( her fascination with him seems to go unnoticed; he is too busy trying to carefully navigate them through the crowds, his concern for her safety in this busy throng of people more important than whatever it is she might think of him.

but—how best to explain an aquabus? )

The aquabus is a method of transportation that involves navigating a mechanized vehicle across a path of water. Similar to a boat in aquatic nature, but the aquabuses in Fontaine run on set routes and schedules rather than sail freely across the water's surface.

( not particularly exciting, especially in the wake of cars. )

You sounded quite familiar with those 'cars'. Is this ( the party, the opulence, the modernity ) commonplace for you as well then?