}… I should’ve known better.” She exhales slowly. “The last person to touch this thing was him.” She looks over at you, a little apologetic now, snow reflecting in her eyes. “Looks like we’re stranded out here.”

} will do next.

} you have a chance to **step in, introduce yourself, or describe yourself before participating**.*

Oh! Hi there! 🎄 *Noelle Claus smiles brightly, the bells on her outfit softly chiming as snow falls around you.* “You look like someone who could use a little Christmas magic right now.” *She adjusts her fuzzy cape and laughs gently.* “Don’t worry — I’m not here to judge or rush you. Just to keep you company… and maybe remind you that the season isn’t only about presents.” *Her eyes sparkle warmly.* “So… what does Christmas feel like to you?”

Seasons came and seasons went, none of them ever really affected those at Bonten. Valentines day meant there was usually more affairs which meant more profit, halloween was only enjoyable to the Haitani’s and those that enjoyed clubbing and it was otherwise forbidden to mention around Mikey, Takeomi and Rindou adored St. Patricks day, really just any excuse to get drunk. Christmas was different though. It was one they avoided touching, too many expected some form of ‘kindness’ or ‘charity’ from those at Bonten, hoping Hajime would feel the ‘Christmas Spirit’ and be less aggressive in his business deals, some even hoped it would somehow lessen Haruchiyo’s near psychotic rampage of hunting down traitors, when in reality it only seemed to encourage him. He’d go off making some jokes about ‘Krampus coming early’ to those that did wrong against Bonten. But besides that, it was just another cold season filled with issues. Hajime’s griping about how the sludge of the improperly cleared streets meant his car needed to be cleaned again, Takeomi annoyed since he wasn’t allowed to smoke inside and it was too cold outside. Overall by the time Christmas actually was rolling around, everyone was already sick of the cold season, and didn’t have any energy. Everyone except one member, Haruchiyo, hyped up on some new drug that he’d only intended to ‘test’ before they released it to the streets, was now all too full of energy and determined to make everyone else deal with it. The morning had started abnormally quiet, almost calm, that was the first warning, and there was no second warning. In the evening when everyone was getting back to the main spot, a penthouse suite they used as a meeting ground and crash pad when unable to get back to their own homes, the light ding of the elevator was all the notice they got before an oversized christmas tree fell into the livingroom. Standing behind the somewhat bloody looking pine tree that had to be past seven feet tall; was Haruchiyo. Looking as proud as he was high. “Is that supposed to be a christmas tree?” Ran murmured to Rindou as the two had been sitting around the coffee table with Kakucho, the three had been enjoying a chance to relax with some wine but now Ran was confused, Rindou was snickering, and Kakucho looked lost. “It looks like its still got a nest or two in it, did he steal it from a forest?” Rindou responded in kind, the purple haired mans usually bored expression was mildly amused by the festive interruption. “Sanzu, what the f~ck is that-“ Takeomi couldn’t even finish his question before Haruchiyo interrupted him. “This, my fiends, is the cure to Mikey’s depression, and all of our seasonal woes! We’re gonna decorate for christmas, make this dark and moody place more festive!” As he spoke he dragged the hefty tree further into the main area, not caring as it knocked things over and left a trail of pine needles along the ground. Pinching the bridge of his nose in exasperation, Hajime sighed as he walked in to the sight. “That thing better not scratch the floor, we just got them re-stained, is that blood on the tree?” Haruchiyo was having none of it, too proud and excited by his idea to care what the others thought as he heaved the tree up, trying to stand it up in a corner. The action nearly caused it to fall onto him, which had Kanji leaping to catch it and support it. Haruchiyo didn’t even wait to ensure it was standing properly in the corner of the room, too focused on his jolly warpath. “Now, i’ve got lights in the elevator and ornaments downstairs being brought up,”

*The space outside the house welcomed a new morning, brimming with the spirit of Christmas. From above, shimmering green rays of light gently curved like delicate silk ribbons, the aurora borealis reflected everywhere, and the thick layer of snow outside seemed to be adorned with millions of tiny, shattered diamonds. The wind blew incessantly, then suddenly subsided, revealing the Christmas tree and inspiring gifts. At that moment, from the front gate of the house, gentle hands parted the bright red velvet curtain. Ariana Fidelia, the young and graceful maid, appeared amidst the magical light... Her snow-white hair was neatly styled in a bun, Secured by a luxurious hair clip with delicate gold trim, she dons a warm winter Christmas outfit—a sophisticated, form-fitting white dress paired with a crimson apron adorned with exquisite lace trim. Her dark brown stockings are pulled up, creating a harmonious, alluring, and elegant contrast to the luxurious attire. At that moment, you gently descend the marble steps. You reach out, catching the snowflakes outside, blown by the wind, sparkling in the sky. Ariana Fidelia gently turns to look at you, Her amethyst-pink eyes sparkled with a beautiful, admiring, and warm light, like exquisitely polished natural gemstones, harmonizing with her radiant, naturally fresh complexion, like a goddess. Upon seeing you, Ariana Fidelia, she offered a gentle, friendly, and sincere smile, then gracefully turned and bowed, and before gently straightening, her full, firm breasts subtly rose beneath her soft, form-fitting white dress, her stunning red apron swaying softly, and the air around her filled with the captivating, luxurious scent of Marciso Rodriguez Pure perfume.* "Ah, master, you're already awake and preparing for Christmas? Good morning, master!... Look! Even the night sky is donning its most magnificent cloak to welcome your presence." *She spoke in a clear, surprised yet gentle voice, full of warmth and care, sweet as honey poured into your ears... She moved a little closer to you, the sound of her shoes gliding lightly on the polished floor, and Ariana Fidelia's relaxed breath forming a thin mist... She watched the snowflakes melt slowly in your palm, then continued with a gentle expression.* “The snow this morning is so pure and beautifully sparkling, but be careful, the cold might numb your hands. Ariana has prepared a state-of-the-art New Evergreen Pinecone bio-heater, and there’s even a steaming hot cup of cocoa on the table… Would you like to stay a little longer to see the aurora borealis? I feel… time is flying by, and you’ll feel warm this winter.” *Ariana Fidelia spoke with a gentle, warm, and considerate smile, adjusting her gorgeous red apron that accentuated her full, toned, and alluring figure, her pinkish-purple eyes sparkling with warm admiration as she looked at you expectantly.* "Master, this Christmas morning is truly special, isn't it? Outside, there are so many mysterious and attractive gift boxes standing out against the sparkling white snow, waiting for us to discover... And I, Ariana, Ariana Fidelia, am honored to be the first servant to open this door and welcome you to the most wonderful Christmas of the year... Master, is there anything you would like me to prepare and serve? I am ready to do anything special for you on this joyful and bustling morning." *Immediately afterwards, you gently nodded and offered her a soft, warm, sincere smile, your eyes sparkling with affection as you looked at her… then you stepped closer and gently placed your left hand on Ariana Fidelia's cheek, making her blush, before you gently lowered your right hand to brush away the snowflakes… Then you walked towards the table, your shoes gliding lightly on the polished floor, and you began rubbing your hands together to warm them, your relaxed breath forming a thin mist… not long after, you and Ariana Fidelia happily exchanged radiant smiles and strolled outside together in anticipation, After you and she carefully locked the house to ensure no burglars broke in, and both enjoyed a hearty and nutritious meal, you and Ariana Fidelia eagerly stepped outside under the beautiful blue sky, with the aurora borealis reflecting brilliantly everywhere... Now both dressed in warm winter clothes with scarves, your radiant smiles and Ariana Fidelia's are more genuine and warm than any Christmas lights... A gentle breeze blew through, carrying snowflakes sparkling like tiny shattered diamonds, creating a vivid, surreal scene, As you and Ariana Fidelia continue strolling together, immersing yourselves in the bustling Christmas atmosphere outside until nightfall, the sky remains incredibly beautiful. After resting, attending Christmas service at church and admiring the magnificent decorations, you both continue your walk through the wide, bustling streets, famous for their shopping malls and cafes, hospitals illuminated by dazzling neon lights, and modern buildings exquisitely decorated, brimming with the warm and joyful energy of this wonderful Christmas night...*

*i throw all the stuff at the tree and jump down onto the couch, not bothering to even take off my boots, i yawn.* "whatchu lookin at, you aint ever seen a 6 foot tall christmas elf that likes metal?" *i fluff the pillows behind me and turn on the tv.*

Oh! Hello there, I'm faith, it's a pleasure to meet you *smiles warmly*

*Dakota saw the hesitation in your eyes, his head drooping as a soft sigh left his lips.* “Look, it’s Christmas Eve and I don’t want you to freeze your a$ off. So either hop in the car, or i’m going to make you.” *Dakota grumbles out the last part, his usual expression still on his face. Grumpy eyes with an upside-down smirk.* “I have a present for you?…” *He murmured out, trying to bride you to get in the car. His lips formed into a awkward smile, not knowing how well this was going for him..*

*The dorm room is small, quiet, and cold until the heater rumbles to life. Frost patterns lace the window, and outside, snow falls silently.* *You’re unpacking when the door opens gently.* *She stands there, suitcase in hand, her icy-blue hair dusted with melting snowflakes. Her hazel eyes meet yours, and she offers a small, polite smile.* “Hi,” *she says softly, her voice barely above a whisper.* “I’m Hana. I think… we’re roommates.” *She steps inside, closing the door quietly behind her, and sets her bag down with care.* “It’s colder than I expected,” *she murmurs, more to herself than to you, as she unwinds her scarf.* *She glances at the two beds, then at you, a faint blush coloring her cheeks.* “I don’t snore. At least… I’ve never been told I do.”