[EV-22] Tanabata Celebration!

[Tanabata 0]

Tanabata, 2020 This event will run until the 31st of August, 2359ET. Spoiler -- Black and blue and white wings aflutter. As evening fell upon Aincrad, a mass of birds swarmed over the small hamlet of Coral. The scrawling of their shadows streaking across the town’s pavement was enough to stop busy townsfolk about their day. Their staggered noisy cries dragged attentive homebodies to their windows, heads peeking out in curiosity. A vibrant bunch of young children were the first to move, hollering cheers of excitement as they darted across the green fields, hot on the corvids’ tails. Concerned parents and captivated onlookers followed the rabble soon after, and the birds continued to sing, dragging the party towards the central edges of the Lake of Reflection. From on high on opposite ends, two twinkling lights shimmered down into the thicket, a quiet descent that ended in a flash of light from between trees. One by one, the fowls parted ways, diving close to the lake’s surface in a skitter before weaving their way over to two separate ends of the shores. Two figures -- one male, one female, both draped in long white robes -- stepped out of the forest just as the birds had started to form an arc, meeting near the heart of the lake. The two figures advanced forth in slow shuffles, until they both reached the foot of the magpie bridge. And then they started to run.  Forwards, first in a jog before breaking out into sprints, they made their way towards each other, sharing in a mix of deep cheers and high-pitched laughter. Arms outstretched, the two caught each other in a whirling embrace, a couple of lovers dancing across the dark bridge sweeping swirls against the pinkish sunset sky. And as they rejoiced, so too did the villagers of Coral celebrate their own merriment, for the successful meeting of the Star-Crossed Lovers this day meant the start of a week’s worth of festivities. Thus, did Tanabata begin. As night sets over Coral, the town comes alive with red glows and bustling activity. In commemoration of the successful meeting of the two Star-Crossed Lovers this year, Tanabata’s celebration is in full swing! Stores line the settlement’s pathways, offering the public to try their hand at games such as goldfish scooping and needle throwing. More booths can also be seen offering Japanese food and confectionery, like okonomiyaki, takoyaki and chocolate coated bananas. Should one look out onto the pristine and quiet Lake of Reflection, they would find a scatter of lanterns drifting upon the water’s surface, a beautiful view to share with treasured ones. But for those who would not be swayed by vanity prizes, there are some key stalls to visit, catering to keen and astute players alike. Might that be you, perhaps? Well, enjoy the festivities how you see fit! Vanity Faire Spoiler # personnel of the vanity faire are available as flavor NPCs; feel free to interact with them how you like. Rigel's Artistry “Hello,” a distinct, gentle voice greets each passing player. Should one pause to stop, a seemingly ethereal white-haired man would wave them over. He sits in a rather spacious booth, with a number of garments on a rack at the back, and various colourful masks can be seen hung up on the side of his stall’s walls. “Are you looking for garments, by any chance? So that you may fit into the festival. I’m sure we can find something your size.” The man would eye the player carefully, sizing up their form. “... Barring that, we can whip up a tailored dress for you real quick. How about it? Free of charge, just for tonight.” Rigel’s store can be found on the western side of Coral.  All items obtained from him are purely for the sake of vanity. When interacting with Rigel, one can find that he is regal and soft-spoken. Occasionally, small acts and words of condescension would slip past his kind demeanour. Should one happen to mention Betelgeuse, the man will become huffy and stern, though he is unlikely to turn away customers. Betelgeuse's Grill An imposing man with a frightening gaze and demonic aura towers above most players at this store. While most of the crowd would have the good idea to keep their distance, various snacks set on display usually manage to draw them in. The moment someone approaches his front, he’d shoot a feisty, “What d’you want?” their way, and hastily hand over the meal if it’d been readily available. Should an unprepared order pass him by, the man would scoff and return his patron a nod, before making a show of his culinary skills. “Easy. Watch and learn.” Betelgeuse’s stall can be found on the eastern side of Coral. All items obtained from Betelgeuse are purely for the sake of vanity. Betelgeuse is loud and proud, but most importantly he is curt with his words. He showboats as he cooks, and could make one wonder if his culinary methods are safe or wasteful. On the occasion one mentions Rigel, the man’s annoyance would show through with eye rolls, grumps and complaining. His stall is unlikely to turn away customers. Boat Rental Services Down by the lake, there seems to be a non-descript man seated by a rock, wearing a straw hat and clad in light clothes. “Fine night to be out on the water,” he comments, rising as players approach him. With a hand, he would gesture to one of the few available row boats, oars tucked to each vehicle’s side. “Feel free to take one. Just be sure to return them to me after you’re done. Oh, and watch out for the lanterns. Wouldn’t want to put all of them out now, would we?” Players can rent out row-boats to enjoy a moment’s break from the chaos in town. Enjoy the night sky in the company of candles! ★ Event Activity: Bamboo Wishes Spoiler Break away from the crowded streets, and one can find a large clearing on the edge of a bamboo forest. A young woman has set herself up here with a table and a handful of writing utensils. “It’s tradition after all,” she remarks, as players approach her stall. “Wanna give it a shot? Just write down your wishes here on these papers, and then hang them up on one of the stalks over yonder. Maybe it’ll help you clear your mind!” On agreement, players would receive a set of colourful papers alongside a prompt list. “Helps to hone in on what to write, I’d think,” the woman shrugs, shooting them a smile. “If you need any pencils or crayons, we’ve got those here too! I’m only asking that you return them to me after you’re done.” Her head dips as players take their leave. “Thank you! Hope you enjoy the rest of the festival!” Details: In line with Tanabata tradition, players are invited to write down their wishes on tanzaku according to a list of prompts. Players who participate may choose to tag their tanzaku with their names or forgo them for the sake of anonymity. Prompt List: What would you wish for the rest of your stay in Aincrad? What would you wish for the better of people around you? What would you wish for someone you care about? What would you wish for someone you would like to know better? What would you wish for yourself? Rewards: For each prompt answered, players will receive one (1) additional SP come thread closing. Rules:  Each prompt has a 100 word count minimum. Word count from answering these wish prompts does not count towards the 150 word count per post minimum. Characters are free to answer all prompts in a single post or spread them out across multiple posts. Each character participating in this activity must have two key posts to bookend their wishes: one to receive the papers, pen and prompt list, the other to hang their wishes in the bamboo forest once they’ve completed all prompts they wish to answer. These posts must be marked clearly to allow ease of review come thread closing. ex: [Receive Tanzaku] --> [Wish #1, #2] --> [Wish #3] --> [Hang Tanzaku] Players are encouraged to interpret the prompts however they like. Players do not need to answer all prompts when participating in this activity. ★ Event Activity: Taming of the Magpies Spoiler “The old man sure was worried when the magpies fled earlier today…” In a more secluded corner of the festival rests a rather eccentric stall. One side of it has been blocked off entirely for a large habitat, decorated with various rocks and plants from nature. Various seeds and tokens can be spotted littered around the cage through the wiring on the outside. Meanwhile, behind the stall-runner’s counter is a smaller yet decently sized emporium, housing a number of magpies.  “Sitting in for gramps this year,” the bird keeper admits, having stopped playing a tune on her acoustic guitar. When she spies the player taking an interest in her setup, she cocks her head to the side. “A go for you? One try per person. We’ve got some unique sponsors this year, so...” Details: Each player rolls 3 CDs, corresponding to three steps of the activity’s process. The rolls are totaled then to see if the player obtains an item. Step 1: The player is asked to select and acquaint oneself with a magpie from the bird keeper’s cage.  Step 2: The selected magpie is then let into the habitarium. Players can try to communicate with it about a token or reward that might catch the magpie’s eyes.  Step 3: Depending on the magpie’s wills, they may or may not listen to the player’s responses. Either way, the magpie will retrieve an item that they think best fits the player’s wishes before returning it to the player’s hands. Upon doing so, they will be returned to their cage. Depending on the roll received, players may be able to pick and choose from a reward pool as seen below. Rewards: CD POOL REWARDS [3-12] Stick x1 Tier 1 Uncommon Weapon of Player's Choice | TAUNT That’s just a stick. But a bird gave it to you as an offering of their friendship. It must count for something. [13-17] Bird Seed x5 [Player's Tier] Rare Snack | VITALITY II It’s a handful of seeds. But a bird refused to eat them just to bring them back to you. That's sort of sweet, in it's own way. [18-22] Select one of the following: Blood of the Offensive x1 Tier 1 Perfect Potion | DAMAGE III A vial of red liquid. On its cork lid, a label is attached to it. 'Donated generously by Betelgeuse'. Tastes like spiced cherry cider. Blood of the Defensive x1 [Player's Tier] Perfect Potion | MITIGATION III A vial of red liquid. On its cork lid, a label is attached to it. 'Donated generously by Betelgeuse'. Tastes like diluted pomegranate concentrate. The Rising Sun x1 Tier 1 Perfect Crystal | MASS HP RECOVERY A block of red glass, embellished with silver markings. Inscribed at the metal casing of its bottom is a little message. 'Property of Betelgeuse'. Nebulae Yokan Block x1 Tier 1 Perfect Dessert | PROSPERITY III A small block of jelly, packaged in a delicate, colorful paper. The dessert looks almost crystalline. In its medium is a variety of wispy colours, capturing red, white and gold sparkles in its hold. It's signed off with a flourished black 'R' in marker. Supernova Yokan Block x1 Tier 1 Perfect Dessert | LOOT DIE III A small block of jelly, packaged in a delicate paper. The dessert. In its medium is an explosion of cloudy colours, rooming with red, white and gold sparkles in its hold. It's signed off with a flourished black 'R' in marker. [23-27] Select one of the following: Burning Determination x1 Tier 1 Unique Salve | BURN I A small jar of ashes, somehow perpetually kept red hot. Inscribed on its golden lid is a little message. 'Property of Betelgeuse'. Cold Shoulder x1 Tier 1 Unique Salve | FREEZE I A small jar of frost, somehow perpetually kept ice cold. Inscribed on its golden lid is a little message. 'Property of Rigel'. Die For Me! x1 Tier 1 Unique Salve | BLEED I A small jar of sticky crimson paste. Inscribed on its golden lid is a little message. 'Property of Betelgeuse'. Bring the Thunder x1 Tier 1 Unique Salve | PARALYZE I A small block of gold, humming paste wrapped in white paper packaging. It's signed off with a blocky 'B' in black marker. Extinguished x1 Tier 1 Unique Salve | FIREPROOF A small jar of cool transparent ointment. Inscribed on its silver lid is a little message. 'Property of Rigel'. No Chill x1 Tier 1 Unique Salve | ANTIFREEZE A small jar of glowing ruby ointment. Inscribed on its golden lid is a little message. 'Property of Betelgeuse'. Iron Will x1 Tier 1 Unique Salve | BLOODCLOT A small jar of silver translucent ointment. Inscribed on its golden lid is a little message. 'Property of Rigel'. Weather the Storm x1  Tier 1 Unique Salve | PARALYTIC IMMUNITY A small jar of glowing violet ointment. Inscribed on its golden lid is a little message. 'Property of Rigel'. [28-36] Reroll Ticket x1 Allows a re-identification attempt on a single slot from a single piece of gear at a Merchant. Rules:  One attempt per character.  Unique Consumables do not stack with their respective equipment enhancements. Unique Consumables' effects last for one thread. ★ Event Activity: Building the Milky Way Rail Spoiler In the heart of town, a group of young boys had gathered with a handful of rolled papers, multiple workbenches and a cloth mat to mark their station. Each one seemed to be rather busy at the mat, working on assembling their collected equipment upon a single table, with a handful of their troupe running up to random passersby and excitedly exclaiming their requests. Players are no exception to their spiel. “Hey! Excuse me! Do you have some time?” One of the children stops a passing player and hands them a flyer or two from their stack, as they quickly recite a few lines. “Um, we’re looking for a number of items to complete a project for our friend -- if you happen to know where to find some or want to pitch in on the effort, we’d certainly appreciate your help!” The kid quickly skitters off to hassle another person. Upon further examination, the paper seems to indicate that an animated model train is in the works. Below the messy sketch of its projected production is a long itemized list, alongside instructions (and another doodle) for the person to turn in the materials to. Looking around, the mentioned material receiver appears to be another young boy, sitting idle on a folding chair looking over some blueprints. The boy’s messy blonde hair can be found trapped underneath a green military cap, and occasionally he raises his gaze to glance around for any would-be helpers, before returning to his work. Perhaps some help for the children is in order. Details: For players who have a profession, they are invited to spend their daily crafting attempts and materials on a number of event items that can be reviewed from the list below. All crafted items follow normal crafting rules, and each successful craft will always yield 1 item.  All players, especially non-crafters, may also participate in this activity by gathering Gold Stars via the event quest, Night about the Galactic Lake. Players will still be free to donate their event items after the threshold has been met. To craft the Milky Way Rail, the boys will need the following: PROFESSION ITEM NAME QUANTITY Blacksmith Rail Tracks    200 Tailor Textile Squares    200 Artisan Paper Cranes    200 Cook Starry Konpeito    200 Alchemist Gravity Dust    200 Performer Bell Chime Medley    200 General Gold Stars 2,000 Crafters may fill out the following form and submit it for evaluations: Item Name:  Profession:  Rank: Quantity:  Craft IDs:  Post Links:  To submit these crafted items proper, they may fill out this form and post it in the social thread: Item Name:  Quantity:  Evaluation Link:  Players who gather Gold Stars will also want to turn in their items in the social thread using the following form: Item Name: Gold Stars Quantity:  Thread Link:  For crafters, please indicate a difference in crafting ID batches when submitting crafts from multiple days at a time. For gatherers, please ensure that all threads are evaluated before submitting your stars in the form. Please also include a total of the gold stars collected by each player in the Thread Summary. All players are encouraged to keep their forms tidy for ease of thread evaluations. For further questions, please feel free to seek answers from staff on Discord. Rewards: Upon total completion, all characters who were present at Tanabata will receive the following: Galaxial Water Snake x1 Tier 1 Unique Consumable  Provides +1 CD when rolling to train familiars in <<Taming your Friend>>. Can also be used to change a familiar’s appearance to a starry sky’s form of itself. Single-use item. CD buff lasts for one thread. Gold Star Stickers x1 Tier 1 Unique Consumable | Charges: 3/3 | Untradable. +1 DMG, +1 LD or +15MIT for one thread. Stacks on top of other food/alchemical consumable buffs, but does not stack with Scent of the Wild totems. Milky Way Rail Blueprint x1 Tier 1 Unique Consumable +1 CD to a day's worth of crafts or item identifications. Upon total completion, all characters who were present at Tanabata will receive the following: Amenity Unlock: Potted Tanabata Bamboo Tree +1 CD/LD to a combat roll once per thread. Can be applied after a roll, but not after the combat turn to apply the CD/LD bonus has passed. Regardless of completion, characters who have contributed will each receive the following: Handwritten Letter of Appreciation x1 Tier 1 Unique Consumable Allows its user to change the name and/or description of an equipment piece.  Rules:  Each person may participate in this event's crafting portion with only one (1) character per day. Players are allowed to swap characters between days. Players must state that they are crafting event items in their crafting roll’s purpose. ex. Crafting T1 Textile Squares Players will be required to use materials and send them to the Banker when crafting these event items. :: Progress on the Milky Way Rail Quote # last updated: post #257. PROFESSION ITEM NAME   QUANTITY Blacksmith Rail Tracks [                                         ] 200/200 Tailor Textile Squares [                                         ] 200/200 Artisan Paper Cranes [                                         ] 209/200 Cook Starry Konpeito [                                         ] 200/200 Alchemist Gravity Dust [                                         ] 264/200 Performer Bell Chime Medley [                                         ] 200/200 General Gold Stars [                                         ] 3,092/2,000 Credits Spoiler # special thanks to oscar and lessa in particular for overlooking the event before it got out to the rest of staff! ;w;)b Image Credit Rigel | Estinien from Final Fantasy XIV, illustrated by shinjyu on tumblr. Betelgeuse | Akashi Seijuro from Kuroko no Basketball, illustrated by kame on pixiv. Boat Rental NPC | Kotaro from Sword of the Stranger Bamboo Wishes NPC | Nami from One Piece, illustrated by Rae on pixiv. Taming of the Magpies NPC | West Virginia from Azur Lane, illustrated by hanada_yanochi on twitter. Building the Milky Way Rail NPCs | Emma, Norman and Ray from The Promised Neverland, illustrated by nayako on pixiv. Shoji in Night about the Galactic Lake | Yakumo Saitou from Psychic Detective Yakumo Masaki in Night about the Galactic Lake | Made on picrew, by naizo tayuko.

 

[Mari 1]

Tanabata...

Mari knew of this - you'd write your wishes and hang them from bamboo trees - a story of star crossed lovers. In this case, literally.  Although, the crows - Mari supposed, weren't exactly a regular occurrence. at least not in her experience. Still, Mari liked the creatures. And unlike others she did not see them as some sort of ill omen. So the sounds of fluttering wings above, and the rampant footsteps of NPC children below - for Mari, it was in an odd way. Peaceful. 

Clack, Clack, Clack

Soft footsteps sounded her entrance into the event zone - her heart beat hard against her chest. It always did when entering places like this. Times like this. It was the only time she, as a marked player - could enter the safe zones. Guards would not attack her on sight - and whilst her presence may upset some NPCs or players - that was often drowned out by the festivities.

Cautious blue eyes took in her surroundings, there were a few players present, but not many. "Why am I always one of the first ones at these events..." Mari mumbled to herself as her hands rested on her Obi - she hitched it up then carefully smoothed out the blue fabric, long fingers grazing over the koi printed fabric. Well...since she was early Mari may as well look around before the crowds became too much. 

Her steps were slow as her sandals clacked against the cobblestone surface. This place seemed...more what was the word. Intricate than previous events - not that Mari had a lot to compare to. Her hands grazed some fabrics from a nearby stall. It looked intricate- shades of deep red. They were selling Yukata and Kimono. 

Hello,” a gentle voice caused Mari to quickly withdraw her hand. "O-Oh." She saw him, kind eyes falling on her as he gave her a warm smile.   “Are you looking for garments, by any chance?" He paused as his eyes drifted down to her attire. "I see you already look stunning, but if you would like to try something else - I'm sure we can find something free of charge."

Mari waved him off. "N-No. I'm okay. I..." She paused as she glanced down at the intricate designs. They were stunning, far too stunning for someone as plain as her.  Fabrics like that would be wasted if she were to wear them. Mari's shoulders fell. "I'm...fine. Thank you," She took a few steps back away from the NPC.


"How many of these are there...?" Mari asked herself as her eyes followed the red-lit path. stores and stalls were crammed on each side. Selling wares, foods, and all manner of items. 

This really is something.

Mari had to admit..she missed the hustle and bustle of things like this...she missed it. Mari held a small hand over her chest. Damn it felt tight. She couldn't get all sentimental and upset right now. That'd be stupid. Push it all down, just push it down an-

"OOmph"

Mari took a step back to see a NPC kid, short - even by her standards - he came up to her knee and had a mop of messy black hair that covered half his face. Mari snorted. His hair reminded her of Alkor. "You okay there?" Mari asked.

In response the kid quickly shoved a flyer into Mari's hand.  Um, we’re looking for a number of items to complete a project for our friend -- if you happen to know where to find some or want to pitch in on the effort, we’d certainly appreciate your help!”  And before Mari could even answer, the kid was gone again. Talking to a nearby player whom he had also 'bumped into.'

Mari glanced down at the sheet of paper with a sigh. Well, at least this was as lively it'd ever get. "Let's see..so I need to find...what the f**K is gravity dust?"

Edited July 15, 2020 by Mari

[Hidden 1]

Hidden's eyes cast down at the event that took place below, eyes trained on the fascinating lights and activities. Ever since she had begun to force herself to not wear her cloak she found herself nervous everytime she moved out into a town or populated are. But a crowded event? That was an entirely different story. Stepping forward, she would begin to walk towards the event, her heart threatening to leap out with every step. They wouldn't recognize her uncloaked apparall, but would they accept her at the event as an orange player? Would they even mind? Didn't they capture Pinball at an event like this?

Stepping into the city, she would gaze at the many booths and NPC's who were just beginning their celebrations. It was nice to see that this time around, Tanabata was celebrated in a different fashion then fighting some rain minions. She had dropped out of that fight. 

"Hey miss care for some Takoyaki?" Hidden met the eyes of the NPC at the booth who offered and gingerly put up a hand. "Umm... no thanks?" she replied. Manners were difficult for her and when she was all dressed up she felt entirely out of place. She was a bit hungry though... she didn't want to be the player to gorge on the chance of good food. She wasn't the best of cooks, even in Aincrad. She had left that skill to Sey back when the two talked. 

A pang of hurt met her heart. She missed him dearly, but she didn't want to have a negative impact on his life anymore. She found it even more difficult to move on then she had imagined. However, it was getting better and less and less painful each day. She had her own life to worry about now and she also doubted he'd still be interested. She put him through much and her goal currently was to change the girl he fell in love with. 

When it came to players, she almost seemed to be the only one. Perhaps she was too early? She assumed the players should have been bustling about already. She continued walking forward to explore the area when she heard another NPC mention Candy Apples. "Oh god no." she said as she found herself walking towards the booth. Candy Apples were definitely her weakness. "H-how much for a candy apple?" she asked the NPC at the booth. The tall thin man at the booth simply smiled and replied, "For today its on the house! However, if you like it and want some more, you can typically find me on the third floor selling an assortment of items for a low price!" Hidden smiled and grabbed an apple, thanked the man, and continued. 

Nomming into her new food, her gaze cast forward where she caught sight of a familiar orange haired player in a kimono. Hidden smiled and walked forward, ignoring the three children NPC's who seemed to be talking to Mari. "Hey!" Hidden would say enthusiastically as she could. "I hadn't expected you to be the first person I see tonight." Hidden would smile before taking another bite of the candy apple. As long as it remained, she was sure to be in a good mood. 

[Dazia 0]

Another event on the twenty-second floor. How surprising. It still felt like only a week since the last time the NPCs tried to have this event...their party got crashed by monsters. Unless the creature responsible for the prior disaster had a vengeful relative, it wouldn't be likely for the party to get crashed again...but knowing this game, there was always a chance.

Despite it all, Dazia was going anyway. She survived the last time, so she believed she had little to fear...save for Princess, maybe...she was a definite liability. Of course, at least she had the event to be her shield, as events like these would result in automatic ceasefires, so she had that going as a passive safety measure.

When greeted by an NPC, she stopped, glanced over as the NPC offered to make a garment for Dazia free of charge, as to "fit in". Dazia simply continued walking, her silence declining his offer, as he never said it was required. Hopefully, there would be something to gain from the event...even if it's just a potential friend or ally. No doubt Yinangi would be heading over here, but Hopefully, Dazia could just enjoy the festivities normally...at least for a while.

She would continue on, walking in search of something more...useful. She would end up spotting two players instead, both orange, yet dressed for the occasion. "What is this, peer pressure?" She thought as she looked over to the two players.

[Mari 1]

"So...if I find a buncha - whatever the hell gravity dust is...and give it to the kids it looks like it'll trigger some event if enough players get it..." Mari mumbled to herself. It seemed useful enough. Still, it was just one of many events - so Mari carefully folded the paper in half, then in half again and tucked it underneath her Obi for safe keeping.

. "Hey!" 
Mari turned to the sound of someone calling her name, the jovial greeting wasn't immediately recognized - not until Mari had laid eyes on her. "Oh? Hidden?" Mari blinked. The clear surprise evident on her freckled features, the shocked swayed way to a small smile that played across Mari's lips. At least - the first person she met wasn't a total ass.

"Yeh...I could say the same thing about you." Mari said as she turned to fully face the other woman. Blue eyes traveled up and down her form -taking in her elaborate kimono and strikingly light hair. It was the exact kind of elaborate design that Mari knew wouldn't suit her, it was nice to see someone else wearing it. "Your new look suits you. I''d have thought you'd be skulking around in that black cape of yours." Mari bit her tongue, that probably sounded mean, didn't it? "I mean - I think this suits you much better yanno?" Smooth coverup Mari, real smooth.

The ginger haired woman reached out, delicate fingers gently grazing the hair ornament that Hidden wore. "Mmm..." Mari added with a pensive tone. "This really suits you. This is the you that you should show more often."  Her tone carried the gentle lilting care that a mother would have when handling her child, an awe in watching them grow - but her words and tone faded -as she cleared her throat and resumed her usual banter.    "So....what brings you here?"  Mari asked as she stepped away. "I wouldn't normally pin you as one for events like this. I guess that's wrong of me, eh?"

@Hidden

[Calrex 0]

"Hm...it's been a while since I came to this town, at least since that battle so far back..."

As the bluenette walked through the streets of the Coral, the town now buzzing with life beneath the red lanterns in celebration. He gave a small sigh, glancing upwards at the sky for a moment, seeing the glint of blue feathers as Roc soared overhead. Calrex had materialized his familiar and let the peregrine falcon off to do his own thing, as the two would reconvene later on. Returning his gaze back to the numerous stalls in front of him, he entered in, glancing at the various activities or delicacies that the stall operators were offering.

There was a cluster of kids all gathered around the goldfish catching stall, their eyes hyper focused on trying to accomplish their objective. Another was a shooting gallery, where some NPC couples were trying to shoot down prizes with cork-firing toy rifles. All of it put a small smile on his face as the bluenette maneuvered his way through. Keeping his hands in his jacket pockets, Calrex continued onward, trying to look at the tops of the stalls to get an idea on his location, "Let's see...is this the Eastern side of th..."

“What d’you want?”

"Hm?"

As he returned his attention back to center, the Ultramarine Knight found that he had inadvertently walked right up to one of the stall fronts, with a rather imposing owner behind it. It had been some time since he had to crane his neck back to look at a person's face, and this was certainly one of those times. "Well, since I'm here..."

He quickly eyes the snacks in the windows. A lot of them were commonplace for festivals like this: Yakisoba, okonomiyaki, takoyaki, and the like. However, since he wanted to keep moving, the bluenette pointed to one a little off to the side, "Three of the grilled tuna skewers please."

A bead of sweat formed on the side of Calrex's head as the man scoffed, giving a nod before turning to the grill beside him. Apparently it wasn't an order that was ready to go, as those were all mostly the dishes that people would likely get. Nonetheless, the bluenette thought he spied a proud smirk on this man's face as he pulled out three skewers from the container they were marinating in. “Easy. Watch and learn.”

Whoever had designed this NPC seemed to have done their research, as in stead of the usual flashes of faint blue light indicative of in-game cooking method, this person was actually grilling the skewers just like in real life. Flames licked the surface of the skewers with each flip as the dark red color of the tuna turned to a rich brown hinted with flecks of black. Liquid dripped off of the pieces of fish, singing as they touched the burning pieces of wood below, wisps of smoke coming back upwards to help flavor the dish even more. As he watched, Calrex recognized that the display was rather impressive, taking note of his mouth filling slightly with saliva in anticipation.

The now cooked skewers found their way off the grill and into the man's hand, fanned out between his finger as he reached over the counter to hand the bluenette the order, "These look and smell amazing. Thank you very much."

The man gave a cocky smirk before turning back around. With their transaction complete, Calrex guessed the cook felt no need to continue talking, instead returning back to his work. The bluenette gave a small nod of his head in thanks before heading off to the side, separating one of the skewers from the group into his other hand. It was still steaming from being freshly prepared, and as he took a bite his eyes widened as the taste, "It's...actually really good..."

While snacking on the piece, he continued onwards, finding himself opting to temporarily get away from the hustle and bustle of the streets, "Huh...wonder what's over in that direction."

There appeared to be a large bamboo forest, a bit of a walk away from the cluster of stalls, and at the edge of it someone had set up a table with various small pieces of paper and writing utensils. As he approached the young woman standing nearby gave a wave and invited him over. Finishing his first skewer, Calrex returned the empty bamboo stick back to his other hand.

“It’s tradition after all. Wanna give it a shot? Just write down your wishes here on these papers, and then hang them up on one of the stalks over yonder. Maybe it’ll help you clear your mind!”

"That is true. It is a big tradition around this time to put your wishes and tie them up. I remember one time seeing a ton of them hanging from the bamboo stalks. Guess it wouldn't hurt."

"Sure I'll give it a try."

As if prepared for his response, the young woman hands into his free hand a series of colored papers, with what appeared to be a list of questions on the top of the stack.

“Helps to hone in on what to write, I’d think. If you need any pencils or crayons, we’ve got those here too! I’m only asking that you return them to me after you’re done.”

Calrex gave a small smile and a nod at the woman's statements, "Much appreciated. I'll be sure to do so."

 “Thank you! Hope you enjoy the rest of the festival!”

Calrex received Tanzaku Papers

As he moved off to the side to let others approach the table, Calrex bit down on another tuna skewer, holding it on the side of his mouth while he looked at the prompts given with the papers:

Spoiler

Prompt List:

1. What would you wish for the rest of your stay in Aincrad?
2. What would you wish for the better of people around you?
3. What would you wish for someone you care about?
4. What would you wish for someone you would like to know better?
5. What would you wish for yourself?

"Hm...I'll really have to think about what to put...and how I'm going to somehow fit it on the papers..."

[Shirogane 0]

The lights, stalls, and even the boats were pleasant so Shirogane's eyes. "A festival, another event I can enjoy!" she thought. Unfortunately, Shirogane will be doing it alone this time. Not that she didn't have any friends who would like to go with her. She decided that she will go alone and meet new people inside a safe place, or so she said. Her friends Jeca and Alca were concerned hearing that she won't be going with her senpai and that she's gonna try to do this alone or rather start alone and end up having new people to meet. She wanted to learn how to do things normally inside and not treat it like it's some kind of game where everything is out to get them. "This is not a Dark Souls game so events like this are bound to happen," she told herself "I just need to steer clear of trouble and enjoy the festivities," she said in an energetic manner that people began glancing at her "oops."

First stop: Rigel's Artistry

Shirogane's art enthusiasm was triggered by the beautiful works of Rigel, the guy, however, was the type that Shirogane would see as awkward or rather his way of speaking. "I-I already have a kimono but ok I'll look for one I fancy" she replied to him. Shirogane looked but only admired them "I don't know if there's anything that would suit me," she said  to which Rigel replied, "anything will suit a beauty like you." Shirogane squinted her eyes and gave a nervous smile afterward "I think I'll come back later" she said before waving goodbye at him.

"Talking to boys is not really an easy thing for me," she said. Somehow she didn't have any problem when she talks to her senpai but even with him, she started as someone who can't even look him in the eyes with his glare and weary-looking eyes.

Second Stop:  Boat Rental Services

"I don't think I can enjoy a boat ride alone," she said with the boat guy nodding in agreement to her. With that Shirogane walked away from the area and looked for another place to see.

Third Stop: Bamboo Wishes

Shirogane sighed, this was the disadvantage of doing things alone. She was moving too fast because she had no one to share what she was doing and now she kinda understands what the solo players feel. Before she could go anywhere and find a place to sit, she saw the favorite part of the celebration, the bamboo wishes. Shirogane approached the woman with eyes gleaming in excitement. After a few talks, she received pieces of paper and some pens and crayons to write. She began making her way to look for a place where she can write. The papers and pen reminded her of the times her cousin would come over and have both of them write wishes "I miss you Aya, it would be terrible for me to wish you are here too" she thought. Aya taught her how to be selfless when it comes to wishes "I have most of my wishes granted already, I want to have wishes for others and not for myself so I should think about what to write."

Never looking where she's going while walking, Shirogane stared at the papers she's holding. Tears began welling up in her eyes thinking of what to write "I wish I could get out of here and go home" she said. Soon enough with this carelessness, she bumped into someone. Shirogane was surprised that when she took a step back she fell down "i-I'm sorry I ruined your kimono" she stood up and bowed repeatedly "I'm really sorry, I'm really sorry" she told the woman. Shirogane saw her orange hair and her username along with a guild name "Jacob's Ladder?" she uttered softly before bowing again. 

received tanzaku

@Mari

Edited July 15, 2020 by Shirogane

[Hidden 1]

Surprise was apparent in Mari's facial expression as Hidden approached. 'Didn't she see me without my cloak before? Maybe she didn't recognize me at the meeting either. Could have sworn she did.' Hidden thought. She stopped a couple of feet away from Mari but gave the older woman her full attention. Mari looked her over and as Hidden realized that she was being evaluated a blush came to her cheeks. She valued Mari's opinion so it wouldn't do to look bad in front of her.

Much to her liking though, Mari would say, "Your new look suits you. I''d have thought you'd be skulking around in that black cape of yours." Hidden would let out a nervous laugh before replying, "Thanks uh, I am trying to do less... skulking. People don't really like those who do that, right?" As if in some form of apology Mari would tell her that her new look suited her more. "Really? You think so? I wasn't too sure on it since I am pale and I wasn't sure if the kimono was going to work out but its the only one I have right now..." Hidden gave out another nervous laugh as she realized she was rambling. Conversation still wasn't her strong suit. At least for now. 

Mari would step forward, reaching her hand for the flower in Hidden's hair. A surprised look came to the snow-haired girl's face. Her mouth formed an o and her face remained a red tint. The flower resembled the one that Sey gave her a while back. It was the last piece of their relationship that she kept. She didn't wear the engagement ring anymore at least. "This really suits you. This is the you that you should show more often." As Mari withdrew, Hidden's face turned from surprise to embarrassment. "T-thank you. I mean... I like the koi on your kimono. It really... it brings out the comical side of you that I don't feel like the world gets to see too often." From what Hidden had seen, Mari was either serious or in a motherly mood. There was occasionally a joking side to her, and it usually had something to do with her fish. 

As Mari stepped away she mentioned that Hidden seemed to be out of her element in coming here. "Yeah... crowded areas really aren't my thing. I was hoping to work on my sociability and really hoping I could see some friends." she replied. She was willing to bet that she would find Yuki here. Perhaps if she messaged Raidou that there was rare materials here she could sucker him into spending time with h-... not that she wanted him to at least. 

She bowed to Mari and said, "Excuse me. But I think I am going to look at the festivities." With those words, Hidden would begin to wander off. Moving past the edge of the festivities, she found herself looking at a bamboo forest. "What is over here?" Hidden asked as she stepped forward. She found an NPC woman sitting at a table that was filled with wiring utensils. There was also a bluehaired man she was pretty sure she had seen before somewhere. Approaching the booth the woman would speak. “It’s tradition after all. Wanna give it a shot? Just write down your wishes here on these papers, and then hang them up on one of the stalks over yonder. Maybe it’ll help you clear your mind!” Hidden would nod. There had been a lot on her mind recently. She would nod and the woman would hand her five colorful papers. “Helps to hone in on what to write, I’d think. If you need any pencils or crayons, we’ve got those here too! I’m only asking that you return them to me after you’re done.” Grabbing a pencil, Hidden would thank the NPC woman before preparing to write. 

-Hidden receives Tanzaku Papers-

@Mari

[Calrex 0]

As more and more people appeared to make their way over to the table, Calrex felt a bead of sweat form on the side of his head, "Maybe I just got here a bit early?"

The tuna skewer in his mouth was now about halfway eaten as he reached over with his free hand, grabbing one of the pencils and moving away from the table. He thought he recognized some of the individuals that were approaching, but at the moment the bluenette was a bit too occupied with what was in his hands at the moment. With the skewers in his left hand, and the tanzaku papers in his right, not to mention the one skewer in his mouth, he was busy.

Spotting a trash can nearby he made his way over while finishing what remained of the tuna skewer in his mouth, tossing the two sticks he had already consumed, a small sigh of relief escaping his lips, "Okay...now I can probably focus a bit on these..."

Popping the remaining skewer into his mouth freed up both of his hands as he looked at each of the prompts, making his way back over to a open spot on the table to write on. As he mulled over each of the prompts, it took a few minutes for him to form his thoughts. However, after it was formed, he slid one of the papers out from the stack, promptly writing down his wish, and placing it back in the pile.

Wish 1:

Spoiler

What would you wish for the rest of your stay in Aincrad?

As he thought on this wish, Calrex's mind immediately thought of the big differences between how things were once he reached frontliner level, and how it was when he was still making his way up. Back then, things were taken by the day, with the only real goal was to "keep each other safe and get out of the game." It was an aspiration that was less of a moving goalpost, but that was to some level a form of innocence. To get out of the game involved reaching frontliner level and begin participating in the floor raids. His fast progress to that was something of a hot topic back in the day.

Once he did reach that level, was when a huge change happened. At that point everything began to revolve around surviving the floor raids, even more so with the disbanding of the Azure Brigade and the loss of so many powerful players. Each day seemed more and more dedicated to being ready for the next raid, and the whimsical days of spending days either in or out of the safe zones were long gone.

Response: An easier time that allows more carefree days without the need to survive.

Wish 2:

Spoiler

What would you wish for the better of people around you?

Thinking about this reminded the bluenette of the numerous people he had encountered and grown closer to in the past. While he had not gotten to know any of the newer people that started adventuring outside of the safe zones, back when he was still leveling up his traveling companions were many and varied. Oikawa, Ariel, Baldur, Xanatos, Azide, Meokka, and many more passed through his mind, a small smile coming to his face. While many of these people he had not heard from in quite some time, he still hoped that they were ok, and still surviving in the virtual prison they were trapped in.

While he didn't know, and usually didn't discuss, their backgrounds before being trapped in SAO, he was fairly sure that not all of them came from normal or positive backgrounds. Some probably turned to this game as an escape from their arduous daily lives. All he could hope for was that when they got out, that things may have changed in a positive aspect.

Response: A swift return back to the real world for the better.

Wish 3:

Spoiler

What would you wish for someone you care about?

His mind immediately went to Teayre, his in-game wife and someone he wished to spend the rest of his life with even outside of SAO. The redhead had been by his side, even back when he first started adventuring. In-fact, the young katana-wielding swordswoman had started at the same time as him, and both had grown stronger as individuals and as a unit, or at least that was what he hoped. However, that didn't mean it was all sunshine and rainbows. While he himself had come from a rather uneventful background, Teayre had been through a lot even before being trapped in the game. It was something she still had to carry with her, even with the death of the person seemingly responsible for most of it.

Even though she had made her way out of her shop one time in the recent past, Calrex still wasn't sure how resolved she was to interact with any other players again. A small sigh escaped his lips as he continued to think on it. It was probably one of the more difficult ones to write, and his pencil paused numerous times while writing, until he was able to finally complete his wish.

Response: Find your happiness, free from your past and your sorrows.

Wish 4:

Spoiler

What would you wish for someone you would like to know better?

While the third prompt was hard to write, the fourth prompt was hard to contemplate. Since he hadn't interacted with anyone he probably already knew fairly well, that meant he found difficulty finding someone that was in the middle, where he had interacted with them, but wanted to grow closer to. He stood upright, crossing his arms a few times.

Eventually his mind did land on one particular individual, a fellow member of his guild. While he wasn't fully set on the idea of "getting to know them better," there was something he did wish for them, going off of what their past interactions had gleamed to him. Snow's first meeting with the bluenette was a duel, one out of anger for her friend that had perished, seemingly out of neglect. Sadly, her friend's name was one that he never knew, or recalled ever meeting. That weighed on the back of his mind, and even though the blond found the courage to join Jacob's Ladder, it didn't seem like she was capable of being fully open with the group:

Response: Continue to find the strength to keep striving forward.

Wish 5:

Spoiler

What would you wish for yourself?

His pupils opened as a calm washed over him while looking at this question. Oddly enough, it was one he hadn't asked himself in quite some time. While he spent most of his waking hours on his own, almost all of his actions were for the sake of others. Participating in the frontline raids was probably the only thing he did outside of the usual drop ins to Baldur's estate for guild meetings and formalities. While one could say that training was for the sake of himself, that didn't really register with him. After all, leveling up was for his avatar, for Calrex, not Calnus. In the end, whether or not he lived to see the real world once again, logging out meant he would no longer bear any of those achievements. Getting stronger in the game was mainly for others' benefit, as his survivability in his role meant an easier time for the people around him.

His pencil sat at its starting point for quite some time as he continued to think. Eventually Calrex closed his eyes as he took a long breath, continuing to consolidate his thoughts until eventually he found the words to put down. It was a bit more esoteric, but it was one that he hoped would serve useful both in and out of the game.

Response: Clarity to see the best path forward, and the strength to move down it.

 

[Freyd 0]

"PERSI!  You get back here!!!"

A bolt of living  shadow scurried at lightning speed along the festival floor, darting between table legs, up tent poles and along vibrantly coloured tarps, awnings and strings of decorative lanterns strewn between them all.  Other than the half-eaten koi in its tiny maw, its only distinctive characteristics were a pair of very pleased-looking brilliant blue eyes and four fleeting paw-like appendages carrying it swiftly along with its trophy.

Freyd burst clumsily through one of the carefully manicured vendor's stands, spraying scrumptious snacks and other delicacies in a small mushroom cloud of delicious shrapnel.

"Oww!  So sorry... I'll pay for... PERSI!!!"

Rolling back onto his feet without missing a beat, he maintained his chase down the main festival street dodging deftly between the many fancily dressed attendees that had finally started to gather.  His mischievous familiar zig-zagged across the lanterns above, likely purring madly with joy and pleased as punch with herself for demonstrating her agility while he made a fool of himself.  Hopping down a cascade of bright red and white awnings, she scooted beneath another booth and into a broader clearing or plaza of some sort where calm and pleasant music provided a serene and pensive environment.  Freyd clutched the outstretched grips of a market cart, using his weight to counterbalance its own and make the tight pivot needed to follow.  A cloud of cherry blossoms erupted behind him to the great delight of the crowd and consternation of its owner.

"That's not yours!  Give it here!" 

Persi pounced onto the head of one of the many children running about the place, startling him as she leapfrogged to the top of a nearby bamboo trees already festooned with wishes and aspirations.  Freyd came sliding into the square, just behind her and only just managed to catch the stack of flyers the kid had dropped while coasting to a stop on his back, his worn black skirmisher's garb clearly not meant for the occasion.   He looked up, startled to see this 'orange lady' @Mari, swearing that he'd seen her before in a particularly weird dream a few weeks back.

"You're real!?!  Holy cr--"

A crowd of vendors angered by his disruptive romp barreled into the square and collectively man-handled him, tossing him flailing into a nearby pond. His head poked up a moment later with tussled and soaking brown hair dripping all over the place, another koi thrashing in great irony in his mouth.

Edited July 16, 2020 by Freyd - The Whisper in Shadows

[Crozeph 0]

Not a fan of festivals...

Whether it was because he didn't like crowded places or didn't want to see many people, Crozeph decided that he would make his way to a place where he wouldn't be disturbed or he won't be disturbing anyone. While the whole Tanabata celebration was something people do where he lives, he wasn't a fan of it, he'll just stay inside. Having heard of it he's sure that Yuki will go. she has a lot of energy to invest in these kinds of events but Crozeph? he's lazy as fuck. He felt that Yuki will take him to this place whether he liked it or not so in haste, walked out of the house before Yuki could notice and now, after almost an hour, he's wandering alone and detests the noises around him.

“What d’you want?”

One of the stall owners told him as he eyed the food being made. He was not in the mood for socializing and this makes that asshat inside him resurface "you're selling tasty bullshit, let me have some of that imbecile because it looks delicious" he said in a calm way, a cold-hearted tone smothered the interest he had for the food. Betelgeuse didn't know how to react because it sounded like a compliment yet it was harsh. "Fifteen takoyaki and ten yakisoba," he said which made Betelgeuse more surprised, "this guy is a demon in the making," he said before making the order.

As he walked away from the food vendor a woman came out of nowhere and began talking about the bamboo wishes "I'm not a fan of bamboo wish..." the woman was already handing him papers and pen as if she knew he'd refuse. "Like I said I'm not gonna do..." the woman raised a finger waving it at him “It’s tradition after all,” she told him. Crozeph didn't want to ruin her cheerful demeanor and nodded his head and took the papers and pen before making an awkward smile "I'll give it a shot"  he said.

[Received Tanzaku]

After taking the tanzaku, Crozeph made his way near the lake and looked at the boat rental services where a guy with a badass hat worn by mysterious samurai protagonists in movies stood. "Can I borrow one of your boats? or do we have to duel with our katana or something to prove my worth?" he said as he held food on both hands. The man chuckles and told him there's no need and waved his hand to let Crozeph know that it free to use "there are no titanic happenings that are going to happen here right?" he asked which only gave the man a confused look. Crozeph sat on one of it and rowed to areas with fewer to no people, a bunch of takoyaki and yakisoba beside him. Now that everything is set, he lied down carefully on the boat and placed the straw hat on his head and covered his face "good thing boat guy had a spare" he thought. far from the bustle and enthusiasm on of the people, Crozeph's boat gently drifted with no care to anything happening "I'll think about what to write later."

[Mari 1]

Hidden seemed flustered at Mari's compliments, Mari couldn't blame her - she had only recently just started going around without her hood. After the situations with Are and the floor meeting Mari was hoping that Hidden would be more...open with who she was. Mari was relieved to see that for once, her hopes were true. "Yeh...I'd say you're right. People aren't normally too fond of the whole caped figure asthmatic." Mari snorted. "Like that Are guy." Mari pointed at her face. "I still can't get over that dinky shadow mask he wears." Mari laughed softly to herself at her own stupid joke. She was told she had to get used to it; but it didn't mean she had to like it. 

"Honestly, as another pale ass woman, I don't see an issue with wearing darker colours. I feel like they kinda contrast the skin well. But I'm not really one for fashion. Sooo..." Mari shrugged. "Not exactly the best to ask. I know this one girl, Cordelia - fair sure she may be a model - that'd be someone to ask."

Hidden took a step back, and commented on Mari's outfit. She....thought it was comical? Mari glanced down at her attire. What about her appearance was comical? It was probably the idea that she shouldn't really try to dress up nice. Mari cleared her throat and folded her arms with a small smile, pushing down the ebb of pain from the comment. Mari was sure Hidden meant well.  "I unno - I think people would find it fishy if I started telling them all my puns. I gotta be koi-ful with them. As for what you're doing...I think it's good - just take it one step at a time." 

Mari waved Hidden off as she excused herself. Well, that was unexpected. At least she seemed to be in good spirits. Mari glanced around, others were trickling in, many heading toward the bamboo forest - no doubt to write their Tanabata wishes. "Wonder if I shou-"

"I'm really sorry, I'm really sorry"

"You'd think I'd be happy, I got all these people fallin for me." Mari jested as the small girl stepped back from her. The jokes were practically second nature to Mari at this point, and they came through tenfold when she was feeling down. "You didn't ruin it though." Mari said as she glanced down - it hadn't been knocked over - the Obi was firmly in place and so were the folds of fabric. Maybe it really is just too plain...

"I'm fine though. Really."


"You're real!?!  Holy cr--"

Mari turned her attention to the player and gave him a quizzical look. "Uhm...yes? As real as anyone can be in this place at least..."

@Hidden @Shirogane @Freyd - The Whisper in Shadows

Edited July 17, 2020 by Mari

[Hidden 1]

Hidden sat down at the line of trees, secluded from the players that were beginning to mass at the event. Sighing, she grabbed the list of questions and stared at each of them. 'I really hope no one reads these' she thought to herself as she grabbed her pencil. Umbra appeared from her shadow, examining the Tanzaku papers and Hidden before eyeing the rest of the event. "You can go do whatever. I doubt I am going to be needing you." The familiar began to bound off towards the stand, no doubt to trail around a player for the rest of the night. Hidden watched at the familiar bounded off before returning her attention to the papers before her. "Okay, I guess we better get started. There is still more to do here." She muttered to herself, unable to be heard by any others. Maybe by the time she was done with this, Yuki or Raidou would have arrived. She liked Mari but wasn't sure if she could emotionally handle being fretted over for the entire night. The words were very nice but anymore and she might die of embarrassment. A smile formed on her lips. 'Am I really that pretty? Maybe when I get back to the real world I will dye it too.' 

 

Prompt #1

Spoiler

What would you wish for the rest of your stay in Aincrad?
Hidden twirled a stand of her silver hair, staring off into the nothingness as she thought of a good answer. What did she want more of from Aincrad? She assumed most people would answer along the lines of making it easier or more relaxed or less dying. However, she didn't exactly have a fear of dying. Neither had she lost anyone important to her yet. She liked Aincrad. It was a place that she didn't have to be the helpless quiet girl in the back of the classroom. She didn't have to be the girl with the deadbeat father that was emotionally and physically abusive. It was a place she made friends, found love, and found those that cared for her more than the real world. It was a place she could call home. She loved Aincrad. She was content getting stronger, fighting alongside those she had befriended, and then coming home to see the smiling face of Ayame who was now happier than she ever had been. Life was better, of course there was the whole bit of being hated by everyone, but at least she could make a difference here. Also, she could make it better for Ayame. 

Response: "For it to never end."

Prompt #2

Spoiler

What would you wish for the better of people around you?

Hidden sat for a moment, pondering the meaning of the question. 'The people around me? Does that mean my friends or just those in my vicinity right now. I am going to go ahead and assume it just means my friends in general.' Hidden cocked her head slightly as she thought those she had befriended as of recently. There was the energetic Yuki, the cool and collected Raidou, the sweet and mostly innocent Ayame who could also use some guidance.... What did she want to wish for them? Each of them were different. An idea popped into her head and she began to write down her response. She enjoyed seeing Ayame's smile, Yuki's laugh, and that small pleased look on Raidou's face when something good happened. She liked to see them happy. She was never the one to bring the happiness, but they tried with her all the same. 

Response: "Whatever makes them smile"

 

Prompt #3

Spoiler

What would you wish for someone you care about?

Hidden frowned, her attention changing from that of her friends to that of her ex-fiance. Of Sey. She still did have feelings for him, but after all that she put him through she couldn't bear to think of how she hurt him. He was a fantastic man, but she wasn't good enough for him. Besides, he loved the person she used to be, not the person she was trying to become. She was trying to change the very person he fell in love with. It scared her to think he would eventually fall out of love. She couldn't be with him anymore. They should call it quits. She didn't want to hurt him anymore. She squeezed her hand on the pencil tightly as she wrote her response. 

Response: "I hope you can find someone that can truly make you happy."

 

Prompt #4

Spoiler

What would you wish for someone you would like to know better?

This one was probably the most difficult of them all to come up with a proper answer. Who did she want to know better? There wasn't really anyone specific to think of. Yuki was already an open book, she didn't need to be known of anymore. Her mind shifted to that of the man in the red coat. Since they met, he had a seriously flip in personality. She wasn't sure exactly what had caused it. "I guess, I would like to know him a little better. He is kind of like me when it comes to being closed off." All she knew about him was that he carefully predicted every single one of his steps as to make sure he wouldn't make the wrong step. What caused him to become like that? What could she even wish for him?

Response: "I hope you can find that which you are truly looking for in this world."

 

 

Prompt #5

Spoiler

What would you wish for yourself?

Wishing couldn't be done if one wasn't wishing for their self. This was the easiest of them all to write. Hidden knew exactly what she wanted for herself. Taking the final page of colored paper and the borrowed pencil, Hidden would scribble down exactly what she wanted for herself. 

'All I want is to be wanted. I don't want this world to shun me away like the real world. I will do my best, try my hardest. All I want is to enjoy my time here with the friends I have. Even if I don't treat them the best.... It is hard. I've acted that way for years to push everyone away that might hurt me....' Finished writing each of the prompts, she would grab each of them. Now she just had to put each of them on the tree. And let everyone know exactly what she wanted.

"Response: "To be accepted"

[Vigilon 0]

Ah, yes, another event, and this time, there wouldn't be any pesky fishmen to crash the party! Hopefully, Veriost wouldn't be causing any trouble...especially since this wasn't like some of the other events, meaning that the small white frost dragon would have to signal a request to Vigilon if she wanted any food. Vigilon was sure that good things might come from the event.

When he arrived, an NPC offered to make him a garment as to help him "fit in" to the festival. Uh oh, this was gonna spout some peer pressure among most players, no doubt. He thought about it for a minute, then answered, "Sure, why not? Might as well try something new for a change." He decided.

Later, he was walking though the place in some new vanity attire. It was a bit strange to him, but he decided he might as well get used to it while he was here.

Spoiler

 

He would then find a food stall, where he would see someone making what was clearly a tall order. "What the crap...? Fifteen? Ten? That's a lot..." Clearly, whoever that was must have either been ridiculously hungry, or a bigger foodie than a reasonable person could end up as...maybe it was some kind of metabolism based issue? Vigilon couldn't tell. When Vigilon reached the stall, he'd be greeted with “What d’you want?” Vigilon had a fair idea of what was available, by glancing at the foods present at the stall. He knew what he was getting.

 "Four Yakitori, please."

Veriost would softly growl.

"Make that six Yakitori."

More soft growling.

"Eight and no further."

The NPC scoffed and said, “Easy. Watch and learn.”

Turns out, he was a bit of a show-off with his cooking methods. Once that was over, Vigilon would be on his way.

He'd be wandering for a bit, then he would find a clearing and encounter another NPC. She would gesture for him to walk over to her. “It’s tradition after all,” She remarked as Vigilon approached. “Wanna give it a shot? Just write down your wishes here on these papers, and then hang them up on one of the stalks over yonder. Maybe it’ll help you clear your mind!”

"Tradition?? Oh, right, Japan...makes enough sense, I guess." He thought. "I...I guess I'll give it a try. I'll give it my best shot, actually!" He would answer, curious to see if it would actually help him clear his mind. With that, the NPC would hand Vigilon some papers, as well as a prompt sheet. “Helps to hone in on what to write, I’d think. If you need any pencils or crayons, we’ve got those here too! I’m only asking that you return them to me after you’re done.” She explained.

[Vigilon has received the Tanzaku]

[Dazia 0]

The two players would go about their business, and Dazia would move on. She would keep her eyes open for anything of potential use to her as she walked throughout the festival grounds. She would eventually spot something more...secluded, over in the corner. She would head over to the area, and see that it was...a rather interesting setup, there was a habitat, and an emporium with a whole flock of magpies. “Sitting in for gramps this year,” the bird keeper admitted, having stopped playing a tune on her acoustic guitar. When she spied Dazia taking an interest in her setup, she cocked her head to the side. “A go for you? One try per person. We’ve got some unique sponsors this year, so...” 

Dazia took the cowl off her head. "Sure." She answered. "I might as well." 

ID# 159726 CD: 11

With that, the bird keeper nodded. “Go ahead and pick one to meet." Dazia looked throughout the area, seeing the different magpies in their cages. Dazia noticed one in particular, and walked over to its cage. "Who might you be..."  Dazia wondered aloud.The bird keeper heard, and saw which one Dazia was looking at. “That one's Kyran." She answered. "Hello, Kyran." She greeted. The magpie responded. This was his name, all right. The Black-Billed Magpie would not recognize Dazia, so he would look at her curiously. Dazia would look into the magpie's eye as it looked into hers, before switching eyes and repeating the process. Yes, this one was what Dazia was looking for, she had a good feeling about this one. Dazia looked back to the bird keeper, who had been watching the interaction. There wasn't really much else to say. "I'll go with this one." Dazia confirmed.

Spoiler

 

ID# 159727 CD: 8

The bird keeper walked over to the cage to retrieve Kyran, and she would take the magpie over to the habitat. Once the magpie was inside, she gestured for Dazia to head over to the habitat as well. Dazia would walk over to the habitat, and Kyran would look over to Dazia after flitting about in it. Maybe the point of this was to befriend the magpie and receive something from it? It didn't seem impossible, but it would definitely be difficult for a first timer. Had Dazia practiced trying to communicate with birds before? Once or twice. Did it work those times? Dazia doubted it. However, it seemed that what little she knew would have to be made use of. The eyes were the window to the soul, so hopefully they could ask whatever her speech couldn't, assuming this bird didn't know very much of the human language. "Bright...Glow..." She attempted. Yeah, she was still only a beginner in the matter. If she was trying to convince it to find something helpful, what words could she use to describe it, assuming the bird even knew the words at all? "Shade...Glow... Light...in dark..." She continued.

 

ID# 159729 CD: 6

Total: 25(received Burning Determination from magpie)

Kyran looked into Dazia's eyes, as if pondering something, trying to figure out what he was seeing. Soon, the magpie flew off, as if searching around for something. Dazia could only guess something bright and shiny, but the result would be different than expected. When the magpie returned to Dazia, it was carrying something, holding it barely half an inch of the ground. Kyran set down what he had found. It was a small jar of what looked like ever-burning ashes. The magpie seemed pleased with himself, and gestured to Dazia, then the jar. Dazia would pick up the jar, and try to find some sort of item description. There had to be a reason the ever-burning ashes weren't going out. Dazia looked back to Kyran, and the black billed magpie, using his beak to point, gestured to the jar, then to Dazia's eyes? She would have to figure out the meaning of the magpie's intentions later on, for now, she had received something from the bird, and it was worth looking into, at least.

Edited July 18, 2020 by Dazia

[Shirogane 0]

Her reply was enough for Shirogane to asked a question "fall for you?" she said. The woman was fine as she mentioned and Shirogane felt relieved at it but somehow her orange marker that matches her hair color wasn't matching to her personality. She then wiped the tears from her eyes and held the papers firmly almost crumpling them and her cheeks turned red. "I'm not falling for you! I mean you're pretty and your kimono looks nice but..." she fidgeted. Shirogane was a little flustered, surely she wasn't ready for that if it was a joke because she took it seriously "...I sort prefer falling for boys older than me" she uttered in shame. She wiped her tears again and was startled when a man asked if the woman in front of her was real before he was thrown into a pond.

It was time to repay the joke "I-I guess he fell for you into the pond?" she told her trying her best for jokes. She wasn't a good as her senpai when it comes to spreading fires with his words but somehow she can pick up a thing or two about how to do it. Her eyes gleamed as she saw her guild and her name, she was sure she heard of Jacob's Ladder before "if it's not too much to ask but if you are really from Jacob's Ladder do you know someone by the name of Crozeph?" she asked her. She then began to move her hands trying to describe her senpai along with her words "black hair, sleepy or weary blue eyes, wears a filthy haori and yukata, and also..." she scratched her head "has a weird set of vocabulary?" she added.

After that, she couldn't help but notice how beautiful the koi design on her kimono was "I'm Shirogane and I really like the design of your kimono" she said as she stretched out a hand for a handshake.

@Mari

[Crozeph 0]

The boat swayed gently as Crozeph continued to lie down inside it. Couples passed by as if they were seeing the laziest guy in Aincrad, his relaxation was ruining the romantic atmosphere of boat riding. To add more fuel to his laziness, Crozeph ate a few takoyaki as he lied down, he was pathetic to look at and he was good at it. Soon enough he was alone in that area of the lake as if he was a loch ness monster that the others are trying to avoid. He didn't mind though, he wanted to be alone and the only thing that can change his mind is if Yuki finds him... as if his fiance can find him when he is far from the festivities.

After eating three takoyaki, Crozeph pulled out a pen and a paper, time to put some wishes to hang for later. He was never a fan of Tanabata even if his best friend was so adamant about him partaking on it. She was only there once when her cousin was somewhere else but after that, Aya celebrated Tanabata with her family. Crozeph's father celebrated it also with his second wife which leaves Crozeph alone in his apartment. At some point, he felt lonely but as time went by, he didn't care about it at all so why was he here now? he could've just retreated to his shop in floor ten but consider the risk of Yuki finding him quick. 

He remembered the prompts when the girl handed him the papers and pen, might as well consider what he should write before slapping it into the paper.

What would you wish for the rest of your stay in Aincrad?

Spoiler

"A joke of a question but I'll play along Aincrad. A wish is something I never liked, so as much as to make a promise. I only did a few and keeping them almost cost me a lot but that's how things go I guess. Just like most of the people here, I don't plan on staying for too long but what choice do I have if the progress was too risky thus slowing it down? I wish for everyone I know to be safe. Yes, I'm selfish but I guess I can do that for this occasion. Baldur and Mari along with Jacob's ladder, Shirogane and Oikawa wherever they are right now. I also wish that for the rest of my stay there would be more food for Yuki to cook for me, I'll share some with Night if I'm feeling generous. Never miss my attack so I won't be haunted by Hidden's dagger and... I wish to stay with Yuki until this ends."

Wish #1: Keep everyone safe

Crozeph wrote down the words smiling, maybe it was the best wish he could ask should they stay longer inside the game. Death is inevitable but a wish is never going to hurt and that is what Crozeph wants to believe for now.

Edited July 17, 2020 by Crozeph

[Calrex 0]

With that, and his third tuna skewer consumed, he set the pencil back in the stack on the table before heading over to patch of bamboo the young woman had pointed over to previously. These ones were also extraordinarily tall, but easily identifiable by the already tied pieces of paper hanging from their branches. Finding a good set of branches to attach his wishes to, Calrex began tying them up. He had chosen to leave them anonymous, as the words he had written were non-specific enough that he hoped maybe someone else could potentially also benefit from them. He wasn't a superstitious type, but the bluenette also understood the power of words, and potentially at the right place at the right time, someone seeing the wishes he had chosen might find some comfort from them.

As he finished tying the last one up, the Ultramarine Knight noticed that his vision had grown blurry for a moment. With a blink he felt something slide down from the side of his eyes, down to his cheek, eventually collecting at his chin. Surprised for a moment he gave a small laugh to himself, also feeling relieved that no one was over where he was at, at least for the moment, "Guess there really is a bit of relief from doing something as silly as this..."

Calrex Hung Tanzaku Papers

Raising up a gloved hand he wiped away the tear trail from the side of his face, closing his eyes for a moment as he took a step back, looking up at the night sky with a calming breath, a small smile coming to his face, "Well, best get going to see what else there might be around here..." 

Turning back towards where the food/activity stalls were located he gave a small sigh, giving a quick glance back at the bamboo forest while returning his hands to his jacket pockets, "Guess it would have been nice if I ran into someone else, but I guess if there is anyone they might be at a different section of the festival. Surprised that Baldur hasn't shown up anywhere just yet, I woulda thought he'd be big into something like this. Ah well, guess I can go grab something else from the shops while looking around."

[NIGHT 0]

"Amaterasu for the young lass, and Tsukuyomi..." 

"Thank you very much."

Instead of the traditional Kitsune masks one might find at a festival like this, NIGHT had decided to roll for a much more subtle reference with her lupus designs. Retrieving the black paper mache craft from Rigel's hands, she'd set it gently upon her visage, to which she felt the system register a vanity equipment onto. Perfect.

A glance to her companion, the system entity in a white canine frontal, slathered with careful streaks of red across the mask's cheeks and forehead. They would've been unmistakable for anyone else with the art piece drawing attention instead. With a muffled giggle, they'd set their arms to their sides, and NIGHT knew a grin lied under their disguise. "Well? How do I look?"

"I can't see," the player shot back, pulling her escort along by their index locked with hers. "C'mon. We're here to investigate something, then we can go look around."

"As long as we're going to be quick about it!"

[Astralin 0]

The night sky was in view, the settlement was bustling with people enjoying the festivities, it was incredible... At any rate, it was time for Astralin to stop staring at the sky and get to joining in the festivities! She wandered about the settlement, eventually finding an NPC who would wave, gesturing for Astralin to come to her. “It’s tradition after all,” She remarked as Astralin approached. “Wanna give it a shot? Just write down your wishes here on these papers, and then hang them up on one of the stalks over yonder. Maybe it’ll help you clear your mind!”

Astralin thought about it for a moment. "This isn't exactly a tradition I know well about, but this is a game, so perhaps it would have some kind of purpose, regardless of what happens? I wonder..." She didn't know much about this or that, but she would at least try to do what she could. "I'll give it a shot, it might take a little time, but I'm sure I'll come up with something!"

The NPC would give Astralin some papers, as well as a prompt sheet. “Helps to hone in on what to write, I’d think. If you need any pencils or crayons, we’ve got those here too! I’m only asking that you return them to me after you’re done.” She explained.

With that, Astralin would leave with a smile.

[Astralin receives Tanzaku]

Astralin would notice that many players were wearing certain kinds of attire, and she felt like she needed to chose between fitting in, and standing out. As she was thinking about this, she began making her way around the west side of the settlement.

A sharp turn was all it took to unwittingly make things suddenly become awkward.

She didn't know that someone would be there when she made the sharp turn, but if there was anything she should have known by now, it was to not do that. She made the sharp turn and bumped into a player wearing a mask. "Aaagh! Ahhh, not again! I'm so sorry, are you alright?" She apologized.

@NIGHT