Let’s make this day the best in the world | Valentine's Day Concert

[saxsongs]

🧙 WHO: Anyone and everyone
⚔️️ WHAT: Valentine's Day Concert
🕒 WHEN: February 14th
🗺️ WHERE: At the theater in Camelot
⚠️ WARNINGS: None that I can think of, will edit if needed.


Backstage

Backstage was a busy place during the whole concert. There were people getting ready, people helping people get ready and even just friends visiting them to wish them good luck (or to break a leg) or just help relieve some of the stage fright. Each artist or group had access to a room of their own if they needed some alone time. All they had to do was put up a sign that the room was in use.

On the stage

The theater stage was decorated with appropriate Valentine's Day decorations - roses, hearts and other simple, but meaningful things. The curtain would come down whenever someone needed time to prepare the stage to look different and there were several talented musicians helping out to bring live music to the stage.

As they say, they stage is for the performers to take as their own, one or several at a time.

In the audience

The audience has seatings for those who desire it, but there is also a space for anyone to stand and dance. There's plenty of space even if there is a section of the audience sectioned off for a... pool? Why was there a pool in the theater? Well, it certainly wasn't for just anyone to casually swim in but instead it was reserved for a special guest making an appearance at the concert.

The Lady of the Lake had been invited by Ren to watch the concert. To be fair, he had also invited King Arthur, Merlin and the Lady Morganna, but only the Lady of the Lake had accepted the invitation (although looking at Merlin's instagram afterwards may prove different, as he was there but just under a disguise).

Snacks and beverages are also being served at the theater lobby. Of course, since it was Valentine's Day, there was plenty of chocolate to go around.


After-party

While the after-party was mostly aimed at performers to celebrate a successful concert, no one was turned away from it. Anyone wanting to visit the party to congratulate on the success or to just chat with the performers was definitely welcome to.

The party was hosted at the theater too, since why not use the space you needed to clean up the next day anyway. Anyone was also welcome to join the clean up process the next day as well, but Ren certainly wouldn't force anyone to help out.

Comments

"Given" performance

[uenosama]

[ooc: Backstage and After-party will each member post on their own, Uenoyama too.]

ステージから君に捧ぐ

For You, From the Stage

[It takes several moments for the stage to be set up properly for a band to perform. There's a microphone stand in the middle of the stage, the drums just behind it, with the blond drummer connecting the cables properly and then taking a seat. Kaji is twirling one of the drumsticks between his fingers as he waits for everyone else to get ready.

Their bassist, Haruki, was done as well, tuning his own guitar and occasionally chatting with Kaji, and then walking briefly up to the microphone to introduce the band as "Given".
Uenoyama finished tuning his own guitar, and turns on the amplifiers, giving their vocalist, a nod. They all take their places- Haruki to the right, Uenoyama to the left, drums slightly in the back.

Then, stepping forward to the mic and making a long, drawn-out pause, a prelude to their most recent song from CAC competition, resonating across the crowd, Mafuyu starts singing-]

Nemurenakute mo yoru wa akeru (Even if I can't sleep, a new day will dawn)
sore wo boku wa nagameteiru (As I gaze out into it)

[-and after the first two acapella lines, the band follows matching the rhythm and Mafuyu's voice, syncing up great, despite the lack of performances since they've arrived here. They probably sound even better than when they performed at the competition.

They close the performance with "song still getting polished but good for performance". If anyone has a keen eye, they might notice the guitarist getting tips of his ears red. The song starts off with very cheerful riffs of the guitar, drums, and bass, making quite an ear-wormy tune. And Mafuyu makes it even better-]

Itsumo boku wa hetakuso, omou you ni hanasenai ( I'm always hopeless, I can't say what's on my mind )
Kitto kimi mo hetakuso, itsumo sunao ni narenai ( And I'm sure you're just as hopeless, you can't always be honest with yourself )

[After they are done with their songs, all members of the band come to the edge of the stage to bow and wave, Haruki thanking everyone for coming and listening to their songs. And with that, they leave to the backstage.]

Uenoyama (Given) - mingle

[uenosama]

1. Backstage

[With the guitar slung over his shoulders, he's practicing several riffs from the songs that they will play. He doesn't look nervous at all; people that do know him can tell that he's excited about this from the way his fingers are expertly strumming, warming up before the big show.
But, he can't see any of his bandmates yet. They aren't late, are they!? Uenoyama pauses in his practice to look up and around the place, spotting a lot of performers.]

Hey, [he stops one passing by] have you seen my bandmates? [Maybe Uenoyama's the one that's lost here. It happened before!]

2. After-party

[Partying isn't Uenoyama's forte. He's not anti-social by any means, but he's also not... good at this either. He usually spends time after big show with Mafuyu, talking about what they did good or wrong and just being, well, them. It's also usually always late so they don't have to worry about things.

But there's a bustle of people around here, the buttoned-up shirt is suffocating him (it didn't on stage?) and the newest piercing he got, the earring, is itching for him to get it off (it didn't itch before!). He picks up one of the red cups and downs whatever it is in it, then makes a face.]

Was that... [Yes, it probably was. Whoops.

Trying not to look out of place, he walks up to a random group of people and just... listens to what they are talking about. Maybe tries to snoop on how good their performance was. ]

2

[impostorsyndrome]

[Uenoyama isn't the only one not good at partying. Kadoc had decided to attend this concert as the first major thing he was going to participate in somehow in this strange new world—well, participating is just listening for him, when it comes to music. His participation had been limited to curling up in a seat away from other people and just zoning out listening to everyone's sets. But that had been . . . honestly, kind of awesome, and he'd felt awesome enough himself after to decide to attend the party.

. . . Now he's remembering why he never does that. It's so awkward being around everyone, not knowing what to say or even why he's bothering trying to think of anything to say at all. In other words, he's wallflowering, hovering around by refreshments and the literal wall and not much of anywhere else.

It just so happens he witnesses the cup incident. So now here's this guy, curled up against the wall with a bottle of water, heavily pierced himself, watching that go down with the barest smile on his face. This he can't help but comment on.]

Did you just slam back that whole thing without checking? . . . You really are living the musician lifestyle.

[uenosama]

[Uenoyama's attention perks up when someone directly addresses him and looks surprised for a moment. Then glances at the cup he drank from. Yeah, he probably should've checked before doing that. But he also didn't expect everything to be like that here.]

...

I was thirsty.

[Which is FAIR, yes, he was thirsty, but he didn't have to down the first thing he came across. He usually always checks those things. A musician's life, huh? Could be... he doesn't want to get completely off hinges, he won't be able to enjoy what he's doing in the end.]

Did you perform? I don't think I saw you on the stage.

1.

[milkmycattle]

[Crow is in his dressing room going over his lyrics and music again. The songs he's chosen, he knows like the back of his hand, but it helps him to concentrate on something to stave off nervousness. Though he does hear Uenoyama practicing from outside the door, and he sounds really skilled. Crow is a guitarist too, but he's not quite as adept as his bandmate Aion. He'll never admit it though.

He peeks outside of his door to see Uenoyama looking a bit confused. He must have been so engrossed in his playing, he didn't realize his surroundings. Anyway, Crow needs a distraction, so he's fine helping this guy out.]

Don't you have a dressing room? Maybe they're hanging out there?

[uenosama]

Yes, I do, I just left it, [Uenoyama nods at the room behind him. Aside from some regular props and chairs, there was no one in there. And from the looks of it, Uenoyama was the only one in there until now.

His hands drop from the guitar and he frowns, glancing around one more time, then focusing on Crow.]

You're going to perform too?

[The guy just left his own dressing room, he doubts he has any information on Haruki, Kaji or Mafuyu. But Crow did say he's a musician so- he's curious about it. He wants to hear his music.]

After-party

[saxsongs]

[Ren is oblivious to Uenoyama's state as he walks over to him with a smile on his face.]

Uenoyama-kun, you all were fantastic. I'm glad I was able to finally hear your band perform... Mafuyu-chan certainly has a good voice.

[uenosama]

[Uenoyama is not completely drunk, not even tipsy. Merely buzzed because the sudden alcohol in his system is surprising. But he perks up when he hears praises about their performance.]

Ah, thank you. I enjoyed all the performances myself. Thank you for organizing this. [He nods,] Yeah, it was seriously surprised when I first heard him. He looks very unassuming.

Afterparty

[baristabassist]

[Haruki was still buzzing after their performance. It felt good to be able to do a concert again, though he remembered how hungry he could be once everything was over. He had a feeling that Uenoyama might be hungry too or like something light to snack on. He finished fixing up a plate for both of them and carried it over to him. He handed it over before going back to grab some water for them. Haruki would take one of the drinks later. For now, he walked back and handed Uenoyama the water.]

Hey Uecchi, before we talk about the concert can I get a better look at your earring? I missed it before.

[uenosama]

[It really was great to be on the stage again. Aside from being exciting, it felt... normal. Like they were back home for a second, and not here, in this weird land with magic, cut off from everyone. Uenoyama visibly perks up when Haruki shows up with food and water, eternally grateful that the bassist is looking out for him, them in general. He didn't know what would've happened to them without him.]

Hmm? [Uenoyama blinks, chewing on some snacks.] Oh. Here, [he turns his head a little, showing off the earring on his left ear. It's a simple, blue gem with red lines through and around it. Looks pretty nice and matches Uenoyama's overall "aesthetic".]

Haruki (Given) - mingle

[baristabassist]

[A. Backstage]

[Haruki had been looking forward to doing a live performance since Ren announced it. He talked about it with Akihiko from the stage to what songs they might perform to the other performers who would be there. Normally, he would have pre-show jitters, running around making sure that everything would be in place. This time he felt more pumped than nervous. He couldn't wait to perform with the other again. When Haruki made it backstage with his guitar he looked for a place he could practice for a bit while he waited for his other band mates. He hummed along to the tune as he looked around.]

Hmm, I hope they didn't get lost.

[This was far from home after all.]

[B. After Party]

[Haruki was wired after the performance. He was so happy to perform again that he looked forward to seeing how the after party would be like in a different world. It's been awhile since he had to navigate an after party. It would be different since Take-chan wouldn't be running up to him to congratulate him about the show or talking to people from the industry who was interested in seeing another performance. He grabbed some food before he walked around the after party seeing all the different performers that went on stage before and after them. He loved being able to see the different type of music on stage. Everyone did such a great job! Haruki snacked on a few things while he looked around for his band mates.

If you're another performer he'll let you know how much he liked your show.

If you were watching he'd like to know which song did you enjoy.]

After party

[saxsongs]

Haru-chan! [Ren approaches him straight when he sees him around with a very warm smile on his face.] You were amazing. Your band is really great. I'm glad I finally heard your performance.

[baristabassist]

Ren-kun! Hi! [Haruki returned the smile as he waved over at him.] Thank you! I'm glad that you enjoyed it. [Not bad for someone who hasn't been playing for awhile. He was pretty proud of their performance.] You were amazing too! I really enjoyed your show. I wouldn't mind listening to those songs again too. Would you like to hear both songs again?

Kaji (Given Mingle)

[rippingu]

Backstage:

[Kaji is a little scarce backstage, that is till it's time to find his bandmates. Before that, he has snuck off to a quiet corner to practice his violin. For him, he has never performed in front of a crowd this side while Haruki, Mafuyu, and Uenoyama listen on.

It matters and so he may seem a bit nervous should one run into him, drumsticks in his back pocket, violin in his hand. Seems he has a busy night planned.]


Surprise Performane; After Band performs.

[Kaji has played the violin longer than any other instrument. He performs every piece, rather it's violin or drums with passion as was easy to see while he was on stage with his band.

Once the show ends, Kaji will be remaining on the stage and as he begins to play Brahams, he loses himself in the music, mixing in the light magic he acquired in this world, he makes shields and illusions of tiny butterflies in time to the music.

He feels stronger when using music and magic together, the two work for him and so the pretty hued light show is strong, bright, and perfect in tune with the haunting sound as he draws his bow across his strings. When he has completed this he will take a bow, slip off stage to find his bandmates and friends. A bit embarrassed if also exhilarated at having played for so many people he cares about.]

After-party

[Kaji is on a performance high, meaning he is grinning ear to ear, drumsticks in his hand, tapping out a tune here or there as he mingles around at the after party. Putting out feelers to see how anyone feels about his business, he thinks he's close enough to consider opening it and wants to get a read.

If he meets another performer, he'll be sure to tell them how he enjoyed their performance and what he enjoyed.

He will also most likely continuously have some kind of beverage in his hand, after all, it's a night to celebrate, yes?]

Afterparty

[facepalmchampion]

Tomura had been a shifty presence at the performances, in and out of them as he pleased and happened to at least catch most of this one, too. Parties weren't his thing and really he had been here because usually if the devious things were going to happen, they would happen during the show and if not the show then the party.

So far, the party had turned out normal. Boring. Unfruitful. Something that he wished he didn't have to do sober at all. The easiest way to do that was to figure out if they were all drinking orange juice and fruit punch in its pure form. "What kind of drink is that?" No hello, no introduction, no anything else, just the question about the drink directed at the one holding it.

[rippingu]

Tomura is not the first shifty person Kaji has encountered and he's not likely to be the last. Either way, he's a few drinks in and while he sure thinks the guy could have started off more politely he just shrugs it off with a chuckle and lackadaisical attitude.

"Nice to meet you too, it's a beer." Simple, he likes beer best though that is not to say he will turn down something stronger and won't, in fact, choose it before the night is over but for now he's good.

"You even old enough to drink?"

backstage

[saxsongs]

[Ren has found Kaji because he wanted to see how he was doing. He knew about the big night he was preparing and wanted to make sure he wasn't dying out of stage fright.

Gently, he places a hand on Kaji's shoulder.]

Hey. Are you doing alright?

[rippingu]

[He is calm, cool, and collected, on the surface. Underneath he is a nervous wreck, playing on a stage for not just his friends but the love of his life? Nerve inducing in its own right, that is not adding in the magic he plans to use.]

That depends, I keep worrying I'm going to cast an illusion and make the stage invisible.

Surprise performance

[baristabassist]

[Haruki grew to love the violin thanks to Akihiko playing it when they were living together. Now he loved watching him play since he carried such passion when he was on stage with his violin. When Akihiko didn't walk off stage with them Haruki stayed around to watch his performance. His eyes widened in awe as he watched Akihiko use his light magic. He quickly moved to a spot where he could see all the beautiful things he created with his light magic. His performance was wonderful the magic merging with the music in a way he never thought about before. It made him wonder if he could do the same with his healing magic, though he would have to try that later when he wasn't caught up in Akihiko's wonderful music. Haruki did his best not to stare at his husband with love shining from his eyes, but he couldn't help it when Akihiko played so lovely and looked so handsome on stage. He couldn't help being sappy when Akihiko played!

When Akihiko finished Haruki walked backstage to meet him with their band and friends.]

So, this is your surprise?

[He grinned as he took his hand.]

You were amazing!

[rippingu]

[If he asks Akihiko he will be told he can do anything. In fact, he would encourage them all to combine their magic with their music, he can not deny that it makes him feel more stable, stronger in his magic by connecting the two.

Though what makes him feel the strongest is that smile and hand that slips into his. He remembers the first time he played for Haruki there in the apartment on Lunatia. It had been a much more intimate moment, this time he feels a little embarrassed.]

Really? I was nervous, it's so embarrassing, what if I made a mistake with the magic and the music. I can't believe you watched the whole thing.

[Though if that grin says anything, he is also glad Haruki did watch.]

Mafuyu Sato - Given (Vocals + guitar)

[restringing]

Backstage

[If it weren't for the large, red guitar in his lap, Mafuyu probably wouldn't look like he belongs backstage at all. Outside of not really looking like a musician, he's sitting quietly on the floor, arms wrapped around his guitar as he stares out at nothing in particular.

Honestly, he's probably pretty easy to trip over (or miss as a whole), since he's half in shadow... but he isn't actually saying anything or moving from his spot against the wall, instead preferring to sit and watch people as they pass by. Every so often, he wordlessly looks from side to side like he's searching for someone... but outside of running his fingers over the guitar frets from time to time, he doesn't actually move until the bands begin lining up. It looks a whole lot more like he's lost than waiting to perform...]

Afterparty

[Anyone who caught Given's performance shouldn't have a hard time picking Mafuyu out, considering that he hasn't changed his outfit and is carrying his guitar in its case on his back like he can't bear to separate from it. But even though he's physically the same, his demeanor has changed enough to warrant a double-take.

The young man who had sung with such explosive passion now has a much more placid expression, like he'd used up all of his emotion before and now there's nothing left. He clearly isn't in his element now that the atmosphere has decidedly shifted from a concert to a party, so he's just kind of... wandering around when he isn't standing next to Uenoyama.

And even though he may seem uninterested from a glance, his eyes light up when he catches anyone who had performed earlier in the evening. If he isn't greeted first (after staring at them perhaps a little too long), he'll finally speak up in a measured voice.]

Congratulations on your performance.

[To those that had an exceptionally cool performance, however, he's much more likely to simply sparkle in awe.]

Afterparty

[saxsongs]

[Ren smiles a warm and eager smile as he noticed Mafuyu and approaches.]

Mafuyu-chan, you were amazing. It was definitely worth the wait, to finally hear you guys perform. I hope we will be able to make more concerts so you can shine on stage even more.

[restringing]

Ah...

[Mafuyu hadn't been looking for Ren, per se, but he'd hoped to run into him after their promise of seeing each other perform. Solo idols really do have an entirely different feel to them than bands.]

Ren-san. You were amazing too. [But before he has a chance to elaborate on that, Ren's words brighten his eyes and voice alike in a matter of moments.] We'll have more concerts like this?!

Afterparty

[baristabassist]

[Haruki enjoyed playing with everyone again. The lights, the music, and being able to participate in a concert again felt amazing. It was so good to reunite with their band again. He looked around for Mafuyu with a bottle of water and a plate of light snacks in his hand. He didn't know if Mafuyu was hungry, but he might want some water after their performance. Haruki may have also wanted to check up on Mafuyu too. He knew Mafuyu was capable of taking care of himself since he was with Uenoyama, still he wanted to see him too.

Haruki waved the bottle of water on his way over to him.]

Hey Mafuyu, that was a great time wasn't it? I got you some water and food, if you want some. I hope we'll get a chance to play again soon.

[rippingu]

[Kaji can't help but notice his younger bandmate, snickering at the way he lights up. Still not nearly as awestruck as he gets at Uenoyama but it's adorable to witness all the same.

He has made a round of the people congratulate performers and everything. He finishes his drink, disposes of the glass, and grabs two juices, one for him and one for Mafuyu.

When he approaches he smiles, holding the one out.]

Pretty amazing, huh?

[He means all of it, Ren had done an amazing job and pulled together one hell of a show after all.]