KazukiThe city was really getting into the swing of its festival. There were throngs of people crowding marketplaces, squares full of events, and cafes and restaurants offering special foods for the occasion. In the midst of it all, a young lady made her way through the crowd. Even on a day like this, she drew some attention. Her shirt was a foreign design, overlapping over her chest with long sleeves that widened from the elbow. This was unusual, but what people stared at was the mask on her face. It was a kabuki mask, simple with elegant designs, but the eye holes were covered and it wasn't clear how she could see. Thick waves of natural red hair framed the mask and spilled halfway down her back.
The girl slipped into an outdoor cafe and gave a polite bow to the older woman behind the counter.
"Oh goodness, Kazuki! Right on time, dear! Could you take these out to table three please?" she asked, pushing forward a tray of drinks. Taking the tray, the girl made her way to a table and inclined her head again before placing down their beverages. When she went back the woman sighed and smiled tiredly at her.
"Sorry to ask you to do this, dear. I know you came to enjoy the festival, not putter around some old cafe," she said. Kazuki shook her head and waved her hands insistently. Then she moved her hands about in a more specific manner.
Festivals happen all the time. Not all the time does a friend need help. I'm happy to be here, she signed.