It was one of the hottest days of summer. As the sun set, the festival grounds were decorated with colorful lanterns, and the streets overflowed with the sounds of traditional music and laughter. The area transformed into a sea of joy, blending old-timers and newcomers alike. People sampled delicacies like yakisoba, okonomiyaki, and taiyaki at food stalls, participated in various games, and joined in traditional dances.
The members of B-Komachi wandered through the lively crowd.
Takamine wore a traditional red and white patterned kimono, her hair elegantly tied up, giving her a graceful appearance.
Watanabe, in a delicate pink kimono, was completely immersed in the festive spirit. Meimei chose a dark purple and black kimono patterned with stars, resembling the night sky.
Ari's blue kimono, patterned with ocean waves, gave her a calm and serene presence.
Kyun, full of playful energy, wore a cheerful peach-colored kimono and practically radiated happiness.
And Ai Hoshino, as always, shone the brightest among them. Her pink kimono, with floral sleeves and a golden obi sash, complemented her open, flowing purple hair, making her seem to glow amidst the festival lights.
As the colorful and cheerful crowd filled the festival grounds, the six members of B-Komachi chatted, took photos, and danced lightly to the traditional music. Their laughter and vibrant energy drew the attention of everyone around.
Just then, a group of men carrying a mikoshi — a portable shrine — appeared with great excitement. Dressed in traditional happi coats and white fundoshi, they carried the massive platform on their shoulders, stepping rhythmically while chanting loudly and adding even more enthusiasm to the festival. From within the crowd, a voice suddenly shouted:
"That girl! She brings good luck! Put her on the mikoshi!"
Before she could react, Ai found herself the center of attention. "Eh?! Me?! No, no, I don't want to!" she protested, but the men cheerfully, and in the spirit of tradition, lifted her onto the platform.
The B-Komachi members panicked immediately.
Meimei shouted, "No! They're taking Ai!"
Ari, wide-eyed, asked, "Is this some kind of festival tradition?!"
Kyun giggled, "If it is, Ai's going to be the star of the festival!"
Meanwhile, Ai was shouting from the top of the mikoshi, "Stop! No! AAAAA!"
Cheered on by the crowd's excitement, the men lifted Ai higher and began shaking the platform playfully as they carried her through the festival. B-Komachi members rushed through the crowd, trying to catch up and stop them.
Takamine reached out, yelling, "Stop! She's our friend!"
Watanabe asked, panicking, "What do we do now?"
Meimei chuckled, "Guess we'll be chasing her all festival long."
Ari mused thoughtfully, "What if she really brings good luck?"
Kyun added with a laugh, "Then they'll make Ai the official festival mascot!"
Amid the laughter, Ai, realizing the futility of resisting, began to laugh too. Eventually, she threw her hands in the air and shouted, "Fine! Might as well enjoy it! YUUPPII!" The entire festival erupted in cheers and laughter.
Hours later, the men carefully set Ai down. The B-Komachi members gathered around her, laughing with relief.
Takamine smiled, "We're just glad you're alive!"
Watanabe winked, "That was truly legendary."
Meimei patted her stomach, "I'm hungry, let's get some food!"
The girls then wandered the food stalls, sampling traditional dishes like yakisoba, okonomiyaki, and taiyaki. Ai was still catching her breath from the wild experience, while the others laughed and shared memories.
By then, the sky had darkened, and a soft summer breeze began to blow. At the end of the festival, the six B-Komachi members sat side by side. Just then, massive fireworks erupted in the sky. The night was painted in a dazzling array of colors, and everyone watched in silent awe.
Ai, with a gentle smile, said, "I think I love these moments. No matter what happens, these beautiful times are the best..."
The others nodded in agreement. Beneath the sparkling fireworks, the festival became yet another unforgettable memory for B-Komachi.
And thus, the festival ended, leaving behind another story and another burst of laughter.
To be continued...