The beginning ceremonies were surely a sight to see! Vivid fireworks lit up the night sky, and it truly felt like summer on the island. Residents scurried about, eager to take part in the festivities. Brilliant, golden light encompassed the festival, casting a warm glow across the fields of the island. Events were happening all across the different areas. For the next week, island life was sure to be as lively as could be.

---



Gilbert wasn't exactly the festival type. More than often, he vouched to ignore the bright lights and loud noises, but the events encompassed the entire island. It was ultimately difficult to avoid--which was why he had chosen to find a secluded spot. Now, he was leaning against a rather large tree, behind one of the many festival booths. It was a dark clearing, and despite the fact that he could still hear loud, festive cheers in the distance, he could collect his thoughts without too much of a disturbance. The black-haired man crossed his arms, closing his eyes as he listened to the noises of the festival.

The cafe had been as busy as ever. Despite the festivities, he still had to work. His shifts were shorter due to more workers being hired, but that also meant he made less money. Which meant he had to buy less. Not that he was a person of absolute extravagance, but he liked having a safe sum of money. Just in case something terrible happened. Although at this time, it seemed unlikely that there would be an economic crash. Life was lax. But at times he felt restless. He often went for walks or tried to explore new parts of the island, but he was restless. Although he was worn out now, he often attempted to amuse himself on the island by trying out things that he hadn't before.

A soft breeze swept over the area, but it didn't make him feel colder. The weather was gentle, like it usually was during summertime. He wondered how long summer would last on the island. It felt like it was just the beginning of the season. Which he was grateful for. During the winter, he often found himself wishing for summer's soft embrace. Winter was a scant and sickly season, that only reminded him of starvation and clinging to life. It was summer now. He knew he should enjoy it while he was able to.

"Thank you! Come again!"

Garry smiled down at the little girl as he reached down and placed a flower crown gently on top of her head. The girl giggled and raced away as her mother smiled and paid Garry before following after the fleeing child. Garry smiled as he tucked the money into the money drawer and leaned against the counter. His bright blue eyes scanned the streets and he felt peace wash over him. While he didn't quiet remember anything from before he woke up on this island, he felt quite content here. He had his won flower and shop and he had Ib and Allen. Speaking of...The man glanced down at the boy at his feet. "Nee, Allen, why don't you go and enjoy the festival, I can handle it from here." Garry said in a happy voice, as he turned, glancing at the boy from the corner of his eye. He hoped the boy would go out and have fun for a change. When not helping out at the flower shop, Garry knew Allen holed up into the library to read. He just wished Allen would find a friend...


Upon hearing Garry's voice, Allen glanced up from his book. He stared blankly at the man for several moments before he nodded and climbed to his feet. Tucking his book safely against his chest, Allen exited the booth and began meandering down the walkway. His eyes swept this way and that, taking in all the different stalls but feeling no need to stop and examine one. Children his age ran past him and Allen felt a brief pang hit him. While he seemed like all he needed were Garry, Ib, and his books, Allen longed for a friend; someone he could confide in. But...He didn't exactly know how to make friends. He was too shy to introduce himself nor did he really know how to react around people. He sighed and continued walking, idly wondering if he could find a nice quiet spot to read.


@Oz
Ib glanced nervously behind her as she scurried down the walkways on the island. Her red eyes glanced this way and that, straining it fix out there forms in the darkness. Did...Did she loose them? She almost let out a sigh of relief before she caught sight of a familiar shock of red hair. She almost groaned. Great, Lavi and his goons were still following her. She didn't know how many times tonight Lavi had asked her to walk around the festival with him and apparently he thought 'no' meant 'yes' because no matter how many times she had declined him, he kept following her. She sighed and picked up her pace. She sped-walked for a few moments and waited until a large crowd was between them and her before darting into the darkness. She sighed in relief before yelping slightly when she realized she wasn't alone. She blinked, squinting as she made out Gilbert's form in the darkness. She blinked again. "O-Oh. Sorry Gilbert, I didn't know you were back here. Um..." She glanced nervously over her shoulder, hoping Lavi and Company didn't find her back here. Couldn't they just leave her be and let her enjoy the festival in peace?