OOC: I apologize for the delay in this scene. Also corrected some missing dialogue.
((Little Risa - Near Beach - Starbase 118))
Walking together the three of them, Haukea took in the picture perfect warmth, allowing it to flood her skin, her smile growing wider with pleasure.
Stendhal: Commodore Sal would a hug be too out of place? Rustyy's had his share, and when it comes to my hug list, you and Foster are high on it.
Haukea loved this woman already. Not only was she lovely to be around but she was a fan of hugs, something that was a part of Haukea’s love language, physical touch. Sal appeared to agree as well with the way his smile grew.
Taybrim: I would love one!
Willow: You’re offering me one as well, right? ::Her smile was wide, a slight bell-like laugh in her voice indicating her joking nature::
Stendhal: Yes of course!
Taybrim: I would like to think I give good hugs – and in Little Risa they are freely offered.
Both Stendhal and Sal offered a hug and Haukea freely accepted the offer, attempting not to completely melt in their arms as she so often did in hugs, the pressure, touch and comfort relaxing her nervous system.
Willow: I’ll take a hug anytime. Come find me if you guys ever need one.
Stendhal: Oh, that implies I'll be knocking on your door frequently, my friend.
With introductions, hugs and informal greetings out of the way Sal turned back towards the beach, the music, the festival in general.
Taybrim: You know, there is the opportunity for both drinking – and dancing! Would either or both of you like to partake in either – or both?
Willow: I’m not much of one for drinking during the festival. And yes, it’s always better when you’re dancing. Though the best dancing is done at night.
Drinking was never her entertainment of choice during the festival. Most of her fondest memories of the Moon Festival centered around her as a child when she wasn’t allowed to drink, instead choosing to dance. Haukea continued the tradition, dancing under the full moon, even now as an adult.
Stendhal: Dancing in the night? That sounds like a fantastic plan to me, count me in! If they happen to serve some refreshing drinks, that would be even better!
Taybrim: I’m sure we can hunt down something tasty and tropical without alcohol. But the real treats come out at night when they offer mulled zatzcider and moonwine. But I don’t think those are traditionally offered until after sunset?
Sal turned his gaze towards her as if looking for confirmation. Naturally, focused on the present, Haukea would forget about the two famous Risian Moon Festival drinks, zatzcider and moonwine. As a Risian she had drunk her fill of such beverages but never on the night of a full moon as to inhibit her dancing.
Willow: Yes at night, under the full moon.
Sal appeared pleased at her response, leaning back on his heels, smiling.
Stendhal: Please forgive my perhaps silly question, but how much longer until the moon graces us with its presence? ::She inquired with a playful smile, her curiosity lighting up the moment.::
Haukea couldn’t help but feel drawn towards Stendhal’s exuberant energy. Many Risians eagerly awaited moon rise, Haukea delighted that Stendhal held the same anticipation.
Taybrim: ::Checking his chronometer:: Well, it’s 1700 hours and sunset is set for 2000, so about three hours? The moonrise is strong today, and you’ll be able to see the moon even before the sun sets.
Even though the atmosphere of Little Risa was simulated it provided a nearly perfect replica of the day and night sky during the months of the Moon Festival.
Willow: That’s why they call it a moon festival after all.
Stendhal: The Moon Festival! I adore the name; it's so romantic and evokes a sense of celebration. I must ask, will there be live music to complement the ambiance?
Taybrim: Oh yes, you can see the main bandstand down by the water. I can hear at least one street band is already playing, but the main event will be the Andorian Blues band Triumvirate.
A trio was made up of an Andorian bassist, a Risian playing a Vulcan lyre and a Tellarite on symphonic drums. To Haukea it was certainly an odd combination of individuals to be playing during a Risian Moon Festival. Nevertheless, having heard them once before, knew they were the best around for the occasion.
Stendhal: Speaking of which, will there be any culinary delights on offer? Perhaps some Risa specialties to savor?
What a delightful question.
Taybrim: Hmm, a pertinent question. I think you’re the expert here, Willow?
Willow: Moon Flowers. It’s a sort of dark berry. Comparable to the Human blueberry.
Taybrim: ::His dark eyes sparkled and he nodded:: That sounds tasty to me, what about you Counselor?
Stendhal: Response
Taybrim: If I’m not mistaken the seating is mostly outdoor. You can sit on the deck or on the beach.
Risian architecture and design offered a large array combined indoor/outdoor spaces as to complement the warm ambient temperature.
Willow: It’s fairly common to have outdoor entertainment on Risa since our average temperature is so mild. You hardly need a sweater.
Stendhal: Response
Taybrim: Then let’s do that! It will give us a fantastic view of the band as they set up.
Willow: I have no objections. If you hadn’t suggested it, I certainly might have.
Stendhal: Response
Taybrim: No, I haven’t ever met any of the trio. Though I bet we could chat with them after the concert. They’re known for coming out after a concert to speak to the audience.
Willow: I wonder what sort of music they are going to be playing. What with how eclectic the band is.
Stendhal/Taybrim: Response
Willow: It is traditional to play Risian Ballads.
Stendhal/Taybrim: Response
Willow: However I believe any style of music will work nicely as the festival is more about gathering together with community.
Stendhal/Taybrim: Response