6:00 pm. The sun, a dying ember, dips below the horizon, casting hues of deep violet and molten gold onto the leeward side of the heart shaped island. Shadows lengthen, stretching like ancient spirits across the white sand. Silks and woven fibers, adorned with vibrant patterns, catch the last vestiges of light.  A profound sense of revelry swells. The gentle, ceaseless whisper of the palm fronds, carrying the saline kiss of the Indian Ocean, becomes the pulse of the island's abundant grace that permeates the very air. A joyous rush ensues as eager hands reach for tropical concoctions: pineapple-passion fruit mojitos, sun-kissed orange margaritas, and fiery ginger mules, each now seeking their chosen perch within the sacred circle.

Upon a golden, intricately woven voivoi mat, the bilos — sacred coconut shell vessels — are meticulously laid out. An intoxicating perfume, born of plumeria and star jasmine, intertwines with the vibrant hues of spider hibiscus, pinecone ginger and peacock flowers, each blossom crafted into the salusalu garlands, adorns the island's honored guests. Ancient customs, joyous incantations, and unbridled mirth ignite the soul, a myriad of celestial sparks dancing in the encroaching twilight. Then, the feast. A veritable banquet of taro, succulent slow-roasted pork and the refreshing tang of Kokoda with its notes of coconut and lime. This earthly bounty is further heightened by a cornucopia of nature's most abundantly ripe, exotic jewels: the blush of pink pineapple, the sweet mystery of lychee, the citrus burst of kumquats, the lushness of guava, and the sun-drenched sweetness of mango.

The final drops of kava, earthy and profound, settle within, a tranquil balm upon the spirit. As the last echoes of song fade into the vast, star-dusted sky, a profound peace descends, wrapping each soul in its gentle embrace. The island, having given so much, now whispers a lullaby through the rustling palms, promising a rest as deep and dreamless as the ocean itself, until the dawn breaks anew.

notes by mika toke, resident vampire