Lapinette was relieved to drive from the
ramp of the big ferry. The Wabbit was not happy sailing on a ship if he wasn't
in charge and she had twice prevented him from interfering. It was extremely
hot on the island and the jeep's temperature gauge looked alarmingly high. So
Lapinette paused on the dock for a moment and the Wabbit hopped out to check.
"Parakalo," said a voice. Lapinette glanced to her left and saw a
large white bird made of stone. The Wabbit looked up. "In what
sense?" he asked politely. "In a welcoming, hospitable sense,” said
the bird, "may I help you in any way?" "We're on vacation,"
said Lapinette. "My name is Lapinette and this is Commander Wabbit. He is
required to relax, rest and generally chill out." Perfect,” said the bird. "I will accompany you." "We
couldn’t possibly impose," smiled Lapinette. "It is our custom," responded the bird and he
made a soft cooing sound. "I will improve my language skills." Lapinette doubted that
listening to the Wabbit would improve anyone’s language skills, but she nodded
agreeably. The Wabbit nodded too. "Parakalo," he murmured. "How do you know my name?" asked the bird. "Lucky guess," grinned
the Wabbit.
[Parakalo: Greek, roughly “please,” but it
has a variety of meanings in polite conversation, depending on context.]
