View source for 5745/A Stroll Through the Sundew Kingdom

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2020/04/12
|Location=The Sundew Kingdom
|Synopsis=A curious fawn stumbles upon the Sundew Kingdom and spends some time with its princess.
|Cast of Characters=446, 1160
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:446|Sarracenia (446)}} has posed:'''<br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; A trip through the only actual road in the Sundew Kingdom is still quite a bit of excitement and danger. Travellers would see monstrous plants of all varieties, trees as tall and thick as skyscrapers, tribal bug-people who watch from the overgrown underbrush, and would hear many large and dangerous predator calls through the trees. Birds as large as small aircraft move between the trees and above the canopy, and plant people who have roots for feet, a single large leaf for each arm, and a large tulip-like head full of large shark-like teeth patrol the road in steel armor and armed with pole-swords that they are using to constantly cut back the jungle from retaking the road. <br> <br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; At the end of the road rises a thick wall made from huge blocks of alabaster stone. There is a gate large enough to accommodate something much larger than an elephant. Is there something that large or is it simply for the the majesty? The jungle grows right up to the wall, and again is only held back by patrols of those same plant people with their brightly colored heads and steel armor.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:446|Sarracenia (446)}} has posed:'''<br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; A trip through the only actual road in the Sundew Kingdom is still quite a bit of excitement and danger. Travellers would see monstrous plants of all varieties, trees as tall and thick as skyscrapers, tribal bug-people who watch from the overgrown underbrush, and would hear many large and dangerous predator calls through the trees. Birds as large as small aircraft move between the trees and above the canopy, and plant people who have roots for feet, a single large leaf for each arm, and a large tulip-like head full of large shark-like teeth patrol the road in steel armor and armed with pole-swords that they are using to constantly cut back the jungle from retaking the road. <br> <br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; At the end of the road rises a thick wall made from huge blocks of alabaster stone. There is a gate large enough to accommodate something much larger than an elephant. Is there something that large or is it simply for the the majesty? The jungle grows right up to the wall, and again is only held back by patrols of those same plant people with their brightly colored heads and steel armor.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1160|Blossom (1160)}} has posed:'''<br> Blossom was once again in a new world, being the Multiversal tourist, with Maxwell, her bird friend perched on her head. As the duo head down the only road in town, Blossom is in awe of the Sundew Kingdom. "Wow, I've never seen trees this big, even the oldest parts of Silverdeep are nothing like this." She commented, getting a chirp of agreement from Maxwell. She was wary but not afraid of the predator calls, and positively fascinated by the tulip people. She stared at a couple of them for the moment as she continued down the road, then finally speaking. "Hi there! You guys are so... neat! I've never seen anything like you. My name is Blossom. What is this place?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:446|Sarracenia (446)}} has posed:'''<br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The plant people seem surprised that a stranger spoke to them, and the one Blossom addressed seems to blush a bit and acts shy at being called neat. The leader of the small patrol she spoke to steps forward. "This is the Sundew Kingdom, miss. I'm Captain Caltrop. Nice to meet you. And that soft-stem is Lieutenant Lilly." he says, his voice rather gravelly. Lieutenant Lilly waves bashfully to Blossom as he is introduced. There is a slight mystery as to how they see, as the plants people don't seem to have eyes. "I guess you haven't been here before. Just follow the road to get to the castle. I don't suggest wandering off the road. Lots of dangerous things in this forest."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1160|Blossom (1160)}} has posed:'''<br> Blossom smiles as Captain Caltrop answers her and returns her greeting, nodding as he introduces Lieutenant Lilly. "Nice to meet you both also, and no, I haven't been here before, lots of places in this multiverse I haven't been. Thanks for the heads up too. I'm usually able to talk to animals, but I think I'd much rather see a castle than try to practice diplomacy on some creature on an alien world that wants to have me for dinner." She chuckles a little and continues skipping down the path, eventually nearing the castle where she can get a good view of it's grand entrance. "Wow.... If this place is as big on the inside as it looks on the outside, I think this is one building I won't mind being inside for a bit." She says out-loud before making her way toward the gate. "Can I go in?" She asks the tulip guards at the gate.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:446|Sarracenia (446)}} has posed:'''<br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; There seems to be little restriction on traffic into the castle walls, and so the guards nod and then just resume watching the passing travellers. Not that there are a lot of them. What little traffic there is consists of large vehicles that are obviously meant for mass transportation of goods. <br> <br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Once through the gate, Blossom would find that...it really was just the wall. Like a medieval town, the thick wall leads to an open area. And it is free of all the intrusive plants that are found outside. Inside the walls is a sprawling city of artful architecture and bustling business. Pirahna plants and humans alike wander the streets, along with a few turtle people. The buildings are not nearly as tall as the wall, which is still only half as tall as the trees. More of those plant people patrol the walls and streets, but overall it has a feeling of a very peaceful place. <br> <br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; And in the open air above Blossom can see huge wooden airships docking at floating platforms arranged in a spiral formation in the center of the large city. And behind all of this is the castle itself, with towers rivaling the trees for height and girth. It is obviously a castle of a very well-off royal family. <br> <br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Just inside the gate is a statue of the kingdom's princess. Unlike the stereotypical princess, she is not waifish or of a charmingly short height. Although the statue is naturally larger than the actual princess, it shows that she is tall and strong and the expression carved into it is anything but demure. The statue has been carved out of a single gigantic piece of a red crystal, and displays her in an elegant pose and confident pose. <br> <br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; It is pretty obviously overdone.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1160|Blossom (1160)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; As Blossom gets close enough to the gate to realize that the wall is not for a building but simply a barrier around a city, she's brought down to earth a bit, it was a bit disappointing, but for what little she knew about cities, it made sense. She stopped at the statue of Sarracenia, reading the plaque before looking up at the figure of the statue. "Princess Sarracenia... I've never met a princess before... I wonder if we'll get to meet her." She thinks out loud, with Maxwell adding a chirp. As she looked up, she also noticed the airships and for a moment wondered how they were kept aloft. "I'm really starting to like this place!" She commented as she continued skipping along into the town, perhaps drawing some attention from the townfolk, but on the other hand, she was likely just as, if not more curious of them.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:446|Sarracenia (446)}} has posed:'''<br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Seems unlikely that one might see the princess of a kingdom when one is simply wandering about the town, but it is always possible. As for how the airships are kept afloat, it might be hard to see from below, but they have masts that sport helicopter-like propellers instead of sails. Why would they sport sails? Well, they have the appearance of old wooden sailing ships, ranging from fast corsairs to heavy galleons. Many of them carry the seal of the kingdom. <br> <br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The townsfolk are somewhat curious about Blossom, but most have seen plenty of strangeness so they don't stare. But, the young children of the town are dazzled by her look and the fact that she has a bird on her head. Little pirahna plants the size of normal flowers seem to be particularly curious, perhaps sensing a sort of power in her. Human children are less drawn to her, but a few are following her around with that combination of curiousity and timidness, peeking around corners at her or running up to look at her before scampering away. <br> <br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; That is, until suddenly they all let out a squeal and run away, as do the little pirahna sprouts. The reason isn't obvious at first. The only thing that has changed is the fact that someone who looks very much like the statue from earlier is just coming out of a nearby shop. She looks around, giving her reddish-blonde hair a flip before huffing at the fleeing children. "Come back here and pay proper respect to your princess!!" she exclaims, her voice loud enough to echo off of the buildings.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1160|Blossom (1160)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Blossom wore a warm smile and gave a bubbly giggle as she watched the antics of the children, seeming to try and catch a peek at her without being seen. She decided to give them a little show and began to wave her staff a bit, using just a bit of her nature magic to cause small flowers in various colors to grow under-hoof where she walked. As she entered what appeared to be the market district of the Sundew Kingdom, she began curiously looking around at what the different shops were selling.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; It wasn't long though before Sarracenia herself appeared from out of one of the shops and the children scattered like forest critters fleeing a fire. She blinks a bit and turns back toward Sarracenia as the princess exclaimed for them to pay their respects to her. She instantly recognized the woman by her likeness to the statue. "You really have a way with the children. Why are they afraid of you?" She asks, then blushes a bit as she realizes it could be taken as a rather rude question.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:446|Sarracenia (446)}} has posed:'''<br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Sarracenia is still huffing with fists clenched as Blossom approaches. And when Blossom asks that question...she might get a glimpse of just why the children were afraid. "IT IS ALL BECAUSE OF PEACH!!" she screams. "Because of her, everyone thinks that princesses are supposed to be all soft-spoken and never angry and overly gentle! And because I am none of those things the children are scared of me!" Her rage gives way to plain anger at that point with a bit of moisture in her eyes. "I'll show them one day! I am just as good as any of those other princesses!" She coughs and tries to blink away the moisture. "B-besides, who are you to ask questions of another kingdom's princess?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1160|Blossom (1160)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Blossom blinks a bit at Sarracenia's outburst. She had no idea who Peach was, and almost laughed, feeling it was a bit funny to be named after a fruit. Her first thought was that with the way she was acting, the children would probably be afraid of her even without the example of this Peach princess. Even she knew better than to blurt that out though, that would be like dumping napalm on a forest fire. "I'm sorry, it really isn't any of my business, but I asked without thinking. I'm sure you are a fine princess, this town is certainly nice, I love the tulip people, and the flying ships, and the big red and white spotted flowers. As for who I am, I'm just a faun from the Silverdeep Forest, my name is Blossom, and the bird perched on my head, that's Max. You are Sarracenia I assume by the statue I saw on the way in."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:446|Sarracenia (446)}} has posed:'''<br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Sarracenia sniffles a bit then straightens her hair and stands tall again. "Blossom. Yes. I am Princess Sarracenia Sundew, crown princess of the Sundew Kingdom. I try to spend time among my subjects to foster trust between the peasants and the royalty, but..." she sighs heavily. "...it seems my beauty and illustrious presense is just too much for my subjects." <br> <br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; As she is saying this, the passing townsfolk also seem to be keeping a respectable distance from the princess, but don't seem actually afraid of her. Just...cautious. "So, what brings you to the Sundew Kingdom, Blossom? And did you like my statue? I had it hand carved by a master artisan. I had to pose for it for hours at a time each day until it was finished!"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1160|Blossom (1160)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Blossom gives Sarracenia an empathetic smile, feeling her frustration, and imagining how much work it must be to rule a kingdom, even if she has never done so herself. "You are very pretty, and yes, the statue is great, when I saw it I wondered if I would have the chance to meet you, since I've never met a princess before. But really, nothing specific brought me here, I just came to see a new place. So far I really like the place overall, even if cities are usually not my thing, the walking plants and more low-tech feel really helps. Do you think you could show me around? If you're not too busy to hang around with a silly faun and her bird."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:446|Sarracenia (446)}} has posed:'''<br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Sarracenia blinks a bit as Blossom says she is pretty, as if she doesn't quite believe the fawn. She smiles just a bit as Blossom says she likes the town. "I used to think this was a stifling place, but...once I was in the Multiverse a while I realized that home really wasn't so bad. And that we princesses have responsibilities that we cannot simply ignore." she says, then looks around a moment before back at Blossom. "Well, Blossom. Your are quite fortunate this day. I have nothing on my schedule for quite a while, so I am free to show a silly fawn and her bird around. Is there any particular place that caught your eye?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1160|Blossom (1160)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Blossom nods at the concept of appreciating home after seeing the Multiverse. "When I first left my home in the Silverdeep Forest, I learned that the outside world was full of wonder, but I also learned, and even more so with the multiverse, that it's also full of danger and horrible things. It makes me glad to know my home is quiet and peaceful, and I can return there when I need a break from all the excitement. Curiosity usually gets the better of me though and I end up coming back for more exploring before too long. But anyway, if you are happy to show me around, hmm, the airships looked really interesting, and... what's that? Looks like a small city in the city!" She asks as she points her staff at Sarracenia's castle.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:446|Sarracenia (446)}} has posed:'''<br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Sarracenia looks up at the mention of the airships and nods. "I love the airships as well." she says, then blinks as the staff is pointed toward her castle. "That..." She gives Blossom a look, like one might give someone who asked a rather silly question. "...that is a castle. My family's castle. Do...do they not have castles where you are from?" she asks, then giggles a bit. "Well, you are in for a wonderful treat, then! My castle is among the most lovely and extravagant in existence! We shall start toward it, but please enjoy the town as well. Even if..." She looks toward a passing group of townsfolk. "...they are ungrateful!" she says a bit more loudly, making them hurry a bit.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1160|Blossom (1160)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Blossom laughs along with Sarracenia after the look about her not understanding what a castle is. "Well, if we do, they're not like that, or I haven't seen one anyway. But I'm probably not the best to ask, since I live outside in a forest far from most civilization. But if your castle is really that wonderful then I wouldn't want to come here and miss the chance to see it up close." She comments as she follows Sarracenia, following her advise and soaking up the sights of the town as she goes. "I might have to come back through here and shop a bit. Anything you recommend?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:446|Sarracenia (446)}} has posed:'''<br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; There are many shops in this area, and they seem to be high quality. Of course, one might expect that of an area where the princess herself was shopping. "Well, one of my favorites is the dress shop~ Obviously a princess has to have the very best in dresses. Like the one I am wearing now! It is made of the finest silks money can buy, and was hand-made by the best seamstress in Pipeland!" She gives a twirl to display her dress, which billows elegantly when she twirls. "And of course, there are the jewelry shops and the furniture stores. "And of course, I -love- to visit the shipyard!"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1160|Blossom (1160)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; As Sarracenia talks of dresses and shows off the one she is wearing, Blossom looks at herself, and what little she is wearing. She was almost naked by comparison, and some might have been embarrassed at being so under-dressed compared to their company, but Blossom seemed unfazed, only feeling a little curious at what she would look like and what it would feel like to wear a dress like the one Sarracenia has on. "I've never worn a dress before. Yours looks really nice though. I think if I was wearing something like that though it would get in the way as I nimbly leap around. Though, maybe thinking about wearing a dress in battle is missing the point..." She shrugs. "Jewelry I like, though pretty much everything I'm wearing right now I made myself. I'll have to check it all out. I don't think I can afford a ship though."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:446|Sarracenia (446)}} has posed:'''<br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "That is just silly. I wear a dress in battle. All it takes is a bit of practice to learn how to flow with the dress." Sarracenia says, twirling again and continuing to twirl like a dancer. She moves fluidly and with finesse toward the next shop, seemingly not impeded at all by her dress. "See?" she says as she finishes up with a nimble leap that lands her right in front of a dress shop. "Would you care to try one on?" she asks with a smile. There are a few dresses in the window, ranging from breezy dresses made of light materials to dresses more like Sarra's elegant ballgown. "And you don't have to buy an airship to enjoy one. You can pay for a ride, or I could even give you a short ride on my personal aircraft, the Dyna."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1160|Blossom (1160)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Blossom watches as Sarracenia explains and shows how it is possible to move, seemingly effortlessly, even in a dress as extravagant as the one she is wearing. "You do make it look easy, and really what do I know without trying, I've never had much in the way of fancy clothes like that." She admits, turning to look at the dress shop and walks up toward the window. She is quickly drawn to a light and breezy pastel yellow dress with spaghetti straps and a colorful floral print adorning the skirt. She turns back to Sarracenia after a moment and asks for her opinion. "Do you think this would look good on me? As for an airship ride, that would be great!"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:446|Sarracenia (446)}} has posed:'''<br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Sarracenia blinks before turning and looking at the dress. "Hmm...well, it would certainly go with your overall motiff. But, I think a nice mint green would look better on you." she says as she looks it over. "Do you like yellow?" she asks before looking over at the other dress. It is more her own style, and so naturally draws her attention more. "I could probably use more dresses like this. Adventuring is incredibly hard on one's wardrobe. Although, I imagine your own wardrobe rarely suffers from such problems." she says, smirking lightly. It is hard to tell if she meant that there is little material in Blossom's wardrobe, or if she meant that Blossom looks a bit on the poor side.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1160|Blossom (1160)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Hmm..." Blossom ponders Sarracenia's suggestion for a moment. "Mint could be nice too, yes. I like most brighter colors, but I don't really know much about which ones look better for clothes or why. As for adventuring, I guess I see your point, because fancy clothes cost more money right? As for me, I can usually fix minor damage to my... admittedly basic outfit on my own, and even if I have to replace it all, it doesn't set me back much. Is the expense of having to fix and replace fancy clothing hard for you?" She asks curiously as she moves to make her way into the shop.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:446|Sarracenia (446)}} has posed:'''<br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Sarracenia raises an eyebrow. "Are you always so hard on yourself? It isn't very becoming of a lady." she says, then nods. "Yes, these dresses are quite extravagant and quite expensive. But, it is only a minor cost to a princess." she says, following the doe into the dress shop. "Oh, are you thinking of purchasing a dress? Your outfit -is- quite flattering...if a bit..um..." She coughs. "...but I always suggest a dress. Elegance makes most anything better."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1160|Blossom (1160)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Blossom blushes a bit. "I'm not really trying to sound like I'm critical of myself, I just know there is a lot I still don't understand about other worlds. I thought the other parts of my home world were amazing, but this.. this is all a little overwhelming sometimes. But to answer your question, yes, I would like to try a dress to see how I like it... My outfit is great for life in the forest, but some people seem to stare at me strangely sometimes, and I'm not sure if it's because of what I am, or something else... Maybe a more traditional outfit will help me... blend better? As for money..." She opens her pouch and pulls out a few gold coins and mint green colored diamond shaped stones. "This is all I have, I don't know if this is... acceptable." She asks as she looks up at Sarracenia with a concerned expression<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:446|Sarracenia (446)}} has posed:'''<br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Sarracenia shrugs lightly. "I suppose that would be up to the shopkeeper. But, you should try on the dress before you think of paying for it." she says. She smiles a bit and heads over to talk with the shopkeeper. After a short discussion the eager shopkeeper, sure she is going to make a sale, heads back to get a breezy dress in the suggested green color. Then, Sarracenia carries both dresses over to Blossom. "If you like yellow better, then wear yellow. Of course, you would be foolish to ignore my fashion advice, but in the end you must wear what you like."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1160|Blossom (1160)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Blossom nods and smiles, putting her money away for now. "Well of course I'll take your advice. I like both but you are the expert." Maxwell chips in his agreement, spreading his wings and showing off his more vivid lime green and deep sky blue feathers. Blossom giggles a bit at him. "Sounds like he agrees too." She says with a grin, taking the mint green dress, but as this is a fair bit more complicated than her current outfit, she isn't really sure how to put it on. After a moment of confusion, she tries to slip it on over her head, with Maxwell fluttering up into the air to get out of the way. When it's obvious that it won't fit that way, she looks back at Sarracenia, perplexed. "How do you put one of these dresses on?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:446|Sarracenia (446)}} has posed:'''<br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Sarracenia giggles a bit as she watches. "Well, for the more simple dresses over the head can work, but for these dresses the proper way to put it on is to lower it down and step into it." she says. She takes the dress, then holds it down low and smiles to Blossom. "Here. I will hold it for you." Once Blossom steps into the dress, Sarra raises it up and slips the straps over Blossom's shoulders. "Usually, one should use a changing room to try on a dress. But, as your outfit is already rather...modest...this should be fine."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1160|Blossom (1160)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Blossom blushes at the mention of changing rooms, offering a quick apology. She nods as Sarracenia explains and follows her direction, stepping into it and going along as Sarracenia helps with pulling the dress up and getting the straps on. With a nod at Sarracenia, she quickly thanks her. She then takes a moment to look herself over and twirl around a bit as Sarracenia had done to show off her dress before. A big bright smile is beamed at Sarracenia while Maxwell returns to perching on her antlers. "This feels different, but... good. I like it, really I do. How do you think I look?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:446|Sarracenia (446)}} has posed:'''<br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Sarracenia smirks lightly at the blush and waves off the apology. When Blossom twirls Sarracenia claps for her and giggles a bit. "You look lovely, dear! As I always say, a good dress can make everything better!" she says, then smiles. "As you are a new guest to this town and have been quite respectful, I shall pay for this dress." she says. Without really waiting to see if Blossom actually wants to keep the dress, she goes and pays the shopkeeper. She then returns to Blossom. "Your new dress will look even better from the deck of an airship. If you are ready to venture to the port."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1160|Blossom (1160)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Blossom smiles warmly as Sarracenia compliments how she looks in the dress, a bit of blush returning to her cheeks. "Thank you, I feel pretty, like I'm wearing a small bit of a flowery meadow. I think this is not going to be my last dress. I will cherish it as your gift to me, but I will find a way to repay your kindness someday." She comments with a grin as she makes her way out of the dress shop. "I can't wait to be up there on an air ship, the wind in my hair, the amazing view. I've always wondered what it was like to fly. The birds always look so free as they glide up there, almost effortlessly. Always looked like amazing fun to me."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:446|Sarracenia (446)}} has posed:'''<br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Sarracenia giggles a bit at Blossom's reactions and words. It feels nice to have someone appreciate you! "And you look amazing! I told you that mint green would be your color." she says, then excitedly takes Blossom's hands. "Now, let us go to the airships!" She takes off at a jog, practically dragging Blossom along with her. Of course, she may not jog the entire way, as it is several blocks to the entrance of the shipyard and dock. But, it does give Blossom a chance to feel what it is like to move in a dress.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1160|Blossom (1160)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Blossom smiles and squeezes Sarracenia's hand gently in response to the princess taking her hand. She is taken by surprise however at the sudden change of pace, almost stumbling as she initially struggles to keep up, with being new at trying to run in a dress. She giggles however, sharing in Sarracenia's excitement as they quickly make their way to the shipyard dock. "Hey, you're right, maybe I'm just naturally nimble, but this really isn't as hard as it seemed to me in my head. On a different subject, I'm getting thirsty, will there be anything to drink on the airship?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:446|Sarracenia (446)}} has posed:'''<br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Sarracenia scoffs haughtily at the question about drinks. "Of course! ...I mean, not all of them offer drinks but the only ones I board have a full restaurant inside most of the time." she says. Her pace slows when they reach the street again, and she holds up a hand and waves lightly to seemingly no one. But, a few moments later a wooden car drives up, painted yellow and with one of those pirahna plants at the wheel. "Where to, princess?" the driver asks in a gravelly voice. "Take Blossom and me to the docks!" she declares before...standing there. <br> <br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The driver sighs, then reaches a leaf back to open the back door for her. She steps inside, then motions for Blossom to follow.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1160|Blossom (1160)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Blossom smiles and her stomach growls a bit as if in anticipation of a meal. "Well, now that you mention it, food might be nice too." She says with a laugh as they continue along until finally reaching the street. She blinks as she watches Sarracenia wave her hand about, but before she can ask what the princess is doing, a car zooms up to the very spot. She watches as Sarracenia gets in, then tries to open door on the other side of the car. She struggles with the door mecanism for a moment but eventually manages to get it open and gets into the car, sitting beside Sarracenia and smoothing down her dress with her hands. "Never been in one of these before either... I don't know if I can handle all of this excitement." She says with a grin as Maxwell chirps and hops down into Blossom's lap so he won't get blown off when the car starts moving again.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:446|Sarracenia (446)}} has posed:'''<br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The wind blows pleasantly over the two women as the car makes its way toward the docks. "I know, right?" Sarracenia says with a smile at Blossom's excitement. "I suppose it can lose some of its charm after a while, but I enjoy all of these things almost every day!" she says, smoothing out her own dress as well. "What do your people generally eat? I only ask because you bear a striking resemblance to a deer, and as far as I know such creatures do not partake of meat." <br> <br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The car continues along, and the dock just seems to get bigger and bigger, a gigantic tower with sprawling platforms that support dozens of different airships at any given time. They can be seen taking off and landing even as the car moves toward the docks. Some are only as big as a typical private jet, and others are the size of aircraft carriers.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1160|Blossom (1160)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Blossom nods. "I could see even really fun and exciting things getting dull if you do them every day. This is why I find it so much fun to visit new places, it makes every new day an adventure. Do your responsibilities as a princess keep you from getting out and doing whatever you want?" She asks curiously, then thinks a moment about Sarracenia's question about what she eats. <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Hmm, I guess I do kinda look like a deer, never really thought about it. But yes, you would be right to think I don't usually eat meat. Where I come from, neither I or the dryads that watch over the forest ever kill any creature unless it is necessary to restore the balance of nature." She explains before falling silent at the sight of the airships, particularly the larger ones. "How do those massive ships stay up in the air? I can't even imagine how heavy they must be..."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:446|Sarracenia (446)}} has posed:'''<br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Sarracenia shakes her head at the first question. "They may one day, but for now I am free to do as I please so long as there are no foreign dignitaries visiting." she says before listening to the explanation about Blossom's dietary preferences. And the part about restoring balance catches her attention. "I see. And would you say this city is in balance with the nature just outside our walls?" she asks before looking up at the airships. "Well...do you see those propellers?" she asks, pointing toward one of the larger airships which has several large masts with equally large propellers spinning at their tops. "They are powered by a large engine. From what I have seen of other worlds, our world is unique in using this type of propulsion in very large aircraft. I am not sure why, though. I have seen the technology available on other worlds."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1160|Blossom (1160)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Blossom smiles and tries to be delicate as she answers Sarracenia's question about balance. "Well, I don't know if I'd call it balanced, more like cut off, but from what I've seen of the plantlife and other creatures around here, I can't really blame you for trying to keep it all from overtaking the city here... They're sure a lot more agressive than anything back home, well, except for the twisted ones... living trees that are twisted by magic into a evil, corrupting being that seeks only to spread it's corruption." She shudders at the end of her statement, wishing to change the subject. <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Happily Sarracenia explains how the ships work, and though most technology goes over her head, she does understand on a basic level that the spinning blades push air and that somehow is enough to lift the ships into the sky. "Pretty incredible. I don't know how you all come up with this stuff." She comments with a tone of amazement.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:446|Sarracenia (446)}} has posed:'''<br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Sarracenia's eyes widen at the idea of such a twisted tree creature, and she imagines what it would be like if the enormous trees here started doing that. She shivers a bit as well. <br> <br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; As the topic of conversation turns toward the airships again, Sarracenia giggles and shrugs lightly. "I don't come up with any of it, so I have no idea how people came up with the idea that a rotating blade could lift things." she says with a smile. "But, I am glad they did. Otherwise, I might have to walk to other worlds!" <br> <br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The taxi finally arrives at the docks, and Sarracenia tosses the driver a few coins then waits for him to open her door before she steps out. She smiles as she looks up at the docking tower. It must be 200 feet tall, and yet it still isn't as tall as the trees outside the walls. The huge airship they were looking at from afar is docked at the very top, but that isn't their destination. Instead, Sarra takes Blossom to a ship of only about 60 feet in length that looks very much like a Spanish galleon except the sails have been replaced by those propellers. It is likely Sarra's ship since the pirahna plants on board salute her as she passes. "This is the Sovereign, the flagship of the Sundew Royal Navy and the ship that often carries me where I need to go." she says with a grin. The ship is quite extravagant, especially for a wooden vessel. The woodwork is intricately carved, the decking is obviously very thick and sturdy. And the deck is engraved with the Sundew royal seal across most of the middle of the deck. Along with a much smaller Sarracenia character on the bow of the deck.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1160|Blossom (1160)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Blossom gets out of the taxi with Sarracenia and follows her towards the docking tower, more in awe of the ships now that she was even closer and their massive scale was even more overwelming. As they came to Sarracenia's ship, which was not as massive as the barge at the top of the tower, but still impressive, she looked it over a moment, and looked back at the land beyond the castle. "It seems all this ship and home building has not had much of an effect on the health of the forest around here. Does it all just grow back extremely swiftly, or was it all from what used to be where the kingdom now stands?" Or maybe it was both. "Really nice looking ship though, even if I guess I don't have much of a reference point..."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:446|Sarracenia (446)}} has posed:'''<br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Sarracenia actually huffs in annoyance at the question. "The jungle around here is very aggressive, whether it is plants or animals. The trees as you can see grow very tall, and everything grows very quickly. We haven't really had to do much logging since the kingdom was founded. Just one of these gigantic trees can make one of those cargo ships like the one docked at the top of the tower. We use stone as much as wood in our buildings, and our buildings last a long while. So, I suppose the short answer is...both. Just clearing this area left the kingdom with a huge surplus of wood and other materials when it was founded millenia ago, and our upkeep on the roads and city continue to supply us with more than we could ever use unless we simply started wasting it." <br> <br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The appreciation of the ship makes Sarracenia smile proudly. "Our airships are second to none! And our navy is quite powerful as a result. Though we rarely have need of it. This kingdom does not suffer attacks like the Mushroom Kingdom."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1160|Blossom (1160)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Blossom frowns a bit at the percieved annoyance from Sarracenia about her question. "Sorry if I struck a nerve about the trees, that was not my intention. They certainly are among the tallest trees I have ever seen, and if nature is really that hostile here, I guess I can't really blame anyone for cutting down a few trees, particulary when structures to protect you and ships to get around are so important to you and your people. Where I come from, most of us live in the trees themselves, but I gather that trying that here would be hazardous to your health..." She makes an appology and further explains her feelings on the matter, then listens to Sarracenia speak about her fleet of ships, blinking at the mention of another kingdom, particulary the name. "The Mushroom Kingdom you say? What a strange name for a kingdom. Does it have forests of mushrooms instead of trees or something?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:446|Sarracenia (446)}} has posed:'''<br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Sarracenia blinks at Blossom's apology. "Well, it was less about you and more about the trees and plants. I personally cannot figure out why my family settled here in the first place. I suppose it is beautiful in its way, but the hassle of living here and fighting the forest every day makes it hardly seem worth the trouble. I am quite certain that if the people left this kingdom there would be no sign of it within a year." she says. The question about the Mushroom Kingdom draws a shrug. "They do have forests of giant mushrooms, but it is not their primary landscape. It is simply the name they gave their kingdom. The family name is actually Toadstool." There is some annoyance in her voice again, but it seems directly at the Toadstool family more than Blossom. "Other than those isolated mushroom forests they have mostly grassland, I believe." <br> <br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; One of the pirahna plants approaches, this one wearing a metal helmet of a soldier. "Are we about to depart, Princess?" he asks. Sarra shakes her head. "No no. I am merely giving a tour to a new friend. Speaking of which.." She turns to Blossom again. "...would you like to see the dining area?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1160|Blossom (1160)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Blossom nods, it appears she was taking Sarracenia's response too personally, but was glad her annoyance was not so much directed at her. She gives an empathetic smile. "I love nature, and even I have to admit, if it was that opressive, it would probably make me rather annoyed with it too..." She offers, then listens as Sarracenia speaks of the Mushroom Kingdom and it's royal family in more detail, seeming to get annoyed again. "I get the feeling you are not exactly allies with this kingdom..." She states flatly before her attention is drawn to the more heavily armored pirahna plant, listening as Sarracenia speaks with it. At the offer of seeing the dining area. "As long as we actually get to use the dining area, not just look at it, I would love to." She says with a giggle.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:446|Sarracenia (446)}} has posed:'''<br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Sarracenia giggles as well, then leads Blossom off toward a staircase. "Our kingdoms have no quarrel. In fact, we have very little contact. But, I cannot stand their princess." she explains as they walk, and huffs softly before continuing. "She is so loved by her subjects and despite being kidnapped on what must be a dozen occassions she has a noble hero who comes to her aid each time. I meanwhile am barely tolerated by my subjects and no villain has ever tried to kidnap me! How am I to find my hero?!" She gives a stomp at that last part. Does she really want to be kidnapped just so she can find her hero? <br> <br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Most ships would have a modestly decorated mess hall, but this ship has a true dining hall. A pair of long tables take up most of the space in the center of the room, which spans almost the entire length of the boat. The tables are intricate and beautifully stained, and each has at least 20 chairs around it. There is a kitchen at the back of the room, though it isn't very busy at the moment. This is no restaurant, it is a private dining hall for the royalty and the sailors of this boat. Of course, Sarracenia doesn't let that bother her. She takes a seat at the head of one of the tables, then claps her hands. Another pirahna plant peeks its head into view from the serving window of the kitchen, then hurries through the door and over to the princess. This one is wearing a little tuxedo jacket one might expect of a server in a high class restaurant. "Is the kitchen prepared?" Sarracenia asks. The plant-man nods. "Always, princess." he replies. "Then, please take our orders. I will have shrimp and mushroom risotto, and bring a bottle of champaign." she says. The server then looks to Blossom. "And for you, madam?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1160|Blossom (1160)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Blossom follows Sarracenia into the dining hall as they continue their conversation. "Well, if that isn't panning out, maybe you should go to places where heroes are doing heroic things, and try to meet someone that way? Maybe if you joined in the heroism it might work even better?" She offers her ideas as she takes a seat near Sarracenia. When the dressy pirahna plant comes to take their orders, she lets Sarracenia go first, and when the server's attention is directed to her, she ponders a moment before asking. "What would you recommend that doesn't have meat in it? Perhaps a fruit salad or something like that?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:446|Sarracenia (446)}} has posed:'''<br> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "W-...without meat?" the pirahna plant asks, baffled. "Um...well, I am sure we can work something up for you. A fruit salad is quite within the kitchen's abilities." he says, then waddles off toward the kitchen. "Anything to drink?" he asks as he goes. Sarracenia nods lightly at Blossom's suggestions. "I have already started dabbling in heroism myself. It can be quite rewarding, but I am still getting used to the idea of rescuing rather than being rescued." she says, then pouts lightly. "But, I have had to accept that perhaps I will never find a hero of my own. It was...a bitter pill to swallow."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1160|Blossom (1160)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Blossom blinks a bit at the request of what to drink. "Um, I don't know, I thought we could both drink the... champaign? That is a drink right?" She asks, having only assumed since it apparently came in a bottle. She blushes a little at her lack of knowledge of such things as she turns back to Sarracenia. "Being the hero is usually rewarding, and sometimes fun. But even if you don't meet another 'hero' maybe you can still find someone who is nice and likes the same things you do." She offers warmly. "As for me, I enjoy adventure to much to settle down with anyone right now. Maxwell is all the long term company I need for now."<br> <br>
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