Maelewano was particularly active this year. The wide open plains were perfect for different track and field events. Not to mention everyone was abuzz for the Lion King remake that will be shown here. Add to the general excitement of summer and a few species going to heat and Maelewano was quite a lively place to visit. The people on the colony tour certainly thought so when they got here.
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Maelewano was a melting pot of several different African cultures. Some people wanted to live in modern style and comfort. Others wanted to get back to their ancient traditions, which included the manner of dress. Something half of the Hanson herd were quite aware of.
"For the last time, you guys aren't going to wander around just so you can look at topless women," said Blythe, putting her hoof down.
"We're just heading in for the cultural experience," said Elijah.
"Really? So which tribe is settled in that part of town?" asked Coye.
The three brothers looked stumped before Abraham said, "That's what we're going to find out?"
"Unbelievable," muttered Faye.
"Don't act like you don't want to eye the men in there," said Elijah.
"It's an African village, not a nude beach," said Blythe, "You have to be more respectful of their customs."
"Whose customs?" asked Adi, who was just getting some souvenirs.
"The other guys want to go into this village area where the women don't wear any tops," said Damien.
Adi blinked before asking, "Are you pulling my legs."
"The children don't wear anything at all," said Faye, "I suppose considering how hot it gets around here, they want to wear as less as possible."
"I...don't think I would want to go there," said Adi, looking rather flustered.
"I thought you didn't agree with Muslims who want to cover all of their women's bodies," said Coye.
"Yes, but I don't want to expose everything," said Adi, "I'm sure they have their reasons, but I don't need to be a part of that."
"I guess we were wanting to go in for a dumb reason," said Abraham.
"So what do you want to do now?" asked Elijah.
"How about go for a run?" asked Faye, "There's a lot of open fields to run on, as long as we're not getting in the way of the events."
"Adi ought to be able to run the best," said Damien, "She is an Arabian after all."
"I will admit, I have been itching to do a good long run," said Adi, "I guess it's in my blood now. It's a good thing I packed my running clothes. I'll take my purchases back to my room before we head out for a run."
After Adi left, Elijah said to Damien, "You have it pretty bad for her, don't you?"
"Not that bad," said Damien.
"I think you have a chance," said Blythe, "But you'll need to treat her right."
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Though while some were enjoying what Maelewano had to offer, others were busy thinking of where they were going next. And some of them won't be going to the same place. "What do you mean you're going separately?" asked Mr. Hyun.
"Well, the thing is that the next stop for you guys will be in New Zerzura," said Beacon.
"Which is in a desert," said Xena before pointing at her gills, "Fish don't do well in deserts."
"But this will upset all of our plans," said Mr. Hyun.
"Not really," said Allura, "I mean, there's still more than enough of you so we can go off in our own direction. I think you can enjoy New Zerzura without us. Maybe we'll meet up in Vilcabamba if you're heading there."
"Then where are you going next?" asked Ling.
"Skull Island," said Beacon, "It's in the Bay of Mexico, which should be pleasant for us. And I want to see what the ancient marine reptiles there have been up to."
"I'll just be glad to get in the water after this hot country," said Allura, "If we got to the desert, I'd fry up like a fish stick."