There were people.

Not many, but a dozen at least, mingling around one of the larger ships. They were too far to see clearly, but Cress could make out vibrant-colored clothing, and one of the men was wearing an enormous hat and-

Sybil grabbed Cress's elbow and yanked her in the opposite direction. Cress gasped and stumbled after her.

"Do not look at them," said Sybil.

Cress frowned. Her arm was stinging but she resisted the urge to rip it out of Sybil's grip. "Why? Who are they?"

"That are members of Artemisia's families, and they would not appreciate being gawked at by a shell."

(From "After Sunshine Passes By," Stars Above)