BEGIN VACATION

BEGIN VACATION

BEGIN VACATION

:: riding a motorcycle on windy backroads through the Tuscan countryside, she and Lexy approach the outskirts of Old Florence ::

:: spins idly in the pilot's seat of the shuttle she rented from the larger continent where the passenger ship landed. Whoever had joined her would be on board, headed for the small island in the middle of the ocean ::

:: is throwing up in a shuttle on the way to the island that Linxi said her crew-mate would be ::

:: aboard the shuttle with Emily ::

:: is sitting, leaning against Ethan as the shuttle headed to their intended destination, happy to just let him play with her hair as she watched out the window ::

:: having thoroughly enjoyed the drive, she's almost disappointed as the old city comes into view ahead, but not really :: Lexy: There is Florence!

:: leans back in the other front seat, enjoying the view as they fly ::

:: wearing her skin-tight future-motorcycle-suit again :: Kate: I see it!

:: has the shuttle set to auto-pilot, so she's chatting with her party :: NAV: There's way more than I could show you in one day.

:: wearing more traditional jeans and leathers, since she got into riding in her Terranophile phase after arriving at the Academy ::

MED: Well, we'll just have to spend more than one.

:: looks towards the pilot :: I’m sorry! I get motion sickness very ea- :: continues to purge his prior meal ::

Suzuki> :: would rather be flying she shuttle so she would have something she's comfortable with to occupy her instead of being expected to... talk. To... people. ::

:: also not flying the shuttle, but it's cool ::

:: smiles :: All: There'll be a shuttle back any time, but if we stay three days you'd get to see the campfire which would be ideal.

:: leans around another curve before slowing up as they start to enter the old city ::

:: feels like he's seen enough campfires for about a year, but doesn't say anything ::

Ethan> :: chuckles, continuing to gently braid his wife's hair as he listened to the conversation :: Emily: Is... there anything that's a specific no-no? Like behaviors or something?

:: leans with Kate, a practiced motion ::

:: lies on the floor of Acacia's shuttle against a side wall, relaxed and smiling, excited for their destination, listening to the conversation ::

:: slowly glides the bike through the old streets, carefully preserved ::

:: has to grin at the strange looks they get from people on foot ::

:: as the shuttle lands on the island and the door opens, Sivat stumbles out, almost gasping for air ::

Kate: We'll have to exchange this for a Vespa.

:: spins about as the island comes into view, falling silent as she eagerly assesses the rest of the party's reactions. It's relatively small but quite a sight, black-and-white mountains and beaches and a jungle that's extreme even for Betazed ::

Lexy: Oh! Those are so cute!

Kate: I've always wanted to try one!

:: takes in the sight, it being more wild than he imagined ::

Lexy: Maybe the hotel will have one we can use. And speaking of the hotel, there it is!

Suzuki> :: eyes the mountains ::

:: perks an eyebrow, scanning the ship that just landed out of personal curiosity. As Sivat lands, a local approaches him to cheerfully offer him a necklace made of woven branches and leaves ::

:: stands up and leans her paws on the back of Emily's chair, watching the small island as they approach with big curious eyes ::

:: looks at Ethan as the island comes into view, grinning :: Ethan: Looks like Hawaii! :: scrambles off his lap to approach the viewscreen, admiring the view :: Ethan> :: knows exactly what this reminds him of, and pats Ryleigh's head lightly. ::

:: takes a deep breath, seeming relieved. As they get closer, it's notable that no architecture is immediately visibly. Sheer cliffs in black or rainbow colors and prismatic sand mark the beach they land on, near the southern tip of the island. As the shuttle comes down, a few natives milling around on the beach take note and begin approaching with even more woven necklaces ::

:: nods thoughtfully :: Ryleigh: Actually, it's very similar.

It looks like an uncut gem.

:: Sivat politely nods at the natives, adjusting his bow tie that had become uneven ::

:: nods eagerly, running through the final checks before opening the door. ::

:: even more slowly glides the bike under the hotel's entry port and then puts her feet down as they stop ::

Emily: Our families visit Maui almost every summer, or, well, everyone tries too. :: explains before stepping to the side to let Emily out first ::

:: also puts her feet down ::

:: can't help but to eye the control panel as he stands, but it's configured just fine ::

:: nods attentively. She hesitates, having expected them to go first, but she senses the wait and hops up to lead the way out. She spreads her arms wide, breathing in deeply with a big grin. A couple of native kids eye the party with wide-eyes, leaf-lei-things in hand ::

:: turns around, looks at the crew, and tilts his head ::

:: kills the bike's engine and kicks down the stand, then stands up ::

Suzuki> :: doesn't have a problem with any of the people here, but is still eager to no longer be expected to converse with them. She steps out of the craft and looks around appraisingly ::

:: takes off her helmet and shakes out her hair ::

:: finishes her sigh of relief and senses she's being watched. She looks over at Sivat, raising an eyebrow as well. ::

:: steps out and smiles to the locals ::

:: does the same, her cheeks a bit flushed from the exhilaration :: Kate: That was fun!

:: trots excitedly out of the shuttle behind Emily, grinning widely, unable to hide all the teeth :: Emily: It's beautiful here!

:: walks up to Acacia :: Emily: Are you one... Emily Acacia? From Atlantis?

Lexy: Oh, it really was! It had been a while since the last time we rode.

:: smiles at the local kiddos, slowly bending to their level to offer a handful of candy to the children that she pulled... from somewhere. ::

:: nods at Sivat, tilting her head :: Sivat: Yes--I'm really sorry, have we met? My memory, is ah--not always great?

:: unfastens their bags from the saddlebag holders as a valet approaches, unfazed by their strange transport ::

:: nods at Kate :: Kate: Let's check in and get changed, shall we?

:: the local kids bestow the woven necklaces on the travelers, speaking some sort of short prayer that's incomprehensible even to the universal translator ::

Valet> Checking in?

:: looks at all crowding natives, smiling at them, managing to close her mouth and attempts to look friendly ::

Valet: Yes, thank you. :: trades the keys for a valet tag ::

:: holds his hand out :: Emily: Sivat Jude. Linxi Jude's youngest brother. She mentioned that some of the crew were going to be here, and I thought it would be a nice way to meet some of you all.

:: takes Sivat's hand and gives it a firm shake. She smiles widely :: Sivat: Excellent! The more the merrier. We're going on a hike later, you're welcome to come.

:: waves a hand :: All: Grab your bags, and follow me!

Suzuki> :: bows her head politely as a necklace is placed around her neck ::

:: wears the necklace with some degree of reverence, then follows along ::

Ethan> :: restrains Ryleigh from trying to hug the kiddo that was Jude's youngest brother, knowing her love for kids before kneeling to allow the necklace placement before standing and following Acacia carefully ::

:: heads into the hotel with Lexy to check in, and before long, they find themselves in a nice suite ::

:: walks next to Acacia :: Emily: I was hoping you would let me come along the entire time. If that is alright?

:: beams even brighter. The jungle chirps, usually considered threatening.. she's just thrilled anyone would want to see it. :: Sivat: Of course!

:: plops their bags down on the bed :: Lexy: Oh, this is posh!

:: looks around the suite :: Kate: Wooow, this is posh!

:: walks straight toward the jungle, natives waving as they walk past ::

:: is adorned with a necklace by some brave native, bowing her head so that it can be slipped over her horn first, but it still doesn't fit over her head, so she sits and adjusts it to wear it like a crown instead. She smiles at the native who smiles back, then walks with her friends as Emily leads the way ::

:: places her helmet on the table and doffs her leather jacket :: Lexy: What do you want to do first?

:: walks along with the group, lingering somewhere between Emily and Jester ::

Emily: I need some time away from the family. And Linxi is not coming here, and I can not simply hitch a ride on a ship out of here without an adult. So this was the best option. :: switches between running and walking, his legs too short to keep up with the pace of the others ::

:: starts to just drop the jacket on a chair, then hangs it up instead ::

Kate: I want to change. ....You never do that at home!

:: snickers at hearing Sivat's answer :: Sivat: If you want, I can offer you a piggy-back ride so you're not having to run-walk to stay caught up with us?

:: the party enters the jungle, following a narrow path. The building they're approaching springs out very suddenly, completely hidden from the shore. The buildings are wood-beam supported, but the outsides are lined with stones and cast-silver twisting vines. The faux-vines create a very thin halo, keeping the plants of the jungle at bay, but only just--small bits of vines coil around the silver, but never more than an inch. Emily cracks open the door to her grandmother's house, opening it to let the party in. ::

:: grins :: Lexy: I— I think of it, sometimes!

:: nods, truly sympathetic :: Sivat: Oh, I understand--plenty far away from my crazy human aunts here. :: she jokes wryly ::

:: presses a button on her suit that releases some of the tautness, and begins to peel out of it ::

:: nods in appreciation at the house, finding it charming ::

:: undresses, ditching her boots and shirt before peeling her jeans off ::

Suzuki> :: feels very awkward about this, but politeness takes over :: Emily: What a pleasant home.

:: continues to ramble :: Emily: Do you have food by any chance? I may have... vomited my breakfast on the shuttle. I have found I do not like shuttles. Looking out of them in particular.

:: inside of the house is a wide open central room with all sorts of chairs and crafting devices scattered around a central fire pit. The top of the round room can open, but it is currently closed. She points to a hallway off to the side :: All: Bedrooms that way...

:: opens her bag and goes through the clothes she brought ::

:: marvels at the house and its natural inclinations, entering with the group ::

:: drops her bag by the fire pit, heading to the kitchenette along the round room wall :: Sivat: What do you like?

Emily: I am trying to expand my palate. Anything would be fine.

Ethan> :: takes their bags and heads to claim a bedroom, wanting to give Ryleigh time to catch up with her friends ::

:: nods, grabbing a basket and stepping out the back door to pick some plants off of the back lattice-shield of the house. ::

:: walks up to Grey :: Ryleigh: Ryleigh Grey? Marine?

:: stands in her underwear, also going through her bag :: Kate: I packed something special for today.

:: nods at Sivat's question, bending down to be able to match his eyeline :: Sivat: Yeah, I'm a Captain in the Starfleet Marines.

:: explores every room of the house she has ready access to, sniffing around ::

:: also in her underwear, she looks up, distracted from her choices of what to wear :: Lexy: Oh?

:: comes back with her basket full of a mix of colorful greens and a few squishy brown beans. She lights the stovetop fire to heat up what's basically a wok, throwing in all the greens and some oil. ::

:: places his bag by Emily's, unsure as to the sleeping arrangements, so he doesn't claim a room ::

:: the rest of the house is fairly normal inside. Three of the bedrooms are decorated, and two are not. However, whoever lives here is extremely organized--or knew you were coming. ::

Suzuki> :: looks at Zorro thoughtfully, then slips away to claim a bedroom for herself ::

:: takes a step back :: Ryleigh: No need to bend down to my level. It feels almost condescending when people do that. :: blinks twice, expressionless ::

:: shrugs at Jester, this being new to him too ::

:: hides it behind her :: Kate: No peeking!

:: uses a long wooden stick to whip the greens around, searing them in a quick and smoky process ::

:: wanders the main room, raising her nose to the air when she smells Emily's cooking ::

Lexy: Aw! :: she turns her back and returns to rummaging ::

:: dresses quickly and sneakily ::

:: pulls the pan off the heat and flips it into a large wooden bowl, then opens the cabinet where the smaller bowls are :: All: Alright, I made plenty.. a snack might be good for everyone, the memory stones are a ways out.

Ethan> Sivat: Apologies for my wife! She's... been getting broody. :: returns from putting their luggage down, gently tugging on Ryleigh's hair to get a protest ::

:: pulls on her shoes ::

:: picks out something ::

:: disappears into the bathroom to fiddle with her hair ::

:: turns on the spot and walks towards the kitchen :: Emily: I rarely have handmade food. Everything I eat is usually from a replicator.

:: gratefully dips up a bowl of the seared greens ::

Suzuki> :: reappears and gratefully accepts a bowl of food ::

:: smiles, shrugging :: Sivat: We have a replicator, if anyone wants it-- :: she points at the side room, which is like a small office :: But nothing quite like picking it off the wall, yeah?

:: tries a bite :: Emily: This is good!

:: takes a small bowl of the greens, and eats some, with a quizzical expression on his face ::

:: nods, beaming proudly :: Doc: Thank you. I can't take too much credit, though, most of the charm is that the plants are so native they're exclusive.

:: pulls on the dress she selected and waits to see if it will go with Lexy's, then starts brushing out her helmet hair ::

:: hears Emily's invitation and trots to the table and sits with her own bowl :: Emily: This looks and smells amazing!

:: grabs a bowl of greens for herself, sitting down with the others around the long table near the kitchenette ::

Ethan> :: takes a bowl of the greens, offering an extra one to Ryleigh before settling down next to her ::

:: looks over to Kuari and walks around her, eyebrows raised ::

:: nods appreciatively as he eats ::

Sivat: I apologize, my... husband is correct, I am kind of... getting broody. I don't mean to be conscending or anything to you. :: says between bites, wanting to apologize to the youngest Jude-spawn.

:: comes out, finally ready :: Kate: Okay, now you can look. :: has somehow wrangled her long, brown hair to cascade down her shoulders in waves, and is wearing a floral-print dress with a pair of brilliant blue heels that pick up a color in the pattern ::

:: drops her head to her bowl and takes a bite ::

:: chuckles, giving Sivat a look that says 'yeah, that's just her' ::

:: finally turns her head towards Sivat, but doesn't smile as she's chewing and that would be bad, but offers him a very large eye ::

:: finishes up quickly and gets up, rifling through her bag for her hiking clothes and a wrapped package that she makes a point to hide, but she may glance at Suzuki a bit suspiciously ::

:: taps on what he thinks is Kuari's shoulder :: Kuari: You must be Kuari. But. What. Are you? :: continues to stare while munching on the food ::

:: her face brightens and her mouth hangs open for a moment when she sees her wife's choice :: Lexy: That is— oh, you are beautiful in it! And I would never have thought to pair such blue shoes with the dress, but it works!

Suzuki> :: looking down into her bowl of greens as she eats, and doesn't notice any suspicious looks ::

:: grins and spins around for Kate ::

:: swallows her bite :: Sivat: I am a Rucara, from a planet very far away. I'm a friend of Emily's.

:: applauds ::

Kuari: I never heard of that planet. :: continues to take very small bites ::

:: isn't wearing a new dress, but she's in her thin white Bohemian-style high-low off-the shoulder with the pattern of branching fanned leaves in red and blue ::

:: excuses herself to another room. When she returns she's in the same garb the natives on the beach wore. It's somewhat like a himation, but wrapped to fall above the knee and stay out of the way for hiking. The garment has no stitches, held together with geometry and a belt ::

:: excuses herself from the table as she was done, heading to go change into her own hiking clothes ::

:: cocks her head :: Sivat: My species is "Rucara". The planet is called "Ruka". No, you would not know of it, as it is in the Delta Quadrant.

:: looks over when Emily returns, noticing she's in new clothes ::

:: is in a Hawaiian shirt and cargo shorts, figuring they'll do just fine ::

:: grins, walking back in on the conversation. She muses :: Kuari: This guy givin' you a hard time?

Kuari: Oh! Delta Quadrant. Where Voyager got stuck. :: looks down at his empty dish and goes to place it in the sink ::

:: selects her blue shoes to go with it, to compliment Lexy's even though they're not as brilliantly-colored, and holds them up :

:: grins at Emily :: Emily: No, not at all!

:: happens to not be wearing anything, as is her usual on shore leave, other than the necklace on her head she was given upon arrival ::

:: claps approvingly ::

:: decides to take off the sweater-vest portion of his outfit, leaving just his white shirt, bowtie, and native necklace under it ::

:: ducks into the bathroom for a minute, checking her hair one more time before emerging :: Lexy: Ready?

:: realizes she forgot :: All: Oh! The k--err, the necklaces. You don't have to wear them, but remember where you put them. You'll be expected to toss them into the campfire, if you go.

:: grins :: Kate: Ready!

Oh thank the Deities. :: takes his necklace off ::

Emily: Go where?

:: keeps wearing his necklace, kinda likes it ::

:: he then decides to turn his attention to Navarro :: Doc: Doc Navarro? Navigation, right?

Sivat: That's me.

Ethan> :: chuckles, glad he wasn't being pestered by Sivat just yet, leaning against the doorframe carefully ::

:: grabs her purse from the bag and heads out to the street with Lexy, arranging for a Vespa on the way out ::

:: rubs her hands together, figuring some explanation is due :: Kuari: The.. memorial, of my ancestors. It's a hike, and a beautiful sight as well. You don't have to visit the stones, but to see the top of Aluho'aki is something.

Suzuki> :: is wearing athletic leggings with a light jacket over a matching sports bra and a pair of good trail shoes, very ready for a hike ::

Doc: You are taller than what I envisioned.

:: stands, her bowl finished :: Emily: I'll go! So I take my necklace with me, you said?

:: chuckles :: Sivat: Thanks, I think.

:: shrugs :: Kuari: If you want. :: she smiles, musing :: Kuari: But if you lose it, you'll die~

:: finishes the food ::

:: gathers up her things, taking a one-shoulder leather backpack to hide her mysterious package in, and some water and a med kit ::

:: as the Vespa is brought to them, she sees that it is also a brilliant blue :: Lexy: It matches your shoes just perfectly!

:: frowns, choosing to assume she is joking about the dying part :: Emily: Did...did you say we're supposed to throw it into a fire? If we go, we have to take it?

:: nods, understanding :: Kuari: In three days is the campfire--it's like a big party, a monthly festival. If you stay three days so you can go, you'll throw the necklace into the fire, which marks you not being a visitor anymore.

:: grins excitedly :: Kate: Couldn't have asked for something more perfect!

Emily: Oh, I understand!

:: walks back up to Acacia :: Emily: I neglected to bring water with me. Do you have a spare container?

:: nods, grabbing a canteen for Sivat and offering :: All: Everyone else good to head out? Need anything?

:: gets on the little scooter, finding it adorable compared to the bike they rode in on ::

Emily: Thank you. :: takes the canteen and fills it ::

:: nods to Emily :: As ready as I'll ever be.

:: trots around the house, looking in corners, as if a dog were looking for a place to bury a bone, then stuffs her necklace into an ornamental pot set on display up high ::

:: returns :: Emily: I'm ready.

Ethan> :: takes Ryleigh's hand as they head out the door, all prepped for the hike, both having taken off their necklaces up in their room ::

:: gets on sidesaddle behind her ::

:: zips off on the little Vespa! ::

:: nods, heading out the door and leading the way. She pushes through the underbrush, glancing behind her occasionally to be sure she's not losing anyone. Suddenly, it clears, and the party is faced with a relatively shallow shale cliff. This one's not a hard climb, but it does take both hands and feet. Emily gestures, smiling politely :: All: Visitors first.

:: keeps close to Emily, still looking at Kuari out of the corner of his eye ::

:: smirks, thinking Jester will be almost insulted by this climb ::

:: looks at her, then to Emily as he starts up the wall ::

Suzuki> :: leads the way up the cliff and helps others up after she zips to the top ::

:: watches Suzuki, smirking ::

:: looks up and flies to the top of the cliff, then extends her tail down to help others up ::

:: looks down at his tiny limbs :: Self: Awh worm.

:: comes up behind Sivat, gesturing :: Sivat: I'll be right behind you. Catch you if you fall.

:: easily makes it up, thoough he's not a practiced climber, Jester's taught him a few things ::

:: immediately scampers ahead, clambering up the wall and Ethan following ::

:: nods, and goes ahead, slowly making his way up :: I should not have worn my white shirt today!

:: sticks close to Sivat, true to her word to be ready to catch him. When she reaches the top she dusts herself off and grins, leading the way back into the jungle. Shortly they find the source of the sound of running water, and they're walking beside a rapid river ::

Suzuki> Emily: It's lovely here.

:: pulls the Vespa up to the Museo de Medici ::

:: smiles warmly :: Suzuki: I'm glad you think so. It's quite peaceful.

Kate: The Medici Palace! This is so exciting.

:: follows along, sniffing nature and loving the journey ::

:: nods in agreement, glad that he doesn't have to be building a fire or manning a net in a cold river ::

:: the party comes upon a relatively flat patch of land. It's obvious that this patch was cleared, but trees of varying heights grow in it. Each of the trees has a chain around it, with one of the island's colorful gems on the chain. She touches each tree as she passes :: All: We're about half way there--just need to grab something real quick. Take a sit if you need a break.

Lexy: I am excited, too! To see the place where such a large part of your culture began to truly flourish! :: parks the Vespa and slides off ::

:: sniffs all the trees, wandering the clearing idly ::

Kate: So many wonderful works of art are preserved here! :: slides off and walks up toward the entrance ::

:: looks around at the trees ::

:: the trees are in varying states of growth. These ones are a different species than the ones just outside the patch, and they're dropping small white flower petals. They're in small clusters--families. Emily settles on one and unhooks the chain, a tree with one shorter to its left, and one taller to its right. ::

:: follows along, eager to see it ::

:: watches Emily, curious to see what she's up to ::

:: admires a blue-and-green shimmering piece of obsidian hanging from a chain for a moment, then tucks it in her pocket. She looks back at the group, assessing how they're faring so far. ::

:: looks over at Navarro, who is watching Emily, and turns to look at Emily himself ::

:: grins :: All: Nobody needs a rest? Good stuff, strong stock. :: she half-jokes, heading back for the river to continue upstream ::

Emily: I am not strong. If you want strong, you will have to turn your attention to Linxi.

:: doesn't know the signifance of the obsidian, but follows along ::

:: waves his noodle arms in the air ::

:: enters, looking around at the elegant surroundings, and the embellished ceilings :: Self: Ooooh.

:: her eyes go wide at the inside of the building :: Lexy: It is marvelous...

:: follows the river for a while then breaks off, turning to follow a steep, winding path up the foot of one of the mountains. The trees that try to grow but slide down the hills come in handy, but it feels a bit like walking a tightrope at times ::

:: trots after Emily as they continue their journey, drawing close to the rushing river once again ::

:: they wander through the amazing hallways of the old palace, looking at priceless works of art ::

:: continues to walk-run after the long legged adults ::

:: falls thoroughly in love with Earth culture again, just like when she first got here ::

Suzuki> :: follows the leader, sure-footed ::

:: follows with the group, while otherwise would choose to fly but instead makes the journey with her friends, but isn't beyond using her wings for a boost now and then ::

:: steps around a corner, and suddenly, they're on a three-foot wide terraced path with a retaining wall. There's still so much greenery it's hard to see, but it's much easier to walk. :: All: We're here.

:: at one point he is behind Kuari during her wing boosts, and he literally falls flat onto the ground from the wind ::

:: starts to point them out--every stone is partly covered by plants, but they poke out the more you spot them. They vary from about two feet to five feet tall, they're stone sculptures resembling animals and plants with the island's gems worked in. Notably, each one features a large gem much like the one Acacia now has. ::

Suzuki> :: looks carefully at the stones ::

:: appreciatively takes in the scene, admiring the scultpures ::

:: the stones are composite sculptures, hundreds or thousands of small stones each worked into a mosaic. The colors vary, but they are put next to stones of similar hue so that when the light hits one, a stone creates a rainbow aura around itself ::

:: studies the stones as Emily points them out ::

:: after they've taken in much of the place, she finds her tummy growling :: Lexy: Hm, are you hungry?

Ethan> :: blinks at the stones, amazed as he keeps a tight hold on his wife's hand :: Amazing...

:: looks around at the stones :: Ooh. Pretty. Renna would love these.

Kate: Oh, I thought you would never ask.

:: continues on, following the terraced path that snakes up the mountain. There are easily thousands of these stones in varying states of repair, some even having grown into the tops of trees. They are a part of the landscape itself. ::

Suzuki> :: isn't sure of the significance of these stones, but views them with some reverence ::

Kate: I have a confession to make.

Lexy: Hm? :: as they head toward the exit ::

:: begins, filling the time as they work their way up :: All: So the tree...

Kate: I really want some lamb. I know it's all lab-grown, but still, I feel bad.

All: I will be buried in it. Cremated in the volcano, and this, :: she gestures to the stone :: is what will be done with my ashes.

:: looks at it, and her, with a bit of surprise ::

:: regards Emily seriously, then blinks at the stone indicated ::

:: finds that to be pretty metal, actually ::

Suzuki> :: reverence confirmed ::

:: nods, looking to Doc with no shame :: Doc: These are my ancestors.

:: looks around at the landscape, turning his attention to Emily at she speaks. this is a bit much for the 10 year old, so he just goes on looking at the trees and stuff ::

:: shrugs :: Lexy: No need to feel bad. Come, we will find a place!

:: leads her out the door and back to the Vespa ::

:: points at a cafe across the street :: Kate: What about there?

:: the weight of history settles on him as he understands ::

:: turns from the Vespa and looks across the street, having missed the place :: Lexy: Oh! That should do wonderfully!

:: looks around :: Kate: It seems like most of the shops in this district are leather shops. Florentine leather is famous, you know. Maybe we should check one out after lunch.

Lexy: I could use a pair of riding gloves.

:: blinks in sharp surprise at the burial traditions, before hurrying to catch up and looking over the mosaics carefully, not touching the rock ::

:: makes her way to an outdoor table at the cafe and sits ::

:: reaches the end of the trodden path. The terracing reaches higher than the jungle, cutting into the hard glass of the volcanic mountain. There is a final flat terrace near the top of the mountain where you can see out over the entire jungle, all the way to the shoreline for the entire southern half of the island. Emily smiles, pausing to watch her breath. ::

:: quietly :: What a view...

:: can't help but think of how she's recently seen firsthand the passage of time on a planet she remembers living on for a year, and sits on the ground. Emily's movement stirs her from her thoughts, and she follows again ::

Suzuki> :: takes everything in, quietly ::

:: orders them a couple of wines and an antipasto plate, in Italian ::

:: smiles at her polyglot wife ::

:: is 100% not taking any significance in. nope. too much to process. just focusing on pretty sights right now ::

:: stops at the top and marvels at the view, unafraid to stand near the edge :: Emily: This is so beautiful. Thank you for sharing this with us.

:: sidles up next to Suzuki, grinning. :: Suzuki: It's beautiful, isn't it? :: she nods her head to point. There's a great sheer cliff of glass, and another flat spot at the actual peak of the mountain. :: It looks even better from up there.

:: approaches her friend to hug her lightly before stepping back :: Emily: Beautiful. This is amazing, thank you for bringing us here.

:: is very much standing away from the edge, standing in the middle very stiffly ::

:: steps up behind Emily and Jester :: Emily: Thank you for bringing us here.

Suzuki> :: looking up at the area indicated :: Emily: It would not be offensive to your people to climb it?

::Finds himself running through the temperate forests of North America, excitably chasing down the alien native animals, finding the similarities with home fascinating.:: Self: TrrrRRReeee! TrrRRrrreeeeee! ::Trundles along.:: GrrrRRRAAAAAAssssSSSssss. ::Rolls around, before eventually bumping his head in his carelessness.::

:: shakes her head, offering up the wrapped package, an oddly shaped object wrapped in black cloth. :: Suzuki: Oh, no.. if you do it right.

:: looks back :: Emily: Would it be acceptable to...take a short flight?

:: nods lightly :: Kuari: Nothing wrong with that!

Suzuki> :: looks at Emily, a question in her eyes ::

:: grins widely and leaps off the edge without delay, gaining speed as she drops then soaring up into view ::

Suzuki> :: can't help but watch the soaring Kuari, impressed ::

::Looks up, then keeps looking up, and looking up some more; before blinking and rubbing his paw over his large forhead.:: Self: EmpeeeRRRRroooorrrr of treEEEeessss! ::Walks around the base of the giant tree, marvelling at it's sheer size.::

:: also looks up and watches Kuari fly, envious ::

:: takes a small cloth bag out of her leather backpack, opening it and donning her own set. They're one-clawed gauntlets that hook around the hand. They also appear to be made from volcanic glass, somehow. ::

:: blinks, watching from a distance ::

:: a few minutes later, their main course arrives, including Lexy's lamb ::

:: takes in the path they had climbed, putting into a more whole perspective from the air, appreciating the location and commits the view to memory, knowing it's very special to Emily ::

:: grips her right claw, showing Suzuki :: Suzuki: You use these to grip the fragments. It can be done without making a single chip. :: she challenges ::

:: kicks off her shoes, grinning ::

:: looks up at Ethan, both passing on the climbing challenge and just settling to sit close to the edge, relaxing into each other ::

:: grins, wondering about this ::

Suzuki> :: looks at the claws, thinking :: Emily: I would like to try this.

:: not surprised that Jester was all for it ::

:: nods at the package, which contains two such claws made to Suzuki's measurements. The Doctor bounces on her feet, getting herself ready for the climb, definitely not wanting to embarrass herself now. ::

Suzuki> :: Takes the package and unwraps it carefully, gripping the claws and getting a feel for them in her hands ::

:: is not foolish enough to offer bets on who wins ::

:: returns, landing carefully away from everyone on the flat area ::

:: heads for the cliff face and, in a slow motion so Suzuki can see it, she slides the claw from her extended reach towards herself until the tip catches, and she pulls herself up slightly with it. It's a delicate process, because the claws are a bit softer than the cliff face. You can still chip either, but of course the goal is not to. ::

::Hears a rustling behind him, causing him to duck and cover; pressing his body to the floor, with his ears flapping in the air and his nostrils flaring away. When he is met by a large creature crawling out of the woods.:: Animal: Am friend?!

Suzuki> :: follows Emily's lead, tentatively sliding the claws and using them to pull herself up, her motions slow and deliberate until she gets a sense for how the claws interact with the surface ::

:: is also having lamb, having decided to try what Lexy was craving, since she was craving it after all, it must be good ::

:: decides to sit cross legged on the ground ::

:: the lamb is succulent and delicious :: Kate: Mmmm... Oh, and these olives.... so good...

:: approaches Emily, their tour guide, and sits, watching ::

:: begins climbing. She lightly feels the face below her with the front of her foot to ensure the glass is not sharp enough to cut before sliding her toes into tight crevices, sometimes resting on as little as her toe nails, mostly dangling from her two volcanic glass hooks-on-a-bar. She grins, not looking down but knowing Suzuki is below her :: Suzuki: You really are good at this!

Lexy: I know! Great choice, love. :: washes it down with a sip of wine ::

:: watches them climb, rather impressed ::

::The animal is not friend, and imedietly roars and drops its head as it charges at the young Salbjorn; who scrambles and starts running away.:: Animal: baaaaAAAAddddd, many pointy horn! ::He roars back as he builds to a sprinting speed, with a giant horned demon at his tail.::

Suzuki> :: had kicked off her shoes as well, following the lead of her teacher, and catches her toe on something sharp, but says nothing about it :: Emily: You clearly have done this before. :: increases her speed, feeling more confident in the claws ::

:: nods, laughing airily. She's found herself less physically fit than in the 'past', but this is a fun summer. :: Suzuki: Three times.

Suzuki: I have.. two chips. Those go in my memory stone. :: she chuckles. ::

:: soon after, there is tiramisu and coffee ::

:: scoots slowly towards the edge, and when he sees the two, he shouts down to them :: Emily/Suzuki: That is more my sister's thing!

Suzuki> Emily: I thought... the goal was... not to chip? :: her breath comes a little heavier from the exertion of making her way up this sheer face :: I have no chips, but... I am also slower.

::Bodyslams in the base of another giant 'emperor' tree, his claws digging into the bark, gouging considerable chunks out of it, with the scraping crunching sound of keratin on wood. He was only just able to pull himself up in time before the animal reached him.::

:: watches Suzuki and Emily, then raises a paw, extending the claws and looking at them, and wonders ::

::bliss ::

:: muses lightly :: Suzuki: I was ten.

:: reaches the top, pulling herself up onto the flat part of the peak with a heft and a roll onto her back. She peers over to make sure Suzuki makes it, but she has no doubt. ::

::The creature slams it's hooves on the ground, roaring up at the bear with it's comically long face.::

:: offers Lexy the final bite of tiramisu off her fork ::

Suzuki> :: pulls herself to the top a few seconds later, panting for a moment before rolling to her feet and inspecting her claws for chips ::

:: takes it :: Kate: Mmmmm.

:: shakes his head, damned impressed with those two, but not surprised ::

:: smiles up at where Suzuki and Emily disappeared, yipping for their victory ::

:: smirks, letting her check before offering a hand. She grips Suzuki's forearm, slowly standing on the bumpy peak and gesturing lightly. From here you can see every shore, even the active volcano to the north. ::

Suzuki> :: stands next to Emily, taking in the vista ::

:: from above is the best place to see the island's rainbow, as the light is casting up on you from where it reflects off of the magnetite in every rock. The jungle sways and breathes, and the ocean threatens you not to visit without a space ship. ::

:: finishes her coffee, contented ::

Suzuki> :: gazing out over the incredible view:: Emily: This is the second-best part of climbing.

:: takes a deep breath, letting go of Suzuki's arm once they're steady. She takes a breath, then nods. ::

Kate: Let's go buy some gloves!

Lexy: Alright!

::Roars down at the anger deer, as he will now know it as, wondering why it was attacking him.::

:: takes out the stone on a chain she brought, sliding down to sit cross-legged. She holds the stone to her chest, mumbling a quiet prayer in her language. ::

Suzuki> :: looks down at Emily, not sure what to do ::

:: finishes up rather shortly, then smiles up at her. :: Suzuki: Alright. Whenever you're ready, we can head back.

PAUSE VACATION

PAUSE VACATION

PAUSE VACATION