Ashleigh Andersen's Story

SETTING

With all of its passengers finally on board, the ship slowly starts to pull away from the dock. The sea here is warm, something the ship is grateful for as it forges on into deeper waters. The sky is clear, and the scents of the sea fill the air. The PA system crackles and a low gruff voice fills the air.

"Hello, everyone, this is your captain speaking. Welcome aboard the Long Grain, the largest cruise ship in the world. As you may know this ship is built for your entertainment; there's a pool on the deck and a bar for those of you who like the taste of whiskey. Down below we have the large Gambling Hall and the Gym. If you head down even lower you'll notice what I like to call the moving aquarium; a large portion of the hull completely made of glass with lights so you can see deep into the depths. There are hundreds of cabins so go ahead and take your pick. However, if none of that sounds appealing then let me tell just what you'll see on this trip."

For a few moments it is silence, but then there's another crackle and the voice continues, " ... do I look like I'm stupid? Mind your station Jerry or I'll have you mopping the deck with the janitors ... again. Oh crap, I pressed the button ... don't give me that look!"

The PA goes silent again and then the voice came back with a small laugh. More laughter can be heard in the background as the captain continues, "As you may know, we'll be making a complete circuit of the world. On our travels we'll see waters that are brighter than the night sky, because of the glowing jellyfish that hang out near the surface of the water. We'll be escorted by humpback whales and, thanks to some incredible patronage a few of you will get the chance to swim with the dolphins. We'll be making a stop in waters so clear, that you can see into the pristine depths to the bottom of the ocean. For the next 156 days, you won't step on land but I can assure you that you'll remember this trip for the rest of your lives."

There was another slight pause before the captain came on again, a bit more serious this time, "However, before we can get to all that fun, I'd like to call everyone to the deck so that we can go over some safety procedures. When you get to the deck, please find your nearest hostess and they will explain the lifeboats and what to do in case of emergency. I hope you all enjoy your ship and ... for the love of god Jerry! What did I tell you about putting gum on the bottom of my desk!?"

The PA system cuts out and people begin to make their way to the deck.

Well, dayom. If it isn't the most beautiful woman on the ship. Danziger shakes her head and gets to her feet, "What happened?" She walks to the patient dragging a rolling chair. "Sit!"

Cosmic injustice being what it is, the lovely blond before her, in the together outfit is a guy. Ashleigh, one of the performers. He is adorable, and sweet... both at the same time. "Didn't your psychic powers give you a heads up, honey?"








NB: This vine takes place prior to lifeboat drill.

Feeling his pulse begin to race, Danziger pats his knee. "It will be fine, do you have a pair of lace up boots? I will come to your Quarters, and lace it onto you, so you can dance tonight. Stay off it all day. But if it really hurts? Dance in a rolling chair!" She takes special care as she wraps his foot and ankle. He waxes his legs, and has the prettiest feet. His toe nails are polished.

Danziger's own leg hairs are so fine and blond she doesn't bother waxing any more. "I think one of the South American maintenance crew members can repair shoes, so if you want those fixed ask down there... and if you can't get them to understand, I will translate for you."