Kiliwa was further from home which made the journey exciting, but it was less interesting than Elikapeka once Akahi arrived. Elikapeka was a big, bustling hub of life and trade with many different types of folks wandering the streets. The little Hapuna could easily spend days in the city if they felt their parents wouldn't become too worried, trying to make new friends while learning more and more about the lives of those that lived off the island. It was easy to be overlooked or ignored in a large city like Elikapeka and while Akahi did enjoy spending time there, seeing the same things over and over could become a bit dull.That was why they'd chosen to venture to Kiliwa this time. It meant they'd have to spend a few days there to make the travel worth it, but with their parents blessing Akahi had packed up a little bag of necessities and had set out. Their heart was beating quickly in their chest with excitement on the road, saying hello to fellow travelers with gusto. But once they reached Kiliwa and reached the inn where they'd be staying, some of the excitement bled out. Now what?
Rather than being deterred, Akahi left their valuables in the room and headed downstairs to the first floor of the inn. The reception center was there, but so was a small pub that offered food and drink to those that were residing in the inn, but also to anyone that wanted to come in off the streets. Akahi climbed up onto a chair at the bar and earned a look from the Kaha'iko man that made the Hapuna smile.
"Don't worry, I'm just looking for some dinner!" they said cheerfully, dropping a bit of coin on the bar between them. "And maybe some stories? Surely you see all types come through here." Although Kiliwa had fallen on hard times due to the river drying up, things were starting to turn around and some life was being breathed back into the city now that the Drought had ended.
