Central Parade & Festival

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In the corners of the streets lurked the shadows…but also a set of iced eyes. Dove, in her dark and slightly tattered cloak, observed the colorful balloons and lights that danced along the night sky as creatures of every nation and tongue celebrated the peace. Peace…that wouldn’t last.

Dove exhaled heavily through her nostrils. What was the point? Of any of it? The hundreds of hours spent researching the wolves and their desires…there was so much diversity, but yet it was all muffled under the current empire of mist and darkness…

Her tongue dampened itself, craving a cigarette or some concoction of herbs to inhale that would lead to an alternate universe. “gods…” she muttered, tilting her chin up towards the sky, top of her head brushing at the building wall behind her as her right foot also rested on it, allowing her to lean back. ‘what are we supposed to do…’

@⥈Lee Taemin ¥✔ Amidst the hollers of hawkers and the chatters of patrons, the joyful cries of children pierced their ears. The next moment, two small bodies ran past them, barely brushing their legs as they played chase. Their eyes lingered on the jubilation lighting up their tiny faces before tearing away to cast across the crowd.

A festival—the cyborg had heard of it. Their initial exposure was from a book in the archives. Later on, they would search its origin and meaning through tomes and Encyclopedia, before asking the local folks. The kinder ones were glad to indulge their curiosity—although, hearing about a ‘festival’ was much different than actually experiencing it.

As they weaved through the sea of celebrators, their gaze landed on a unique figure. The person’s skin shone an iridescent pale blue, giving away his identity as a merfolk. He stood before a stall, faced with a fae who was offering a piece of bread. Yet, the male merely stood, unwavering as if deep in thought.

Taeyong’s feet moved on their own accord. They were beside the merfolk in a heartbeat. Noticing their presence, the fae picked up another bread, handing it to them.

They glanced at the unmoving figure beside them. Then, returning their attention to the fae, they spoke, “I’ll have both of them, please.”

Despite the confusion on their face, the fae still did as told. They handed some credits to the seller before taking the bag of bread. Opening it up, they picked out one of the goods and turned to the merfolk.

“Your hand,” was their simple request. They waited for the merfolk to extend said limb before placing the bread in his palm. “This is for you.”

They met the other’s eyes, dark hues void of expression and lashes still as they mused, “You seemed lost. Is there any way I can help?”

Nicole happily stroll along the busy parade street, awing at decorations, food stalls, and seeing everyone out and about. Another year celebrating Helo as it is. The little bounce in her steps towards the many food stalls couldn't do justice of her excitement. To be able to just relax and taste every thing is all one can ask for, especially if it's research for updating the menus. She hums a soft tune waiting in line for her turn and observing everyone around her. Definitely a nice time to see everyone giggling in celebration for sure.

[that was open to anyone]

The streets thrummed with life, alive with the sounds of laughter, cheers, and the jubilant cries of revelers celebrating the parade. Colorful banners fluttered in the breeze, and the air was thick with the scent of sweets and the music of festive tunes. The crowd swelled, faces glowing with joy, hands raised in excitement—but in the midst of it all, Taemin stood apart, a figure cast in shadow.

While the world around him thrived, he felt a sharp, aching emptiness. The laughter of the crowd, the clinking of glasses, and the cheer of the parade only magnified the solitude gnawing at his heart. He was a stranger here—an outsider, alone in a world that no longer felt like his own. His kingdom, once a vibrant underwater realm, was lost to the depths, reduced to nothing. All that remained of his past was the bitter taste of captivity and the cold weight of his chains.

Why was he here? The question spiraled in his mind, relentless and heavy, as his bare feet pressed into the cobblestones. His skin, a pale blue-grey, shimmered faintly under the sun’s fleeting touch, a ghost of his former self. The winter chill bit at his exposed chest, sending a shiver through his body. His long hair, dark as midnight, tumbled down his back in waves, brushing the back of his thighs as if it, too, were trying to escape the present and seek refuge in a forgotten past.

A small, delicate hand reached out to him—a fae, with wings like spun light, offering a simple piece of bread. The gesture was kind, but it felt as foreign as everything else in this world. Taemin’s throat tightened, words eluding him. What could he offer in return for such a gift when all he had was silence? He bowed his head, a soft, sorrowful acknowledgment of the kindness, but it did little to fill the aching void that pulsed within him.

She looked at the sky from the balcony overlooking the parade, watching the lights and lanterns around them glow like a thousands stars against the night sky. The floating paper lantern in her hand was neatly decorated with a little note written on the bottom corner. "Another year...." she reminded herself, holding the lantern up to eye level before using her own fire to light it. "We must soar. There's something out there for us." With a gentle push from her orbs, she watches the paper lantern makes it's way gently through the night sky. The laughters, chatters and music around the parade brings her joy as it takes away the loneliness of this event.

@† Kim Myungsoo Yooa looked puzzled for a moment that he didn’t have his own room due to what she was told about him – wouldn’t his family have the money to get him his own room? But, she wouldn’t ask him about that. “Of course, I have my own room. I am the daughter of the headmaster after all,” She chuckled a bit. Yooa reached out and poked him in his ribs. “Finish your sentence – who are you rooming with? Someone that you don’t like or is annoying?” Yooa pouted for a second before tilting her head to the side. “You know, I can ask Bambi to move you and get you your own room. She might just still say no – but it’s worth a try?” Yooa asked him as she shrugged one shoulder. She didn’t mind asking her mom and the headmaster if she do her a favor and let Myungsoo move rooms so that he could have his own room. She shook her head. “I would never mind as long as the fancy boy showing up at my door is you,” Yooa told him with a smile and happy nod.

Yooa had bought a some sweets from this merchant while she was walking around earlier and this is where she had gotten her cotton candy from. Yooa stood next to Myungsoo not letting go of his hand as she was looking over the candies. Yooa turned her gaze towards the merchant and Myungsoo as they were talking about the price. She pulled her coin purse closer to her, opening it up and counting how much she had. She hid her frown as she that was price was a lot higher than she thought that it would be. Her candy earlier wasn’t even that much then she perked up when the merchant told Myungsoo that regular candy was only two silver coins. When the merchant was getting the candies, she poked his arm. “Myungie, he made pay seven coins for regular candy. Why is it not just two silver coins?” Yooa was confused on why he was making Myungsoo pay less but she had pay more. “I’m sorry we couldn’t get you any blood candies – I’ll make it up to you though! There should be a drink stand selling blood bag drinks or drinks with blood – and I’ll get you really nice headband,” Yooa felt bad that she wasn’t able to get Myungsoo the candies that he had gotten excited about. She looked down at her feet, kicking some of the pebbles around the stall – feeling bad that she couldn’t get him something that he was looking forward to.

@† Sun Soons ¥✔ Yunho always was curious to meet new species, it’s been a while since he was close to a vampire, he knew this kind was a dangerous one especially to humans, but he could protect himself, he wasn’t just a simple human after all.
“Could it be? I don’t think so, I’m quite confident… mr. vampire.” He said to him with the same calm voice, making him know he figured what he was. “How much more of you are you willing to uncover?” He asked him back with a small smirk.

He was looking into his eyes, so curious about the vampire, yes it could be a dangerous game but the warlock could heal himself even if the other would try to drink from his blood. Which he was pretty sure the vampire was very eager to do.
“I’m not delicate, sir.” He said with a little laugh, he was wondering if the other was willing to have him as a dinner or as a one night stand, maybe a little from both. “I’m quite alone tonight, indeed, what are you offering?” He asked him with the same curious eyes.

Sure, the vampire was charming, maybe it was part of his powers, willing to figure what more the other could do to him or at least try to do to him. The warlock only looked at him with a small smirk. “Jung Yunho, and you are?” He asked, the other guy seemed to be quite a dangerous vampire.

@♆ Joy They stood before a stall draped with colourful tapestry, where people attempted to knock down the plushies to gain a nice prize. Mackenyu was never a man to waste time at certain trivial games since he was already working since he was but a boy. Yet somehow this is not a reason to not have fun. He grinned softly at the beautiful princess and nodded. "I haven't tried this game. But If it is the same as throwing a javelin then I think I have a shot." He spoke of the truth and called the game master already earning a lot from failed attempts to knock the plushies down. "How much for a throw?" Mackenyu addressed the man and grabbed a small leather purse, paid three coppers coin to play. A wicker basket was slide across the wooden top, five balls was given. Mackenyu usually meticulous and calm, felt a surge of nervousness. He spent most of the day meticulously mapping up the festival and also to dress nicely that night. But now he hoped to impress Sooyoung with this.

He held the ball upwards, shifting his feet to move sideway then lurched forward throwing the ball as accurate and hard as possible. But he was soon to find myself missing the targets till he ran out of balls. "One more." He said, completely immersed into the game - aiming to win so that the princes can go home with a reward. The man tried it again but failed then once more. H rubbed his nose and sighed. "Sorry, Sooyoung. Again." He paid another copper coins and this time he hoped to win.

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@❇︎ Yooa ¥✔ “You have a room of your own?” Myungsoo exasperated maybe a little too loud it caused few heads to turn their way. He winced, rubbing his nape to ease the sudden tension. “And i have to share space with—“ He paused for the young man is unclear how much information he can divulge. His lineage is not only of nobility but also a part of the king’s war council. Being the only one suitable for the family’s title, Myungsoo had to train on military tactics. Hence, he was expecting a gentleman to be his bunk mate, but early on that day a request has been forwarded. “Well..” He chuckled and ruffled Yooa’s hair. “As long as twinkle toes don’t mind her sleep being disrupted by this fancy boy, then expect a knock at your door.”

The simple exchange between Yooa and the merchant made him question if the fairy already indulged herself with sugary treats. Or if she spent most of her coins for these. Though if she did, Myungsoo cannot blame her. His eyes feasts at the glorious colours that are not only pleasing in the eyes but also shaped in adorable little things. Orange, blue and yellow, alluring for one who has a sweet tooth. Red. Little red candies captured his attention. Orbs glowing red, Myungsoo took a whiff of the scent of blood mixed with an elixir made out of honey.

“A vampire, I see.” The merchant spoke, voice filled with jolly anecdotes. “These you’d want. These are two dozens” He pointed at box of different shaped red candies. “They are assorted flavours. I tend to mix vanilla and other earthly flavours and injected blood to this. As soon as you give it a bite, the blood will pop out.

“You used human blood.” Myungsoo raised a brow and the merchant let out a hearty laugh. “Of course sir. Only the best ingredients.”

“Right.” Myungsoo nodded, standing straight. “How much for it?”

“Hmm..well…i’d normally sell it for ten silver coins since it is one of a kind. But for you seven will do.”

The vampire’s face turned sour despite having triple the money the merchant is asking for. But he is not the one paying. “How much for a bag of ordinary ones?”

“Two silver coins. But a man of your statute surely can—“

Myungsoo cut him off by a show of fangs. “Enough! A bag will do.” He sighed and stepped back. “I’m sorry.” But when the merchant was busy getting the candies. Myungsoo sneakily reached for the box and hides in inside his robe.

@♦ Mackenyu Arata ¥ Sooyoung walked through the stalls with him and then she caught her eyes on one game in particular, “Mackenyu look!” She pointed one of the parlour games that they can knock down most of the plushies to win a grand prize. She turned to look at him, “Should we try?” Sooyoung asked him. “Are you a good thrower?” She added as they went to the stalls.

@† Kim Myungsoo Yooa smiled at him knowing that others around him and other nobles would call their antics childish and something that he shouldn't do. She could tell though that he enjoyed these silly antics and humor that they both shared. She could tell that it put a smile on his face and brightened up his mood. "Then I will get you all the candies that you desire," Yooa told him with a nod of her head. "Or well, until we run out of money," Yooa giggled as she smiled at him, patting her coin purse.

Yooa couldn't help but laugh again. "Oh no, well now I am here - so the torture is over. You'll be okay now, Myungie," She patted his head, giggling a bit. "I hope our adventure today heals your tortured soul," She added as she kept swinging their hands as they made their way to the blood candy booth. She knew that not everything was okay or that he didn't like being at home - so her pulling him every which way was just her way of cheering him up. She led them down the path taking them to where their prized candies were.

She glanced over at him not minding the silence as she simply enjoyed walking together and enjoying his presence. Yooa nose scrunched a bit as she was thinking about when she would return to school again - I mean, she did live there so she was there all the time. Well, okay maybe not all the time. "I can come back to my dorm then too so we can hang out and study together. I can show you my room!" Yooa smiled at him. "'Cause you know we still haven't had our sleepover yet - or, does the fancy boy not wanna have a sleepover anymore," Yooa huffed a bit, of course teasing him. She wasn't actually upset. She could tell he was already smelling the candy by his reaction and words. She smiled at his reaction to them getting close to the candies. She did hope that he liked them. She leads them up to the booth, giving a small wave to the stall owner behind the counter. She pulled out her coin purse as she held in her free hand. "What kind do you want, Myungie? Your pick - mainly because you are the only one that can eat them," She chuckled "What flavor do you think will taste best?" She asked him.

@❇︎ Yooa ¥✔ It was all but simple. A fairy befriending a vampire. They share the same wave of humour and act as if they were a child. Unnecessary the vampires would call such antics. Myungsoo viewed it differently. Yooa returning his gestures only proved that he could also find happiness in his immortal life. “Candies are more than enough, miss.” Myungsoo dipped his head once more and chuckled at her silliness.

“I missed you too.” Her voice warm like a sweet honey tea. In that embrace, the young man responded, “Oh you have no idea how torturous it was. So dreadful I say.” A low chuckle escaped his lips. The vampire is not lying – things have taken a turn back at home. They’ve been pardoned and invited back at court which ensues good fortune and favour. He gently squeezed Yooa and after that hug, he willingly let her lead the way. This gave him enough time to sneak a peek from behind them to confirm he that trouble truly is not upon them. With too many faces around, it is a futile task.

The silence was not a bother though for the young man he wished to know what’s going in her mind. “By the way, I’ll return to the academy two days after the festival. How about you? When will you return?” He asked, gently patting her hand. They passed few booths and there he picked up the sweet undertone like vanilla or caramel or was it the scent of blood that’s adding warmth to the fragrance. “Oh, how appetising.” He murmured.

@♆ Joy Mackeny fumbled with the pendant, his cheeks tinting a vibrant pink. “You really didn’t have to. I’m glad to be of help. It is you after all.” He paused, realizing what he’d said, and his face turned an even deeper shade of red. Their relationship might have improved but he still an employee, bound by a contract and his afterlife in the hands of Joy. The festival becoming stimulating. Sizzling meat, the sweet smell of spiced fruits and treats making anyone’s mouth drool. The colourful banners and tapestry invigorating for the eyes. Music and performances finally hitting the interesting part of the act. All seemingly perfect for the man, especially with Sooyoung being there.

Her smile brought forth something Mackenyu still find difficult to admit. His heart swells and quickly wore the necklace she gifted him. Hands linked together the man stared at her. “Passing by the stalls, I saw a pottery vendor with carvings of woodland creatures. There are also these parlour games like those ring toss. Or are you hungry?” He rambled on to see what piques her interest.

@† Kim Myungsoo Yooa had fun on their little sprint - she wasn't lying when she said it was like a rollercoaster. Yooa let out a laugh, watching him bow. "Would you take candies as a form of payment for my fare?" Yooa couldn't help but be a bit cheeky and playful, kicking her foot a bit and checking her coin purse making it seem like she didn't have any more money to give him. Of course that was true, she was just being playful with him. She tucked away her coin purse, giggling a bit as he embraced her. She wrapped her arms around him, cheeks flushed again as she felt him burry himself into her neck. Not worried nor scared about anything happening. "I missed you too - I hope it was too much torture not to see me for a little while," She laughed, patting his back a bit as they hugged.

She nodded as she felt him pull away from her. "Okay, sounds like a plan," she told him, taking his hand, which was ready for her own hand. She linked their fingers as she glanced at where he had indicated. "Hmhm, yep - it is just a few booths down from the left path," Yooa pointed with her free hand that was holding her plushies towards the correct path that they needed to take. She started to guide them in the right direction, simply swaying their hands a bit as they were walking. She was already calculating how much money she had and how much she could get him. She had enough that wasn't a problem - she just wanted to make sure that they could get as much as they wanted. She was glad that they were getting to spend a bit of time together during the parade.

@♦ Mackenyu Arata ¥ "Well, you've been helping me a lot since Joy is recovering so might as well give you something nice in return." She smiled and and looked at the flowers, "But really..." Then she looked at Mackenyu, "Thank you, Mackenyu." The demon said before she gently and slowly holds his hand and her fingers intertwined with him. "We should look around the streets, maybe we might caught something fun!"

@♆ Joy He did not expect much of a reaction, believing that a mere flower would be nothing compare to the princess' wealth and pristine collections. It was a consolation that she appeared to the simple gesture. "Do you really fancy them?" He blurted out, scrunching his nose to brush off his nerves. "I am told women like these things. And I'm glad they smell nice." Mackenyu nervously chuckled but immediately paused when Sooyoung handed him a small box. "I uh--" He saw the precious crystal, taking the silver chains in hand and glanced at her. "This is...but...unexpected. But thank you."

@❖ Daniel Henney The water churned around Bora. Her iridescent tail that’s usually a source of grace and power, heavy with guilt. In her sudden action the poor boy sprawling onto the prickly stone ground. She never wanted to hurt anyone, the boy offered a genuine curiosity for her misfortune. Her heart plummeted as the laughter died followed by wailing. Her sight never leaving the boy now in his mother’s arms. “Please…” Her voice shattered, tears threatening to fall from those orbs. “Please open your eyes…”

The clamour of armour felt muffled in her ears. She couldn’t move an inch even if she wish to live. Fear, sharp and cold, pierced through her guilt. She knew the rumours of what they do to merfolk. The hunt and the experiments. A wild panic rising in . The harsh pull of the invisible strings, no longer bothered her. “Is this the end?”

A huge shadow hovered over her, that her body trembled. There is the man, tall, but it was more of his aura that sets him apart. He wasn’t human, even through her haze of fear, Bora recognised him- the dragon man.

She wanted to ask if he is there to execute her. Speechless, she only flinched when the man reached out to her. He said, “Rest.”
She refused to do so but his voice commanded a period of repose. “Who are you?” She uttered, her eyes heavy and everything turned dark.

For a moment, she found herself immersed, swimming about the merfolk realm, happily chasing around her siblings. They gathered together braiding each other’s hairs, exchanging tales of their recent encounter with people from outside of the realm. Or exchanging information of foreign objects they find in the surface. It was all but bittersweet memories, but it remained something that brings smile in her unconsciousness. Only if dreams have no endings. She twisted and the simple cot. Her silver-blue tail illuminated, and magically replaced by human legs.

“Sisters.” She uttered, brows knitted together. A tear slowly ran down her face. For a moment she was in distressed, but soon her eyes flattered open. She reached for her eyes, rubbing them gently as the blury image slowly becomes clear. No longer in the town’s square, her eyes widened. Panic gripped her, especially went she confirmed she wasn’t alone. Immediately she jolt up and grabbed whatever is close. “Who are you? And what the hell do you want?” She held a bronze candlestick, pointing it at the man.

@♦ Mackenyu Arata ¥ Sooyoung looked at the bouquet of flowers that Mackenyu offered to her, she gasped a bit and looked at the flowers that were wrapped perfectly together, "These are beautiful." She looked at him, seeing the look in his eyes, she knew he admired her. Maybe he liked this side of her, not the greedy demon. Then she leaned to the flowers and smelled its scents, "They smell fresh too." Sooyoung chuckled. Then her other hand reached for the small box from her pocket and showed it to him, "This is for you." She said with a smile on her face.

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@☾ Kwon Jiyong Amidst all the merry folk drinking and celebrating, I stood on the platform, half- but movement fluid along the music. Crowding the stage are men and woman alike, lusting for sensual attraction and cupping a feel when the occasion arise. A freed man, I have been accustomed to such treatment before. Mesmerise the crowd and let them touch. It will hurt one's ego but mine had been wounded before. With a grin on my face, I watched them thirst for more. Their pheromones mixing like a dangerous opium, only if one desires more than being an audience. The weave of music hypnotic, from domestic tranquility to an ominous warning. It was a cue. I spun around and with the final beat of the drum, I slide on my knee with arms outstretched. My chest rise and fall, waiting for the applause to end. Some chanting for more but my mind is elsewhere, my sensitive ears picking up on a disturbing rumor that had been circulating through the festival. It started as a faint murmur that spoke of children of the dessert being taken and enslaved by a ruthless individuals.

Then I heard it. I heard the unmistakable sound of wolfish whimpering and snarling, muffled and distant. My heart sank as I remembered the words of the elders. "We are wolves. We hunt, we gather and explore the land. But we never play the treacherous games of politics."

Bull.

I examined the audience. Good on them that they can celebrate, especially those who brought in their slaves bound in chains. My kin desires peace and dare not to put our noses in someone else's battle, yet here we are. They still chose to enslave my kind. I'd normally turn a blind eye and try to move on.

"But the children." I thought, sense of urgency talking sense to the beast inside of me. A sound of whip resonated in my ears. No longer a pup, but more. I might be imagining things, but my senses are never wrong. As I looked around the crowds of people, I knew I couldn't do it alone. At least for now, I must do something.

"Enough is enough." I made my decision and slipped away from the performance. I felt my body begin to shift, his muscles lengthening and his senses growing sharper. "Don't worry little ones. Rescue is here." I growled and followed their cries. I looked up the moon for a brief moment, and wished that my troupe was with me. For now, this will do.

@♦ Jung Yunho Sun's gaze lingered on Yunho, the curve of his lips just faintly lifting at the human’s audacity. The scent of the mage’s blood was intoxicating, sharp and sweet, mingling with something more primal—a spark of untapped power that made Sun’s thirst stir. He allowed the silence to stretch between them, the crowd of revelers fading into the background as the world narrowed to just the two of them.
"Curiosity can be a dangerous thing, mage," Sun murmured, his voice a low drawl, seductive and laced with dark amusement. "I wonder, how much more of me are you willing to uncover?"

His eyes drifted from the chains on his wrist to the sharp glint in Yunho’s gaze. It was rare—almost unheard of—that a human could look upon him without fear. But then, this one wasn’t just any human, was he? The mage’s composure, his unwavering confidence, both intrigued and unnerved Sun. He took a small step closer, the distance between them shrinking as he allowed the weight of his presence to settle on Yunho’s shoulders.
"You seem far too… self-assured for someone so delicate," Sun’s voice dipped lower, each word deliberately chosen, caressing the air between them. "Tell me, do you have company tonight, or do you find yourself alone in this vast, dangerous world?"

The question hung in the air like an invitation, but there was something darker in Sun’s gaze now, something that only hinted at what he truly wanted. A flicker of hunger, masked by his practiced charm, flitted across his expression. His lips parted, as if ready to speak again, but this time the words would be far more… intimate.

It would be a night to remember, one way or another.

@⥈Christian Yu ¥ The Grand Central Isle’s Annual Parade unfolded in a kaleidoscope of lights and sound, yet Ayaka Miyoshi stood apart from the revelry. Draped in crimson silk embroidered with gold phoenixes, she exuded effortless confidence as her nine ethereal tails swayed behind her. From her vantage point atop the cafe balcony, she sipped her spiced tea, the warmth grounding her amidst the effervescent laughter below. Yet her mind was elsewhere, tangled in thoughts of fragile peace.
She recalled tales of the Battle of Brothers, the centuries-old conflict that scarred Heleo’s lands. Born during the war’s final throes, Ayaka had inherited its haunting legacy. A faint frown marred her perfect features. The balance amongst the nations seemed stable, but for how long? What subtle spark might ignite a second cataclysm?
Across the square, her amber gaze locked onto a man with violet eyes—Christian Yu. A merfolk, unmistakable in his ethereal grace, stood weaving miniature airships and lanterns from water. She had read of his kind in old scrolls, yet never imagined she’d see one in the flesh. She watched, enraptured, until a Water Tribe guard’s voice snapped her from her trance.
“A beverage, Your Majesty?”
“Honey apple wine,” she replied, her tone even, betraying none of her inner musings.
Above, a firework burst—a flaming kitsune, brilliant and foreboding, illuminating the night. The crowd cheered, but Ayaka’s heart tightened. A message in the flames, or a coincidence? She wasn’t sure, but the uneasy whispers of fate promised that peace was a fleeting dream.

@⥈Yoon Bora ¥ Daniel’s dragon instincts ignited the moment the child was struck. The crowd swelled with chaos—shouting, panic, the sharp clatter of weapons—but he was already moving, his steps purposeful and swift.

“Stand down!” His voice, imbued with authority and the subtle hum of his Dream Lord power, rippled through the crowd like a tide. The chaos faltered, the crowd’s fear-laden murmurs tapering into uneasy silence. He gestured to the Judicar Central task force. “Attend the boy. Ensure he lives. The family will be compensated.” His words brooked no argument, his tone a blade cutting through dissent.
As the officers moved to follow his orders, Daniel turned his attention to the mermaid. Her crimson eyes, wide with horror, were locked on the boy’s unmoving form. The wires attached to her limbs trembled, a cruel mockery of control. She looked ready to shatter.

Daniel approached, the crowd’s wary gaze pinned to him. His massive frame seemed to fill the space between her and the mob. She flinched as his shadow fell over her, but he did not hesitate. Gently, he pressed two fingers to her forehead. “Rest.” His voice was low, soothing, laced with the magic of dreams. Her body slackened as unconsciousness claimed her, the wires going limp.
Catching her before she fell, he lifted her effortlessly into his arms. His expression remained impassive, but within, an old ache stirred—a memory of chains, of humiliation, of humanity’s cruelty. He knew what it meant to be captive, to have one’s will stripped away.

“To the tent,” he commanded, addressing the chainbond men. “She’ll be secured there.” Without waiting for their reply, he carried her to a nearby infirmary tent.
Inside, he laid her on a simple cot, her delicate wrists bound with mana-infused cuffs. They glowed faintly, enough to suppress her abilities but not to harm. With a touch, he brushed his fingers against her temple, weaving a dream to calm her frayed mind and allow her to wake gently.

Settling into a chair far too small for his broad frame, Daniel stared into the crackling ironwood fireplace. The flames danced, their flicker pulling at old wounds. Memories of his own captivity surfaced—of iron bars that dared to cage a dragon, of nights spent yearning for freedom. He flexed his hand, feeling the phantom weight of shackles long gone.

The mermaid stirred, her lashes fluttering. He remained silent, watching, his gaze sharp and calculating. A storm brewed within him, a collision of duty and compassion. Whatever lay ahead, he knew this—her arrival would change everything.

@❇︎ Yooa ¥✔ Myungsoo can finally breathe, ironic, he is a vampire after all. Yooa seems well and it gave him joy to witness her delight at the simple ride he offered. He followed her movements and only if he has a beating heart then it might’ve been beating faster. She fixed her clothing. Her scent filling his lungs. “This is good.” So he thought. Remembering every niche and hint of her. “My pleasure, miss.” He exclaimed, bowing a little like that of a nobleman in a royal court. A laughter soon followed, the young vampire feeling silly. Overjoyed to be with Yooa and Rui, Myungsoo stepped closer and embraced her.
“Oh how I’ve missed you”With a sigh of relief, the man buried his face against her neck. Not at all thirsty for blood but for her presence in his life. He accidentally looked past her, and there he saw a red dress and a pale shadow. As “Let’s quickly grab a bag of blood candies and treats for you and Rui. Then we’ll circle back to see if Miss Irene is done with your trinkets.” he peeled away from her, hand at ready to take hers, Myungsoo looked over the crowding people and said, “Is it down here?” Two road intersect and he wished he’ll lose the trouble that is tailing them.

@♆ Joy With a loud dong the towering clock rang the hour.. People are starting to fill the streets with children excitedly asking for treats while the adults mingle and enjoy a drink or two. Friends are busy talking with their lives, lovers arms linked together sharing quite an interesting conversation. Mackenyu hummed quietly to himself, looking down at his boot, seemingly interested at the sole grazed against the gravel. “Maybe she changed her mind.” He glanced around the crowd and sighed.

When all hope fails, someone called out his name. And there she is, divine in her stunning dress. He ran a hand over his hair and fixed his posture. His heart pounding against his chest and watched her twirl around. “Hmm” He took a moment to gather a voice and smiled, “You look lovely. And uh… here.” He reached out, holding the bouquet. “For you.”

@❖♕ Bambi Naka † Hearing her voice, Wooseok turned slowly, his optics locking onto the female. The glowing lanterns overhead painted fleeting shadows across the other’s face, but it was unmistakably familiar causing faint tremor to ripple through him. "You..." He trailed off, his voice wavering as if caught between recognition and uncertainty. His optics flickered, the crimson glow faltering for the briefest moment before returning with renewed intensity. It was as though the program controlling him hesitated, conflicted by the sudden appearance of this person.

Wooseok’s gaze shifted past them, scanning the vibrant crowd that filled the square, the music and laughter a distant hum against the storm brewing in his core. "You should leave." he said, his tone cold, almost indifferent, yet laced with a hint of something beneath. His hands, clenched at his sides, betrayed the internal conflict raging within. He forced himself to look away, back toward the crowd that had drawn him here. The program demanded he act, to unleash the chaos it craved, but now... Now, there was hesitation.

Seeing the other, hearing their voice had created a crack in the protocol that bound him. The flicker in his optics returned, more pronounced this time, as though two wills were warring within.

@〄 Byun Wooseok ¥✔ The soft hum of music filled the air, a mix of instruments I couldn’t name blending with the lighthearted laughter of the paradegoers. Grand Central Town Square had transformed into a sea of color and festivity, where beings of every kind swirled in an endless dance of unity. The air was thick with the scent of roasted meats, sweet pastries, and the heady aroma of spiced ale. Lanterns floated lazily above us, their soft glow casting fleeting shadows on the cobbled streets.

Amid the chaos, there he stood. Wooseok, his imposing figure set against the bright flashes of fireworks, his optics glowing with a crimson intensity. It had been some time since I’d seen him, yet here he was, as enigmatic and distant as ever.
I approached him, my eyes scanning the crowd, noting my guards lingering, ever-watchful. A flick of my wrist dismissed them, and I was left with nothing but the distant hum of celebration and the man before me. "It’s good to see you," I murmured, my tone soft but layered with unspoken things.

The fleeting connection we shared felt stronger today, amidst the revelry and clamor. Was it the atmosphere? Or was it simply the odd comfort I found in his presence? Perhaps it was both. Either way, my guard softened, if only for a moment.

@❦ Kim Hyo-jong ¥✔ Hyunwook stared out a the water, watching the festivities and lanterns behind him light up the water in different colors as he sat there, snacking on the fish breads that he had bought moments ago. He really didn't a plant when he arrived here as as per usual - he didn't have anyone to really go with. He wasn't even sure if he was going to attend in the first place, but the sounds and smells pulled him side and he ended up here. He didn't have many memories of other festivals like this before he arrived here as his clan when he was little didn't dare to put on a festival afraid of tribes locating them and raiding them - what good luck that did. Hyunwook kept his head down not really needing interaction and if he wanted it then he was certainly not afraid to go and seek it out. Not that he would ignore or push anyone way that came up to him. But, he was fine being on his own. Or well, at least he tired.

He did pick up his head at the static at the tip of tails, feeling it spark his signature magenta purplish pink sparks indicating that another like him was around. He didn't know many or really any thunder kitsunes around here - except the one that he encountered at the taverns in which he had to fight some stupid fae or something - it was a while ago and he was quite under the influence then, so he didn't remember everything. He heard steps approaching him, finishing the bite that was in his mouth before craning up his neck to look at the person who was speaking to him. Hyunwook nodded as the sound of his name came from Hyojong. "That is my name," Hyunwook answered him, wondering why he was speaking so low. The unsureness was expected as they had only met once before. Hyunwook knew his name for sure as he had been crowned the champion not too long ago. Hyunwook paused to speak again sensing that the other would continue - but he did part his lips after the silence started to annoy him only to hear the other speak again.

Hyunwook let out a small laugh, nodding. "Ah, right that you do," Hyunwook agreed still looking at him upside down as he hadn't stood back up - legs and tails still dangling over the edge where he was sitting. He couldn't help but smirk at the maybe more than that. He raised up a hand, rubbing the back of his neck. "I did sustain some injuries from that night - so maybe you do owe some compensation, oh dear champion," Hyunwook kicked at the water, kicking up a small splash with a slight huff to his cheeks. He was clearly messing and playing with the other as he couldn't help with that look on Hyojong's face that was staring down at him. He then raised the brown paper bag, filling the red bean fish-shaped buns he had bought. "Do you like fish bread?" Hyunwook asked him. "They go well with makgeolli," Hyunwook ears folded over, hinting at the drink and snack that they could share together if the other wanted.

@❦ Choi Hyunwook The lanterns swayed above the square, spilling gold over cobblestones slick with mist and spilled ale. Laughter rang from the crowd, voices a jumble of accents and songs from the thirteen nations. I stood on the edge of it all, watching—always watching. You’d think after years of exile, I’d have grown used to being alone in a crowd.

But tonight was different.

A crackling of energy pulled at my senses. You’d know the feeling if you ever stood beneath a storm cloud—electric, alive, dangerous. My ears twitched, catching the faintest rustle of tails. Yours. I’d recognize the cadence of your steps anywhere.
I saw you then, framed by the glow of a hundred lanterns. You held a paper bag of fish-shaped buns, tail swishing as if you didn’t carry the weight of the world. Thunder Kitsune. The first I’d seen in years.
The world shrank around us. The festival blurred, sound fading like a curtain pulling back. My throat tightened, my pulse quickened. I thought of Raena, my sister, her laughter like summer storms before everything fell apart.

I stepped forward, words lodged somewhere between apology and awkwardness. "Hyunwook, right?" My voice betrayed me, low and unsteady.
The silence that followed was thick, heavy. I wanted to look away, but I didn’t. "I... I owe you a drink. For last time." A pause. "Or maybe more than that."

My words hung there, fragile as glass, as if breaking them would shatter whatever thin thread of kinship I was grasping at. And yet, beneath it all, something stirred—a crackle before the storm.
And storms, I knew, never came without consequence.