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Acquiring a Boat
When morning broke over the lake, Junayd and Nurlan were already awake and packing up their camp.
"Best night ever!" Junayd said without hesitation.
"I guess we know what kind of man you are." Nurlan joked.
"What? I can't enjoy a good song?" The younger soldier asked.
"As long as the song is all you enjoyed…"
Phoca came up on the beach. Her wet, smooth skin and seal-like whiskers glistened in the morning light. "Good morning! I trust you slept well," she said amicably to Nurlan.
"I did, ma'am, but I think we should be on our way. Could you lead us, please?" Nurlan asked with a politeness that was unusual for him.
Phoca smiled, "A straightforward gentleman: how rare! I should like to know you better." She turned to Junayd, "My sisters think you are quite handsome. They would like to know if you have a lady back at home."
Junayd straightened his shirt and puffed out his chest. "I am pleased to tell them I do not."
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