. "So what do you two do for a living? Can't be anything too cold, what with the lack of... hair," He said, gesturing at the male. He chuckled a bit.

"Well, I dabble in various fields, but my main topic of interest is anatomy. Although, that is more of a hobby for me than a job. I do not mean it in a way of "find a job you like and you will never have to work in your life", I mean in in a way of "this is something I am interested in and study in my free time without getting paid." Job-wise, I am what one might call a "professional descendant"... well, at least I have used my free time less idly and frivolously than some of my many "colleagues" in the world. I mean, can you imagine being handed all the time in the world and not spending at least a fraction of it on bettering yourself?"
Galvan was about to continue, when Abel started apologising.

Carthatska wrote:
"Uh... sorry about that, um... I tend to make jokes that are too offensive and I don't think through them beforehand and that's how we, uh... get to this sort of situation. I'm so sorry."

"Oh no no no, I take no offense. In fact, I like that your first judgement of me wasn't "this is a vain man that will surely be sensitive about his baldness". I do not mind at all.", Galvan was quick to defend Abel.

Terre des Gaules wrote:"Galvan, that was a very brave way to make a meal selection in such a foreign country. What were you right about from before? Did you predict your finger would land on that exact choice?"

"Oh, when it comes to food, I am rather easy to please. When we first saw the restaurant, we both guessed that we won't find anything familiar on the menu. Cortexisian cuisine... it's practical. It provides nourishment and satisfies hunger just fine. Don't get me wrong, it tastes excelent, but taste is more of an afterthought. Essentially, it's not something you will find in a classy foreign restaurant... Anyway, where were we... ahh yes, what I do for a living. You have your answer, what about you, Abel?"

by **Neu Engollon** » Sun Jun 27, 2021 11:42 am

Near the Bar
The Upplausn

The good doctor made her way down to the dining room finally. She was worried that she was late.
As a doctor, she needed to be spot on when it came to time as it mattered in life and death situations, and she was, but when she was off the clock, it was a different story. She was forever late to social engagements.
In this instance, she seemed to still be within the acceptable time parameters of the start of dinner service, and that pleased her immensely. It was a wonderful way to start out the night, and put just the slightest hint of a smile on her face.

She spotted her name plate at the Captain’s Table and reached for the chair, but it was pulled smoothly away before she could grab it.
She also felt a steadying hand on her shoulder as she lost her balance a bit, reaching for a chair that was no longer there.

“My apologies, madam Doctor Cobanalli…” Omari smiled broadly at her, “...I didn’t mean to throw you off balance.” Literally what had happened to her.
“Please...have a seat.” He waited as she sat, then scooted the chair in gently to center her at her spot at the table. The Head Steward had a lot of experience at seating people. That much was apparent.

Maria nodded.
“Thank you, Omari. Really, you can call me Maria. We are equal crew officers, after all.”

“Nonsense, madam Doctor. It is just not in my nature to be so informal. It feels disrespectful to me.”

“At least drop the ‘madam’ part. I really can do without that.”

“Agreed.” He stuck out his hand, and Maria took it, they shook in a stilted, slightly comical manner to show they both saw the humor in the moment.
“It is a fair compromise, Doctor.”

“Maybe we could get coffee tomorrow, or grab lunch and sit down and get to know each other? I feel like we have had little chance to do so since the first trial voyage.”

“Ahem...Perhaps. I will see. I do get fairly busy most of the day. We are all working at maximum speed for the next week, Doctor.”

“Oh, I...um...I wasn’t trying to be too forward. I’m just trying to strengthen our professional bond. Just on the off chance we could squeeze it in. I do have to stay alert for drop in patients, of course.”

“No offense, Doctor. I understand. We shall see what the new day brings. I have to attend to the rest of the table, excuse me.”

“Of course.” Maria glanced around. That was a bit of awkwardness in an otherwise friendly chat between crew officers. Luckily, Captain Stan hadn’t arrived at the table to witness it.
She smiled and waved weakly to Asuka and Subaru as they were seated next, across from her.

Off to a great start, Maria! Way to go! She flailed herself in her mind.

She then looked down at her bread plate, hoping she wasn’t blushing.

Jack and Helene had gotten drinks at the bar, but started to mingle with the crowd waiting to be seated. Helene led the way, much more adept at socializing, at least a bit, than Jack, although his ulterior espionage career was based much on his ability to network and connect on an easy level with most people.

Taking all that into account, they were quite the dynamic duo, slipping into knots of people, exchanging a couple pleasantries, or just listening and laughing as stories were told. After which, Jack or Helene would introduce the pair of them, followed by
“...I hope we can meet up sometime later and have more fun chats.”

They worked like that, migrating their way further into the Dining Room area, sort of see-sawing up the field as a rugby team might do when attacking a pitch, bouncing to the other side with signs of resistance, or in this case, lack of conversation.

Then they were shown to a table with six chairs.
Helene pouted,
“Ah, only six?”

The steward, a young college aged Glisandian who had identified himself as Bozydar, shrugged.
“I can move you to a bigger table, madam. Really we are flexible. Likely we have enough to sit 4 guests at least to each table with the passengers we are expecting, but if they want to add a 5th, or more, we can move a party or move chairs. We can make more place settings. We have extra chairs, and we also have some couples that prefer to dine alone...special occasions and all…which frees up chairs.”
He was aware that there were some larger families that had requested up to 10, a dozen, or even more settings at their largest, longest tables, but he felt he had described the situation adequately enough.

Helene perked up.
“Perfect, I think we could get 8 here if we tried. This will do then. Please…” She slipped a large krona bill into his hand, “...bring us some exciting company. Maybe um...more on the upscale end?”

Bozydar’s lids drooped a bit, in reaction to the obvious classism. Yet he still pocketed the 25 krona bill.
“Yes, madam. I will see what I can do.”

Jack chuckled.
“Ahahaha, she’s joking. We will be happy with whoever you bring our way. The more the merrier! Haha!”
She wasn’t joking.

Bozydar seated Helene, then drifted off.
She glared at Jack.
“If I’m fucking bored, it’s your fault!”

“You need another drink, or maybe not…”

“Getting me drunk so early are you?”

“Be good, Hel.”

“Never!”

by **Mubata** » Sun Jun 27, 2021 2:38 pm

The Captain's Table

Omari continued to seat the guests of the Captain’s Table as they arrived. Some had to ask the other stewards the way to the privileged table while he was preoccupied with those who had found their way, but that was part of the fun. His steward and server team were strong. They would support each other to make this a smooth first dinner service, as well as continue coordinating with Chef Bonnefoy’s galley staff.

As he got the last couple stragglers situated in their reserved spots, Omari circled, then put his hands on the backs of Asuka and Subaru’s chairs. His timing was precise as he watched Captain Stan himself approach from the other end of the Dining Room. He waited until the Captain was within earshot, but not yet able to take his chair. The Captain was at a slow stroll, taking in the whole dining room, so he had some time.

“It is a pleasure to meet you all. My name is Omari Sibatasenga. I will be your steward tonight here at the Captain’s Table. You were given special menus with your invites, but we also have some placed at your spots at the table, in case you left them in your cabins.

Myself and my staff…”,
He pointed to two servers who had approached at his beckon.
“Olesia…” She was a diminutive young woman, with rather hawkish, abrupt features and short bobbed brunette hair.
“...And Kristján. Both are native Glisandians and I welcome you to inquire about how it occurred that they might be serving you tonight.”
Kristján was a hulking young man with reddish-blonde hair and a substantial beard to match. He had what some might refer to as ‘farm boy muscle’, meaning he was husky, but evidently strong and not so out of shape that he couldn’t lift or move a considerable amount of weight.

“As for myself, you will notice that I am not your typical, pale Glisandian, and rather the color of the night sky.” He smiled at the expected chuckles.
“I hail originally from the port of Tenipako, on coastal Mubata...a somewhat, um...troubled nation, shall we say? It is in far southern central Tavlyria, where a lot of troubles on the continent seem to occur, if they do not originate from just a short jaunt to the Southeast of here.” It was the most he was going to allude to their upcoming docking in the Yellow Star Republic.

“Enough about us...May I introduce your Captain…” Omari waved over to Stan as he was pulling out his own chair. He was resplendent in his blinding white, crisp uniform and cap.
“...Stanisław Redmondsson. A man of incredible experience and resilience that all of us staff are made proud to serve under his command.”

Stan waved, obviously a little embarrassed at the fanfare.
“Stop that, Omari! Hello, everyone. It is a pleasure to see you all and I look forward to getting to know you better. Mr. Sibatasenga is too kind. You can just call me Stan. Although my staff tend to call me ‘Captain Stan’. Or just Captain is fine.” He squared his chair, and put his forearms on the table, smiling as he glanced at all the faces surrounding him around the table. He said no more, and as the passengers would learn, he was a man who didn't favor unnecessary conversation.

Captain Stan cocked his head, getting the attention of Olesia. She approached and leaned close.
He spoke in a very low, almost whisper into her ear.
“Good evening, dear. Vodka soda on the rocks. Thin on soda, heavy on vodka.”

“Yes, Captain. Right away.”

He nodded to Omari, who then continued.
“Right, well...Kristján and I…” He quickly realized Olesia would be indisposed for a few minutes. “...will be happy to take your orders for drinks and for the starters off Chef Bonnefoy’s special menu.” He turned to Trygve Karlsson, who had just taken his seat.
“Perhaps the guests can introduce themselves while we are doing that and Mr. Karlsson can keep that rolling?” Hinting that Trygve, the Assistant Activity Director, should chaperone that part of the start of the dinner.

Trygve put on a big plastic smile.
“My apologies, folks, I was taking care of some other important business so that it would not have to wait until after dinner. My name is Trygve Karlsson. I am the Assistant Director of Activities under Director Walsman. I am also the Ambassador for Sunrise Tours and Enterprises, for our current adventures and more. Please! Ask me about all the opportunities we have to offer.” Stan looked away, not wanting to Trygve to see him roll his eyes at Karlsson's comments.

Trygve looked at Ryan, Louise, and Martyne.
“Hello Lombard-Maclaines! Perhaps you could start us off?”

by **Port Ember** » Mon Jun 28, 2021 12:12 am

Aft Deck Bar
Upplausn
Jolene Gudfrey

Jolene shot back a tequila with one swift motion, yet her constant party nature allowed her body and face to take it in strides, not forcing the shocked 'Deer in Headlights' expression upon her face, which casual drinkers were normally struck by.

She smiled softly at the barman who had served her, and slipped a large figured NSD paper bill towards him, over the smooth counter, as a gesture of gratitude. A very large gesture of gratitude.

She rose from her stool and commenced the short walk towards the dining hall, as she felt it was now as good a time as any to commence with the supper rituals, as she really looked forward to the after-supper activities on offer. She felt that tonight would be a good night to tear a Black Jack table apart.

As Jolene walked, she received more than just a few glances into her direction. This was not surprising of course, as she was young, extremely beautiful, and well groomed - taken care of with the best beauty products which money could possibly buy. To top it off, she wore one of the greatest dresses she has ever laid eyes upon - a light oceanic blue dress, which was made from pure velvet silk. The dress covered her shoulders completely, and stretched down the arms with long sleeves, with a few diamondesque sequences fitted from below the elbows on both arms. The velveteen dress stretched down high, ending just above Jolene's ankles. The dress had a wide V-shaped cut from the shoulders down to her stomach, complimented by a long left slit from below the waist straight down to the bottom of the dress, allowing the entire left leg to be exposed to glimpses. The smooth velvet waves were tied together with a thin rope belt, in the same blue colour as the dress. Despite the revealing nature of the dress, the inside of the dress was fitted with translucent sequined lace, stretching from the collarbone down to below the hip, which effectively covered Jolene's dignity.

This dress - hand sewn by The top designer of Port Ember - none other than the world famous Hazel Nguyen, was then complemented by black heels, and a matching set of small diamond earrings and necklace. Finally, her long bleach blonde hair was woven into a stylish patterned ponytail, and her face adorned with only a tint of makeup, most visibly her blood red lips.

She could not help but smile softly as a few wives were forced to angrily, yet discreetly, slap their husbands upon their shoulders as they stared at Jolene for a tad too long when she walked by.

Jolene reached the Dining Hall after a few moments, and approached the first available person who carried the appearance of a server.

As she approached, Bozydar recalled that Jolene was one of the higher end guests of Sunrise. As the crew rumor mill was pretty strong, it was easy to keep up on such info. She had been pointed out to him by one of the housekeepers a few hours earlier in the day.

He knew he already had a distaste for Helene Heirlich, but if she kept shoving big bills in his pocket, he was game. It could make for some much more enjoyable port rest and relaxation breaks in the future, to keep the extra income flowing. He zoomed in on Jolene before any of the other stewards seating passengers could act on their same knowledge of her status.

“Good evening, madam. Can I show you to a table for dinner? My name is Bozydar and I will be your steward and head server for tonight’s service.” He wouldn’t acknowledge that he knew who she was before she might introduce herself, as that might cause some unpleasantness.

Jolene smiled at the gentleman, and she was most impressed with his professionalism.
"Good evening Mister Bozydar. Miss Jolene Gudfrey. An absolute pleasure to meet you." She offered a soft, toned down version of a curtsey in greetings. "And I would be honoured, kind Sir."

Bozydar bowed in return, then swept his arm out to the dining room.
He led the way, and stopped at the table where Jack and Helene Heirlich were located. Rather than drag out the introduction ritual, he pulled out the chair for Jolene, then centered her.as pushed it gently back in. He spoke as he did so,
“Madam Jolene Gudfrey, the Heirlichs.” He said simply.

He could tell by Helene’s face, her mild shock that he knew the last name of the Neu Engollian couple. Jack Heirlich eyed him warily. He went back to grab the next guests at the entrance of the dining room, with a small smirk on his face.

Jolene seemed not to notice the subtle social bomb which was just dropped by Bozydar, and thus continued,
"Mister and Misses Heirlich, an honor to meet you both."

by **Greater Orcadia** » Mon Jun 28, 2021 3:49 am

Arriving at the table, Ryan pulled out 2 chairs before standing to the side to allow Louise and Martyne to take their seats, he nods at the captain.
"Good evening Captain" he says, politely.

Louise stepped around her seat to sit down, as she did so she looked across at the Captain
"Good evening sir" she said, "Captain Louise Lombard if the Meridian Wayfarer, with Ryan Mc.laine and Martyne"

Martyne took her seat, giving the captain a nod
"Nice ship" she says, adjusting her sleeves of her top.

"So hows every one doing?" Asks Louise. As she spoke, those who are really observant will probably notice the jewellery sat in her tongue, nothing wild, just a single barbel. She was also limping slightly as she walked to the table, but be fooled, Louise is quite capable of looking after herself!

Ryan turned to the table, "so where do we start, well I work as a driver, delivering containers across Orcadia, working on the same contract as Martyne, not quite as glamorous as Louise's job though" he says

by **Glisandia** » Sat Jul 03, 2021 7:41 am

The stewards continued to tend to their tables, and seat the last stragglers, while the servers were given the signal to bring out the starting course for those already seated. It simply wouldn't be fair for the early seated to wait too long while others took longer at the bar, or dallied in their cabins.

At the Captain's Table, it was the same, as Omari's team got the guests their drinks and the starting course was brought out.
Omari smiled as he was rebuffed at assisting to seat the the Lombards and McLaines, with Ryan preferring to step into that role. The Chief Steward simply went down the table and checked on everyone else.

Captain Stan nodded, responding to Louise.
"We are well, thank you.
Welcome! It is always great to meet fellow captains. Yes, I am proud of her. The whole crew has put a lot of work into her over the last few months, and continue to do so. She is really at the top of her class, the Upplausn is. I am glad that we finally are able to put her to service after so much preparation. I was..."

Trygve Karlsson stepped in unnecessarily, "This is a historic journey, if you hadn't read the PR literature. Even though we have had some trial runs, this is the first voyage with real, actual paying passengers. We took turns playing passenger on the trial runs."

Ryan began to introduce himself, in response to Trygve's earlier inquiry.
Stan said,
"Your job is very important. Without trucks, people don't eat and industry grinds to a halt. I would tend to say every job is important, but then I am reminded of these social media influencers and others who create self-important jobs for themselves that no one asked for, or simply prey upon the gullible folk. I have to shake my head. Meanwhile, there aren't enough new truck drivers to keep the economy going while these kids preen in front of the camera, or stay zombified watching it all...Sorry, I get a little carried away. Rant over." He turned to Asuka and Subaru,
"I didn't catch your names. What do you folks do when not on cruise boats?"

by **AHSCA** » Sat Jul 03, 2021 10:01 am

Glisandia wrote:"Your job is very important. Without trucks, people don't eat and industry grinds to a halt. I would tend to say every job is important, but then I am reminded of these social media influencers and others who create self-important jobs for themselves that no one asked for, or simply prey upon the gullible folk. I have to shake my head. Meanwhile, there aren't enough new truck drivers to keep the economy going while these kids preen in front of the camera, or stay zombified watching it all...Sorry, I get a little carried away. Rant over." He turned to Asuka and Subaru,
"I didn't catch your names. What do you folks do when not on cruise boats?"

The hard part about showing up a little late is everyone is sort of in their own conversations. Their polite greeting seemed to be acknowledged but well everyone had their own niche they formed for themselves. Well oh well, this cruise had many days to come, plenty of time to make new acquaintances. The food was looking great as it was placed before them, quite exotic for them as well. Asuka and Subaru commented to each other "It looks great! Before chowing down though, they were spoken to by one of the diners. "Oh, I'm Asuka and this is my husband, Subaru."

"It's nice to meet you," Subaru replied cordially to Ryan and then answered his question, "Asuka is a journalist, I'm a ship carpenter. Not on anything quite like this but I do help in building and construction."

"This is our first real how you call them 'pleasure cruise'" Asuka added, "In the AHSCA, which is where we are from, ships are considered more utilitarian. Meant to get people to places morose than floating Inns, this is pretty fun and makes me feel so urban."

"Asuka, I'm not sure 'urban' is the word you're looking for."

Asuka playfully quipped back to her husband "Excuse me, who's the journalist here?" They both had a little chuckle at their playful banter with each other, then Asuka turned back to Ryan to continue the conversation, "Excuse us, I guess we never did get out of our newlywed phase. How about yourself?"

by **Greater Orcadia** » Sat Jul 03, 2021 11:04 am

the banter of Subaru and Asuka drew a smile from Ryan as Louise adjusted her tie, before turning to the captain. Once Subaru and Asuka had finished Ryan spoke up
"aye, all the worldly goods go in these containers, TVs to cars, to toys and food, if you have eaten it, own it or use it, it has at some stage been on a truck, or at least on a container ship. And yes Orcadia does have a shortage of drivers, something like seventy thousand unfilled vacancies" he says before picking up the menu and giving a glance to Louise and Martyne.

Louise looks at the menu and makes her choice,
"Bread and Cheese Platter for starters, Braised Pork with Pearl Onions and Grapes for the main course with Chocolate Mousse for desert..." she turns then to Marty "...and you sis?" she says

"Bread and Cheese Platter for starters, with the Chicken confit with sauce vierge, with the mousse for desert" she says.

Ryan notes it all down before choosing the same as Louise.

Louise turned to the captain, "Nice ship you have Captain" she says, "its also nice to get onto a passenger boat for once, reminds me of my days working one of the ferries that serves the Orcadian islands before I took my current commission with Meridian"

by **Glisandia** » Sun Jul 11, 2021 8:29 am

Captain Stan nodded to Subaru and Asuka before they turned their attention to each other.
"It is a pleasure to meet you both."

The Orcadian truck driver continued,
"Aye, all the worldly goods go in these containers, TVs to cars, to toys and food, if you have eaten it, own it or use it, it has at some stage been on a truck, or at least on a container ship. And yes, Orcadia does have a shortage of drivers, something like seventy thousand unfilled vacancies"
Ryan stated, before picking up the menu to look it over.

Stan's drink arrived, brought by the young server he had assist him. He thanked her. He smiled as he took a sip. It turned out this night wouldn't be so bad after all, fortitude unnecessary, but the alcohol would still help smooth him out.
He replied to Ryan,
"That is a big deficit. So is the case to some extent in Glisandia, although, there has been a recent push to get back to our old method of distribution, which was importing off boats at port, then directly loading onto trains to get to the major urban centers for distribution. Trucking suffered greatly during the War, first at the hands of the Yellowsians, then the Holy Domain, who were most cruel to captured truck drivers. Not a topic for this table...Not to mention the unforgiving tundra and ice, and how many roads become impassable during blizzard season...Truck driving was not for the faint of heart during the recent decade."

He had the attention of some at the table.
"For these same reasons, aircraft could not often fly in such conditions, and during the war they were very vulnerable to SAMs and enemy interceptors. It got better when the Coalition had virtually destroyed the People's Red Air Force - what the YSR calls their air force.
Still, trucks had to travel in convoys with armed escorts. Even the trains had turrets and mounted heavy machine guns manned by RGA soldiers, and the Royal Glisandian Resistance Force before them, which was basically the same soldiers, but before they were able to reform the Army. They had to constantly patrol the tracks to forestall sabotage. So the rail network also took a big hit at its worst. At one point, supplies were delivered by dog sled teams when no other method could get through...They were rough times in our recent past. Long story short, our trucking force is sorely lacking in personnel, so we have to continue to diversify distribution. Air delivery is still not very viable due to cost and climate. As a merchant marine captain, I helped to re-develop this part of our infrastructure."

He wrapped it up, then glanced around to see if he had thoroughly bored the whole table.
He took another big gulp of his drink, then turned to Louise who said,
"Nice ship you have, Captain" she says, "It's also nice to get onto a passenger boat for once. Reminds me of my days working one of the ferries that serves the Orcadian islands, before I took my current commission with Meridian."

"Ah, yes, I've heard of Meridian. Good company is the buzz in the industry. As for ferries, that is admirable work. Heck, aren't we just on one big ferry now, with lots more entertain on board and multiple stops?"

As he waited for her reply, he ordered some food as Omari circled round to him.
"I will have the salmon rillettes, Salade Aveyronnaise, Bavarian Pot Roast...And I'll hold off on desert for now. Maybe I'll change my mind, later."

Omari took it all down.
"Very good, Sir."

Stan added, much quieter,
"Omari, remind me that you, me and Chef Bonnefoy need to have a chat about the menus coming up. I'm really disappointed that there aren't any true Aglozian options here. It is a good international flair, but I think these people would really like to have a taste of our little region here."

"Yes, sir. Maybe after dinner service is over. I don't think he will be very receptive to that right now."

"No, probably not."

by **Neu Engollon** » Sun Jul 11, 2021 10:37 am

At The Captain's Table

Maria nodded to everyone at the table, but didn't introduce herself again. It just didn't seem like the right time. Also, they all seemed to be very engaged with each other, or the Captain, which suited her just fine. She was more than willing to blend in with her chair.

She had ordered from Omari, and also had a glass of Gaulic chablis brought out to her. Normally she would settle for Glisandian riesling, or some Osatanan or Orcadian wine, but as she was at the Captain's Table, and this wouldn't be billed to her employee account (She hoped?), she felt able to branch out a bit and have a comfort from home.

She sat and listened to the Captain as he talked about the War. She had mixed feelings as he went on, because it was a bit tedious that since she had arrived in the Grand Duchy, every Glisandian she knew eventually turned to talking about 'The War', and how hard they had it. Of course, they did. That was not in dispute.

It was really hard to avoid the topic with a Glisandian. Only the youngest generation of Glisandian kids who weren't born yet during the War years, or were too young to remember much about those events, seemed to have a cheerier outlook on things.

She listened to the couple from the AHSCA, amused at their banter, and refreshed that it was a lighter topic than 'The War'. She continued to smile at those around her when she wasn't focused on the appetizer in front of her, or her bread.

The Main Dining Room

Jack and Helene Heirlich stood up after the curt Glisandian steward had introduced Jolene and walked off.
They each extended their hands to her.
"Ms. Gudfrey, excuse me...Madam Gudfrey, it is a pleasure to meet you. Please sit." Helene did all the talking, while Jack just smiled.
"I am fascinated, right out the gate here. I don't think we have ever met a Port Emberian before, and of your standing. Have you, Jack?"

"Yes." He shrugged.

"Calm down, Jack. Well, Madam Gudfrey...you will just have to tell us all about how you got here to Teremara and what you do back home."

Jack brushed off his annoyance at Helene, then looked very interested to hear the Port Emberian woman. He took a sip of the remnants of his cocktail he had brought in from the bar while his eyes stayed glued to Jolene's face.

by **Port Ember** » Sun Jul 11, 2021 1:18 pm

Jolene Gudfrey
Main Dining Hall

Once the formal gestures of greetings were completed, and all three were seated comfortably, Jolene flashed a warm smile as she responded,
"Well I am honoured to be your first Port Emberian then!" She flashed a sly wink with her response.

Jolene adjusted her posture slightly before continuing,
"For the sake of simplicity, I am what my people would consider, a 'True Blooded Capitalist'. I dabble here and there where profit and progress is to be made."

Jolene was modest of course, allowing some mystery to remain within the conversation, as she was in fact an absolute titan in the free market back home, being the owner or part owner of more than 30 multinational companies, covering a wide range of industry markets. As an example, her namesake company - Gudfrey's Trading Company, was one of the largest and most influential Import/Export companies on the globe.

"As for my reasons to be here in Teremara, please allow me to share a story with you. There is a Port Emberian tradition, a rite of passage if you will, which we know as 'La ora vojo', or 'The Golden Road'. This is a tradition which see's a Port Emberian school graduate leave the tropical archipelagos to a foreign destination - a random destination that is - with little more than a few change of clothes on their back. Once they arrive on foreign soil, it is up to them to hustle and bustle a few coin into their purses - as they need to survive without any help from home. For every initiate, the specific end goal is different, but if one returns home, normally after a year or more, paid for by themselves, with a heavy purse, then one is considered a true member of Port Emberian society.

Now, although my own 'La ora vojo' is already etched into history, it has taught me lessons of life - and business, which no university could. In essence, if one is to establish a successful business upon foreign soil, one needs to walk upon foreign soil. So, in short, I wish to start conducting some business in the region, so I am seeing what it has to offer, and getting to know the cultures. Whilst having fun of course, because what good is a life without fun?"

by **Greater Orcadia** » Fri Jul 16, 2021 1:39 am

"True" replies Louise, "though what were you doing before joining this ship?" She asks, taking a sip of the complementarity wine, "and yes Meridian's are a great company, many contracts from shipping cargo to passengers, they've not moved into rail yet but there's time.

Ryan turns to the captain, "and it has its perks, when I travel on one of the ferries going to the outlying Islands I get passenger upgrades, and if Louise is on the ferry I get to sleep in crew quarters, as can Martyne, they do look after staff and family of staff, however the number of times passengers think I'm crew is funny" says Ryan

by **Greater Orcadia** » Sat Jul 24, 2021 1:47 pm

In the mean time whilst Ryan and his wife and sister-in-law were at the captain's table, Penny and Evan headed over to their cabin, though naturally they were not there for long, Evan leaving the cabin in a suit, and Penny leaving the cabin, arm in arm with Ryan wearing a smart cocktail dress, though she had however, with the help of Ryan removed her bull ring piercing and its associated chain.

"Come on Evan, back to the bar" says Penny,

"aye" replies Evan, "oh didnt you have a glass a moment ago?"

"maaaay be" jokes Penny, giving Evan an innocent look, "oh what you having?"

"maybe an orange vodka, nothing too heavy"

the bar
Penny leans against the bar and waits her turn, glancing out of the window to see what was out on the lake then once its her turn "Aye yae got tae double vodka oranges playse" she says.

by **Terre des Gaules** » Sat Jul 31, 2021 9:47 am

Maurice listened while Galvan described his job. It was interesting? Different? He didn't really know how to feel, other than Cortexis might be an interesting place to scout for the firm.

"Oh no no no, I take no offense. In fact, I like that your first judgement of me wasn't "this is a vain man that will surely be sensitive about his baldness. I do not mind at all.", Galvan was quick to defend Abel.

Maurice shrugged and glanced at Abel. He scooted out of that one with some luck. Lucky for Abel that Cortexisians seemed to enjoy being an odd sort.

Galvan went on about his menu choice,
"Oh, when it comes to food, I am rather easy to please. When we first saw the restaurant, we both guessed that we won't find anything familiar on the menu. Cortexisian cuisine... it's practical. It provides nourishment and satisfies hunger just fine. Don't get me wrong, it tastes excellent, but taste is more of an afterthought. Essentially, it's not something you will find in a classy foreign restaurant... Anyway, where were we... ahh yes, what I do for a living. You have your answer, what about you, Abel?"

Abel seemed to have his mouth full, so Maurice filled in the gap in conversation.
"That is quite the different philosophy on cuisine than where I'm from. Taste is never an afterthought in Gaulic cuisine, but the ultimate goal with nourishment being secondary. Not only taste, but texture, and temperature must all come together for the ideal tasting experience. I think that the Head Chef on board here must be Gaulic, just due to the fact that I see so many similar dishes to my native cuisine, even though I haven't had much chance to try them yet. Hopefully, he also follows the philosophy of my nation's culinary...um, aspirations?"

On second thought, if that was how Cortexisians viewed cuisine, he might spare the expense in going out that way. Eating the local cuisine was part of his travel clients' desired experiences when they signed up for destination packages from his travel firm. Functional, practical meals didn't sound all that appealing to him or his clients, he was sure.

by **Neu Engollon** » Sat Jul 31, 2021 10:04 am

The Heirlichs and Gudfrey Table
Main Dining Hall

Jolene adjusted her posture slightly before continuing,
"For the sake of simplicity, I am what my people would consider, a 'True Blooded Capitalist'. I dabble here and there where profit and progress is to be made...
As for my reasons to be here in Teremara, please allow me to share a story with you. There is a Port Emberian tradition, a rite of passage if you will, which we know as 'La ora vojo', or 'The Golden Road'. This is a tradition which sees a Port Emberian school graduate leave the tropical archipelagos to a foreign destination - a random destination that is - with little more than a few change of clothes on their back. Once they arrive on foreign soil, it is up to them to hustle and bustle a few coin into their purses - as they need to survive without any help from home. For every initiate, the specific end goal is different, but if one returns home, normally after a year or more, paid for by themselves, with a heavy purse, then one is considered a true member of Port Emberian society...

...Now, although my own 'La ora vojo' is already etched into history, it has taught me lessons of life - and business, which no university could. In essence, if one is to establish a successful business upon foreign soil, one needs to walk upon foreign soil. So, in short, I wish to start conducting some business in the region, so I am seeing what it has to offer, and getting to know the cultures. Whilst having fun of course, because what good is a life without fun?"

Helene answered first,
"Well, that is amazing! What a colorful, rich tradition! We just go to uni to get our ya-yas out, and some of us luckier folk in Neu Engollon..." She meant richer, "...might get to go a semester abroad or a little pre-college trip. I got to go to Taranima, and hit some parts in Northern Madurin before I started my freshman year. Where did you go for your Golden Road trip?"

Jack smiled,
"Nothing like scouting out the market before plunging in. I am a bit of a business man myself. I'm in sales, both for Burgunden Breus and for Terembev. I get to go scout out new and unique beverages that we can pick up to distribute, or work on partnerships. But, speaking of Port Ember and Neu Engollon, aren't there some defense industry links happening right now between our two nations? I seem to recall that the new line of helicopters that are taking our civilian sector by storm, and revamping our military, are partially Port Emberian made? The, um...Bas-ihd Four?"

by **Cartoonia** » Sat Jul 31, 2021 7:15 pm

Having been seated at the captain’s table, Raphtalia and Riza were getting acquainted with some of the other guests tonight. A relaxing time indeed, but they have yet to introduce themselves. But more on that later.

With the appetizers finishing up in the kitchen, it was now a chance for Chef Bonnefoy to introduce himself to the captain’s table. After asking for some servers to grab the appetizers on some decorative china, he himself goes to the captain’s table to introduce himself.

“Bonsoir, Mesdames et Messieurs. I will be your head chef for the entirety of you cruising experience. My name is Francis Bonnefoy and I will be serving you all an array of foods of high caliber. It is my honor to serve only the finest ingridents. So without further ado. Your appetizers for tonight”. The servers begin to show off the platters.

“First we have Escargots a la Bourguignonne, otherwise known as Snails in Garlic-Herb Butter, a fine French delicacy I assure you. Then we have Tartare de Filet de Boeuf, or Steak Tartare (raw beef), then some Salmon Rillettes, and finally, a Fromage Blanc Spread (Cervelle de Canut), a herbed cheese bspread served with baguettes. The servers will ask you which dish you would like to try, but save room for the other courses too”. His glances are at Raphtalia, a familiar character to him as he has served at different state functions as chef and she was among many guests.

“Ah! Madame Raphtalia! Good to see another Cartoonian on this night” Francis says to her, “especially of a official of your caliber!”

“Oh Francis,” Raphtalia replies humbly, “I’m flattered. But I’m not here on business”.

“Ah, but you are here! And as a chef my job is to serve. And judging by seating arrangements, you too are also from Cartoonia” he continues taking to Riza now.

“Yes I am, and you are Chef Bonnefoy of the Hôtel de Pontmercy? Your reputation also precedes you”.

“Merci, Mademoiselle”. He turns his attention back to the table. “If there are any questions or concerns about tonight’s meal, please do not hesitate to ask me anything!” With that, he returns to the kitchen to work on the rest of tonight’s dinner.

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