The Southern Islands (1)

"Land on the horizon!" The sailor announced as the ship swayed on the waves. The passengers were excitedly running to the side, stretching their necks to see the land. 

Jaya was sitting on the bridge, her hair fluttering in the wind. The outline of the shore becomes more visible. How long has it been since she left her hometown? Eight, or even nine years? After such a time, most people will feel relief as they return, but it was different for her. A mix of longing, but also anxiety crept into her heart.

"You should change into the local clothes," Mihail gave her a colourful dress, made from silk and chiffon. The attire of islanders was much more revealing than the wardrobe of women from the continent, but it was a tradition to cover one face with a veil.