Autumn docking

[i_am_a_pisces]

The weather has been quite fair lately, and heading into the fall with such mild temperatures, I've decided to stay a bit longer than I had intended to before heading out again for the autumn voyage. The previous winters for the last couple of years have started out in the same gentle way, and going from that experience, I think remaining here to

Comments

[percivalthegale]

I didn't know you had plans to set out again so soon, but I'm glad you're delaying them to enjoy the harvest, Sir Troy. My hometown of Iksay holds a harvest festival every autumn, if you were interested.

[i_am_a_pisces]

I usually dock her in Vinay del Zexay for the rougher winter months, but the autumns of late have been mild, so I feel it safe to delay.

Iksay? I believe I heard something about that last year, and the crew could certainly do with some harvest-time events...

[percivalthegale]

I see. Well, we have had a run of good growing seasons and fine weather into the harvest. All the more reason to give thanks, I suppose.

Yes, and it's the closest village to Budehuc, so it isn't as though anyone has to go far out of their way to attend. It spans three days, later this month. Plenty of food and drink for all.

[i_am_a_pisces]

We all benefit from a good harvest...as on land, or sea.

It sounds ideal for the crew, I will make it available to them if you would be so kind as to give me the dates and directions when it is time.

[percivalthegale]

Certainly, Sir Troy. I intend to go myself, I never miss the harvest festival if I can help it - only an emergency here at the castle would stop me.

But what of yourself? You aren't interested in joining in the fun?

[i_am_a_pisces]

You mentioned that Iksay was your hometown, the festival must be quite important to you.

I will most likely stay on board. I would rather not have the 'solicitors' that are currently around have access to my ship. *the festival does sound like an interesting venue, though.*

[percivalthegale]

Yes, it is. Moreover, my mother will be sad if I don't visit for it.

Ah, that's true. I hadn't thought of that. I hope that the councilors make their way back to Vinay and stay there before then...because if they're still around, I may not be able to get the days off, either. *sighs*

[i_am_a_pisces]

Perhaps they will attend the festival, and then you will have an excuse to go and not disappoint your mother. Family is important, after all. I, unfortunately, will have no such luck with reasons and excuses. *it comes out a little bitter, and he frowns at his own tone* Excuse me, I had not meant to sound so disparaging over what will surely be a trying time if the councilors do indeed depart to your village.

[percivalthegale]

It's all right, Sir Troy. I've thought the same thing, about the advantage and disadvantage of the timing of the festival.

If you don't mind me saying...it sounds as though you could use a diversion. Even just some time around others that aren't your crew.

[i_am_a_pisces]

As a knight of your position, I am sure you have. And please, call me Troy.

*privately thinks that some small diversion would be welcome. As nice as the Islands were, the recent talk of Scarlet Moon has made him uneasy and thinking too much of the past, of all that is different and gone.* ...I will admit, the idea of a festival does sound appealing. Does Iksay grow wine grapes, by any chance?

[percivalthegale]

If you insist...Troy. *grin* It's a habit, I'm sorry.

Mmm well...in recent years Barts has tried to grow grapes, but the soil isn't as conducive as it is in Chisha - so he says. The vineyards there are lovely. Iksay is wheat country, and we do grow a mean tomato.

[i_am_a_pisces]

I understand, but the time for 'sir' is long past, and only my crew calls me that with regularity.

Hmmm, it is a shame that one cannot make a proper wine out of a tomato. Wheat, however...I assume there are brewers in your town?

[percivalthegale]

*gentle smile* Very well, then.

Oh yes! Definitely. The drinking usually begins rather early on festival days, it's best to pace oneself. Admittedly, when I was there for May Day I got a little carried away...but then, I know where I went wrong. I intend not to repeat that problem.

[i_am_a_pisces]

I imagine it does, as with most festivals. *amused* May Day was a trial for you?

[percivalthegale]

A fiasco is more like it. Ah, it wasn't anything major...I punched a drunk, I got stood up, and drowned my sorrows a bit too deeply. But I think my luck has changed since then, so I'm willing to get right back in there and try again.

[i_am_a_pisces]

I think we have all had those nights, Percival. *still slightly amused* You punched a drunk?