Just Another Day

"Brood later. Fun now!" Shanku said. She grabbed his hand and pulled him to the village center.

There were many torches standing in the sand and braced by stones at the base. But their pale light was nothing compared to the display on the beach. There were many singers, swimmers, flower vendors, dancers, and many culinary treats being passed around. The dancers especially caught Shanku's attention. She was familiar with those in skirts, but the fire dancers were new. Some twirled batons, but most danced with a staff that was lit on both ends. They cut brilliant patterns of circles and ribbons through the night air.

"Glad you could join us," Scarlet said from behind Shanku.

"Preeeetty!" Shanku said slowly, mesmerized by the lights.

"Been a while, Dawson," Scarlet said quietly.

"Long story..." Dawson sighed.

Kisona waved to Shanku and she went to sit by him and enjoy the party. None noticed the couple walking off down the beach.

"What do you think?" Kisona asked as a dancer with batons twirled them his torso and legs with ease.

"Awesome!" Shanku said excitedly.

A dam approached them and held out a platter of kelp and fish. Kisona accepted some and thanked her, and gave one to Shanku. She looked at it suspiciously and wrinkled her nose.

"Try it, it's very sweet," Kisona urged.

Shanku took a tentative bite and was pleasantly surprised.

"Honey is the key," Kisona nodded and ate his whole. "Keeps the kelp wrapped firmly around the fish."

Shanku nodded and watched as a trio of jugglers took the center and began an elaborate act of tossing and catching flaming sticks between them.

"Have you been out to sea tonight?" Kisona asked.

"Not yet," Shanku shook her head.

"After these three, go with Tasura out into the water. There are some special creatures that only come out this time of the year," Kisona nodded.

The kurach in question was to the other side of Kisona and he waved to Shanku. She smiled and then turned back to the show. When the jugglers had finished, she dutifully followed Tasura out into the water. This time, Shanku was instructed on how to perform the spell to keep her feathers dry before she was allowed to swim.