As dinner had been completed, it was time to "judge" the coconut contest. I called for each person to get theirs and to line them up according to size after marking each with the owner's name.

"Now let's do some study. Alura, far and away the largest coconut.... much bigger than your head. And from what I've heard, a skillful and clever way to get it. A point extra for learning an important life lesson while competing. (I looked her in the eye, and she knew I knew.)

"Jade, of good size and fairly returned. Plus a brownie point for assisting LTP.

"Jaden, good nut. Applauding those giving and accepting help is a plus; building teamwork and family spirit is always a good thing. 1 point.

"LTP, it takes a strong character to accept offered assistance. 1 point. Oh, and good nut.

"WB, although the backpack was against the rules, you brought a fine nut back and got your stroke for the rules violation.

"myya and sari, both of you were trapped by a hazard on the island; this does not penalize you, it just disqualifies you from the contest. Please help transport these nuts to Amy, in the galley, and help her take off the green casings to expose the brown nuts inside. She'll guide you from there.

"Contest results, then? Well, it looks to be a tie. Since this WAS Ruby's contest as well as mine, and it IS a tie, you will all get to share in the 'prize' tomorrow morning at 1000 hours. Be on deck and ready, or you'll miss the prize.

"NOW. We have a new member to officially welcome. Kaori-san, stand up and come over here." I stood and applauded, as did the rest of the ship's company. The beautiful girl blushed and sat down next to me as we resumed our seats.

"Kaori-san, your Master has died, for which I mourn, and you are alone here. We offer to you the chance to join our group; however Ruby and I would be your Masters for the length of the trip. Will you accept that? If not, there will be no penalty; we shall merely leave you here with supplies and a radio, and we will contact the correct rescue organization to fetch you home. This is so there is no feeling of being forced. I will give you time to decide until bedtime; after that the decision cannot be undone.

"Until then, Jaden! Attend Mistress Ruby. Alura! Attend me."

Both were in present before us in scant seconds. "For excellent performance in your contest today, your proposed loss punishment has been reduced to 5 strokes of the paddle. Assume the position!" They quickly bent over, got their strokes, and stood again. "Jaden! You will provide LTP with her strokes. Make them count or you will earn her more, and double your own. Alura, you will do the same with WB." The task was quickly and properly completed, and LTP provided the strokes to Jadetiger.

Bedtime had arrived, and all was well. Kaori-san had informed me of her decision; she wished to stay. I asked her if she would honor me with her presence for the night, and cautioned her there would be one other. She readily accepted, and pairs formed for the night. It was fun watching; of course Alura and Amy joined hands. Nick threw an arm around WB and whispered in her ear. Ruby and LTP walked off together, as did myya and sari. Jaden grasped hands with Jade.

We surprised everyone at about 3 AM with a "switch partners" order. WB and I enjoyed the rest of the night together.