Story Reader / Festival Event Story / Heart's Whispers Across Time / Story
I was invited to an outdoor music lecture in the residential area, but it started pouring rain halfway through.
My terminal says an ecological module in the residential area broke down, messing up the water cycle and causing this heavy rain.
It was unexpected—neither the organizers nor the audience were prepared. Everyone had to take shelter in nearby buildings, waiting for it to clear up.
They said the Engineering Force started emergency repairs, and things might be back to normal soon...
Unfortunately—the problem was damaged hardware. They need to replace everything, so this rain's going to last a while.
A woman in a gray-white uniform suddenly appears beside you, also looking out the window.
But, finding the problem before it did real damage means this rain might be a blessing, really.
Ishmael...
These private little meetings with her seem to be happening more and more often.
Good evening.
The rain's not stopping anytime soon. Since you have evening plans, would you like me to take you back now?
You see the long umbrella in Ishmael's hand, but what she just said is even more surprising.
There's a book I've wanted to read, but haven't had the time. I was planning to read it during my free time today.
But I don't recall ever telling anyone about this...
Because you always have a packed schedule.
As if she can tell you are confused, Ishmael smiles gently and lifts her umbrella.
I'm actually headed that way too. It's on my way, so we can go together.
{226|153|171}~
Walking side by side under the umbrella, Ishmael softly hums a tune that sounds familiar.
Can you tell what song it is?
Correct.
Actually, I came to this lecture partly because they were talking about this song.
I remember you know this song well, and the dance that goes with it.
Did I tell her about this?
In that case, would you care to dance?
Before you finish, Ishmael stops and holds out her hand.
Ishmael keeps her soft smile and holds out her hand, nodding gently.
You're completely alone. The rain's like a thick curtain, hiding the buildings and muffling everything. Only the streetlights manage to shine through, lighting the way.
It really feels like we're on a stage.
Don't worry, get closer. You won't get wet.
You take Ishmael's hand gently, move close until you're face to face, and place your right hand on her lower back.
Relax. If you get the steps wrong, it's fine—just go with it.
You take Ishmael's hand gently, move close until you're face to face, and place your right hand on her lower back.
Relax. If you get the steps wrong, it's fine—just go with it.
Everything's set. After a short pause, Ishmael hums the tune. You take the first step, following the melody, and she instantly matches you.
Step forward, step back—Ishmael's moves are perfectly timed, both leading and following. Even someone who's never danced could keep up with her.
Through all the moves and spins, the umbrella stays right over them.
Let's speed it up a little.
You swear you can hear violins all around you, the melody getting livelier. Whether it's the music or something else, you feel a rush of joy, and your movements get smoother and more carefree.
Step, lean, spin—the umbrella moves with you, shifting between your hands as you dance, spraying water with each movement.
As the music hits another high point, you spin Ishmael out. You briefly move apart, and then the umbrella makes a soft thump as it stops swinging. Only then do you notice you are out of the umbrella's cover.
But it doesn't start pouring. It might just be your imagination, but everything seems to freeze when the dance stops—thousands of raindrops hanging still in the air.
Ishmael gently pulls you as she spins back, leaning gracefully against you to finish the dance—just as the umbrella covers you again and the rain comes down hard.
This is a perfect ending.
Ishmael straightens up and casually fixes her hair, which is a little messed up. She looks happier now, smiling wider than before.
Hmm, the gift's ready now.
You'll see when you get back.
Nothing else happens. Ishmael walks you to the door, says a quick goodbye, and leaves. Back in your room, you are still thinking about what she said.
While you are thinking, you grab the book you mean to read but find an art book next to it.
Opening it, you see pages of sketches—simple, but full of life. Flipping through, you see drawings that seem to capture someone's memorable moments from a long trip.
Flipping to the last page, you see a sketch of two people dancing in the rain—it's you and Ishmael.
At the bottom, there's a line of elegant handwriting.
Gray Raven, happy birthday.
