Paying tribute to the ages

[elevator_attendant]

[In a very populated corner of the forum area, an intricate Japanese stall has been set up, containing small treats, along with a great deal of masks. Behind the stand is a small Mikoshi shrine, the entrance concealed by a blue fabric, inlaid with gold trimmings. Standing in front of these Japanese structures is a man, well-dressed in a blue suit and tie. His wardrobe clashes with the scenery, as he looks like someone who stepped out of an american hotel, circa 1930’s.

He speaks up in a very calm voice, but loud enough for all to hear.]

“Jidai Matsuri. For those not versed in Japanese culture, the festival, originating from Kyoto, is a time to celebrate the ages. Many other festivals are held during October, but this seems to be the one my master has fondness for.”

[A pause, while Theodore gestures to the Japanese stall behind him.]

“In honor of Japanese cultures, I’ve decided to bring something not often seen here to the Nexus. To excite or enlighten those who wish to learn more about the world and themselves.”

[He steps behind the mask stand, gesturing to the different character faces that line the stand walls. It’s very hard to count how many masks are there, but each one seems different then the next.]

“Masks are a common part of Japanese summer festivals, but my master finds them to be fascinating all-year round and feels that many other people can appreciate the beauty in such works of art. Thus, I have been tasked with sharing these wonderful gifts to you, the travelers of the Nexus. Donations are appreciated, but not necessary.”

[He plucks a mask off the wall, one that resembles Hello Kitty. No, he will not be putting it on, rather showing it off to any nearby person instead.]

“Feel free to find one that matches your personality. I can assure you that you will not walk away empty handed. If you require assistance, I will be here to answer any questions you may have.”

((The masks are enchanted (but not in a terrible lol way), and if your character chooses one, they will be able to recall a memory from their past (good/bad/sad/angry, you name it) or perhaps a very vague vision of the future. If you would not like your character to experience this, feel free to leave a note, and Theo will present your character with something normal. Enjoy!))

Comments

[drehnifusbahi]

It's certainly an eye-catching display, one he's never seen the likes of before. That alone would be enough to draw his curiosity, but when he mentions the purpose of the masks and the festival they're part of...

"I'm afraid I'm not familiar. When you say 'celebrating the ages,' what exactly do you mean?"

Even before he gets an answer, though, out comes his coin purse so he can donate a few septims - he has more than enough of them, these days. He can easily spare a few.

[elevator_attendant]

[Theo catches sight of the man looking over the stall and gives him a warm smile. He steps forward, happy to answer the man's question, as if he's been trained to bestow knowledge to others.]

"The holiday refers to a major event that occurred in Japan, when the capitol moved from Kyoto to Tokyo. Since then, people like to celebrate and pay tribute to people from the past, hence why the event is known as 'celebrating the ages'."

[Theo catches sight on the coins and gestures politely to a glass-blown bowl which rests next to the stall.] "Thank you for your kind donation, sir."

[drehnifusbahi]

He drops the coins into the glass bowl as directed, and listens intently. History has always been a particular interest of his.

"I see... and that's where the masks come into it? They represent the people being paid tribute?"

The masks that look like humans seem to be in the minority, but that means little. Given the presence of Khajiit and Argonians in his own world, it hardly seems impossible that other breeds of beast-folk could inhabit other worlds.

[elevator_attendant]

"Yes. They often represent people from the past. Or people just wear the masks for amusement purposes."

[He nods, gesturing to the masks hanging on the walls.] "Sometimes it's just fun to pretend to be someone or something else. I think most people can find enjoyment in such a festival."

[drehnifusbahi]

'Entertainment purposes'... that would certainly explain some of the odder ones. And perhaps there's a cultural element as well, references that he simply can't understand by virtue of not being from Japan himself.

"Perhaps," he agrees. "I imagine some people might find it freeing, as well." He examines the masks a bit more closely, though he doesn't touch any yet.